Seasonal temptations Only one week left before the Christmas break.

I have a dinner planned with friends and colleagues in the early evening. Work is done for today. Traffic problems solved. The two hours of spare time ahead of me look like the perfect occasion to do some last shopping for two of my close partners in crime. Although I know already where to go and what to buy, I choose for a paced walk through the beautifully lid streets. Entering a first shop. Listening to the vendors attempt to sell me something totally useless. Enjoying the decorative creativity on the neighboring faades. The snow crunching at every of my steps. Finding another present while having a glimpse of new arrivals. Picking. Paying. Smiling. With two bags checked and still an hour left, my challenge worked out surprisingly smoothly. The good thing about present hunting is the intuitive switch to a relaxed window shopping rhythm when the gifts are bought. After a look at intriguing design collections and the latest must have technology, I stop fascinated at a place that seems to sell special decorations: pyramid shaped Christmas balls, cardboard shells with a classical touch, tiny pine trees... They all express a warm generosity, especially to me standing outside during a chilly prewinter evening. Suddenly, I notice that there is actually much more to it. Each of them is namely filled with fine Belgian chocolates. Ten minutes later, I am still standing there, but on the other side of the window, in a passionate conversation with one of the ladies working there, talking about their latest product: the set of ultimate pralines, designed by a group of female chefs. Usually channeling ideas into fine cuisine, they exceptionally joined the conception of the nine chocolates, and completed their personal creations with tempting descriptions: Smooth and bewitching, with a seductive sweetness. A praline inspired by life: beautiful, delicious, crunchy, full of emotions and love. All the harmony of chocolate with a spicy after-taste. International inspiration combined into chocolate heaven. The lady in the shop tells me that women are crazy about them. I nod amused. Temptation and desire, conceived by women and shaped by chefs. If every women melts away like she does when talking about the chocolates, they must be close to perfection... When walking to the restaurant, I smile about the extra treats added to my treasure box. December is a great month. Receptions where dresses with sensual backs and flattering lines compete with natural elegance and sparkling eyes. Relaxed dinners where catch-up talks and spontaneity blend into endless quality time. Family reunions. Homey touches. Or personal pleasures that unfold into special moments, which explains why some people radiate so delightfully at this moment of the year. Holidays are there. Celebrations are ahead. Make it cozy. Make it festive. Make it sensual. Make it passionate. And enjoy your temptations.

Jrgen Janssens | 2010

janssensjurgen@gmail.com