Chew on This

My fraternal grandparents were very appreciative gift recipients, although somewhat eccentric. Old and worn was for daily use; new and nice was saved for a special occasion.

For years my grandfather wore slippers that were tattered, torn, and worn through the soles. Of course many family members noticed this, so he received new slippers nearly every Christmas. When my grandfather passed away, we found boxes and boxes of brand new slippers stored in his closet. We’re still unsure what would have qualified as a “special occasion” for breaking out a new pair of slippers.

I realized the degree of their appreciation for new and nice the year we gave my grandmother a new entryway rug. Shortly after Christmas, the rug was hanging on her living room wall. We tried to explain that it was a rug, not a wall hanging. Disgustedly, she responded that she certainly was NOT going to let anyone step on it.

If my grandparents were alive today, Van Otis’ new line of caramels would earn a place on their bookshelf or hanging next to their door mat. These candies are so pleasing to the eye that you may hesitate eating them, that is, until you eat your first one.

Van Otis Master Chocolatier, Jack Michael Pisciotta has created the perfect blend of innovative flavors for this new line of Gourmet Caramels. Van Otis is currently offering an introductory assortment that includes six premium flavors: Vanilla Bean, Pumpkin, Raspberry, Anise, Sea Salt, and Molasses.

Seasonal flavors, like Pumpkin, will be available for a limited time only but will be replaced with holiday-inspired flavors throughout the coming months. 

First Aid

Let’s review the contents of my first aid kit – bandages, antibiotic wipes, aspirin, latex gloves, dark chocolate, and a lancet. One of these things is clearly NOT like the others – the lancet. No one in their right mind wants me operating a sharp, pointy tool during a crisis. No one.

The other items have clear health benefits. While wearing latex gloves, you clean a cut with antibiotic wipes, cover it with a bandage, and administer aspirin and a piece of dark chocolate for the pain.

Dark chocolate has so many benefits that it should be in every first aid kit, medicine cabinet and plentiful at doctors’ offices. Van Otis has many items to choose from, so stop by their retail store or website and be prepared for your next health emergency.

Dark Chocolate is Good for Your Heart

Studies show that eating a small amount of dark chocolate two or three times each week can help lower your blood pressure.

Dark Chocolate is Good for Your Brain

Dark chocolate increases blood flow to the brain as well as to the heart, so it can help improve cognitive function. It also contains several chemical compounds that have a positive effect on your mood and cognitive health, including caffeine, a mild stimulant.

Dark Chocolate Helps Control Blood Sugar

Dark chocolate helps keep your blood vessels healthy and your circulation. It also has a low glycemic index, meaning it won't cause huge spikes in blood sugar levels.

Dark Chocolate is Full of Antioxidants

Dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants. Antioxidants help free your body of free radicals, which cause oxidative damage to cells.

Dark Chocolate Contains Theobromine

Theobromine has been shown to harden tooth enamel and helps suppress coughs.

Dark Chocolate is High in Vitamins and Minerals

Dark chocolate contains a number of vitamins and minerals that can support your health, including potassium, copper, magnesium, and iron.