Thursday, December 31, 2020

GOODBYE AND GOOD RIDDANCE to 2020!

New Year’s Eve is usually a time for introspection and goal-setting. But I am not really in the mood. In 2020, I wrote more blog entries than in all past years put together–I was writing daily at the start of the pandemic–so that’s enough. I have consumed a crazy amount of alcohol, chocolate, and comfort food–I was drinking daily at the start of the pandemic–so that’s enough. The writing continues to be good for my mental health, but the drinking and eating and weight gain have not been good for my physical health. My resolution, therefore, is to strike a better balance in 2021.

We still have a long way to go to get back to “normal” and I am ready. Very ready. What a long, strange trip it’s been.

I named today’s drink after Washington Irving’s protagonist, because on most days of 2020, I wished I could just take a super-long nap and wake up when the pandemic was over. I could sleep and be oblivious to the sorrow, the pain, the stress, the worry…but that’s a coward’s way out, really, and I don’t get a choice. I am in it for the long haul. I am grateful to all of you for the love and support.

Today’s drink is my version of a cocktail called “A Long Winter’s Nap,” and I made SIX of them, and will be delivering FOUR of them to neighbors, so we can toast the New Year together later via Zoom.

First, make an infused maple syrup, if you have the time. Combine 2/3 cup of pure maple syrup with 2/3 cup of water, and add 3 star anise, about a dozen peppercorns, a 1 inch piece of peeled ginger root, and 5 cloves. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and let simmer for 15 minutes. Chill overnight in the refrigerator. Strain before using.

For each drink, combine 2 ounces of bourbon, 1 ounce infused (or plain) maple syrup, and 1/4 ounce fresh lemon juice in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a stemmed glass, and garnish with a slice of lemon and a star anise.

Cheers to 2021! Happy New Year!