New Beginnings

It has been  over a year and, one day, I might write about the time spent away, but for now I am happy to share the beginnings of a new project being undertaken by an inspirational friend of mine.
The space in which this story starts has held many stories before this one,

but before very long, here, as you step through the door, your senses will  be greeted by the familiar, intoxicating (and yet, surprisingly, still little known) world of all that is cocoa and chocolate.

It seems fitting that these walls will hold history, process and the magic of artisans learned over centuries, whilst providing a special space for everyone to relax  learn, unwind, share and enjoy.

I have been very fortunate to be present at the beginning of several of my friend's projects and so look forward to seeing where this one will transport us all.

2013

If you
were a test
then
we tried.
Your
challenges
were
hard
and
beyond
any
learned
experience.
We
struggled,
floundered,
regrouped
and
crashed,
repeatedly.


Following
tradition,
taking
instruction
from
wiser,
older
heads
we
continued.




We put down roots, nurtured each other, picked up the pieces.
Wake, work, sleep was the mantra of the days that brought,
seemingly impossible, tasks that were attempted, repeated,
completed, resolved.
New, tender leaves grew,. Brazen branches flung embraces.
A cloak of forbidding foliage, protected our daily lives.
Dead wood was cut out, a fire was re kindled.
Light beamed in through the spaces created.
Kindnesses, gentle as kisses, brought the blossom.