Staying cool in the face of heat

If it’s Friday, it must be time for another Friday Night Cocktail at the Henderson’s. When I heard that we would be dealing with 90 degree temperatures this weekend, I found myself thinking, “Yep. It’s summertime.” Growing up, the 2nd weekend in June usually meant that school would be completely out, and it was time to get to work on the farm. But it also meant rope swings over the canal, jumping in the irrigation ditch to cool off and more than a few trips to Pismo and Avila for some real fun (For you Midwesterner’s, those are beaches in California). So many wonderful memories. As I was driving along today with my grandson Niko in tow, another important memory of summertime came to mind – Music. The music of summertime past. We were driving along, and the now popular song, “We are Young” came on. Niko starts belting out the chorus at the top of his lungs… And another summer memory is made. These anthem-like songs are an important part of all of our summers, aren’t they? If you are like me and born in the 60’s, we have a rainbow of musical history that represents Summer. Everything from the Beatles to Eminem – and you don’t have to know the words to get into it. So tonight, young or not, we will toast to the summer days ahead, and the many memories we will gather along the way. We are drinking Mint Juleps, because they are cool and refreshing, and that’s the way we want to end all of our summer days ahead. CHEERS FRIENDS!!!
Recipe for 'Joy's Mint Julep'
2 1/2 oz. Light Rum or Vodka
4 fresh mint sprigs
1 tsp. Powered Sugar
2 oz. water

Muddle mint leaves, powdered sugar, and water in a collins glass. Fill the glass with shaved or crushed ice and add Rum or Vodka. Top with more ice and garnish with a mint sprig. Serve with a straw.