Instead of simply tearing open a pre-packaged version of hot chocolate this winter, make things more fun (and festive!) by making it yourself at home. Here are three great takes on everyone’s favorite sippable dessert.

Naturally Sweetened Homemade Hot Chocolate [diynatural.com]
If you want to make your own hot chocolate in order to avoid the extra additives and unnatural sweeteners found in many store-bought varieties, this recipe will show you how. By using real cocoa powder, pure maple syrup for sweetening, and just a dash of sea salt and cinnamon, you can create a truly decadent treat that’s still really good for you.

Homemade Hot Chocolate [marthastewart.com]
If you’re craving the classic version of hot chocolate at home, this recipe will teach you how to make it using only four common ingredients. Whole milk adds a rich, creamy consistency that is accented by the sugar and cocoa, and you have the option of preparing it in the microwave or on the stovetop for added versatility.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate [bonappetit.com]
For something with a bit more gourmet flavor, try this elegant peppermint version. Adding peppermint extract creates a festive flavor that’s really delicious when combined with bittersweet chocolate, and topping this drink with homemade whipped cream and candy canes makes it perfect for your holiday parties.

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr ** RCB **

Whether you’re looking for exercise, outdoor fun or simply a relaxing day in the sun, you can do it all at Universal City Municipal Park This well-maintained public park is a popular outdoor attraction for many area residents, as it contains lots of grassy knolls, walking trails, and playgrounds for the little ones.

There is a challenging disc golf course that makes a fun way to engage in some friendly competition, or if you want to start up your own game of catch, you’ll find ample space in the park’s many open areas. Kids will enjoy swinging, sliding and climbing on the safe, secure play equipment, while adults will feel good about the many relaxing benches that make it easy to keep an eye on playing children.

Universal City Municipal Park
1100 North Boulevard
Universal City, TX 78148
(210) 658-5364
www.yelp.com/biz/universal-city-municipal-park-universal-city

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr Chocolate Geek

So you’ve committed to purchasing a live tree this holiday season, but now you’re not quite sure what to look for at the retail lot. Don’t fret, because these smart tips for choosing the perfect evergreen will ensure that you purchase the perfect one for your space.

1. Measure the space. Be sure to decide where you’ll place your tree before you leave the house, and then measure both the ceiling height and the width of the area to make sure that the tree fits (and doesn’t look too small).
2. Give the tree a good shake. To check if a holiday tree is in good health, give a branch a good shake. If only a few of the needles fall off that means that the tree will retain its lush color and lovely fragrance.
3. Measure the tree’s base. Before you even measure the tree itself, measure the base. It should be as straight as possible and at least 6-inches-long in order to fit into a tree stand.
4. Compare the tree to your space. Once you find a tree that you love, use a tape measure to measure its height and circumference. The tree should be a few inches smaller than the area that you measured in your home.

Selecting Your Tree [National Christmas Tree Association]
Pick the Perfect Christmas Tree [Reader’s Digest]
Christmas Tree Glossary [Martha Stewart]
How to Pick the Perfect Christmas Tree [This Old House]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr frankieleon