Crack your eggs one at a time in a saucer or plate and remove the membrane. Then add eggs to a bowl.
Beat eggs with a whisk or a fork until it's has a very smooth consistency and the yolk and white is commingled
In a saucepan, add the water
Then add the spices (lime rind, cinnamon sticks, anise or fennel, grated nutmeg) and bring it to a boil.
When the mixture is boiled, and the color of the water has changed, add milk and whisk the mixture
Let milk boil, paying close attention so that it doesn't boil over.
Continue to whisk
Then turn stove off and let the mixture cool down just a little
Add eggs gradually while whisking the mixture
continue to whisk after eggs mixture has been added
Then strain the mixture into a teapot
Add bitters, vanilla essence, sugar to your liking, and if you'd like, a little rum or brandy
Enjoy with you favorite holiday treat