Friday Freebie - Valentine

Homemade cocoa and spring?

It's been reported that this is the second warmest January on record for Oregon (as we sat at a chilly 44 degrees today). Today was cloudy, but dry, though far from warm. We've had little rainfall this month (generally one of our rainiest months), and it's been in the 50s and 60s more often than not. It will be interesting to see what February will hold. Hard to believe that this is happening! Minature iris in bloom, other bulbs ready to bloom, and trees budding. It's much too early!


Since it was chilly today, and since I was tired to death of coffee, I made myself a cup of cocoa. When is the last time you made a cup of cocoa? I don't mean the kind from a packet, but actual from scratch cocoa?

It really is easy....and far superior to pre-made mixes. We don't drink a lot of cocoa so maybe that's why we're happy to make it from scratch when we want it, but if you've never had it from scratch try this recipe. You can adjust the sugar to suit your own taste.


Hot Cocoa

1 1/4 cups milk
1 Tbs. sugar
1 1/2 Tbs. good quality cocoa (we use Ghirardelli)

Place all ingredients in a saucepan, whisk together and heat to boiling. Serve with or without whipped cream.

Sunday Photo - a little humor

While in the city shopping last night we were noticing just how many store/restaurant signs were burned out, but this one in particular caught our eyes and made us laugh.

Generally McCormick & Schmick's.....but right now, Ick & Schmick's. lol