{cozy up to a cup of chocolate}

Think chocolate lounge, an alternative to all the coffee shops, and maybe even the bar scene, a different place to meet and cozy up to a cup of coffee or savour a decadent chocolate drink. Another treat for the eyes and palate in Philadelphia is the Naked Chocolate Cafe'. I especially am enchanted by the large chocolate Eiffel Tower. Oh, and there is the variety of chocolates too. www.nakedchocolateonline.com

{keeps the child in you forever}

In Philadelphia, there is a Chocolate Cafe' to die for...Chocolate by the Bald Man: Max Brenner. One of the delightful hidden gems at Max's is the Kangaroo Cup. A special cup designed for their coffee - honoring the close, long lasting relations between coffee and chocolate. It is a cup with a pocket for chocolate that enables the drinker to enjoy its double virtue: melting solid chocolate with the hot coffee in the mouth (in a decent way, don't forget you are an adult) while licking the melted leftovers hidden in the pocket with a special Mix/ Lick spoon (to keep the child in you forever). www.maxbrenner.com

{sweet heaven on a spoon}

Oh, sweet heaven on a spoon. The gelato of Capogiro is a delectable way to spend a sunny afternoon cooling off. I particularly liked the sweet blood orange and the dark chocolate together. Visit them in Philadelphia or at www.capogirogelato.com

photo by M.Barnes copyright 2009

{breathtaking seascapes}

Connecticut born MaryBeth Thielhelm is an accomplished artist of seascapes. In fact, her work is seen around the world, but the best place to catch a glimpse of her work is at http://www.searspeyton.com/html/home.asp, or the Sears-Peyton Gallery, in Philadelphia.

What I like most about her work is the etheral quality of the waves, they seem to catch the light and dance. Just breathtaking...