Thoughts on Turning 30 & Love in a Cup

Last night Al and I attended a surprise 30th birthday party for one of my college friends. Her husband rented a small bus which we took downtown to a German bar. It was tons of fun! I have to admit, though, it gave me cause to think of my own upcoming 30th birthday.

Looking forward, I feel so fortunate to have my 30th birthday be the symbolic time marker for mailing our paperwork to China. Rather than thinking, good lord, I'm going to be 30 this year; I'm thinking wow, I'm almost 30 so the time to submit our paperwork is near!


Of course, I can't look forward without also thinking back. Tonight I'm thinking especially of one of my greatest female role models, my late Great Grandmother or Granny. She knew how to make a kid feel special! Tonight, I'm drinking some homemade hot cocoa like she used to make me. I call it "Love in a Cup." It's one of those treats that you think about for days and crave after just one sip.

Recipe for Love in a Cup: One cup milk with 2-3 tbsp of ground chocolate. I like Ghiradelli sweet ground chocolate and hot cocoa. Combine ingredients in pan on stove and heat to desired temperature. To make the heavenly topping combine 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream, 1 tbsp sugar and a splash of vanilla in mixing bowl. Mix on medium until liquid turns to cream. Pour hot cocoa into cup and top with a hefty load of cream. Enjoy!