1. Start in July - to be ready for Christmas holidays: In a 1 gallon clean container add 1 quart vodka and 2 cups sugar, and 1 cup triple sec -- then fill with fresh cherries to the top of the container.

2. Daily turn container 1 time upside down and then upright.

3. The mixture should ''work'' about 5-6 months and will be a hit about Christmas time.

4. We always serve ''Cherry Bounce'' in a special silver bowl and garnish with sprigs of Holly.

5. (Remind folks/guests about cherry pits -- if you didn't pit your cherries.

6. ) It's also delightful over vanilla ice cream -- but beware, the vodka in the cherries may have added an extra ''bounce'' to your steps! After you have consumed cherries - save the juice and you'll have a cherry cordial for New Year's Eve! Recipe by Michele Dipert for the NorthWest Cherry Recipe Contest.