Candy Bar Martini

If you were at Festivus de Teresa this year, then you had one of these at the Hayes' house. Blake and I discovered this yum drink at Houlihan's in New Jersey about 6 or 7 years ago. The name there was the Milky Way Martini, but due to that whole branding thing, I've changed the name.

For my overseas folk, if you can't get the liquors at your local liquor store or commissary, check the duty free store. Or, there's always that person headed back from Europe and can probably score you a bottle of what you are missing.

Oh, by the way, these pack a punch (KA-POW) and the effects can creep up on you. Just ask Festivus attendees .

Candy Bar Martini
2 shots of Irish Cream (Bailey's, preferably)
2 shots of white Creme de Cacao (or another milky chocolate liquor)
1 shot of vodka (Absolut is my fave)
2-4 shots of whole milk or 2% milk
Chocolate syrup
Optional: Milky way or 3 Musketeers candy mini candy bars

Combine and mix all liquors and milk. Drizzle some chocolate syrup into the bottom of a martini or margarita type glass. Pour liquor/milk mixture into the glass. Put the candy bar on the rim of the glass by making a small cut into the mini piece. This serves 2 regular martinis or 1 large :).

Hot Toddy

You've tried the DayQuil, the tea with honey, Vicks slathered on your chest and none of it's working to get rid of that cold. Well, I suggest an alternative treatment for you that will warm up your tired, achy bones and put a little spring back in your step.

What you'll need:

6 oz. of boiling water

slice of lemon

2 tsp. brown sugar

healthy shot (or two) of rum (preferably spiced)

Set a tea pot on to boil and when the whistle blows, pour water in a mug, dissolving the brown sugar in the hot water. Stir the sugar water, and add the slice of lemon (I used a lemon from my bergamot lemon tree in the back yard and it was perfect for this occasion). Then, add the rum. Let cool, sip, and enjoy.

You may even invite your perfectly healthy husband to sit and have one with you. It's a great way to warm up on a chilly night. Cheers.