Happy Hour or Nightcap?

Everything is in bloom...the daffodils, crocuses, johnny-jump-ups, flowering quince, forsythia and a whole bunch of fruit trees. It is nice. Also, the birds (and some bugs) are back. That is nice, too. However, the birds in my yard have a 5:00 a.m. wake-up call which, you guessed it, wakes up me and the pups....not so nice. Fourth day in a row.

And so, when I picked out today's beverage, I was a little sleep-deprived. Thinking spring, but wondering, is there such a thing as a "happy hour" cocktail for birds...or better yet...a little spring nightcap I could mix up, just to get them through 'til 6 a.m.? Anyone know? My dark circles and pups would thank you!!

Spring Green Apple-tini

2 parts vodka
1 part Sour Apple Schnapps or Sour Apple Pucker*
1-2 parts real ginger ale
Dash of cayenne
Splash of lime juice, optional
In a iced shaker, add vodka, mixer and lime juice.
Shake vigorously and strain into a martini glass. Add a dash of cayenne and maybe a few dried cranberries. You can also rim the glass with a mixture of salt, sugar and cayenne. Serve 1.

*NOTE: If you don't have the sour apple mixer, try mixing apple juice or cider with more lime juice to get it zingy. This will change the taste and alcohol content some, but may save you a few steps, some money, gas and a trip to the store!