In today's world news, I ran across an article that claims Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of England, enjoys approximately four cocktails per day and sweet treats along the way. The Queen gives me much to look forward to as I age. Though I am a bit shy of ninety-one, I am making big plans for semi-retirement, vacation, or just a low-key Tuesday afternoon.

Turns out that the Queen likes gin and tonic. When I hear gin, I think juice. The G & T combo seems awfully bold for someone of such high regard. The smooth burn that comes with gin is not for wimpy drinkers. If you can't hold your liquor, the G & T will betray you every time. If you want to show your mellow side from sun up til sundown, give a simple gin and tonic a try.

The Queen also apparently learned from her mum to enjoy another gin cocktail. Dubonnet, a type of fortified wine, is mixed with gin. Now, as mentioned earlier, I have had gin and juice. I have even had gin on the rocks. However, it has never occurred to me to mix it with another alcoholic beverage. Why not choose a cocktail that will put some hair on your chest!

Though I have not enjoyed gin for breakfast, I have enjoyed wine for lunch. Queen Elizabeth reportedly enjoys her wine with chocolate. Since I can have one or the other or both, I am very happy to learn that I am not the only woman in the world who over indulges. One day, when I am semi- or completely retired, I will enjoy a daily cocktail at lunch. Today, I enjoyed a praline from Laura's Candies. Better than chocolate.

The Queen also reportedly likes a glass of bubbly. Just like gin, I typically enjoy my bubbly in a mimosa (with juice). Too much champagne makes my head feel like air. Too much orange juice sparks a little gastrointestinal burn. However, when you mix them together just so, two negatives make a positive. I look forward to Sunday brunches with mimosas, especially when the glasses are large.

To make a mimosa, choose a champagne or fluted glass. Pour a little over halfway with chilled champagne and fill it up the rest of the way with orange juice. I do not have the budget of the royals. So, my cheap yet tasty drink is made with Simply Orange and Korbel Brut. If you are sharing with friends or co-workers, I suggest two bottles of the bubbly to one container of the juice. Of course, this means that I like more of the good stuff than the orange stuff.

Queen Elizabeth apparently also enjoys a glass of champagne before bed. That feels like a bad night's sleep. My preference is for vodka and lemonade over ice. Country Time works well as does Simply Raspberry Lemonade. Cranberry is also a great choice. You could also try a Pomegranate Martini (1 part vodka, 2 parts pom juice, a squirt of agave, shake and pour). Whether you go for Champagne or vodka; sip slowly, sleep soundly, and repeat the following evening.

All hail Queen Elizabeth II. Regardless of your loyalties to country, you have to admit (or you don't if you prefer not to) that the Queen is bad ass. At 90+, I hope to be of sound mind and body so that I can booze my days and nights away. I take my inspiration for aging from the Queen.