Dear ,

I hope your Halloween was as fun. We're living in an area where Covid is still out-of-control and didn't feel safe taking our children door-to-door. Instead, we hunkered down at home with some sweet and spicy ramen concoctions and put on some kid-friendly scary movies... after stopping at Grandma's, of course. It made for a wonderful night. 🎃

What did you do for Halloween? Reply to this email to let me know about any new traditions you've started.

We're stepping away from tea just a moment to talk about a special fall treat. Cider. This is a very simple recipe anyone can make in their crockpot, which makes it perfect for parties.

Just pour in 2 quarts of apple cider and add:

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla

3 cinnamon sticks

and a cheesecloth (or coffee filter) containing:

1 tsp whole allspice

1 tsp whole cloves

Set crockpot to high until bubbling, then switch to warm for serving. Enjoy!

While you're busy brewing up your next drink, check out these affordable stories:

The Chocolate Magic Café

A Chocolate Magic Cozy Mystery, Book 1

by Olivia Swift

Magda is already a successful chocolatier when she inherits a stable and decides to convert it into a café. But when an argument with her annoying, obnoxious, far-too-attractive contractor is loud enough to wake the dead, she'll have to convince them before her Grand Opening.

One Night in Sedona

by Carrie Latimer

Who would have thought that a single photograph could be so dangerous? While attending a conference, Seddy takes a picture that could be the key to solving a murder. She also stumbles onto an incredible new guy. What a lucky weekend, right? Not if the killer gets his way, and with the police chief bumbling through the investigation, he just might! (Mystery Romance)

Until next time,

Katie O'Keene ☆