I have a long-standing tradition with my daughter that she is always my no. 1 Valentine, and every year I get her a few little gifts. This always includes a box of chocolates. When she was small, any box would do, but as she's gotten older her tastes have refined.
I decided this was the year to really elevate my chocolate game, so I went to the only in-house, stand-alone chocolatier in Lubbock, Chickie's Tasty Treats (4930 S Loop 289 STE 205, near Guitar Center).
The owner, Stephanie, took time out of her very busy Valentine's chocolate crafting rush to talk with me about the art and science of chocolate making. She even showed me the special equipment she uses to get her chocolates just right. She was animated, enthusiastic and it's obvious she loves her craft.