A Star Spangled Mojito

The month of July comes to our doorstep like a raging storm of red, white and blue. A storm welcomed by the citizens and vacationers of Coronado. For this is the beginning of the summer season and a parade like no other on July 4th

Otherwise known as Independence Day in the United States, the 4th of July is a celebration of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence (1776). The day the U.S. decided we wanted to separate ourselves from Great Britain and become our own country. We stood together in those days to be proud of what we achieved and wave a flag for our pioneers, soldiers and citizens. I don’t know about you, but every time I rise with the flag at a baseball game, a parade, or even a funeral, I remember the sacrifices made by those before me and gain more respect for the stars and stripes.

While this is not intended as a history lesson, it centers on the traditions we follow in the place we call home. Getting up at 4am on parade morning to place our chairs and supplies in just the right spot. Decorating bikes and golf carts with tassels and flags in our country’s colors. Children with their faces painted and dogs with bandanas. I must confess, I consider skipping the parade each year because I

have been here 20 years watching the tradition. But when my alarm rings at a horribly early hour on the 4th, I pack my car with chairs, face the darkness, dress in USA colors and plan our day around the Coronado Fourth of July parade. There are many volunteers and leaders to thank for making it special. Vacationer or resident – this is a day not to be missed.

While the fourth of July is THE celebration of the month, there are a few others that carry some importance and need to be recognized. July is National Ice Cream month. I can think of a few places in Coronado that would be happy to give you a scoop. It’s also National Hot Dog month. The hot dog and its friend the hamburger are the two best things on a grill. So, get busy and celebrate the hot dog covered in mustard, ketchup and relish in July.

The final celebration in this month is a very important one. Why? Because it honors PARENTS! Come on – parents are the BEST people! The fourth Sunday in July is National Parents Day. A day where our children should make us breakfast, let us sleep late, do the laundry…. OK well – you get the picture. But if the kids slight their duties on this special day, sit back and enjoy the parade, fireworks and picnics with the perfect patriotic drink. A blend of all things red, white and blue –with a kick!

INGREDIENTS

2 ounces Bacardi light rum

1-ounce simple syrup

5 ounces club soda

¼ cup blueberries

¼ cup raspberries

1-ounce fresh lime juice

Ice

Rocks glass

MIXOLOGY

Place raspberries in the bottom of your glass and press until slightly mashed.

Add ice

Add rum

Add simple syrup

Squeeze fresh lime over mixture in glass

Add club soda

Top mixture with blueberries for garnish

NOTE: Leave out the RUM for a child friendly drink.