Book + Beverage — Winter 2023-24

The Book:

WRINKLES IN MY SOCKS BY JOHN W. SMITH

The pre-mountain ritual is a skier’s timeless tradition. Intentionally or not, the morning minutes are spent manually ironing creases in gear and hustling to get a bite in before first chair. All the while, eagerly moving swiftly to hit the slopes and avoid keeping others waiting.

Wrinkles in My Socks by John W. Smith delightfully depicts a young girl’s Saturday morning struggle to make it to the bus stop on time. Ready or not, the snow is fresh, and the turns are at her fingertips. Time does not seem to stop when her older brother, “Big Ben,” impatiently hovers as she delays their departure. She scurries to perfect her sock choices, buckle her boots and comfortably pair the two together. From start to finish, each page celebrates rhyming, punctuality and the buzz of outdoor excitement.

Artist Amy Klein embellishes the main character’s clothing with powerful patterns. Her polka dot top and striped pants are comforting. It is easy to find your younger and current self in her fabulous pigtail braids and scrunchies. Klein’s enchanting scenic detail draws readers into feeling they are a part of the journey. The shapes and colors are playful, inviting you to explore your sense of wonder and anticipation.

Welcome this book into your home this winter season. It is the perfect gift for a special little ripper you have in mind, sparking their curiosity and igniting their love for reading and adventure. Find this hardcover at your local bookstore or order online through alparts.com.

The Beverage:

CHLOE’S COCOA + COLLAGEN LATTE

Nothing sets me up for a day on the mountain like my trusty elixir. The nutritious and delicious ingredients set you up for success. Cocoa, known for promoting blood circulation and reducing inflammation, teams up with collagen to support bone density and muscle production. A touch of cinnamon, rich in antioxidants and prebiotics for digestive health, adds a flavorful twist. Honey serves as a natural sweetener and an immunity boost. Packed with essential nutrients, this beverage is not only delicious but also kid-friendly, providing the energy active bodies crave. The invigorating concoction serves as a source of sustainable energy, enhancing endurance and aiding postworkout recovery. Not to mention, a warm drink makes for a happy gut.

Select Colorado Cocoa Co. powder from Colorado Springs for your cocoa. Order online from their partner site pikespeaklemonade.com and opt for any of their gourmet mixes, including classic, peppermint, mocha, lavender, caramel or almond cocoas. Cheers!

1 Tbsp Colorado Cocoa Co. powder

1 Tbsp collagen powder of your choice (I like Ora or Vital Proteins.)

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp honey

1 cup hot milk, nut milk or water

Blend generously and enjoy!

Originally published in the Winter 2023-24 issue of Spoke+Blossom.