rosy cheeks.

The cold weather always brings on some of the best drinks of the year for me. There's nothing quite like rich and creamy hot chocolate with marshmellows and maybe a little splash of Bailey's. I also enjoy all the different cozy coffee flavors that arrive during the holidays as well. I've always been a fan of warm apple cider but until this past weekend never realized this little drinks full potential.

My friend Case came over to help celebrate my birthday and M's birthday and he had a sack of goodies when he entered the door. He asked M and I if we'd like to have a Spider. M is deathly afraid of spiders and quickly said "NO!" Case explained to us what a Spider was and we figured what the hell - let's try it. In one word - DELICIOUS! Not only was it tasty but it kept me warm on the front porch where we were all hanging out. (My friends all smoke, minus M and I, I have never smoked, and he quit smoking before I moved down here - after seeing how ill my mother was with lung cancer he figured it wouldn't be right to smoke around me or in front of me. I'm so proud of him for dropping the deadly habit).

I wanted to share this fun recipe with you and hope it brings you rosy cheeks and warm bellies all season long!

SPIDER

• 1 coffee mug of water
• 1 packet of Alpine Instant Apple Cider (note: you can also use fresh apple cider if desired - this instant Apple Cider also comes in Sugar Free as well)
• 1 shot Spiced Rum (like Sailor Jerry or Captain Morgan)
• 1 splash of Coconut Rum (such as Malibu)
  

Microwave until warm to your desired temperature and enjoy! These are so tasty you're going to love them!