Chocolate – It does the body good!  Honestly it is a health food filled with chemicals that makes one feel wonderful.  I like it.  I love it.

Cocoa solids contain alkaloids such as theobromine, phenethylamine and caffeine.  These have physiological effects on the body and are linked to serotonin levels in the brain. Some research has found that chocolate, eaten in moderation, can lower blood pressure. (Wikipedia)

Archeologist claim to have found chocolate residue in pots in Honduras that date from around 1100 BC.  Wow!  Historically, chocolate was the food of royalty and other people of means.  Sweet Mother of Pearl.  Now we can enjoy chocolate as often as we like.  Life is good.

While reading other blogs, I noticed that several of them have been creating hot chocolate bars in their homes.  Wintery days call for warm beverages, and hot chocolate can be considered the ultimate comfort drink.  Since we received hot cocoa mix and garnishes for Christmas, I thought it would be great fun to turn my usual beverage prep area in our kitchen into a hot chocolate bar.  The stone cheese board is filled with everything needed to make a delicious cup of hot cocoa.

Sometime back I found this Godiva chocolate cup at the thrift store.  I rescued it because I knew that one day I would find a use for this beautiful cup, and I did.

Chocolate spoons rest in this Godiva cup.  These spoons filled with flavored chocolates can be used in coffee, but they are also perfect for giving more flavor to a cup of hot cocoa.

During the holidays, I found this storage jar with a deer on it at Big Lots.  It is perfect for holding the miniature marshmallows because it has a tight seal.

Vintage silver spoons are held in a pressed glass sugar bowl.  I even polished them so they would look purty.

The crystal container in the back holds creamer in case someone likes their cocoa a litter richer.  A scoop and a sugar spoon are available to use with the cocoa mix and the marshmallows.   I love the little chalkboard stand that Super Sister gave me for my birthday.  Doncha think giving a name to an area increases its importance?

This was super simple to put together, and now the bar is open for anyone needing a little TLC.

Blessings to you and yours,