Chocolate Chai Tea Time
On days when I’m craving something warm and toasty, rather than cool and refreshing (like this), and the wind is howling creating a “real feel” in the teen temps, a Chocolate Chai Tea latte is in order. Adding a dash on cocoa powder to the original chai latte produces an entirely different cup of cozy all together. It’s sweet and balanced all in one. Plus, you can add a shot of espresso for an extra boost of energy, which is preferred these days. Although it changes the flavor a little, it’s delicious nonetheless. Both are preferred to be sipped under a pile of blankets or by a crackling fire with your favorite movie playing in the background–optional of course, but recommended. 😉
 Ingredients:Â
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 bags chai tea
- 2 tsp dark chocolate cocoa powder
- shot of espresso (optional)
- whipped cream for topping (optional)
 What to do:Â
Boil water in a teapot. Steep both tea bags in water. In a small saucepan, combine milk and cocoa powder and stir on medium high heat. Once it is thoroughly mixed, remove tea bags from water and pour milk and cocoa mixture into mug. Add shot of espresso if desired and stir. Whipped topping if desired. 🙂
After such warm temperatures the other week, my mind has officially sailed to summer. The sun shining, birds chirping, and the waves crashing are on repeat in my mind. But when snow is still in the forecast and appears after such beauteous days, I need a little pick-me-up. To start and brighten your day, a little splash of OJ to this standard drink, awakes your senses and those sleepy eyes in the morning when catching some extra Zzz’s sounds so appealing. But really, it puts a little extra hop in your step, and hope for the summertime sensations that are ahead!
The weekend consisted of temps in the twenties, and lows in the teens. Yikes!  Friday night I snuggled up with a ton of blankets, fell asleep at 8:00 and woke up to a backdrop of flurries on Saturday morning. Chai tea has been my drink of choice, my go-to, my “stress-relief” after a not-so-easy-day with the kiddos. It really is a beautiful thing. A calming drink.
The holidays consisted of so much food. I love this with all of my heart but sometimes, you just need a day or two (or a week) to detox from what your body has gotten used to. A smoothie is an easy way to incorporate fruits and veggies without a lot of prep. I truly feel more energized and fit when I have one of these on days or weeks where I just feel like I haven’t eaten the best. Here’s a jumpstart to the year because you got this. 😉 May you always appreciate the renewal each day brings. May you always remember the sweetness each year holds. May you throw away anything that hinders you and focus on what He has you reaching for.
Each season brings a new festive drink that everyone seems to be drawn to. I’m completely guilty of loving Pumpkin Spice Lattes but my wallet isn’t a huge fan. Also, my body might go crazy with that much sugar these days. So, I had a genius idea to try my hand at a homemade recipe of my own. A twist, specialized to my taste buds and most likely yours as well. 😉 Sometimes it’s a morning necessity to get me through the day or an evening treat on a chilly night. Either way, it’s a seasonal favorite that can be made right in your home. A huge thank you to 
