-An orange

-Cinnamon sticks

-Fresh cranberries

-Spices. Use whatever you like. I use anise stars, whole cloves, grated nutmeg, and fresh rosemary.

Cut the orange in quarters and add all the ingredients to a small pot. Fill with water or apple cider. Let the pot simmer for about 20 minutes at a time then turn the stove off. (I always set a timer so I don’t forget about it.) I use the same pot for several days and add more liquid as it evaporates. This simple “recipe” will transform your house into a warm Christmasy sanctuary! 

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This season I’ve been into simmering pots. It’s little effort with big rewards. If you want to jump into the cold weather season, do it with your nose. Put a pot on your stove and your whole house will smell cozy with spices and citrus. I’ve enjoyed them so much that I bought a cute little glass pot from Amazon and leave it on my stovetop just for show.

Simmering pots also make a cute little gift. I’ve been putting the ingredients in cellophane bags with a bow and giving them to friends.. a treat to welcome the winter season. Enjoy!