......Left Me A Mule To Ride

News wise, this isn't the biggest thing to hit the wires over the last 24 hours. However, it made my day.

In what can only be described as an act of sheer genius, the Flying Saucer in downtown Memphis added a new drink.

Well, new for them.

Not for me.

Paul Ryburn reports in his blog this morning that the Flying Saucer is now serving "Moscow Mules".

While beer purists might scoff at the notion of a classic cocktail being served on the premises, I for one applaud it.

Kirk, you're a genius.

The "Moscow Mule" and I go way back together.

My late brother Bruce purchased one for me after he'd played 18 holes of golf at the late, great Salem Country Club near Elsinboro, NJ.

It was considered by many to be the "House Drink".

Maybe it was the copper mug that frosted over from the ice inside.

Maybe it was the oh so refreshing taste of lime and ginger beer.

Perhaps it was the vodka that gently yielded to the lime and ginger beer.

Regardless, it was love at first taste.

Sort of like girls, but much less expensive.

Back here in South Jersey, it isn't terribly difficult to find one.

Just around the corner at J.G. Cook's Riverview Inn, they make as fine an example of one that a thirsty soul could ask for.

And the view of the setting sun over the Delaware River doesn't hurt, either.

A perfectly prepared "Moscow Mule" by J.G. Cook's Riverview Inn, July 2011.

Not shown, the Calamari appetizer that showed up two minutes after I took the picture.

The Calamari was just as good as the drink.

While I appreciate just how refreshing a "Moscow Mule" is during the hot, dry Summer months, I also appreciate how one sip of one in January can remind me of the warmer times to come.

The more spiritual among us would tell you that's what "Hope" is.

I'm most comfortable with my assessment.

A week from now, you can see me in the Flying Saucer (live and in person).

I will be more than happy to discuss the merits of a well prepared "Moscow Mule".

A select few will be sipping on one courtesy of me.

As the middle child in a large family, I'm quite used to sharing.

In the meantime, all y'all take care of yourselves.

Air Traffic Mike, ret.