My love for cocktails is a constant reminder to me that I need to go back to basics. I am easily seduced by the idea of learning something new about the familiar and old. Although they are great, I am reticent about infusions.

Yet, how many mojitos can one make and still feel satisfied? For me, the answer is many. Blanche would agree that it has been many, many, many times. Recently, while creating cocktail slushies at a local microbrewery, I was confronted with my monogamous love for slight variations of classic cocktails. It’s almost like going to a furniture store to purchase something for your apartment, only to buy yet another bed for your dog (most recently a Ratan chaise) when you needed a nightstand. It made me wonder if my cocktail list was becoming a rotating collection of less cute dog beds.

Carlin once sent me cassis jelly that she had made. It brought back so many memories. I also received a message from her saying that the IKEA rug she bought was “just okay.” I love Carlin. When I saw her post a frozen watermelon margarita she had made for herself after work, I knew it was the right decision. Depending on which medical study, they might also help lower blood pressure. I use my Tajin and salt rim, but they are optional.

How to make a Watermelon Margarita (the lazy summer girl’s way)

Mix the sugar cubes and watermelon in a shaker. Add the rest of your ingredients. Mix the ingredients in a shaker. Shake for 6-8 seconds—strain into a glass with fresh ice.

You can make the Tajin/salt border by using a small plate. You can use half of a lime to run it around the rim of your glass before filling it with fresh ice. Then, dip it in your Tajin/salt mixture. If you prefer a more robust seasoning, twist your glass. Fill your glass with ice, and then pour your marg.

How to make a Watermelon Margarita (the hot summer Carlin way for girls)

Carlin suggests you cut up ripe watermelon pieces (reserve the rind for a cordial) before freezing them. This is an excellent idea because it eliminates the need to use ice. The frozen watermelon will give you the dilution you need and the chill factor you desire while also giving you a nice, smooth consistency.