Praise the Lord for instant hot chocolate - it's so easy. Much as I like to cook it's hard to beat the convenience of ready-made. If it gets a little to hot, pour in a splash of real milk to cool it down. Milk makes the chocolate taste richer and the kids won't scald their tongues. Don't forget to bring on the whipped cream from a can. What could be more wonderful than hot cocoa on a frosty afternoon?

    Combine all ingredients and mix well. Divide into smaller portions and distribute jars of mix as gifts to those you love. Include directions:

    Before pouring in the hot liquid, put a peppermint disc in the bottom of the cup . . . or a chocolate mint patty . . . or give a peppermint stir stick. Then warm up with this family favorite!

© 2004 Liz Cowen Furman