Now, I know we all know the stereotypical writer is a coffee drinker. Personally, I am working on getting into drinking juice and hot chocolate more. But, why? Good question, and the reason for me is a religious one. Mormons are forbidden from drinking hot tea or hot coffee in general. That is what is laid down in "The Book of Mormon". It gets more complex in teachings, but I am keeping it simple for right now.

To me this is no big deal. Sometimes it can be difficult, such as when reading a lot of articles all related to coffee. It tends to give one a craving. Some people have allergies to coffee, which would be another reasoning for not drinking coffee and choosing hot chocolate instead. This is the case for my mom and sister. I mean, come on, it is a little hard to enjoy coffee if it is going to cause you to suffocate to death. I think I would rather enjoy a cup of hot chocolate instead as well.

Then you have the chocolate lover as well as those that enjoy how fancy hot chocolate can be made in places. After all, almost every coffee shop I know of serves hot chocolate as well, and they always get fancy with marshmallows and whipped cream as well as sprinkles. Nothing wrong with that--everyone deserves to be treated special when they get their special hot drink of choice.

And, who doesn’t remember waking up on cold mornings and having a hot cup of hot chocolate as a kid? Most people I know do. It’s a family tradition in most families I know. Nothing wrong with wanting to have a little nostalgia about childhood every once in a while. And, those Do It Yourself kits make great presents year-round.

Plus, another great thing about hot chocolate: no special machine needed to make it. Just heat water up and pour in a cup with ingredients. OK, so you have to stir everything together. Same thing with any juice mix. Just this happens to be chocolate, might have marshmallows and will warm you up.

Plus, you don’t have to worry about having too much and getting an anxiety attack with hot chocolate. Granted you might have to run around the block a few times. And, then need a nap. But, who doesn’t like naps? I know I do.

And, no I am not saying you have to be as radical as me. Even I am going to probably spring for a couple iced coffees now and then. I just figured I would remind you of the joys of hot chocolate and the reason why some people drink it. I even heard that if you add peppermint candy cane pieces to it, you get a minty flavor. I haven’t tried it yet so that is still just rumor since I can’t directly confirm it.

But, if it is true, it makes me wonder--what other flavors can you come up with for hot chocolate? It would be interesting to find out. I’ll leave you to think about that and maybe let you go get some hot chocolate.

*Tips his hat and walks out the door*