What To Mix With Spiced Rum Besides Coke?
What To Mix With Spiced Rum Besides Coke Unique Mixers for Spiced Rum that will Blow Your Mind
Are you looking for new ways to enjoy spiced rum? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. Not only can you mix it with Coke and make a classic Rum & Coke cocktail, but plenty of other delicious options are also available! So to look at what to mix with spiced rum besides Coke, we had to test several drink combinations. From fruity concoctions to creamy beverages, we’ve got all the recipes you need to explore the flavors of spiced rum. So let’s get started – here’s what to mix with spiced rum besides coke!
First things first: You’ll want to start by choosing your favorite type of spiced rum for each recipe. There are many quality brands on the market that offer different levels of sweetness and spice. Once you have chosen your preferred brand, think about which flavor profile will be best suited for your next drink creation. Do you fancy something sweet or tart? Creamy or vibrant? Whatever taste combination appeals to your palate is sure to result in an amazing beverage experience.
Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous and would like to try something unique, why not consider creating one-of-a-kind cocktails at home? With just a few ingredients from the pantry and some inspiration from our list below, concocting scrumptious drinks has never been easier! So without further ado – let’s dive into what else (besides coke) pairs perfectly with spiced rum!
Definition Of Spiced Rum
Spiced rum is a type of alcoholic beverage made with distilled dark rum and infused with spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. It has a sweet and spicy taste due to the addition of these spices. The alcohol content can range from 35% to 55%. Spiced rum is typically served neat or on the rocks, but it can also be used in mixed drinks.
The flavor notes of spiced rum are quite diverse, depending on the brand and ingredients used. Most brands will have hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, allspice, ginger, clove, and other spices. Some also contain natural fruits such as pineapple or orange for an extra sweetness. This makes it a great option for those who enjoy sweeter liquors.
Since spiced rum is already flavorful on its own, it can be enjoyed neat or with just an ice cube for those seeking a more subtle flavor experience.
However, it also mixes well with many other liquids like juices, coffees and teas for an interesting kick. A popular choice is to mix spiced rum with ginger ale or cola for a more robust flavor profile.
Spiced rum can be mixed with many different ingredients, including soft drinks like cola or cranberry juice. But there are plenty of other mixers to choose from too! Whether you’re making a classic cocktail or inventing your own recipe, spiced rum offers endless possibilities for creative mixing. With so many options available, let’s take a look at some popular choices for what to mix with spiced rum besides Coke.
Types Of Spiced Rum
Spiced rum is often referred to as a ‘magical’ spirit, with its flavors evoking feelings of warmth and relaxation. There are various types of spiced rum that can be used to create delicious cocktails or simply enjoy neat. There’s something for everyone, from light rums flavored with vanilla or citrus notes to dark varieties boasting hints of cinnamon and molasses.
The two main categories of spiced rums are Caribbean-style and American-style. Caribbean-style rums tend to have sweeter flavor profiles due to their use of spices such as nutmeg, allspice, ginger, cloves and even curry! American-style spiced rums will typically feature more robust flavors like anise, cardamom and star anise.
With so many options available it can be hard to decide which one you should choose. So why not try them all? Experimenting with different brands and styles may just lead you to your new favorite cocktail ingredient. The possibilities are endless when it comes to mixing up drinks using spiced rum – the only limit is your imagination!
To explore further into popular mixers with spiced rum, read on in the next section to answer what to mix with spiced rum besides Coke…
Popular Mixers
The More Popular Mixers
Spiced rum is a popular spirit enjoyed by many. Now that we understand what it is, let’s look at some of the most popular mixers for this spirit.
Fruit juice is a great mixer for spiced rum. Pineapple and orange are two of the most popular fruit juices used to mix with spiced rum. Cranberry juice also works well, giving you a tart-tangy flavor. You can also use lime or grapefruit juice if you want something more sour or tart. Just make sure to not go too heavy on the juice as it can overpower the flavor of the rum.
Cola is also a popular mixer for spiced rum, but other options are also available. Ginger ale and ginger beer both work well with spiced rum and give it an extra kick of spice. Lemonade is another great choice as it has a sweet-tart flavor that complements the sweetness of the rum. Drinks like mojitos and daiquiris are also made with spiced rum and often include other ingredients such as lime juice, sugar syrup, and mint leaves for additional flavor.
No matter what type of mixer you choose, plenty of options are available to make delicious drinks with spiced rum! Experimenting with different flavors and combinations can be fun and lead to some interesting creations.
Fruity Juices And Purees
Fruity juices and purees are great additions to spiced rum, creating an even tastier drink. Pineapple juice is a great combination with spiced rum, as it has a sweetness that cuts through the rum’s spice nicely. Cranberry juice can be used in the same way, but it also adds a tartness that can help balance out the flavors. Orange juice is also a popular choice for mixing with spiced rum, as it brings out the sweet notes of the liquor without overpowering it.
Grenadine can also be used to add some sweetness to spiced rum drinks, and you can use pureed fruits such as strawberries or raspberries for a more intense flavor. You can also mix these purees with other juices such as pineapple or orange juice to give your drinks an extra boost of fruity goodness. You could even try adding some fresh ginger for an interesting and spicy kick!
No matter which fruity ingredients you decide to use, one thing’s for sure – they will all combine to make delicious cocktails that will impress your guests. With all of these options, there’s no limit to what you can create with spiced rum and your favorite fruity ingredients!
Other Spirits And Liqueurs
Spiced rum can be mixed with a variety of other spirits and liqueurs to create some truly delicious cocktails. Vodka, gin and tequila are popular when mixing with spiced rum. For example, the classic Long Island Iced Tea combines vodka, gin, tequila, spiced rum and lemon juice for a sweet yet tart flavor. If you’re looking for something a little sweeter, try adding in some amaretto or dark creme de cacao for a creamy flavor. You could also opt for Grand Marnier or triple sec to give your cocktail an orange-flavored twist.
Consider adding some cinnamon schnapps or peppermint schnapps for a dash of sweetness and spice hint. These two liqueurs will add depth and complexity to your cocktail that cannot be achieved with spiced rum alone. You could also opt for a splash of ginger beer for an extra kick of spice or even Malibu coconut rum for a tropical twist.
No matter what you choose to mix with your spiced rum, it’s sure to be delicious! With so many options available, there’s no limit to the delicious cocktails you can create with this versatile spirit. Have fun experimenting and creating your own unique concoctions!
As mentioned, spiced rum is a fantastic spirit to enjoy in cocktails and mixers. It has a warm, sweet flavor that pairs well with many different ingredients. Popular mixers for spiced rum include cola, orange juice, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, and ginger beer.
Here are five popular mixers to make delicious cocktails with spiced rum:
– Cola: The classic combination of cola and spiced rum makes an easy cocktail known as the Rum & Coke or Cuba Libre.
– Orange Juice: This citrusy mixer adds brightness to any drink and complements the sweetness of spiced rum. Try it in a Screwdriver or Sunrise.
– Cranberry Juice: Tart cranberry juice adds balance to your drinks while also making them pretty in color. Make sure you use real cranberry juice—not just cranberry flavored soda!
– Pineapple Juice: Sweet pineapple brings out the best flavors from dark spirits like spiced rum – try it in a Pina Colada for an island vibe.
– Ginger Beer: Spicy ginger beer goes hand in hand with spiced rums for flavorful drinks like Dark & Stormys or Moscow Mules.
These popular mixers can be used alone or combined together for even more creative recipes. There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy spiced rum cocktails, from tart juices to spicy sodas. Now let’s explore some unconventional mixers…
Unconventional Mixers
Spiced rum is a great spirit to mix with drinks. You can use unconventional mixers to give your drink an exciting twist. Try adding fruit juices such as orange, pineapple, or cranberry juice for a tropical taste. You could also try something different like ginger ale, lemonade, tea and other soda mixes. For an extra kick of flavor, add some liqueurs such as amaretto, peach schnapps, triple sec or any type of syrup for sweetness. If you want to make it a bit fancier, top off the glass with some Angostura bitters or tonic water.
Vermouths And Wines
Vermouths are a great choice for mixing with spiced rum. Not only do they offer a variety of flavors, but they also add complexity and depth to your cocktail. Vermouths come in both dry and sweet varieties, so you can experiment with different combinations to find the perfect balance for your drink. Try adding a splash of dry vermouth to your spiced rum-based cocktail for a hint of herbal complexity.
Wines are another great option when it comes to mixing with spiced rum. Sweet wines like Moscato or Riesling can add a fruity sweetness that pairs nicely with the spices in the rum. If you’re looking for something more complex, try adding a red wine like Zinfandel or Syrah to your cocktail. Both will give your drink a deeper flavor profile while enhancing the flavor of the spiced rum.
No matter what type of mixer you decide on, make sure to experiment and play around with different flavors until you find something that works best for you. With so many options available, creating delicious cocktails that pair perfectly with spiced rum is easy!
Creamy And Dairy-Based Mixers
Moving from vermouths and wines, creamy and dairy-based mixers can add a unique flavor to spiced rum. Milk, cream, coconut milk, almond milk and even oat milk all make delicious mixers with spiced rum. Adding a splash of milk or cream will mellow out the intensity of the rum while still allowing the spices to come through.
Coconut milk is an interesting option that works especially well with tropical flavors like pineapple or mango. Almond milk adds a nutty flavor that helps cut the drink’s sweetness.
Oat milk gives a more subtle flavor but still adds some depth to the drink. To change up your spiced rum cocktail, add crème de cacao for a sweet chocolatey finish or a banana liqueur for a dessert-like twist. These creamy mixers are great additions to spiced rum cocktails and can be used in many combinations for endless experiments!
Mixing spiced rum with these unique ingredients will create delicious cocktails that everyone will enjoy. Experimenting is key when making creative drinks so don’t be afraid to get creative!
Non-Alcoholic Mixers
Mixing spiced rum doesn’t have to include alcohol. Unconventional mixers can be used instead for a different type of beverage. Juices, such as orange or pineapple juice, are a great way to add sweetness and tartness without the added alcohol content.
For those looking for something more natural, using ginger beer or root beer can also provide an interesting flavor profile with the spice from the rum.
Additionally, adding club soda will make it fizzy while still providing the taste of spiced rum. Allowing people to customize their drinks depending on their preferences creates endless possibilities when crafting different drinks with rum and coke.
Crafting Different Drinks With Rum And Coke
Spiced rum is a delicious and versatile spirit that can be used to craft many different cocktails. To create something beyond the classic Rum and Coke, here are some great options:
* Mojito – mix spiced rum with fresh mint leaves, lime juice, sugar syrup, soda water and ice.
* Mai Tai – combine spiced rum with orange Curaçao liqueur, orgeat syrup, lime juice and crushed ice.
* Cuba Libre – blend together spiced rum, Coca-Cola®, lime juice and lots of ice.
These three drinks provide a fantastic starting point for experimenting with other combinations. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try your own concoction? With so much potential for flavor exploration, it’s easy to find a drink that matches your taste preferences perfectly.
Simple Cocktail Recipes With Spiced Rum
Spiced rum is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in an array of cocktails. The classic combination of spiced rum and Coke gives it a sweet flavor, but there are plenty of other recipes to explore. For instance, the ever-popular mojito gets an extra kick with spiced rum instead of traditional white rum. For this zesty cocktail, mix mint leaves, lime juice, simple syrup, and spiced rum over crushed ice.
If you’re looking for something more exotic, try swapping out the regular rum in a daiquiri recipe for spiced rum. This variation adds more complexity to a standard daiquiri by adding subtle spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
These two recipes add some variety to your drinks menu without having to step outside your comfort zone too far. But if you want to go all out with flavors from around the world, give one of these tropical cocktails with spiced rum a try next time, you’re entertaining guests!
Tropical Cocktails With Spiced Rum
Spiced rum is a great ingredient for mixing up a delicious cocktail. It has a bold, sweet flavor that pairs well with many tropical flavors like pineapple and coconut. If you’re looking to make something special with your spiced rum, try one of these creative tropical cocktails!
- A classic daiquiri made with fresh lime juice, sugar syrup, and spiced rum
- A pina colada blended from crushed ice, cream of coconut, pineapple juice, and spiced rum
- A zesty margarita made with orange liqueur, agave nectar or sugar syrup, lime juice and spiced Rum
These drinks are sure to bring the tropics right into your living room! So if you want to explore more exotic tastes while adding a layer of spice to them – give these recipes a whirl. Plus they look beautiful when served in tall glasses on a hot summer day. Ready for an even hotter drink? Move onto the next section to discover some unique hot drinks featuring spiced rum!
Hot Drinks With Spiced Rum
Hot drinks are a great way to enjoy spiced rum. It can be used in coffee, hot chocolate or even tea! A popular drink is the Hot Buttered Rum, which combines butter with brown sugar and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice. You can also add some apple cider for an extra boost of flavor.
Another favorite is Caribbean Coffee: mix spiced rum with strong brewed coffee and cream for a smooth creamy taste. If you’re looking for something more savory, try making a hot toddy using lemon juice, honey and cloves – it’s sure to warm up any cold winter night. Finally, consider adding aromatic bitters for flavoring to your hot drinks made with spiced rum; they’ll give them an added depth of flavor that everyone will love.
Herbal Infusions And Teas
Herbal infusions and teas can be a great complement to spiced rum. A variety of herbs, such as ginger root, lemongrass, star anise, and cinnamon, can be used to make delicious drinks. These herbs are known for their therapeutic effects and can enhance spiced rum’s flavor. For example, adding a bit of lemongrass to the drink can give it a citrusy twist that pairs nicely with the sweetness of the rum.
Alternatively, herbal teas can also be used to mix with spiced rum. Teas like chamomile and lavender have calming effects that can help mellow out the intensity of the alcohol. Adding some honey or maple syrup to the mixture will add another layer of sweetness that’s sure to please your taste buds.
No matter what you choose to mix with your spiced rum, it’s important that you know how much of each ingredient is necessary for a balanced flavor profile. Too much or too little could ruin your drink! Experimenting with different combinations is key – it’s all about finding something that works for you and your taste buds.
Aromatic Bitters For Flavoring
Aromatic bitters are a type of flavor enhancer made from herbs, bark, roots, and fruits. They’re quite potent — just a few drops can provide intense flavor to any cocktail or beverage. Bitters have been used for centuries in cocktails as well as other drinks like tea and coffee. When mixed with spiced rum, the result is an incredibly flavorful drink that’s perfect for sipping on its own or using as the base for your favorite cocktail.
Bitters come in many different flavors, so experiment with various combinations until you find one that works best for you. Try adding orange, clove, cardamom, cinnamon and allspice bitters for a warm spice blend that will enhance the complexity of the spiced rum. You could also go bolder by trying out habanero or jalapeno bitters if you want something more adventurous!
Sour And Bittersweet Mixers
Herbal infusions and teas provide a refreshing twist to spiced rum, but other mixers can bring out the spirit’s flavor. Sour and bittersweet mixers add an interesting dimension to spiced rum cocktails. These mixers create drinks with complex flavors and can be combined with other ingredients to make tasty creations.
The most common sour mixer for spiced rum is lemon or lime juice, which gives the drink a fresh, tart taste. Adding orange juice can add a hint of sweetness while adding cranberry juice brings in an additional layer of tartness. Ginger ale is another popular choice for creating a balanced drink. The slightly sweet soda pairs perfectly with the spice-laden rum.
Bittersweet mixers bring out more subtle notes in spiced rums compared to sour options. Coffee liqueur lends an earthy flavor that adds complexity without overwhelming the spirit’s flavor profile. Cola also works well as it has enough sweetness to counterbalance the bitterness of espresso or coffee liqueur. Another option is tonic water, which provides a slightly sweet and bitter flavor that complements the spices in spiced rum.
These combinations are just some of the many options available for mixing drinks with spiced rum. Experimenting with different mixers can lead to exciting new concoctions that highlight the spirit’s unique characteristics and provide delicious refreshments on any occasion.
Spice Blends To Enhance The Flavor
Ah, spiced rum. Its sweet and spicy flavor is a timeless classic. Why not try some creative spice blends to kick it up a notch? From ginger beer to orange juice, the possibilities are truly endless!
Mix your spiced rum with jalapeno-infused limeade or pineapple habanero soda for an added zing of heat. Alternatively, for something a bit more subtle in flavor, combine your spirit with pomegranate lemonade or cranberry tangerine tea. These flavors can be incredibly refreshing when combined properly!
To finish off your drink’s flavor profile and take it to the next level, add some freshly cut herbs like mint leaves or basil for an extra layer of complexity. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle on a little cinnamon sugar for a unique twist on this classic beverage. With these easy additions and combinations, you’ll have one tasty cocktail that’ll surely impress anyone who takes a sip!
Ready to give your drink even more appeal? Let’s explore garnishes to enhance their visual beauty.
Garnishes To Enhance Visual Appeal
Having discussed the various spice blends that can be used to enhance the flavor of spiced rum, it’s now time to turn our attention toward garnishes. Garnishes are an integral part of creating an attractive drink and they also contribute some additional flavors. When selecting a garnish for your spiced rum drinks, think about what fruits or herbs will compliment the rum’s flavor profile.
A few good options include oranges or orange slices, limes, pineapple chunks, mint leaves, rosemary sprigs, thyme springs, cinnamon sticks, cloves and star anise pods. Mixing any combination of these ingredients with your spiced rum can create beautiful presentations that look great and taste delicious.
Serving Tips And Considerations
The glow of the setting sun illuminates a delicious spiced rum concoction. As its aroma wafts through the air, inviting customers to take in its sweet and spicy notes, it’s time to consider how best to serve this delightful drink.
When serving up a spiced rum beverage, there are many different mixers that can be used besides Coke. Ginger ale creates an effervescent touch with its light sweetness and brings out more of the underlying spices in the rum.
Pineapple juice is another great option for adding a tart flavor which complements the overall taste profile of this spirit nicely. For those looking for something even simpler than these two options, tonic water or club soda can also be used as mixers to give your cocktail just enough fizz without overpowering it.
No matter what type of mixer you choose, make sure to pick one that will bring out all the wonderful flavors of your spiced rum!
Food Pairings With Spiced Rum Drinks
Spiced rum can be used in a variety of delicious drinks. Its warm and inviting flavor makes it the perfect addition to many cocktails. There are several food pairings that can enhance the flavor of spiced rum, making for a truly enjoyable experience.
Here are some options: – Fruits & Vegetables: – Apples, Oranges, Pineapple, Mango, Tomatoes – Cheeses & Dairy Products: – Brie Cheese, Cheddar Cheese, Whipped Cream – Spices: – Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves
These ingredients have unique flavors that complement any spiced rum drink nicely. Experiment with different combinations until you find one that fits your preferences perfectly! With so many possibilities available, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
It’s important to remember alcohol content and safety guidelines when consuming alcoholic beverages. Always follow responsible drinking practices and stay safe while having fun.
Alcohol Content And Safety Guidelines
Having discussed the food pairings of spiced rum drinks, let us now turn to alcohol content and safety guidelines. When it comes to mixing with spiced rum, no single answer works for everyone. The amount of alcohol consumed should be tailored to one’s individual tolerance level and the desired effect.
When selecting mixers for spiced rum, it’s important to consider the flavor and alcohol content of each mixer. For those seeking a lower-alcohol option than traditional cola, cranberry juice or ginger beer can provide a flavorful alternative while still offering some sweetness.
Other low-alcohol options include seltzer water and tonic water, especially popular in light cocktails such as Rum & Tonic or Spritzers. Additionally, fruit juices like orange or pineapple provide sweetness and tartness depending on the drink type. Lastly, syrups like grenadine or simple syrup add extra sweetness without adding more alcohol into the mix.
No matter what ingredients you choose for your spiced rum cocktail, always practice responsible drinking habits by keeping track of how much you consume and never driving under the influence of alcohol.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Spiced Rum Last After Opening?
When it comes to spiced rum, one of the most common questions is how long does it last after opening? The answer isn’t straightforward since there are several factors that can affect its shelf life.
Here’s a breakdown of those factors:
- Storage conditions:
- Refrigeration will extend the shelf-life of opened spiced rum for up to two years.
- Room temperature storage should be limited to six months or less.
- Type of bottle:
- Dark glass bottles help protect against light damage and oxidation that can reduce flavor quality over time.
- Clear glass bottles may only allow for 1-3 month shelf-life depending on other variables such as air exposure and storage method.
Regardless of type, keeping an opened container tightly sealed with minimal air contact can also help preserve freshness and taste longer than leaving it open in between uses. Properly stored spiced rum should still have some depth and complexity even when past its expiration date while older rums tend to weaken in flavor intensity over time.
What Is The Best Way To Store Spiced Rum?
When it comes to storing spiced rum, you’ll want to ensure that your bottle is kept in a cool and dark place. This will help the spirit retain its flavor profile for as long as possible. As with any liquor, an open bottle of spiced rum should be sealed tightly after each use—otherwise, the liquid can quickly degrade over time due to exposure to oxygen.
To keep your spiced rum tasting as delicious as possible:
– Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources:
– Store in the pantry or cabinet away from windows.
– Don’t leave bottles in cars or other hot places like attics during summer months.
– Make sure cap is firmly closed when not using:
The key takeaway here is that proper storage plays an essential role in maintaining your rum’s freshness, much like sunscreen prevents sunburns! So take these steps when dealing with spiced rum and you’ll enjoy its unique flavors for many drinks!
How Much Spiced Rum Should Be Added To A Cocktail?
When making a cocktail with spiced rum, the amount of spirit you add depends on your preference. Generally speaking, one part spiced rum plus two parts mixer is the standard ratio for cocktails. But if you’re looking to make something more sophisticated or strong-tasting, then consider these four tips:
- Start by adding half an ounce of spiced rum and increase gradually until it reaches the desired flavor intensity.
- Taste as you go – don’t be afraid to experiment with different proportions according to your own tastes.
- If you want to make a low-alcohol drink, try replacing some of the spiced rum with other ingredients like fruit juices or mixers.
- When in doubt, refer to classic recipes for inspiration; there are plenty available online!
Making a great-tasting cocktail with spiced rum doesn’t have to be complicated – just start small and let your imagination run wild! With a few simple adjustments, any recipe can become uniquely yours.
Does Spiced Rum Contain Gluten?
Have you ever wondered if the spiced rum that you enjoy in a cocktail contains gluten? It’s an important question to consider, especially for those who are conscious of their dietary needs. Let’s take a look at what we know about this popular spirit and its potential use as part of your favorite drinks.
- Spiced rum is made from sugar cane-derived molasses or sugarcane juice
- Many recipes contain spices such as nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla beans
- The alcohol content can range from 35% to 75%.
The answer to our original query is both yes and no: some brands of spiced rums do not contain any gluten ingredients, while others might due to added flavorings. As with all alcoholic beverages, it is best to check with the manufacturer before consuming them. Additionally, be sure to read up on other nutritional facts such as calories per serving and ABV (alcohol by volume). Knowing these details will help ensure you’re making informed decisions about which cocktails to mix up!
Is Spiced Rum Vegan?
Is spiced rum vegan? This is a question many people have when considering their beverage options. Understanding any product’s ingredients is important before deciding whether it fits into your diet and lifestyle.
First, let’s consider what makes up spiced rum. It typically has molasses as its base ingredient and spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla bean for flavoring. Additionally, some brands may include artificial flavors, preservatives and other additives which could potentially contain animal products such as whey proteins.
To know if spiced rum is vegan-friendly, you’ll want to research each brand:
1. Check to see if any additional ingredients are listed beyond those mentioned above;
2. Contact the manufacturer directly to ask about the source of their ingredients;
3. Look out for certifications from organizations like Vegan Action or The Vegan Society that guarantee a product is free of animal byproducts.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what kind of beverages fit into your dietary needs and lifestyle choices – so make sure you’re staying informed!
Conclusion
In conclusion, spiced rum is a versatile and tasty spirit that can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with other ingredients. We have looked at what to mix with spiced rum besides Coke and made some great suggestions. When it comes to mixing spiced rum, there are many possibilities beyond the classic combination of coke. Try adding juices such as orange or pineapple, ginger beer, iced tea, cola or even coffee for an interesting twist.
To make sure you get the most out of your spiced rum, remember to store it in a cool dark place and consume it within six months after opening. Now that you know all about spiced rum, why not break the mold and try something new? Life’s too short to keep doing things the same old way – time to spice up your life!