Sweetest Escape: Feeding Your Soul

The one thing that never gets old about the city are the walks.

Those daily, walks that we are forced to take living in such a metropolitan area.

It could be the three block stretch from the train to office or the 20, 30, maybe 50 block stroll we decide we might as well go on 'cuz it's nice out.

Those walks, they never get old.

'cuz Its just you, your thoughts

and the city

And one thing I love about those mandatory walks

There's always something new

And if you're not finding something new each and every time

You're just not looking

It could be the student wearing that well styled outfit

Could be the sweetest little pastry shop hidden in the corner

Or maybe even an interesting street artist

Tonight I decided to walk. Summer is nearing it's end and the cool breezes are making their way through. Walked from the upper west back to my lower east side abode. Made a quick pit stop at Union Square because. . . well. . . Union Square is a show on its own. Tonight it was an open mic "speakbox" where passer-bys could grab the mic and freely speak their minds. At the moment it was a young curly blonde with loose fitted vintage garb talking about "the conspiracy". I took a walking break and settled by stair railings to join the growing group of free spirited listeners. She delivered a compelling speech about this consumer society we live in. We want more and more and more stuff. Material stuff. The more we get the more we forget to feed our souls. What exactly does it mean to "feed your soul"? That's for you to interpret. I gave my soul a bite to eat as I pondered her words, then continued my journey.

Although it was late, I walked towards St. Marks Place to try out a Crif Dog. I got a Scout Mob coupon for a free hot dog and apparently you're not a real New Yorker till you've got your "usual" Crif Dog order memorized. So on my quest to become a real New Yorker, I google mapped the place, which was luckily right on my way home. Still debating whether or not it was a good idea to eat a deep fried hotdog wrapped in bacon and topped with avocado. . . (i mean, i did walk all these blocks so its ok right?. . .).

Almost walked right in till a grass green shop stole my attention - The Chocolate Library. The name alone was enough to draw me in. A sweet little place lined with shelves of gourmet chocolates from around the world, it had a light earthy feel with jazz music playing softly in the background. Probably had a slight smile plastered on my face as I perused the library (I heart smart small businesses). I checked out the neatly displayed array of gourmet goodies and was offered some samples by the owner, Byron. Couldn't dare say no. I had a piece of dark chocolate with raspberry filling and a yummy chocolate bean filled with chocolate. Byron schooled me about how gourmet chocolate is indeed good for you and the darker the better. We chatted a bit about the well designed space; wine tasting events; the "fun way to learn about wine" game he created; and plans on opening a new location on broadway. Almost bought a bar but decided it was too late for all that (esp since I was inching towards the white ones). This is one library I will mos def be visiting often so no need for chocolate this late at night.

I continued my journey home with a well fed soul after refreshing conversation, brilliant displays, interesting street speakers, and a new view of the city.

Check out The Chocolate Library: