growing up snowy

Those first few steps on new snow are always the best. I set Aaron free in the backyard yesterday while Evan & I got bundled up and ready to go - snapping a photo as he ran. He (and I!) loved the snow so much - I hated to come in, but Evan was so unhappy (unusual for Evan) and was letting the entire neighborhood know - quite loudly. So Aaron will have to wait for Saturday to play more in the snow. Unless Evan takes an early nap, that is.

We chased each other in circles around trees, I tried to cheer up Evan and picked up his mittens seven thousand times, lamented that I never pulled out the plants and cleaned out my garden box, Aaron discovered that it's not fun to try snow angels while it's snowing - flakes get in your eyes - and we came in for some deliciously rich cocoa. It was, honestly, the least I could do for the extremely energetic child who did not have enough outdoor playtime.

Such an interesting stage of life. Evan's not walking well enough yet to put him down in 6 inches of powder, and he cannot navigate boots anyway. So next winter will probably be better for outdoor play with two boys.

Cocoa, Most Delicious
1/4 cup dutch process cocoa (regular cocoa powder would work fine)
1/8 - 1/4 cup sugar (or other sweetening agent)
2-3 cups milk, whole if possible.

Combine cocoa and sugar in a heavy bottomed saucepan with enough water to make a little paste, stir well. Slowly whisk in milk and heat through. Top as desired, with marshmallows or whipped cream (and sprinkles, if you're feeling extra festive) Prepare for energy surges, all around.

By the way, if you have a box of cook & serve sugar free pudding (BLECK!) adding an extra tablespoon of dutch process cocoa makes it taste much better. Not that you should eat all those chemicals. But I'm just saying.