Pictured: An updated Wassail punch with Cranberries for holiday cheer (photo: M. Hall)

Happy Thanksgiving readers! I hope you are all enjoying a relaxing day at home with your families and doing a little cooking in preparation for the big feast.  Here at The Recessionista HQ we are in high-gear cooking a pumpkin pie and making the stuffing.    On this festive day, I wanted to pass along Rachel Hollis’ recipe for a delicious holiday cider drink (pictured above.) The recipe reminds me of a drink that my English grandfather loved, called Wassail punch.  Wassail is a traditional  spicy cider drink served in the cold months to take off the winter chill.  Here in the states, it’s a perfect kickoff to the holiday season, although the temperatures aren’t quite frosty yet.

Pictured: The Recipe for Rachel’s holiday cider sip

For this Holiday Cider sip, combine all the ingredients listed above (apple cider, brandy, and spices) and heat on the stove over medium flame for about 1 hour.  Then let it cool.  When the guest arrive, poor the mixture into a Champagne flute, and then fill the glass with 1/3 of the Wassail cider mix.  Top with the chilled champagne and garnish with some cranberries for a glass of holiday cheer.

Remember to take some time for yourself today, and don’t fuss too much in the kitchen.  We’re all working hard and need some me time.   Remember to skip the fussy and relax a bit.

Pictured: Some good holiday advice, skip the fussy.

Happy Thanksgiving dear readers.  Here’s a virtual toast to all of you.  Enjoy the holiday.  And rest up for the upcoming Black Friday shopping fest, if you are strong enough to venture out to stores. Check out all the  Black Friday & Cyber Monday shopping deals and listings here on the blog for details on coupons and shopping times.