By: Pamela Spolarich REALTOR®
Living in Florida means we really only have two seasons: Summer and Slightly Less Summer.
I’m pretty sure Spring packed its bags and skipped town this year. One day I was looking for a light sweater, and the next day I was sweating through my flip-flops while carrying a beach chair. With temperatures climbing faster than my electric bill, it’s officially time to embrace all things summer. That means boat days, pool days, beach days, backyard barbecues, and, of course, the annual competition to see who can own the most ridiculous pool float. Remember when a simple raft was enough? Not anymore. Now your neighbors are floating around on giant flamingos, luxury yachts, floating islands complete with cup holders, and inflatable peacocks large enough to require a docking permit. If your pool float doesn’t have room for six friends and a charcuterie board, are you even trying?
Of course, surviving a Florida summer requires more than SPF 50 and a fancy float. We need something that cools the body while bringing out our inner Sun Bum beach-goer. This year, I’m skipping the complicated cocktail menu and embracing wine-based summer refreshers. A chilled white wine spritzer with fresh citrus and sparkling water is about as refreshing as jumping into the Gulf after baking on the beach all afternoon. Frozen sangria is another summertime favorite. Toss wine, frozen fruit, and ice into a blender, and suddenly you’re hosting the hottest party on the block while serving the coolest drink.
And since America celebrates its 250th birthday this Fourth of July, it’s only fitting we raise a patriotic glass.
Try a “Stars, Stripes & Sips” cocktail. Fill a glass with ice, add your favorite Prosecco or sparkling wine, toss in fresh blueberries and sliced strawberries, then top with a splash of lemonade. Red, white, and blue never tasted so good.
While our forefathers may not have enjoyed pool floats shaped like unicorns, history tells us they certainly appreciated raising a glass to celebrate freedom, friendship, and the birth of a nation. Some traditions are simply worth keeping alive.
So whether you’re floating in the pool, watching fireworks over the water, or simply trying to stay cooler than the Florida pavement in July, remember to enjoy the season, laugh often, and keep something refreshing in your glass.
Happy 250th Birthday, America! May your skies be filled with fireworks, your heart with patriotism, and your glass with something worth celebrating. Until next month, Cheers from your fellow Wine Lover!
