You know, I just can’t quit smiling!

I just love this time of year. Everyone is in such a wonderful mood. The holidays are coming.

All the chit chat around town is about what Halloween costume to wear. People are thinking about parties and fellowship.

Earlier tonight I was sitting by the fire enjoying a nice cup of hot chocolate and couldn’t help but think about my Christmas Tree.

You know, there are so many different kinds of hot chocolate. Lots of people just heat up water and add the powder mix from the store.

I can’t say I blame you.

It’s always good, quick and easy.

You know that winter is right around the corner when all you do is crave a cup of fabulous hot chocolate.

I like to take a small saucepan and put some milk in it. While I’m waiting on the milk to come to a simmer, I get the Hershey’s syrup out of the fridge. I always try to use a large mug when making my hot chocolate.

I usually pour about a quarter of a cup of chocolate in the mug. Now it’s about time to add the milk.

Here is the good part: You don’t fill the cup all the way full with the milk. Stir up the mixture really good, then add the marshmallows.

That’s the key for making just an ordinary cup of hot chocolate an absolutely fabulous treat!

You can’t use those little miniature marshmallows. You have to use the big campfire ones. As the marshmallows melt, it just makes this wonderful chocolate treat even better. I guarantee it will put you in a state of complete bliss. If you want a chocolate overload, just get you some Tollhouse cookies and give’em a nice dunk.

I guess everyone has purchased all their Halloween candy and costumes. I remember as a kid how I just loved Halloween. There is no telling who your going to run into. It’s the one day you can be someone else and just have fun with it. I hope everyone is careful and please be on the lookout for all the children walking the streets.

Remember to try to stay in small groups and carry a flashlight. Have a safe and Happy Halloween. Until next time, have a good day and a better day tomorrow.

Jennifer Whaley is the owner and chef at Lemon Grass at Lemon Grass on Highway 80.