How To Tuesday: The Gift.

I am a gifted gifter. I'm not the type of person that asks what you want for Christmas. I'm the type of person that, through my powers of deduction and reasoning, I figure out exactly what you want. I daresay I know what you want better than you do.

I live for that warm smile that spreads over a person's face when they rip that pretty paper open to catch a glimpse of that perfect gift hidden inside. It might not be expensive, or big, or hard to come by, just exactly what they wanted. A wrinkle at the corners of the eyes, a tug at the corners of the mouth. That contagious warmth that began in the first hint of their smile spreads to your heart and keeps you cozy all day.

Some of the best gifts are the unexpected ones. For that kind neighbour that collected your mail while you were away, for that teacher that helped your daughter master the saxophone, for that little boy who shovelled your walkway. Just a little something to say thank you at a time when everyone should be thankful for those around us that do things without expecting a reward.

I think DIY gifts are extra thoughtful and special. Just because it didn't break the bank doesn't mean that you didn't make it with love. Just the fact that you made it with your hands says more than most expensive gifts could.

What better gift to give this holiday season than hot chocolate mix? Show someone how much they warm your heart by warming their belly!

You will need...

2 ounce preserve jars
Measuring spoons
Funnel
Cocoa powder
Granulated sugar
Peppermint candy canes, crushed
Mini marshmallows
Tags
Ribbon

Using the funnel pour 1 tbsp granulated sugar into each jar. Follow it with 1 generous tbsp cocoa powder. Next add 1 tbsp crushed candy cane. Top it off the rest of the way with mini marshmallows. For best results, level each layer carefully before adding the next.

To prepare your Peppermint Hot Chocolate, add the individual mix to a mug of hot milk and stir it until the cocoa isn't lumpy and the crushed candy cane has melted. To avoid spills and get a smooth drink, pour half the hot milk into the mug and stir in the mix then, once it's incorporated, add the rest of the milk. Enjoy!