Hot Cocoa in August. Thanks Isaac!

I woke up this morning excited by the distinct chill in the air. I didn't know Louisiana could produce a distinct chill in the air...in August. Well, thank you Hurricane Isaac! With rain and winds happily battling it out outside our windows, I was inspired to make something toasty for my little ladies. Since I haven't had coffee in weeks (and since I made the girls quit on account that they are five and three) I opted for some Homemade Hot Cocoa. 

Nostalgia Moment: I remember the first time I made cocoa from scratch. I was very pregnant with Adelaide, my January baby, and craving some chocolaty goodness. It was the snowiest winter we had ever had as a married couple (I remember being eight months pregnant and pushing our car out of a snow bank. Yeah, true story.)  

So, with the cocoa on the stove I went ahead and made some Cinnamon and Sugar Toast to go right along with it (If you capitalize something, it makes it seem so much more impressive, don't you think?). The littles were pretty thrilled (evidence above). Since being pregnant, I am pretty sure I've let them have cereal almost every morning...that they made themselves. I whip out some Honey Toast every once in a while, but it's rare. I'm just grateful for feeling well enough that early in the morning to stand by the stove and stir. Sounds pathetic, but there's the truth mi amigos! 

Hickok's Hot Cocoa

1/4 cup sugar

2 tablespoons baking cocoa

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/3 cup hot water

1 tablespoon butter

4 cups whole milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

In a medium saucepan, mix the sugar, cocoa, and salt. Stir in the hot water and butter, continue stirring until butter is melted. Add your milk and vanilla. Heat through until it is your preferred temperature for drinking. Makes 4 mugs full. Enjoy!