by Jeannette Ordas of Everybody likes Sandwiches

There is no mistaking that it's winter outside. It's cold...real cold. Woolen shirts underneath wool sweaters and thick tights under even thicker tall socks. It's pretty much how I dress nowadays to stave off the chill. Add on a fuzzy beret and a wool scarf and I'm good to go.

But sometimes you just want to stay inside and keep warm. For those times, this drink is perfect. It's hot chocolate with a kick that is guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. Think of it as flannel pj's for your insides. It's a nice feeling.

Hot Chocolate Toddy
2 c milk
1/3 c dark or bittersweet good quality chocolate wafers
pinch of salt
1 t vanilla
1 1/2 oz whiskey, bourbon or brandy

In a small saucepan, heat milk and chocolate over medium-high heat. Add in salt and vanilla and whisk until chocolate melts and the mixture gets hot. Remove from heat and pour in booze. Divide the hot chocolate into two large mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

*And if you now have Warm it Up by Kriss Kross in your head right now, join the club. Sorry.