Winter has arrived and a Classic White Russian is the perfect way to take the chill out of the air.

Winter showed up a little early this year, and I’m not happy about it. But the arrival of the cold and snow also means I can hang with family by the fire and sip on a Classic White Russian and pretend that the wind really isn’t howling outside.

Is there a drink that always reminds you of someone else? For me, it’s a Classic White Russian, and that person is my sister, Ann. Ann has been drinking White Russians for as long as I can remember. It’s simply her drink, both for happy hour and after dinner. And you know what? I think she’s on to something. How can you go wrong with dark, rich Kahlúa balanced with smooth vodka and finished with a splash of cream? It’s pretty much a perfect drink to warm up on a cold winter night or end a family gathering.

Ann and I live just 5 minutes apart and the time we spend together is the best, especially around holidays and birthdays. The relationship that Ann has with my kids is priceless. She always makes time for them and, dare I say, spoils them to pieces. But that’s her right as Auntie Ann, and I wouldn’t change a thing. She never misses a birthday, school concert and will even sit in the cold at a sporting event for her niece and nephew. I hope the kids know how lucky they are. I know I count my blessings every day.

Forever and always when I see someone drink a White Russian, I’ll think of you, Ann. Cheers!