heart of hearts

'twas my first time with artichokes, and it was around valentine's day, though i don't believe i actually found the heart of this beast.

have you ever eaten/prepared one of these - they're anatomy is . . . astounding, and though it may not seem like much when you're getting it ready, it turns out to be a pretty classy beast of a dish . . . especially when accompanied by a poached egg and blue cheese sauce.