Chocolate tasting in Lincolnshire with Katherine Laverack. Do I have your attention now? I suspect there aren’t many people who don’t like chocolate but apologies to those of you who don’t like it or can’t eat it. However, when we’re out shopping it seems very difficult to avoid it. So much so that we hardly even register in our mind that it’s there!
If you’re like me you’ll enjoy sitting down to watch something on TV and will quite possibly end up eating more of it than you really should. That is of course until you’re educated in the art of real chocolate eating…
Louth Chocolate Tasters
They say ‘ignorance is bliss’ and that may be true but once you’ve been educated there is no going back. I’m a chocolate lover so imagine my excitement when I was invited to join Kathryn @KathrynLincs for a chocolate tasting evening. The group meets in Louth for a chocolate tasting evening but other venues are available as well as online courses.
Let’s get to the important bit – ‘chocolate’. The meeting was held in The Brown Cow Louth at 7.30pm. It all sounds very formal doesn’t it? in reality it’s just a group of very friendly people with a common love of chocolate.
I had no idea what to expect but I took my seat and waited in quiet anticipation. Well, that’s not quite true. We were all getting into conversations with people around us and there was a very friendly buzz in the room.
Meet the members
If any of you have been to a wine tasting event I suspect you’ve a good idea how my chocolate tasting evening was going to go. We each had a couple of information sheets with details of the evenings chocolatiers as well as a separate page for making notes. You’ll see my note page below with my scribbled reminders on. It doesn’t look very pretty but then my hand writing never is!
Note taking for future reference and comparisons
As you can see from the heading on my note paper, the focus for the evening was Canadian chocolate. Perhaps I should elaborate; This was some of the finest Canadian chocolate and the selection certainly surpassed my expectations.
From Canada To Lincolnshire
Let the tasting begin
If you hadn’t already noticed from my notes above, would you have known that you’re actually meant to suck the chocolate in order to experience the full flavours? Being used to the standard Cadburys or ‘posh’ Belgian chocolates my instinct was to put the chocolate in my mouth, chew it and swallow. It’s a good job Kathryn was on hand to educate me in the finer art of chocolate tasting!
One Square Or Two?
Actually, a platter was handed around the table and we each took ‘half’ a square of chocolate to smell and taste. This may sound a little odd but the idea here is to taste the chocolate not gorge on it. We each made our own notes (in my case, ‘scribbles’) and discussed what we had found.
I’m sure my notes are very sparse compared to the regular club members. Following the discussion around the table I soon realised that I had not noticed some of the key flavours of each of the samples. Other members were detecting berries and other subtle flavours that I had missed but immediately recognised as soon as they were pointed out to me.
All of the samples on offer were dark chocolate and of varying percentages but it soon became apparent to me that not all dark chocolate is bitter. The Soma Arcana is 100% and not to my taste. I did get the flavours but it wasn’t a chocolate that I would buy. Well, we can’t please everyone all of the time can we?
I did have a favourite though and that was the Sirene Dark Milk Guatemala at 65%. It’s almost identical (to my amateur pallet) to the Sirene Chabil but smother and without the Cardamom. I did say ‘almost’ identical didn’t I? I’m sure the seasoned chocolate tasters will allow me my novice opinion.
The Debris
After nine samples of half a square each and one hour forty minutes later the evening came to an end. Needless to say, there were a few empty wrappers left over but very little chocolate. A thoroughly enjoyable evening in good company and held in a private room in The Brown Cow pub, Newmarket in Louth. Our hosts were Kathryn www.cocoaencounters.co.uk and Lindsay www.spirechocolates.co.uk and I’m truly grateful for my invitation and education.
Trust me, once you’ve experienced one of these evenings you’ll view your chocolate consumption in a completely different light.
Do It Yourself
If you would like to set up a group in your area please get in touch with Kathryn who will be more than happy to help you. You can book a course of your own by contacting Katherine on twitter @kathrynLincs or by email at cocoaencounters@gmail.com. You don’t need to be an expert but it’ll help if you like chocolate.
Visits
Would you like me to visit your place of work or group? I’m sure you’ll have something very interesting to share with the County and I would really be pleased to help you spread your message. You can contact me through the website www.lincsconnect.co.uk via Twitter @LincsConnect or through Facebook Lincs Connect. I’ll be waiting to hear from you.
I suspect we will all agree that social media can be a very powerful tool. Using it to showcase your work and advertise your skills is obvious of course but many forget to use it to network too. Networking on social media is easy and quiet individual. Those of you who know me as @MANDARINLEISURE will no doubt be familiar with my early morning music quiz where I post lyrics from my daily ear worm (I always wake up with a song going around in my head). It started out by accident but has become a daily ritual and gets lots of engagement from around the world. It increases my ‘reach’ and makes me a good account in the eyes of the twitter bots. Following up with conversations and light hearted chatter keeps the connections alive and, I’m pleased to say, has resulted in me making some very good friends as well as a few business connections and commissions.
Grow Your Business On Social Media
Some big businesses are extremely good on social media of course. I recently had cause to tweet @AppleSupport following an issue I had with my iMac and the response and service I received were second to none. Thank you Apple for your care and attention. Obviously Apple are a very big company and probably have a vast social media team looking after their customer enquiries. That doesn’t mean they ‘have’ to be good at it though. However, they ‘are’ very good at it and we can all learn lessons from their forward thinking and caring ethos.
Good Manners Cost Nothing
Alas, not all larger companies are as good as they could be. I recently had an enquiry from outside of the County and I happily gave two separate recommendations. Neither of the recommended companies bothered to thank me for those recommendations until I publicly tweeted my disappointment at their lack of response. As a sole trader I look forward to recommendations, retweets, shares, and comments from all businesses but I do wonder why so many larger local businesses refrain from sharing or commenting on other peoples hard work.
Does Social Media Work?
Hand made ‘Ribcage Light’
Of course it does! This morning I tweeted a request for some original local pictures depicting local business. My request was answered within seconds by @ArtedlyLight who design and make bespoke lights. Not mass produced lighting but hand crafted, made with love, feeling and a lot of soul for each client.
Social media shares and good old fashioned recommendations will help small companies like this (and me) to become larger and more profitable companies. A more profitable company might employ staff then more staff and become a larger business. It’s important to remember though that this small business is ‘here’…. ‘right now’! Small businesses like ours have more chance of growing if we work together and share each others work to reach a wider audience.
Please take a look at www.light-artedly.co.uk to see what Emma and Jim provide. Obviously they are ready to take your commissions but will be happy to have your recommendations too.
Share And Share Alike
When you’re using your social media please don’t be one of ‘those’ companies who just posts their own work and expect everyone else to share it for you. Be an ‘Apple’ or better still, be a @LincsConnect. To see what other local businesses are doing on social media make sure you regularly search the #LincsConnect hashtag. Look what’s going on, share a few messages and make some positive comments. You’ll quickly learn who the supportive businesses are and you’ll form bonds. It’s good to share and if you get the chance, it’s good to support with a purchase too.
It’s an unexpected but very welcome perk of the job. I’ve been lucky enough to meet some lovely people through #LincsConnect and the past few days is no exception.
I’ll be writing in more detail over the next few days about each of my meetings but first let me state quite categorically that feeding me at a meeting isn’t a requirement…. but I am, of course, always very appreciative and it would be rude to say ‘no’ wouldn’t it?
I was invited by Kathryn of Cocoa Encounters to visit the Louth Chocolate Tasters meeting on Monday evening. Well, would you turn down an invitation like that? Probably not – so neither did I…
I’m going to be writing all about it later but if you’re feeling a little intrigued you can follow Kathryn on Twitter for updates and info @KathrynLincs
I’m not giving too much away but this is all that was left at the end of the evening:
Anyone for cake?
Sorry, that’s probably another silly question. However, it was a very pleasant surprise and totally unexpected. A 10.00am meeting at Police HQ today (actually, it was about 10.15am because yours truly managed to take a wrong turning) with Assistant Chief Constable Kerrin Wilson. Despite being a little late (a detail that was graciously overlooked) I was treated to a slice or two of orange drizzle cake to go with my cup of coffee. Thank you Kerrin, you’re very kind.
I’m looking forward to seeing what #LincsConnect can do to help @lincspolice in the not-too-distant future and I have to say, if Kerrin’s enthusiasm is anything to go by we can look forward to some quality updates very soon. Why not give @Kerrinwilson999 a follow on Twitter and don’t forget to say “Martin from @LincsConnect sent me” I’m afraid it may not get you a slice of orange drizzle cake though but it’s the thought that counts isn’t it?
At the very least, I can offer you a picture of the cake. You’ll thank me for it later when it doesn’t affect your waist line.
Meetings always seem more productive with cake!
Looking forward, I’ll be writing more in depth blogs about the Louth Chocolate Tasters as well as my meeting with Kerrin. There is also a blog to look forward to about the ‘Book Fest’ which is being organised by Rabbit Hole Brigg and Pink Pig Farm which I think is going to be a huge success and an annual fixture in the Scunthorpe calendars.
That’s it for now folks. Take care of yourself and don’t forget to take care of others too. The #LincsConnect hashtag is here for you to use on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram so be sure to visit it to see what’s going on.
While trying to update and secure my website I really do understand how frustrating and confusing this ‘tech stuff’ can be.
On social media (Twitter in particular) the difference between the ‘#’ and the ‘@’ signs are significant but can easily be confused. Let me break it down into very simple terms which I hope you will appreciate:
Think of the hashtag as being a file that everyone can search and view. When you type it, it’ll light up in blue instead of the usual black text. You can use it for your own marketing and advertising by creating your own words that will follow the hashtag sign. Here are a few examples: #LincsConnect #Scunthorpe #Lincolnshire – if you are using this hashtags you are targeting anyone who may be searching for tweets that are pertinent to Scunthorpe and/or Lincolnshire. You are also targeting people who are looking at the hashtag file for #LincsConnect.
Creating a hashtag
You can easily create your own hashtag of course. Simply type in the words after the hashtag sign. Let’s pretend that your company is called ‘Grow it’ and you sell seeds for the garden. You want to create a special offer of £10.00 discount for every £50.00 spend. You could use the hashtag #GrowIt10 and tell everyone to use that hashtag to claim their discount.
Own the hashtag
You’ve created your hashtag but you really ought to make sure that no one else is using the same hashtag. To do that, simply type the words GrowIt10 into your Twitter search bar to see what comes up. Hopefully you’ll see a note displayed saying “No results for growit10”. If that’s the case, you’re good to go; use that hashtag as your own and search it regularly to see who has used it to claim their discount. If you see a string of tweets displayed using the hashtag or words ‘growIt10’ I suggest you have a re-think to come up with something that isn’t already in use. If you do use it regardless of anyone else using it you’ll have a job finding the tweets that are relevant to you.
Have fun with the hashtag
Twitter isn’t just about selling and information though. It’s a place to have some light hearted fun. If that is what you are doing, you can make up some tweets that are purely nonsense but funny to read. #SillyTweet #fun #IDidntMeanToSayThat #HarryPotterWouldBeProudOfMyEfforts …. Anything goes really! If you’re having a joke with someone the hashtags can serve as a great punchline.
Hashtags and grammar
When creating or writing a hashtag you mustn’t use punctuation as the computers don’t understand it. Likewise, it doesn’t matter if you use all upper case, all lower case or a combination of the two.
What does the ‘@’ sign mean then?
Where the hashtag sends your tweet to a specific file or files (it could be #LincsConnect #Scunthorpe and #Lincolnshire as highlighted above), the ‘@’ sign is like a postage stamp because it sends the tweet to a specific account. If you post a tweet using @LincsConnect it’s because you want to speak to me personally. Only ‘I’ will see that tweet. If you want to let everyone in the County know about a sale, event or piece of information you need to be using #LincsConnect.
If you use multiple addresses ie. @LincsConnect @MandarinLeisure @MandarinLocal you’re involving those accounts in your conversation. It’s a handy way of talking to several people at the same time but can get confusing if they all answer at once!
Should I use @LincsConnect and #LincsConnect in the same tweet?
Generally speaking, ‘no’! If you want to contact me tweet me at @LincsConnect but if you want to get your message out to all followers use the hashtag #LincsConnect. There is really no advantage to using both the hashtag #LincsConnect and the address @LincsConnect in the same tweet. In fact, using the address @LincsConnect can result in other people having their messages missed as the ‘chatter’ on the account increases significanty.
Mandarin Leisure Valentines Anniversary – Still Going Strong
Celebrating 33rd anniversary on Valentines Day
Mandarin Leisure Valentines Anniversary – Still Going Strong…
Mandarin Leisure Valentines Anniversary – It hardly seems possible that Mandarin Leisurehas been going for so long! The 33rd anniversary is on 14 February and it’s hard to believe how quickly the time has flown! I started working part-time in the World Gym while studying to become Lincolnshires’ first Personal Trainer. Later I added complementary therapies to my portfolio and the rest is history. Studying never stops of course as there is always something new to learn.
Initially teaching circuit training classes in village halls the business has grown to include Personal Training, injury prevention, injury rehabilitation, back pain rehabilitation as well as the almost limitless possibilities with the complementary therapies. A few celebrity clients at the very start saw the business skyrocket from zero to a very healthy going concern.
Injury prevention and rehabilitation is a key element of the Mandarin Leisure success
It’s fair to say that helping people is in my genes. My father was awarded the BEM for helping people and my great grandfather was awarded the George Cross for bravery while helping people. My journey started out by helping people with their fitness and wellbeing but I soon discovered that with my healing abilities and vision I was able to help more people than I had ever imagined.
Mandarin Leisure – Introduces massage, aromatherapy, antenatal and postnatal bespoke mobil treatments.
Therapies
Mandarin Fitness (formerly QRS Fitness) added Mandarin Therapies and Mandarin Mothers to the list of businesses in a natural progression. Making people feel well is what I do best! The decision was made very early on to keep the business mobile so that the fitness, rehabilitation and therapies could be taken to the clients. It’s a business model that I’m pleased to say has served me well.
eVouchers
With postal charges increasing it has become more popular (and convenient) to order eVouchers and have them delivered straight to the intended recipient. It’s a fabulous gift and a lovely way to let people know how much you care about them and appreciate them. You can order your eVoucher now and have a special message included too.
*** From now until 14 February 2024 celebratory massage eVouchers are just £33.00 ***
If you fancy keeping fit and would like to try Nordic Walking why not join one of the weekly classes? Beginners are always welcome to join us and all abilities are catered for. Call 07966 174878 for more information
Mandarin Leisure Valentines Anniversary – A natural progression
First started in January 2011, the decision to officially launch a dedicated platform in November 2012 took the ‘helping people’ a stage further with the official launch of @LincsConnecton Twitter.
In order to prove its worth I created it anonymously to let people know the it is truly impartial. I helped and promoted all businesses in the Lincolnshire area including other Personal Trainers and therapists who may otherwise have viewed me as a rival business. My fear was that if they had known who was behind the account they might have viewed it differently.
A few years later I started a #LincsConnect networking group so naturally I couldn’t remain anonymous! The meetings went well and I have to say a huge THANK YOU to Emma at thePetwood Hotel in Woodhall Spa for having the faith in me and for supporting Lincs Connect in such a big way.
Due to personal illness I put the meetings on hold but intend to revive them again in the not too distant future.
Covid19
The Next Chapter
Covid19 needs no introductions! My exercise classes were obviously put on hold and my Personal Training sessions moved to online sessions. Having contracted the virus the day before lockdown I needed to find something to keep me occupied during the long hours of isolation.
The pandemic forced me into overcoming my fear of blogging. Having previously written articles and weekly editorials for local papers and glossy magazines, coupled with my love of writing, ‘blogging’ was born. I used my skills to help others throughout the pandemic by sign posting people to local activities, charities and businesses. The new venture went well and I’m pleased to say that my community blogging skills are improving and continuing to help people.
Physical networking was already on hold but I did attempt to create an online network with some success. My heart lies in ‘people’ though so the physical networking sessions are still my priority. My exercise sessions are no longer an option as I suffer with long-covid and breathing is still sometimes difficult. However, I have managed to continue with my Nordic Walking sessions with the support of my fantastic, loyal clients.
What’s Next?
The next chapter has already begun as LincsConnect continues to grow and thrive. Community blogging is here to stay and the physical networking sessions are planned to return in the near future. Online Personal Training continues as do the mobile therapies, injury rehabilitation sessions and Nordic Walking classes.
Happy Valentines Day to you all. You’re never alone as long as Mandarin Leisure and LincsConnect are here.
Mobile complementary therapies covering Lincolnshire and beyond
All Saints Bracebridge
All Saints church, Bracebridge
Serving the community for the past 1000 years
J&S Plumbing & Heating
J&S Plumbing & Heating – Quality as standard
Manage Cookie Consent
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behaviour or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
March 2019 – It’s Been A While
