This post was intended to introduce our very first Advent Calendar! I’m truly so excited about it: the doors open to pieces of the most delectable chocolate – that taste good, and that you can feel good about eating. (Or letting your kids eat!) Before delving in, I wanted to give some background to the
Breaking all the rules of “polite conversation” (let’s face it, at Laughing Gull Chocolates, we rarely follow societal norms), I’m going to talk a little bit about my personal background and religion. If you follow us on social media and if you have read past blog posts, you may have noticed that I post a lot of musings about chocolate and Judaism (see this post, and this one) – I love the connection, direct or indirect, between the two. (We often have artisan chocolate products inspired by or specifically with Jewish holidays in mind). We even have a chocolate truffle inspired by Hanukkah – the herb and olive oil truffle! My Jewish identity is proud and strong, and I am grateful to have the background that I do.
And, growing up Jewish in an overwhelmingly Christian society, however, did mean that at times I felt like I was missing out on traditions that my friends and classmates enjoyed. I would visit a friend’s house during the Christmas season and be overjoyed to join them in opening a mini door to discover the day’s treasure! A little thing, sure, but what a thrill to get to enjoy that day’s surprise.
Today, I face a similar challenge to that of my parents, in a whole new world, raising little ones, and doing what I can to instill Jewish values, so that they are familiar with their cultural heritage and can choose what that means for them as they grow up.
Meanwhile, and simultaneously, as I prepare for this holiday season with my own little ones, I am so excited to be able to put together our beautiful Advent Calendar! Filled with chocolate that I am excited to eat myself, and happy to share with my little ones. 24 colorful doors for the young and young at heart to open, with a delicious, artisan piece of chocolate behind it. Whether you get one advent calendar for the family, or each family member, Laughing Gull Chocolates’ first Advent Calendar will surely fill your home with chocolate Yuletide joy this holiday season.