Fill'er Up With A Special Cup

When your car needs refueling, you stop at a gas station: when your family needs refueling, give them a chance to stop at a hot chocolate station.  It takes just one square foot of counter space or table space to make room for an inexpensive and popular winter getaway. 

Fill simple decorative glass containers with flavored hot chocolate mixes .  You can buy these ready-made in a grocery store or go online to find simple recipes to make yourself.  Add a scoop, put out your favorite mugs, and as a finishing touch set out an extra mug filled with candy canes for stirring.  This is a quick, functional decorating that makes it easier for the kids to have self-serve treats, and makes your kitchen a destination point.  Enjoy this true conversation piece- as people chat over steaming cups of hot chocolate, and can't wait to come back for more.