“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.”― Charles M. Schulz

Now and then for me has become every month, thanks to the wonderful generosity of Rubens Chocolate! Yes, that’s right I’ve won chocolate for a year! This was also the easiest and least deliberate of any win I have achieved so far. I like Rubens Chocolate. I “liked” their Facebook page.  I won chocolate for a year! However, I have gotten a little ahead of myself. Let’s start this story at the beginning:

Rubens Chocolate opened in my neighbourhood a few short years ago. My husband was incredibly excited. He rode down on his bike on their opening day and immediately purchased a big box and was given a large stuffed bear that says, “I loooove chocolate!” every time you press its hand. Both of these he presented to me with an enormous smile on his face. Since that day, we’ve returned to Rubens again and again with our family and friends. On hot summer days, we’ve cooled down with their ice cream. On cold winter nights, we’ve grasped cups of strawberry black tea and hot chocolate in our mitten-clad hands while eyeing Christmas presents for others…and ourselves!

Well, starting last week the tradition of going to Rubens continued in a big way as I came down to claim my prize:

I brought my husband and mom along, hence the picture of two smiling people! I gave my husband a box of assorted chocolates, which he kindly shared with me! My mom chose a sugar-free box of chocolates because, well, diabetes. We also picked up a bag of chocolate almond bark for dad. Then, we sat down for some coffee and strawberry black tea, of course.

I’ve only had a few chocolates since that day, as sadly, the flu and chocolate don’t mix well. My favourite chocolate so far has been passionfruit matcha.  A unique taste that has to be experienced, rather than described.  It also had a nice soft texture that made it easy to swallow with a sore throat.

In the coming months, I’m planning some chocolate-themed parties for friends and family. Next month is my birthday, so look for some Rubens chocolate to appear on my big day.

*For those of you who have been following this blog for awhile, you know that my biggest win to date has been $500.  Now, I am pleased to announce that it is now $600, as Rubens has given me $50 a month for the next 12 months to spend on chocolate.  Again, very, very generous.

**I am also pleased to announce that I have just been notified about Win #9!  I will know more by the end of the week, but will simply tell you that my next prize is transportation-related.  Guess if you can!