Cocoa Swap Package - from Laurie

I received a fabulous package from Laurie. These pictures just don't do it justice!! She really did a grand job.

I received SEVEN packages of a variety of hot cocoa mixes. Yummy. I will have to definitely pace myself. A beautiful blue mug which will be perfect for those cocoa sipping times and a set of Stampin-up stamps (Year Round Cheer).

She also sent along a pair of Knitpicks Harmony tips (size 9). If you have never tried these needles they are wonderful. She also sent a skein of Magallanes 100% woold (hand-dyed by Araucania Yarns - Chile). The yarn is my most favorite colors (blues and greens, a lovely combo).

Shortbread cookies and chocolate dipped stirring spoons to go along with the hot cocoa. Along with a darling lamb which is currently perched on my adding machine watching me type this. The lamb is a cute little scarf wrapped nicely around its neck and Laurie knit me a neck warmer to match (a good thing since my office is frighteningly cold this morning).

Thank you so much Laurie this is a wonderful package and is greatly appreciated!

Much better than any packaged cocoa -- Almond Cocoa

When I take the time to make this, my kids always say that this is so much better than any packaged cocoa. Go figure.

1/2 cup HERSHEY'S Cocoa
1/2 cup instant coffee granules
1 cup sugar
1 cup hot water
6 cups milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon almond extract*
Whipped topping(optional - Lindsey and Zachariah don't like whipped cream)


Directions:
In large saucepan, whip together Cocoa, coffee, sugar and water so there are no lumps. Mixing constantly, bring to boil.

Boil 2 minutes.

Add milk. Reheat but do not boil.

Add extracts and stir.

Pour into cups or mugs. If desired, garnish with whipped cream.

Enjoy.
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*for Mint Cocoa substitute Mint Extract for Almond Extract. Do not substitute anything for vanilla extract.

Cocoa Swap Scavenger Hunt

What a great way to learn about everyone!!! Now I really do need to get a bottle of Bailey's and Marshmallow Fluff!!


1. Who wants to try plant fibers? Emily
2. Who wants to learn to crochet? Alicia, Michelle and Jenn wants to learn more crochet stuff
3. Who collects yarn? Don’t we all???? Chelle, Holly, Emily, Jenn, Kate, Me, Michelle, Penny, Ruth, Sarah
4. Who loves yellow? Alicia
5. Who doesn’t like fruit flavors? Jenn
6. Who loves Malabrigo (who doesn’t??? hahaha) ? Alicia, Ruth
7. Who has one mitt to go to finish her Endpaper Mitts? Elizabeth
8. Who’s favorite animal is a dog? Alicia, Channon, Chelle, Holly, Jenn, me, Michelle
9. Who likes to paint? Kathy
10. Who has too many stitch markers? Michelle
11. Who likes Bailey’s in their cocoa? Becca, Channon, Jenn, Sarah
12. Who likes Starbucks salted caramel cocoa? Darcy, Holly
13. Who can’t stand vanilla flavored cocoa? Channon
14. Who’s favorite animal is a hedgehog? Ariel
15. Who might stab themselves over Neon Yarn? Laurie
16. Who’s oldest UFO is at least 15 years old? Kate
17. Who likes crystallized ginger? Chelle
18. Who likes whipped cream in their cocoa? Alicia, “the Knight” Channon’s hubby, Elizabeth, Kate, Laurie, me, Michelle, Monica, Penny, Rachel, Ruth
19. Who likes marshmallow fluff in their cocoa? Becca
20. Who needs stitch holders? Holly, Laurie