Cool as a Cucumber

The heat index will be up there today in Virginia, probably the hottest day of the year.  While I love summer, when it gets this warm, well, you do what you can to make the best of it.......

If I could, I'd go for a swim in this lovely Tory Burch suit, which happens to be on sale....

I'd sit on the patio and fill this baby from Ballard with all kinds of drinks of choice....use your imagination!

A good popsicle is ideal on a day like today...

And there's always the other option.......

Cool Cucumber Cocktail Recipe

Cool Cucumber Cocktail

• 3/4 oz St. Germain elderflower liqueur
• 1 1/2 oz. Hendrick's gin
• 3/4 oz cucumber water
• 1/4 oz simple syrup (recipe to follow)
• Tonic water
• Cucumber slices
• Fresh mint leaves
• Heavy squeeze of lime juice

Simple Syrup

• 2 parts sugar
• 1 part water

Directions

Cocktail:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine St. Germain, gin, cucumber water, simple syrup, cucumber slices and a nice amount of mint leaves. Using a wooden spoon, crush all ingredients together. Add crushed ice, cover and shake vigorously in a cocktail shaker.
2. Pour the mixture into a cocktail glass, old fashioned glass or my personal favorite, a mason jar. Top the cocktail off with a splash of tonic water, garnish with a cucumber slice and you're all set!
Simple Syrup:
1. Bring the water to a boil. Dissolve the sugar into the water, stirring constantly
2. Once the sugar is completely dissolved, take the pan off the heat (do not let the sugar boil for too long because it will become too thick).
3. Allow to cool completely before use.

Do your best to remain cool as a cucumber today!