Amanda De Jager Friedman: Baby, it's cold outside

"I really can't stay, baby, it's cold outside ..."

-- And so the song goes.

It's one of the more amusing Christmas songs available for your listening pleasure: the slightly risqué cat-and-mouse banter between the duet singers is both amorous and witty.

The song, written in 1944 by Frank Loesser, an accomplished Broadway lyricist, is reminiscent of decades past, most notably when Dean Martin's velvety voice carries the tune.

The lyrics conjure up images of a lovely, prim young woman being tempted by her cunning gentleman to stay with him late into the evening, because, evidently, "it's cold outside."

Surely you've heard it, and get the drift.

However, what was a just darling romantic holiday jingle has taken on a slapstick quality, thanks to the greatest Christmas movie of all time (in my subservient opinion), "Elf."

Buddy the Elf (played by Will Ferrell), is actually a dim-witted, sugar-obsessed, childlike human, who is convinced he is an elf because he was raised by Santa at the North Pole.

The movie has become a cult classic -- Buddy the Elf even has a Facebook fan page with more than a million followers.

In the movie, Buddy finds himself in a steamy situation as he follows the sound of his lady friend, Jovie, singing the aforementioned classic holiday song.

If you've seen the "Baby, It's Cold Outside" scene, you know exactly what I'm talking about, and are likely choking back a laugh.

If not, update your Netflix queue today, so you, too, can bask in the hilarity of this story.

But consider yourself warned that "Elf." as a film, is rather intellectually challenging -- only those of a certain scholarly nature will be able to watch and fully absorb and enjoy the movie (as with any film including Ferrell).

Buddy the Elf, and his abundant Christmas charisma aside, the reality that it actually is chilly outside, and that Christmas is almost here, gives us good reason to toast with friends. Just stick to the basics: stuff the clutter in the closet, light the fireplace, serve some charcuterie, play some music and enjoy a libation together.

You don't have to be a master mixologist to serve up a marvelous cocktail.

I tend to avoid cocktail shakers, as they are flimsy, slippery and always too small to make enough for a group.

Find a handsome pitcher (referring to a vessel -- not an athlete), and make plenty to serve your cronies.

This recipe is written in "parts" so you can adjust the amounts as necessary.

It has a lovely crimson color, perfect for the season, and a decidedly luxurious taste from the Chambord.

The lucky imbibers will know your wishes of Christmas cheer are genuine at first sip.

As always, please drink these responsibly.

These are so tasty, you'll guzzle 'em faster than you think.

Arrange a driver, or plan to have a sleepover. After all, baby, it's cold outside.

Amanda De Jager Friedman is owner of the Piano Caffe in Merced.

Recipe: Pom Crazy Martinis

2 parts good vodka (Ketel One, if you need a suggestion)

1 part Chambord (raspberry liqueur)

2 parts pomegranate juice

1 part club soda

Squeeze of fresh lime

Pomegranate seeds, for garnish

Add everything but pomegranate seeds to a pitcher filled with ice--these must be very cold. Stir vigorously to chill the concoction and break up the ice a little. Pour into martini glasses if you have them, but rocks glasses or wine glasses will work just the same. Garnish with pomegranate seeds, and, should you feel like getting fancy, a curl of lime zest. Enjoy carefully.