Boy I tell you what, the temps here in Hoosierville have plummeted to abominable lows. And unfortunately they’ve stayed there. A few weeks ago it snowed and snowed and then almost ever since it’s remained below freezing, so the snow just stays and stays.

That was from a week or two ago right after I shoveled the driveway. What a royal pain.

But, this Sunday we head off to Utopia, so all is well!! In the meantime, here’s what I use to ward off the icy fingers of Hoosierville. It’s called ITF’s Hot Wassail Punch, and I got the recipe from my Mom.

You’ll need:

2 qt. Apple Cider
2 cup Orange Juice
2 cup Pineapple Juice
0.5 cup Lemon Juice
0.5 cup Sugar
12 whole Cloves
4 Cinnamon sticks

Combine ingredients in large kettle.

Stir, bring to a boil.

Now be careful and don’t let it boil over. I have a bad habit of forgetting about stuff on the stove, one time I boiled this over and it made a big old mess on the stovetop. I hope I learned my lesson!

Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes. Remove the cinnamon sticks.

Dip into your favorite mug and let it cool a minute, it’s smoking hot. Then you can drink it.

As you get toward the bottom of the kettle, it seems to get stronger and stronger. You may dilute it with a little water if so desired.

There it is, one of ITF’s secrets to survival in this frozen land! This recipe makes enough for about 1 person for the evening, but if you’re in a generous mood you might want to consider sharing with others.