I spent this morning getting 6 vials of blood drawn, but only after the nurse took about 10 minutes digging around in my arm, trying to pierce my vein. Not my biggest idea of fun — don’t let the tattoos fool you, I am terrified of getting stuck. Yeeuch.
Obviously a morning this terrible needs to be compensated for in a spectacular way. Mine? A ticket to the Philadelphia Orchestra to hear Ravel’s arrangement of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, followed by a trip to the Naked Chocolate Cafe.
As I’ve mentioned previously, I know pretty much nothing about classical music. But NPR is my occasional friend, and I’ve been in love with Pictures since I heard it one morning on a much-too-early drive to work. This rendition didn’t disappoint, but I did wish for more volume. I like to feel like the decibels are punching me in the gut.
The rooftop garden at the Kimmel was actually open today, so I got a chance to go up and take a peek. First thought: the elevator ride is scary but makes for an awesome view. (Design Philadelphia is setting up something rad-looking in the yard next to the Broad Street Ministry; I really want to know what it is!) Second thought: the garden is much less of a garden than I thought, but it’s still really neat. Trees in the sky!
The rooftop garden was warm, but the street was windy and chilly. When it’s cold, I live on hot chocolate. I’d read about the Naked Chocolate Cafe, and knew I just had to stop by and try their wares. I got a petit Aztec hot chocolate (mixed with nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices) done in a European style (incredibly thick), and I picked up a chocolate and vanilla cupcake for later. The place is decadence to the extreme — my total bill for the 2 items was 6.75 + tip — but oh so worth it.
Next time: I’m going to attempt to eat actual food at an actual food restaurant in Center City. Suggestions are welcome.
