I can't be this close to Hershey, PA and not stop at Hershey's Chocolate World.  I just can't.  It's bittersweet, but I follow the masses and detour to the wrappers.

I buy my ticket for a chocolate tasting, of which I'm informed, is much like a wine tasting.  Uh oh, I'm already in trouble as I'm happy enough with the "Menage a Trois" Kitt serves. 

After a brief history, highlighting the Olmec's (the first major civilization in Mexico) "discovery" of the cocoa bean and (likely) the first humans to consume chocolate, (originally in the form of a drink) we proceed to our taste test.  We are given a "tasting wheel" with over 40 flavors and are instructed (after looking, listening, and smelling the chocolate) to take a small piece and slowly let it melt against the roof of the mouth.  No chewing allowed!  We are then asked what notes we detect.  Others chime in with tobacco, tea, smoke, cinnamon, etc.  Me?  Well, that's why I stick with Menage a Trois.

Although I won't consume any of this
5 pound bar, I know 2 boys who will.

My idealism is tempered with realism, and although I'm glad I careened head on with a cacao bean, it's time to blow a kiss to Hershey's and move on.

A little down the road, I'm back in my element.  I'm stealthy and snap this shot, careful not to disturb the painter's moment.

"Do anything, but let it produce joy."

- Walt Whitman, Leaves of grass