Now that it's officially summer, there's more opportunity to spend time outside. Being outside means sweating and sweating means getting thirsty. Thirst is something I cannot abide.

If it's really hot, sometimes a cold can of cheap beer hits the spot. These days I've been drinking Narragansett, as it's only $5 for a six-pack of 16 oz. cans. I love my microbrews, but when it's the kind of hot that makes dogs go crazy, a complex, heavy beer might not be my first choice. Great for mowing lawns.

Other times, like when walking around the city, a nice blue Slurpee with (a lot of) vanilla vodka is the way to go. Yes, it's gross on multiple levels, but awesome on several levels, so I'm ok with it as a very occasional thing.

Lately I've been drinking Allagash Yakuzawhich I think is a really nice, really refreshing beer. Another good one (and coincidentally Japanese influenced(?)) is Rogue Morimoto Soba Ale

For cocktails, I like An Old Cuban which is a variation of mojito.

What are your picks for summertime drinks?