and if you go for two, it's good night Gracie. Having a drink with dinner has become an American pastime. Nothing beats having a cold beer with your burger or a nice glass of wine with your pasta, or even an apple martini served with your nachos appetizer. I, personally, have never been a big fan of washing down my meal with a jack and coke, hard liquor to me is a happy hour beverage, served with a wedge of lime and a tiny straw for mixing, but I can also see the need after a taxing day. However, go about 30 miles east of the Flora-Bama line, and they have repackaged the "big gulp" to a whole new audience...adults traveling with children. We all know the "big gulp" still a favorite among teens and construction workers, nothing beats 96 ounces of orange Fanta with a splash of mountain dew on a hot day. But the folks in Pensacola Beach are genius, they have created a little bit of heaven in a 32 oz. mason jar. With fiery names like Dragon Voodoo, or Diesel Fuel, these cocktails are mixed with 8 parts rum and 3 parts juice and served with your dinner, a wink and smile. And you know what; after spending the day at the beach with your children, creating a sand castle, destroying the sand castle and then making it again, swallowing saltwater- someone crying, sand in your pants, sand in your Ipod, sand in eyes, someone else crying. Each day at 4pm I was beginning to look forward to my adult "big gulp". And as I looked around the restaurant, I think the other parents agreed. I don't necessarily believe in witchcraft, but the Dragon Voodoo held magical powers for me. After drinking about a quarter my girls were talking much quieter than normal. After about halfway through, my husband became much funnier and better looking. And towards the bottom of the Voodoo the substandard food became really delicious. Have you ever tried boiled shrimp dunked in butter, cocktail sauce and hot fudge? My stressed day of sand and sun was soon replaced by magical nights of dancing, drinks and jokes. And can you believe we got to keep the jars? Sure I will have to get rid of a couple of dishes, for storage, but next time I throw a party for 4, we will be serving Diesel fuel for everyone...seriously, why can't I?
