What do you get when you mix:

- 2-3 tbs Rose's Grenadine

- 1/3 can of club soda [and/or gingerale]

- approximately 1/4 c orange juice

- 2-3 maraschino cherries, a sliver or orange, and [if you're lucky enough to have one on hand, a cocktail umbrella] ????

A SHIRLEY TEMPLE, that's what!

I'm currently seated on my back porch sipping one of these most delightful home-made mocktails. [Sunglasses on... Jodi Picoult novel in hand... Thankful that I forced myself to be productive this morning and mow the lawn/tidy the house, etc.] ;-)

The first Shirley Temple was invented for the actress who bears its name, by a bartender at Chasen's Restaurant in Beverly Hills, CA. Since Temple was clearly too young to drink alcohol, this beverage appealed to her youthful palate [It still appeals to mine, too, though I'm certainly legal! :-)]. Here in Canada, the Shirley Temple retains its popularity among casual diners at Swiss Chalet, whose slogan - "always so good for so little" - is heightened by the frequent presence of the mocktail. Usually included in this family restaurant's version of the drink is a tiny plastic "sword" that has, in my experience, inspired countless "duels."

I've yet to try an "adult" Shirley Temple, but I think that I might have to at some point this summer. According to my research, a "Shirley Temple Black" consists of a combination of 7-Up, Kahlua, and Grenadine, whereas a "Dirty Shirley" mixes 7-up, Vodka, and Grenadine. Who knew?

Shirley Temple, anyone?