If Summer were an Alcoholic Beverage...

... It would have to be a Tom Collins. A vintage cocktail, (my grandmother is a huge fan), I say it's time we brought the delightful drink back into the spotlight.

Why? This seasonal throw-back is exactly what you want to throw back (it was too easy) after a long day in the sun. Subtly sweet, there is still enough lemon zing to quench your thirst, and keep you from feeling like your teeth are rotting from a sugar overdose (not the same can be said for some of those blended cocktails).

Recipe:

- add shot (or however much you want, really) of Gin to tall glass
- squeeze quarter of fresh lemon
- fill up 3/4 way with pineapple juice
- add splash of sprite (or 7-up if you need a jolt)
- add maraschino cherry, and a couple drops of cherry juice from the jar -- don't let it get too pink
- add ice
- stir
- try not to gulp down as you watch the sun set, and enjoy the sea breeze in your hair.

(summer sunset at Outer Banks, NC)