Happy belated birhday, Poopie!

In the ongoing campaign of online greetings, a Happy Belated Birthday to our friend Poopie! I've been overwhelmed by the parade of birthdays that, more often than not, have been forgotten. Time for a new social secretary.

Until then, have a Mint Julep on us:

Mint Julep

• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons water
• 6 to 8 mint leaves
• ½ cup finely crushed ice
• 2 ounces Bourbon

Chill a silver tumbler or julep mug. Add to chilled mug the sugar, water, and mint leaves. Using a spoon, crush mint gently. Add a scant ½ cup of finely crushed ice; pour Bourbon over the ice. Do not stir, but let stand a few minutes until the mug is frosty.

Several recipes require the preparation of a simple syrup. Which is fine for people who would prefer to spend their time whisking sugar and water -- and then wait 20 or 30 minutes for the mixture to steep. But really: Would you rather spend your time mixing a simple syrup, or imbibing? Is this a serious question?

Although you are a cat person, we know that you'll eventually come around and get a dog. We'll be waiting.

We'll catch up soon.