Virgin Pi�a Colada

Ingredients:
2 ounces coconut cream
1 1/2 ounces crushed pineapple
1 ounce pineapple juice
1/4 cup crushed ice
1 orange slice
1 maraschino cherry

Directions:
Place all ingredients in a blender and blend at high setting until smooth — about 30 seconds. Strain into highball or Collins glass and garnish with orange slice and cherry. NOTE: Crushed pineapple juice canned in its own juice is preferable for a less-sweet drink; use pineapple canned in syrup for a sweeter concoction.

When I make my famous Bloody Marys for non-drinkers, I always put in the same amount of water as I would have vodka … the difference in taste is imperceptible.

When I am out later than I planned, I have two bartender friends who after a wink from me, switch me to water martinis … It is a technique that works for me very well.

Ours were tonic water on the rocks with a twist and an olive. They tasted just like my dad’s martini![;)]

When I was very young, we used to spend a week every summer with my great aunt on Nantucket, and once in a while we’d go for a weekend during the rest of the year. Every night before dinner, everyone would have a cocktail. All the kids got to have a Mickey Mouse – cranberry juice and ginger ale, but she made them feel like "grown up" drinks by adding a lemon slice, an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.

Now, I serve those to my family for holiday dinners.

My parents had us addicted to kiddy cocktails and candy cigarettes at a young age. Pretty much now i stick to the N/A beers because i like the taste and a clear mind.[:)]