The hectic winter holidays are behind us and our thoughts are now turning to the next big reason to have a little celebration: Valentine’s Day. While you may still be suffering from a little holiday hangover and don’t really even want to yet consider what lies on the horizon, we thought we’d mention it only to get your brain cells out of the Jingle Bell Blues and into the Cupid Hop.We know, it seems like a bit of a rude awakening, doesn’t it? We promise to tread lightly as we enter the new year of celebrations, and as a sign of good will we offer up a dandy little White Cranberry Martini recipe to inspire you to make the transition. It’s perfect for just such a thing since it contains cranberry juice (so traditional to the season just passed), but because it’s white cranberry juice it transitions beautifully out of the mistletoe dreams and into some hopeful hearts. Mix it up, enjoy it, and start revving up to the fun activities that 2011 holds in store!White Cranberry Martini

Ingredients1 shot Stolichnaya Cranberry Vodka shot Cointreau Liquor shot fresh lime juice3 shots white cranberry juiceFresh cranberries for garnishSugar for rimDirections

1. Mix all liquids in a shaker over crushed ice.
2. Shake vigorously and pour into a chilled martini glass that has been rimmed in sugar.
3. Garnish with three fresh cranberries.

Makes one drink, but we suggest making several ahead of time in a small pitcher and popping them into the refrigerator to be ready for anyone who stops by Valentine or otherwise!