Annie Lang's Blog!

Nothing is more comforting on a cold winter's day that a cup of hot cocoa, a good book and a fluffy fleece blanket!  I make up jars of my own cocoa mix in the fall and then stash them on the pantry shelves until needed.  Whether it's snuggling up next to the fireplace for some quiet time, a comforting after school warmup for the kids or simply a warm mug of happiness to share by the campfire, hot cocoa is the perfect comfort beverage everyone enjoys!  These cocoa filled jars also make a perfect hostess gift when tucked in a basket with mini marshmallows, cinnamon sticks, chocolate kisses, etc.  Below you'll find my recipe for homemade cocoa mix along with FREE labels and jar tags you can download now by right clicking the images and saving to your computer.  So go ahead, get comfortable, relax and ENJOY !

Happy New Year, Everyone!  The wind is blowing, the snow is falling and it's time to hibernate, cuddle and get CREATIVE!  Enjoy this FREE Downloadable and start the month off right with a Hot Cocoa toast to a Happy 2018!  * Just right click the label page and recipe images and save to your computer...

Whether you're reading with a youngster one on one or reading to an entire group, bring the story to life and make it a memorable experience by adding a few story activities to enhance the experience!  Here are a few basic ideas you may want to try... Make up 8-10 questions about the story and write each one on a piece of paper. Draw a question and then discuss!  Enhance the story environment!  Relate a scene from the story you are reading by creating a "real life" experience.  For example, if the story is about cookies, you could share a "cookie snack".  If the story is about camping, maybe you could read the story together in a makeshift "tent". How about sharing some "Green Eggs and Ham"? If you're reading one of my Elf books, maybe you'd like to try sharing a cup of cocoa after the story.  I'm sure you can easily imagine all the endless possibilities.   Make a set of "Listening Ears" that you can wear