Tampilkan postingan dengan label Love Chocolate. Tampilkan semua postingan
Tampilkan postingan dengan label Love Chocolate. Tampilkan semua postingan

Kamis, 04 Februari 2010

Valentine's Day Chocolate Mousse

Ingredients:
8 strawberries (optional)
CHOCOLATE HEARTS (recipe follows, optional)
1/3 cup sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup milk
½ cup water
4 egg yolks, beaten
1 ¾ cups HERSHEY’S Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips or HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate Chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup whipping cream, whipped
½ cup whipping cream, whipped


Directions:
1. Prepare CHOCOLATE HEARTS.
2. Stir together sugar and cornstarch in medium heavy saucepan. Stir in milk and water. Cook and stir over medium-high heat until boiling. Stir about half of hot mixture into beaten egg yolks. Return all to saucepan. Boil gently 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.

3. Add chocolate chips and vanilla to hot mixture; stir until chocolate is melted. Pour into small metal bowl. Set bowl inside a larger bowl filled with ice water. Beat on high speed of mixer about 5 minutes or until chocolate mixture is completely cooled. Fold in the whipped ¾ cup cream. Spoon into martini glasses or dessert dishes.

4. Cover lightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate 30 minutes or up to 2 days. Just before serving, top each with a dollop of the whipped ½ cup cream and a strawberry, if desired. Peel chocolate heart from wax paper; place one on each dessert. 8 servings.

CHOCOLATE HEARTS: Place ¼ cup HERSHEY’S Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips or Milk Chocolate Chips and ½ teaspoon shortening (do not use butter, margarine, spread or oil) in small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at HIGH (100%) 45 seconds; stir until melted. Let stand 2 minutes. Pour into heavy duty small plastic bag, Cut off a tiny corner of the bag. Squeeze bag to pipe mixture into heart shapes on wax paper. Refrigerate until firm.

Tip: To form perfectly shaped chocolate heart, trace around a small heart-shaped cookie cutter on a piece of white paper. Tape wax paper over the white paper; pipe chocolate on wax paper following the outline.

Article Source : http://www.celiac.com/articles/1111/1/Valentines-Day-Chocolate-Mousse-Gluten-Free/Page1.html

Rabu, 03 Februari 2010

Chocolate Valentine Gift for That Special Day

moment is Valentine's Day for the month of February 2010 if you are preparing a unique gift for your spouse? how easy you simply make a simple gift or a very simple you can also order it by sending valentine gifts online at the website so you do not have to give him trouble is a gift that he could not forget.

at least you are giving valentine flowers or chocolate can give you a taste of love in his heart, or you can also create their own Valentine chocolate and you can make a creative idea with the chocolate, because chocolate Valentine in the form of various kinds so make the heart is a happy couple as Valentine's Day come give you a soft touch and say the words beautiful to him that you love and love him with all my heart

Why should chocolate? because chocolate can soothe his heart a man who was anxious what a woman's heart is usually nervous during menstruation and her feelings volatile and uncertain she wanted in love and wanted something that could calm his heart was restless

what more if you give it time valentine chocolate valentine, it will be a wonderful moment unforgettable and will be remembered by him in his memory and you try to give chocolate chocolate love or hearts alias because usually women like or love heart shape because the shape of love hearts or contain a deep sense of your feelings.

Selasa, 02 Februari 2010

The Reason to do Valentine's Day

The Origins of Valentine's Day

There are many different theories as to the exact origins of Valentines Day. Ancient Rome is said to have celebrated February 14th to honour Juno, the Queen of Roman Gods and Goddesses. Other theorists point to the numerous Catholic martyrs, Valentine of Terni and Valentine of Rome. The Middle Ages saw the holiday gain traction around the English-speaking world, with the sending of handwritten notes and letters of love quickly gaining popularity.

The 19th century was a definite turning point for the holiday, leading to a turn towards the posting of pre-made greeting cards. This transformation has perhaps been the most influential in shaping the holiday's current incarnation, with most people the world over now recognising the holiday as a 'Hallmark Holiday', i.e. a holiday that serves commercial, rather than genuinely sentimental purposes. Whether this is fact or just cynicism, Valentine's Day undoubtedly takes its place within the firmament of the world's most important and most widely celebrated holidays. Valentine's Day, regardless of its origins, is a golden opportunity to express love and affection. After all, who doesn't enjoy anonymous greeting cards, romantic candle-lit dinners and mountains of red roses, valentine chocolate and champagne?

Valentine's Day around the world

The holiday is widely celebrated across the world, although traditions and conventions differ from country to country. In the English speaking world, typical Valentines Day gifts include greeting cards, chocolates and sweets, flowers and lingerie.

In other parts of Europe such as in many countries in Scandinavia, Valentine's Day celebrations are rather more understated, with a romantic dinner and a single red rose being common currency. In Asian countries such as South Korea and Japan, Valentine's Day takes its place among other romantic holidays, such as White Day, Rose Day and Kiss Day. Valentine's Day in these countries marks an occasion whereupon women present men with valentine chocolate, whilst White Day marks the occasion for men to respond to women with the giving of sweets.

Not altogether keen on Valentine's Day?

It doesn't matter whether you're from either camp those who value the holiday and those who don't. The chances are, there is someone in your life that waits impatiently for you to recognise that Valentine's Day is important to them, even if only in secret.

It could be your wife or husband; girlfriend or boyfriend; a co-worker you've long fancied; an attractive neighbour; or even someone that you've admired from afar. Every year on the 14th of February, you're granted an automatic pass to make your romantic move. And let that opportunity pass you by at your own peril a forgotten or neglected Valentine's Day can result in an instant black mark against your credibility as a lover or love interest.

What to do for Valentines Day

Valentines Day produces as many cynics as it does doughy-eyed lovers. Perhaps the reason why there's much cynicism about Valentine's Day is that the holiday has somewhat lost its lustre because it's dominated by generic gifts and cards that are devoid of imagination. After all, it's pretty contradictory to be telling a lover or love interest that you love them, but with a gift that says nothing particularly personal.

When you consider the occasion in this context, it's easy to understand the 'Hallmark' stigma attached to the holiday. The U.S. Greeting Card Association names Valentine's Day as the second largest card-sending day of the year, second only to Christmas. It is estimated that Valentines inspires over one billion cards across the globe and it's a safe bet that the vast majority of these gifts and cards are mass manufactured and fairly unremarkable.

Getting more out of your Valentines Day

Personalising a gift can make all the difference. It can mean the difference between a greeting card being tossed in the wastepaper basket a couple of weeks after the holiday, or a meaningful token of affection that is treasured for years to come.

There are plenty of things you can do to make sure your gift makes YOU stand out. The key is to really think about your recipient and what they would enjoy. It could be an engraved pen that inspires them to think of you.

Personalised champagne can add a unique and special touch to a romantic dinner. Wondering what to get a Valentine's Day-averse husband or boyfriend? Going beyond conventional gifts to present, for example, personalised sporting items is sure to warm the hearts of even the most cynical of sceptics.

One thing is for sure, when it comes to romantic gifts, a personalised touch is the vital separator between cheesy, token gifts to mark the holiday; and genuine expressions of love that really shout, "I love you!"

Article Source : http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=2531043

Jumat, 29 Januari 2010

Gift Ideas Valentines Day

Valentine's Day is celebrated on 14th February and on this day all lovers express their love to their beloveds.
On this particular day everybody expresses their love by giving gifts to their beloved. Everybody celebrates this day in their own particular way. There are lots of Valentine’s Day presents from cards and flowers to jewelry and holidays.
Valentine’s Day is celebrated on 14th February and on this day all lovers express their love to their beloveds.

Here are some Valentine Day's Gift Ideas to create a different day for you and your sweet heart:

-> You can pack a valentine chocolate box with heart printed wrapping paper and sign it with tag and leave it at a place where she can find it easily.
-> Write a love poem on a good letter pad and express your feelings and thoughts and add it with other gifts.
-> You can also plan a special candle light dinner with your sweet heart in an open air restaurant.
-> You can choose songs which he/she likes and those that represent various memories of your relationship and copy them to one CD with a beautiful cover and write a date on it so that it could be remembered forever.
-> You can make cookies or cakes shaped into a heart and decorate to mimic the look of candy heart and write a message on it. If your partner has a sweet tooth you can also give heart chocolate and pack them into a pretty tin or a decorative box.
-> You can also talk to your loved one and gift at least half the money of gifts to missionaries or poor people. You will feel very good from inside.
-> The most economic way is to write letters to each other that describe how you feel about each other and include unique things such as likes and dislikes, habits and hobbies.

Article Source : http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Valentine-s-Day-Gift-Ideas/1273814

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

Valentine's Day is celebrated on 14th February and on this day all lovers express their love to their beloveds.
On this particular day everybody expresses their love by giving gifts to their beloved. Everybody celebrates this day in their own particular way. There are lots of Valentine’s Day presents from cards and flowers to jewelry and holidays.
Valentine’s Day is celebrated on 14th February and on this day all lovers express their love to their beloveds.

Here are some Valentine Day's Gift Ideas to create a different day for you and your sweet heart:

-> You can pack a valentine chocolate box with heart printed wrapping paper and sign it with tag and leave it at a place where she can find it easily.
-> Write a love poem on a good letter pad and express your feelings and thoughts and add it with other gifts.
-> You can also plan a special candle light dinner with your sweet heart in an open air restaurant.
-> You can choose songs which he/she likes and those that represent various memories of your relationship and copy them to one CD with a beautiful cover and write a date on it so that it could be remembered forever.
-> You can make cookies or cakes shaped into a heart and decorate to mimic the look of candy heart and write a message on it. If your partner has a sweet tooth you can also give heart chocolate and pack them into a pretty tin or a decorative box.
-> You can also talk to your loved one and gift at least half the money of gifts to missionaries or poor people. You will feel very good from inside.
-> The most economic way is to write letters to each other that describe how you feel about each other and include unique things such as likes and dislikes, habits and hobbies.

Article Source : http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Valentine-s-Day-Gift-Ideas/1273814

Kamis, 28 Januari 2010

Valentine's Day With Chocolate

It seems impossible to separate Valentine's Day from chocolate. The two go hand in hand and seem to fit together so perfectly. They seem to be a perfect complement for each other because valentine chocolate tends to put people in the mood for love. What chocolate really does is stimulate "feel good" chemical receptors in the brain like serotonin and dopamine. Essentially, good quality chocolate serves as an effective anti-depressant as it relaxes nervous tension and boosts feel-good energy and even libido. So if you or your sweetheart loves chocolate and you are planning on getting some for Valentine's Day you have made a good, healthy choice.

Chocolate or cocoa which comes from the cacoa plant is rich in antioxidants and has many health benefits. In fact, ORAC tests which are used to determine the antioxidant qualities of foods, have found that pure cocoa has one of the highest antioxidant properties of any food. Antioxidants destroy free radicals in our bodies that cause cell and tissue damage. Pure chocolate is loaded with vitamins and essential minerals such as magnesium, calcium, iron, and potassium. The health benefits increase in proportion to the dark color of the chocolate so the darker the chocolate the more health benefits it has. White chocolate has not been shown to have the health benefits that dark chocolate has.

Didn't think your Valentine day chocolate could do all that? Here's more. In addition to helping to relax the nervous system by activating the "feel good" chemical receptors in the brain, chocolate has many other health benefits. Studies have shown that due to its high content of special flavonoids called flavanols, chocolate can help to reduce blood pressure, diabetes, and the risk of heart disease. The high magnesium content also helps to build strong teeth and bones. Chocolate also contains a high copper content. Copper is an essential mineral that helps the body carry out many important functions.

Chocolate provides caffeine in safe, small amounts and these small amounts are sufficient to increase energy, alertness, and intellectual sharpness. Some believe that eating small amounts of valentine chocolate actually helps to improve memory and may help to ward off dementia.

So if you are a chocoholic you can be happy knowing that you are doing your body a big favor by eating high quality dark chocolate. And this Valentine's day you and your lover can fall in love all over again once you start feeling the effects of those feel good chemicals from your valentine day chocolate.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tricia_Morgan

Rabu, 27 Januari 2010

Why Chocolate is Always on Offer at the Valentine's Day

Many people are out there looking for the perfect gift to give the lady who stole their heart. Some men will look for that perfect gift months in advance while other men, for one reason or another, will wait until the last minute to run out and find that perfect treasure. Push comes to shove; chocolate is generally the gift that every man grabs, whether it is the only gift or a part of the entire gift. Chocolate is to some women what water is to fish.

It is a way to make a woman smile. Whether men are trying to make up for an argument or simply letting their partner know that they care, valentine chocolate is something all women enjoy. It is a universal gift that you just cannot go wrong with. This is probably why it is so popular for Valentine's gifts. In fact, most women have come to expect that big bright red box full of assorted chocolates.

The days leading to Valentine's Day are full of men purchasing chocolate. Generally, during the rest of the year, women make up the majority of the people purchasing chocolate, obviously for themselves. However, during that brief moment where Christmas ends and Valentine's decorations and candies hit the shelves, men make up 75 percent of the purchasers of chocolate. This is a big number. No wonder chocolate candy sales reach the billion-dollar mark during the Valentines season.

It is pretty much safe to say that most women in relationships will find themselves with at least one box of chocolate candies, maybe even more. Others will find themselves with a whole variety of Valentine's candies, which include many types and kinds other than just chocolate. You might want to think about adding those to the bag of goodies you pick up for your special Valentine.

If you are stuck, looking for the perfect gift for your special lady this year, start by picking up a nice heart shaped box of chocolates, call your local florist and order a dozen red roses and then hit the jewelry store for a nice necklace. There are always nice sales this time of year.

Of course, there is such a wide variety of valentine chocolate out there during the Valentine's season that you might have a hard time picking just the right one. Whether it is the cheaper department store box of chocolates or something you pay fifty dollars for, it is sure to be loved by her.

With all of that, her heart will be yours. Maybe it will be because of the necklace. Most likely it will be because of the chocolate candy. Then again, maybe it will simply be because she knew that you were thinking of her.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nancy_Cope

Selasa, 26 Januari 2010

Top 5 Valentine's Gifts for Men in 2010

2010 valentine's day is coming! Have you decided what to buy for your guy, another tie? No, that's too bad since he has had enough ties. What he need and want is something a bit different. And in this article, I will list down top 5 Valentine's Day gifts for men in 2010.

Surely, it will give you some hints in some way and help you have a great valentine's day in 2010.

Jewelry
Your man also wants to be fashionable and attractive, so a piece of brand jewelry, such as Tiffany Jewellry, will turn out to be a very welcomed gift for man. And some special pieces, such as couple rings will be the best choice. Just make sure that the jewelry you choose is the right size and style for him.

Sexy lingerie
Choose a set of sexy lingerie for him will be a sound idea when choosing Valentine's Day gifts for your man. Just don't forget to buy yourself a sexy outfit to match his. Surly, he will feel very excited to spend this special day with you.


Perfume
I know you want to be with your man. Then why not to have him smell great and special to you by choosing a bottle of perfume for him according to his favorite scent? If he wants to smell good and want to be fashionable, he will like this gift. Besides, this gift will show your care and considerate if you get the right scent for him. So just do it!

Chocolate
Valentine's Day is a day set aside for you to tell the man in your life how much you love and appreciate him, no matter he is your husband or boyfriend. And a box of chocolate will tells him how sweet and happy to be with him. Moreover, a box of valentine chocolate is equal to say "I love you".

Wallet
Man has a special feeling toward leather, so why not send a nice and special leather wallet for him? It will help him a lot in keeping his credit cards and money in order. Besides, you can put a photo of you or you two in the wallet to have this gift more special and meaningful.

Hope that the above top 5 gifts ideas would give you some hints when choosing Valentine's Day gifts for your man.

Chocolate is one symbol of Valentine's Day because if the chocolate in food can cause a sense of comfort and making people have a sense of high affection therefore, give your spouse valentine chocolate that he loves you more.

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_1303969_47.html

Jumat, 22 Januari 2010

7 Great Gift Idea For Her Valentine Chocolate

Nothing melts a chocolate lover's heart like a valentines chocolate gift. You'll be surprised at how easy it is to create your own unique gift that will show her how much you love her on Valentine's Day. Here are valentine chocolate gift ideas for the chocolate lover in your life.

Chocolate Kisses

You really should give her more than the old standby, but if you insist, at least be creative on how you give them to her. There are many different ways you can use kisses without coming across cheap. You can create your own red or pink gift box and pack the inside with kisses with a love letter. Another thing you can do is make a path of chocolate kisses that leads to another gift like a bouquet of red roses.

Chocolate Heart Box

Either create your own heart-shaped box or look for a nice fancy one and fill it with gourmet chocolates and truffles. You can buy candy boxes in the shape of a heart but leave the candy out and replace it with gourmet chocolates. You could even put chocolate kisses inside.

Valentines Chocolate Card

Visit a specialty candy shop, or confectionery store, and have them create a card made entirely out of chocolate. This is a unique valentines chocolate gift she'll be sure to remember.

Bouquet of Chocolate Roses

Sure red roses are nice, but why not try something totally different? Why not give her a bouquet of chocolate roses instead? Better yet, combine the two and create a bouquet of real roses mixed with chocolate roses.

Chocolate Basket

Create a gift basket that is filled with her favorite chocolates, or surprise her and include chocolates she's never tried before. You can also include chocolate covered pretzels or strawberries and top it off with an arrangement of chocolate roses. A romantic music cd and a bottle of wine is a nice touch. The possibilities are endless. Be creative!

Chocolate Fountain

Put the fondue maker back in the closet and instead bring out the latest chocolate craze - the chocolate fountain. Imagine her coming home to a flowing fountain of chocolate with red roses surrounding it with romantic music playing in the background.

Chocolate Tour

Take her to a local chocolate factory or if you want to go all out, take her on a weekend getaway to Hershey, Pennsylvania! That would be the ultimate valentine chocolate gift!

Valentine's Day doesn't always have to be about roses and jewelry. She'll appreciate a heart-felt gift you created for her more than anything. These valentine chocolate gift ideas should help you get your creative juices flowing so that you can create a romantic gift for her that she'll never forget.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allison_Jacobs

Selasa, 19 Januari 2010

Chocolates Gifts on Valentine's Day

A mystic aura has filled the ambiance and love is in the air.Valentine's day is knocking on the doors and it is the occasion of the loving hearts to express their deepest feeling of the heart to their beloved. Valentine's day is the day of romance, love and togetherness. This is the occasion to celebrate relationships and commitments. 14th of February, is the time of the year when the supreme force of Love reigns all.

As Valentine's day is fast approaching, the loving hearts are getting all geared up to take their beloved by the sweetest surprise by showering them with exclusive gifts. Today, the concept of online gifting is more than popular a concept. Thanks to the multiple online gifting companies which are engaged in serving the people to send gifts to any corner of the world, with mere click of the mouse! GiftstoIndia24x7.com is an online gifting website which pioneers in delivering gifts to India on special occasions. The aim of GiftstoIndia24x7.com is to connect the Indians with their native roots. We, at GiftstoIndia24x7.com tend to help the global NRIs to select the best gifts for their loved ones. Send online valentine gifts India and uphold the spirit of the occasion in a grand way.

There are many gifts that are worth sending on Valentine's day. Delectable rich chocolates is the gift that comes to the mind instantly when you think about Valentine's day. GiftstoIndia24x7.com offers you to choose from its collection of Valentine's chocolates. The taste of Ferrero Rocher will surely be a delight for your beloved. You can pick Vochelle Fruits and Nuts, Vochelle Almonds, Vochelle Hazelnut chocolates, Celebration Caramel Chocolate, Cadbury Nuts Butter scotch, Delfi Choco Twister, Cadbury Raisin and many more. There are Danish Butter Cookies and Chocolate Chips cookies for the taking. Send these Valentine gifts to India and enthrall your beloved on Valentine's day.

It will just not be Valentine's day without the chocolate hampers. With our wonderful chocolate hampers, we help the loving hearts to express their selfless feeling of love. Our mouth watering chocolate hampers contain Cadbury's Five Star chocolates, Cadbury's Dairy Milk, Cadbury's Munch, Kit-Kat, Cadbury's Nutties, Vochelle Assortment chocolates, Cadbury Celebration and others. Coin Chocolates and Cadbury's Eclairs help to bring even sweeter glory to the hamper. Send online valentine gifts India and let these chocolate hampers uphold your feeling of love fully and truly.

Roses are the catalyst to passion and romance and when coupled with chocolates, makes a gift to crave for. GiftstoIndia24x7.com offers chocolate roses, apt to be presented on Valentine's day. The chocolate roses are handmade gifts which have a charm and beauty of its own. The exclusivity adds to the uniqueness of this gift. Let these chocolate roses induce the romance and passion. Send Valentine chocolates to India online and entice your beloved.

GiftstoIndia24x7.com also offers a range of handmade chocolates that you can send as a gift to India on Valentine eve. These chocolates will be the perfectly complement the mood and spirit of the occasion. These chocolates will be the sweet token of love and will rightly express that you care. Send gifts to India on Valentine's day and let your gifts speak for your emotions and feelings. Make your presence felt with exclusive collection of gifts, even you are far away.

Send Valentine Chocolate to India online and take the pleasure of adorning your beloved's face with all precious smile. Hold the eternity in hand and declare how much you love your beloved by sending him/her some gifts. At GiftstoIndia24x7.com, we present a myriad of gift ideas. Be it any occasion, Holi or Rakhsha Bandhan, Dussera or Diwali, we offer something new and exclusive to our customers. For Valentine's day, we have introduced a collection of gift items that will enthrall all. There are plenty of gifts for picking. Valentine Flowers, Valentine Gift Hampers, showpieces, apparels, electronic accessories, watches, perfumes are some of the few to mention. Above all, Dil Se Collection, the Serenade gifts and the personalized gifts offered by the site brings uniqueness to our Valentine gifting category. So, send Valentine gifts to India through GiftstoIndia24x7.com and experience a splendid difference.

Article Source : http://www.articlesbase.com/gifts-articles/send-collection-of-rich-chocolates-as-gifts-to-india-on-valentines-day-1649038.html

Jumat, 15 Januari 2010

Why Chocolate for Valentine's Day?

Valentine’s Day is many things to different people- a chance to start new relationships, rekindle old ones, or remind that special someone how wonderful they really are. Others feel it is just another “Hallmark” holiday where they are expected to do something for unknown reasons. Regardless of your hopes, expectations, or reservations about Valentine’s Day, chocolate has long been a favorite gift for lovers.

Since the days of the Aztecs chocolate has been used as a gift. Today a box of luxurious quality chocolate says a thousand “thank you’s”, “good luck”, or “I love you”. Chocolate can be given as a way of saying “congratulations”, “I am sorry” or “get well soon”. On Valentine's Day Valentine chocolate as a sign that says “I LOVE YOU!” Chocolate is more than food, it not only fills your belly but also makes you feel soooo good. Elaine Sherman wrote “Chocolate is heavenly, mellow, sensual, deep, dark, sumptuous, gratifying, potent, dense, creamy, seductive, suggestive, rich, excessive, silky, smooth, luxurious, celestial. Chocolate is downfall, happiness, pleasure, love, ecstasy, fantasy … chocolate makes us wicked, guilty, sinful, healthy, chic, happy.” What more could you want to say to your lover on Valentines Day? Even the scientific name for the tree from which chocolate is derived, Theobroma cacao, translated from Greek, means “food of the gods”.

Why does chocolate evoke so many feelings and emotions for us? Chocolate has long been associated with passion, romance and love. This association may go all the way back to the Aztecs. They believed chocolate was a source of spiritual wisdom, incredible energy and elevated sexual power. Chocolate was widely used as a nuptial aid and was widely served at wedding ceremonies. The Aztecs did not know chocolate as we do today; they consumed the cocoa as a drink. Reports indicate that the Emperor Montezuma consumed large quantities of the drink every day and always fortified himself with a cup before entertaining his harem. The explorer Cortes reported to Carlos I of Spain that chocolate is “… the divine drink which builds up resistance and fights fatigue. A cup of this precious drink enables a man to walk for a whole day without food.” From the earliest times, chocolate was considered a substance of power and a source of vitality.

Chocolate has been a subject of study since the first shipment from Veracruz arrived in Spain in 1585. But modern science has made some interesting findings that may help explain our lust for quality chocolate. Chocolate contains organic substances known as alkaloids. The most important of these substances is theobromine, which works as a stimulant to the kidneys. Stimulants in chocolate also affect the central nervous system, with effects similar to caffeine, which is also present in chocolate. A chocolate bar may contain as much as 200 mg of theobromine but only about 25 mg of caffeine. Another important substance found in chocolate is phenylethylamine, which is part of a group of chemicals known as endorphins. Endorphins have an effect similar to amphetamine and are found naturally in the human body. When endorphins are released into the bloodstream, the mood is lifted and feelings of positive energy are reached. The sensation known as “runners high” is caused by endorphins released during exercise. Phenylethylamine levels in the brain have also been linked to “falling in love”. One more chemical found in chocolate is seratonin. Seratonin is known for its calming properties. The presence of these chemicals may explain the multitude of feelings chocolate evokes.

Debra Waterhouse, author of Why Women Need Chocolate, conducted a survey and found: 97% of women reported cravings, 68% of which are for chocolate, 50% would choose chocolate over sex, and 22% were more likely than men to choose chocolate as a mood elevator. These findings could easily be interpreted as a result of how chocolate makes us feel. I don’t know why more women choose chocolate than men, for I am a man and I love chocolate.

Critics would say that the benefits of eating chocolate are small when compared to the sugar and fat contained in a chocolate bar. The best chocolate, dark chocolate with high cacao butter content has no added fat, as well as a high percentage of cacao solids and correspondingly less sugar. Although chocolate will never be considered a health food based on its nutritional value, it is still good for you! Good for your heart and soul-anything that helps relieve stress and makes you feel so good must be.

Receiving a nicely wrapped box of chocolates causes a sense of anticipation. The pleasure of unwrapping the box, the sensual smell, lifting the soft seductive papers, the look of the smooth dark chocolates. When it finally passes your lips and starts to instantly melt filling your mouth with exquisite pleasure. The taste and smell flood your senses with overwhelming ecstasy. Eating it slowly, taking time to enjoy and savor every bit. What better way to start off an evening of love?

chocolate can make someone feel comfortable and happy and full of love when savor slowly because chocolate contains endorphins that make people feel relaxed and comfortable so many chocolate valentine enjoy on Valentine

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Eisen

Kamis, 14 Januari 2010

chocolate gift on Valentine's Day

Chocolate is a great Valentines Day gift.

Chocolate is something that is quite a personal thing. We all like different types of chocolates and it's this essential knowledge that you need to use to buy the perfect box of chocolates for her present at Valentines Day.

Taking note of the sorts of chocolates she picks first is a good indication of which is her favourite. It is unlikely anyone would first pick the chocolates they didn't like so taking note of this is a useful thing. You can also drop careful hints referring back to the chocolates you've eaten over Christmas and ask which the favourite was.

Some chocolate companies, Thorntons being one, allow you to pick a whole box of chocolates individually. This means you could pick just the ones she loves best and she will have a whole box of them. You can also personalise the top of the box too which makes it ideal for picking a great photo that means something romantic to the both of you. Whether you pick a photo of you on your wedding day or honeymoon or just a snap of the two of you together, it will be an amazing gift for her to unwrap. She will be able to keep the box for years to come too, to keep all your cards and love letters in. The box makes a lovely keepsake box.

Asking about chocolates early will avoid any suspicion about you buying things for Valentines Day. If you have to ask nearer the date though she might be more aware that you're trying to find out what she really wants. You could drop in hints for yourself too if you wanted at this point.

Always wrap valentine chocolate as it makes them more special than just handing over a box of choccies and shows you have gone to some effort. If you don't buy another present then you should probably get some flowers too for her as these make the day very special and she will have them to look at for a couple of weeks.

Picking the right chocolates is easy when you know someone very well, and if you pay attention to them when they're picking chocolates out. If you are buying for someone you are not so sure of their tastes you can make some simple tests to find out more about their love of chocolate. Buy some small bars of dark, milk and white valentine chocolate and offer them. The one she picks first will give you an idea of what sort of chocolate she loves, and she might even let slip that she doesn't like one of the types of chocolate!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Diane_Drinkwater

Selasa, 12 Januari 2010

Valentine Chocolate To Share The Love

Do you think that you need a reason to enjoy your favourite chocolates? Well, the majority doesn’t think so. For these little sweets are irresistible and are catalytic in gushing positive vibrations into your thought process. Chocolates define happiness. And this inexpensive happiness can be afforded by all of us. So gift this happiness to someone you love.

Chocolates can be an ideal gift for all the occasions. Whether it is Christmas, Easter or Valentines day, this is in fact the most favourite gift of all times. There are those unhappy times when you end up arguing with your beloved over a romantic dinner. The best way to 'ceasefire' is to present a boxful of chocolate to your beloved. And you can let the magic work for you in bringing back the smile on your her face.

There are several Valentine chocolate gifts that are available in the market. Chocolate kisses, chocolate heart box, Valentine chocolate card, chocolate fountain, chocolate boxes, chocolate tours and so on. They may come in various flavours and shapes like truffle, milk chocolates, caramels and the list continues. All you have to do is to make someone feel special by these chocolates.

Chocolates as a gift convey different meanings according to occasions. They may be an expression of endearment when you gift it to your mother on mothers day. It conveys greetings for the occasions as Christmas or Easter. Chocolates can also make you fall in love on Valentines day.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/relationships-articles/let-the-magic-work-with-chocolate-gifts-126968.html

Senin, 11 Januari 2010

7 Terrific Valentine Chocolate Gift Ideas for Her

Nothing melts a chocolate lover's heart like a valentines chocolate gift. You'll be surprised at how easy it is to create your own unique gift that will show her how much you love her on Valentine's Day. Here are valentine chocolate gift ideas for the chocolate lover in your life.

Chocolate Kisses

You really should give her more than the old standby, but if you insist, at least be creative on how you give them to her. There are many different ways you can use kisses without coming across cheap. You can create your own red or pink gift box and pack the inside with kisses with a love letter. Another thing you can do is make a path of chocolate kisses that leads to another gift like a bouquet of red roses.

Chocolate Heart Box

Either create your own heart-shaped box or look for a nice fancy one and fill it with gourmet chocolates and truffles. You can buy candy boxes in the shape of a heart but leave the candy out and replace it with gourmet chocolates. You could even put chocolate kisses inside.

Valentines Chocolate Card

Visit a specialty candy shop, or confectionery store, and have them create a card made entirely out of chocolate. This is a unique valentine chocolate gift she'll be sure to remember.

Bouquet of Chocolate Roses

Sure red roses are nice, but why not try something totally different? Why not give her a bouquet of chocolate roses instead? Better yet, combine the two and create a bouquet of real roses mixed with chocolate roses.

Chocolate Basket

Create a gift basket that is filled with her favorite chocolates, or surprise her and include chocolates she's never tried before. You can also include chocolate covered pretzels or strawberries and top it off with an arrangement of chocolate roses. A romantic music cd and a bottle of wine is a nice touch. The possibilities are endless. Be creative!

Chocolate Fountain

Put the fondue maker back in the closet and instead bring out the latest chocolate craze - the chocolate fountain. Imagine her coming home to a flowing fountain of chocolate with red roses surrounding it with romantic music playing in the background.

Chocolate Tour

Take her to a local chocolate factory or if you want to go all out, take her on a weekend getaway to Hershey, Pennsylvania! That would be the ultimate valentine chocolate gift!

Valentine's Day doesn't always have to be about roses and jewelry. She'll appreciate a heart-felt gift you created for her more than anything. These valentine chocolate gift ideas should help you get your creative juices flowing so that you can create a romantic gift for her that she'll never forget.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allison_Jacobs

Top Ten Chocolate Gift Ideas

Who doesn't like to get chocolates for a gift? Perhaps that is why chocolates have been a favorite gift for many occasions over the last two centuries. From the first time that chocolate bars were created and enjoyed, to the most expensive gourmet chocolates created by incredible chocolatiers today, this delectable delight never fails to please anyone when received as a gift!

Today, many events celebrated worldwide include chocolates, from the sweetened drinks through to the desserts. However, perhaps the most popular event of chocolate gift giving remains giving chocolates during Valentine's Day.

It is during that period that Belgian pralines, luxurious Swiss chocolates by the pound, and even basic chocolate candy bars such as Snickers, Kit Kat and various Hershey products become popular chocolate Valentine gifts. And in recent years, expensive gourmet chocolate and delectable custom treats have become increasingly popular. So whatever the budget, whatever the occasion, there is sure to be something delicious to give as a chocolate gift!

In order to save some time in choosing something spectacular, here is a Top Ten chocolate gifts list that you might want to consider for Valentine's Day or any other occasion:

1. Christopher Norman Hand-Painted Luxury Tea Collection - this gourmet chocolate truffles are flavored with a variety of teas, enrobed in dark chocolate and hand painted. This chocolate collection is priced at $45.

2. Jacques Torres Chocolate - Master chocolatier, Jacques Torres offers a wide variety of Valentine chocolate treats. His collection includes champagne truffles, edible chocolate body paint, and his Sweetheart collection.

3. Godiva Valentine's Day Box of Chocolate - this is considered as to be one of the icons of chocolates.

4. Lake Champlain Chocolates Grand Valentine Box - includes 22-piece assortment of chocolates such as truffles, creams, caramels and bark.

5. Recchiuti Confections Valentine's Box - Michael Recchuiti, who proclaimed himself the Picasso of chocolates, created this Valentine's box that includes 32 chocolate pieces infused with herbs, spices and teas.

6. Chocolove Chocolate Bars - These allow you a little bit different spin when giving these as a gift. The chocolove bars are wrapped in paper that can be used for writing a love note.

7. ZChocolat - Their Valentine's Day Chocolates - is a chocolate gift with all the works! Includes packaging and design that is gorgeous and you can have it personalized with engraving and other accessories for the right price.

8. Nantucket Chocolatier Valentine's Boxes - When choosing this chocolate gift, you know you will shine! It is a tower of three heart-shaped boxes that include truffles, chocolate-covered cranberries, creams, nuts and other gourmet treats.

9. Lindt Valentine Collections - Lindt is one of the most popular Swiss chocolate companies which offer a variety of beautiful Valentine packaging for chocolates that include truffles and bars. Your gift can come in gift baskets, heart-shaped boxes and teddy bears.

10. Ghiradelli Chocolates - These are chocolate squares which are small one-inch bites flavored with mint, caramel, and white chocolate among others.

So whether it is for a holiday, Valentine's Day or any other occasion, there is always a perfect chocolate gift just waiting for you to choose! Simple or elegant, budget or over the top, you can have chocolates delivered and be sure that you will get a sweet result!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Colleen_Maguire