Chocolate making workshop a hit
Smiling kids eager to make their dream chocolate bars gathered around tables patiently waiting for their molds to be filed so they could start decorating.
Some laughed with their parents or siblings. Others studied the candies and cookies in front of them, trying to decide which ones they wanted to use.
Every one of them, between the ages of four and 12, didn’t dare move from their spot, afraid to lose their place and a chance to get first dibs at the sweets they wanted on top of their chocolate.
Sunday was the first time the Dobson Yacht Club held a chocolate bar making workshop and it was a big hit. Hosted by Heavenly Sweet Creations owned by MandyLee Melski, each workshop can have up to 30 kids.
The workshop at the Dobson Yacht Club filled up so quickly, organizers had to add a second one and have already planned three for around Easter.
“It sold out in, like, 48 hours. It was so quick,” said Amanda Wood, organizer on behalf of the Dobson Yacht Club.
“I thought it would be something good to bring the community out, something to get the parents and the kids involved. It is Westmount, there’s not a lot going on here.”
Families at Sunday’s event weren’t just from Westmount. There were many from Sydney River, Glace Bay, Sydney and other communities.
Michelle Lundrigan was there with her seven-year-old twins, Jackson and Mya.
“It’s something fun and different to do. Not much else to do on a Sunday,” she said.
“And we’re chocolate lovers,” she added with a laugh.
It isn’t likely Michelle will get to sample the chocolate her twins made. When asked if he’d give his mom a bite, Jackson shook his head slowly, eyes wide as if it was the craziest question he’s heard.
His sister, Mya, answered with a quick “no” then continued her chocolate bar decorating while her mother laughed.
Six-year-old Kamryn Murphy was very clear that decorating the bars was her favourite part of the workshop while her sister, seven-year-old Emmy, said she was waiting for the taste test.
“I’d like that part too,” Kamryn added.
Four-year-old Greyson MacDonald was there with his family and a 12-year-old exchange student, Lucas Chen, the family is hosting.
“It is interesting and fun,” said Chen, who is from Beijing, China.
“I would have rathered popsicles,” said MacDonald, who also made it clear he wouldn’t be giving his chocolate to his dad.
While the kids loved making their chocolate bars, many of the moms and dads there were happy for another reason.
“They love making messes
and this keep the mess out of my house,” laughed Jodie Wilson, who was there with her
son, four-year-old Beau Pitcher.
“It’s a good little treat for them for Valentine’s or other
holidays.”