From Baltimore Magazine
February 2018
My top ten by… Ruthie Carliner, 57
Owner and chocolatier of The Velvet Chocolatier.
![](https://thevelvetchocolatier.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/top-ten-03b.jpg)
CHOCOLATE CASHEW CHEW. Toasted cashews and creamy vanilla caramel, dipped in chocolate. It’s my personal favorite chocolate treat in the kitchen. I have two everyday, thus the need for the gym.
![](https://thevelvetchocolatier.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/top-ten-08.jpg)
GYM MEMBERSHIP. I always start my day by going to the gym. It makes me feel good and allows me to have some room for chocolate sampling.
![](https://thevelvetchocolatier.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/top-ten-01.jpg)
![](https://thevelvetchocolatier.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/top-ten-10.jpg)
SHEEP GO TO SLEEP. One of my favorite books to read with my grandchildren.
![](https://thevelvetchocolatier.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/top-ten-09.jpg)
JEAN-PIERRE WYBAUW BOOK. I’ve had this book for years. It was written by a wonderful Belgian chocolatier who taught a chocolate course I attended.
![](https://thevelvetchocolatier.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/top-ten-12.jpg)
REMOTE CONTROL. I work with a television in the kitchen, so I need this to watch all of my favorites. I think it makes the chocolate taste more delicious.
![](https://thevelvetchocolatier.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/top-ten-04.jpg)
CHOCOLATE DIPPING FORK. This is essential for coating the perfect ganache.
![](https://thevelvetchocolatier.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/top-ten-05.jpg)
DENTAL FLOSS. Some people carry lipstick in their pocketbook, I carry floss. Need I say more?
![](https://thevelvetchocolatier.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/top-ten-06.jpg)
THE WICKED SOUNDTRACK. This is always playing in my car, and I love to sing along with my grandchildren.
![](https://thevelvetchocolatier.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/top-ten-07.jpg)
REUSABLE CUP. Always carrying my own cup for water and coffee. Doing my part to save the world.
![](https://thevelvetchocolatier.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/top-ten-11.jpg)
WEDDING BAND. A constant reminder of my favorite person ever, my husband.
Photos: Christopher Myers