Sometimes it works out and sometimes it doesn't, and that's half the fun. Last year she made squash instead of traditional sweet potatoes, which worked out quite well. On the other hand, one year I decided to make giblet gravy. Not such a great idea.    

This year, I was pretty proud of myself for finding a recipe for bourbon mashed sweet potatoes -- a delicacy that I'm sure will delight. Not to be outdone, my sister-in-law announced that she plans to prepare a round of pumpkin martinis for the family. I had no idea that pumpkin-flavored liquor even existed.

It turns out there are two ways to flavor a cocktail pumpkin: one is with spiced pumpkin vodka and the other is with pumpkin Schnapps. Both are tasty, but keep in mind that if you choose Schnapps you'll need to add something else, such as vanilla-flavored vodka. Pumpkin vodka can be dressed up with a bit of amaretto, but can also stand on its own. In the name of holiday cheer, I did a little experimenting with the various flavors and came up with this tasty combination.

Combine in a shaker:

2 shots vanilla-flavored vodka
1 shot pumpkin Schnapps
1 teaspoon of cream

Add ice, shake well, then strain into martini glass. Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds and a cinnamon stick.

Now THAT'S a happy holiday!

And if you just can't accept pumpkin in liquid form here's an equally festive holiday drink that we've enjoyed, with no hint of orange.

Cranberry Zinger

Combine in a shaker:

1 part cranberry-flavored vodka
2 part club soda
1 part cranberry juice

Add ice, shake well, then strain into a martini glass. Add a small handful of fresh cranberries and a lemon wedge.