Winter Treat

I feel the same way every year.  It's February.  Gray, wet, windy and cold.  Spring feels too far away, and twinkly, festive lights are a faint memory.  We are way past Birthday Season and Christmas and have experienced more than our fair share of Southern Snow Days.  Those are the ones where entire towns shut down because it snows and inch and a half.  Banks close early, and if you live off the paved road, chances are there is no mail coming your way.  

In my quest to be grateful for even in the least exciting doldrums of winter, I've chosen something simple.  Something that guarantees smiles and "I'll helps" whenever the announcement is made.  Something seemingly small and easily overlooked as a cause for thankfulness.  

::Homemade Hot Chocolate::
makes about 4 cups
8 t organic cocoa
4 t xylitol or sugar or honey
dash of sea salt
1 t cinnamon
1/3 c water
3 c (or so) milk
marshmallows/whipped cream - optional topping 

Add milk once cocoa and sweetner are dissolved in water

Mix together dry ingredients and add water.  Whisk together til well combined.  Over med heat add milk - since we like a darker hot chocolate wee add a bit less milk. you might like your more milk chocolate-y, in that case just add more milk.  It's up to you and very versatile.  Continue whisking until it's all steamy.  Pour it up and enjoy a round of smiles...

I heartily recommend an ounce or two of this added to your morning coffee for a nice flavor boost - you know, to even out the parent /child gratitude ratio. 

Sometimes the easiest, smallest treats are the ones that can transform an entire day...

Lib 
Jen, Rachel, Kristin, Laura, Ann, Alli and Kelly,