As I've said many times before, it's always a good idea to include some sweeter, fruitier drinks at the pool party or barbecue, for the ladies who want to imbibe but aren't in the mood for your famous bourbon and Coke, or shot gunning beers.

Not that it's "girlie" in anyway, but the new Cruzan Strawberry Rum will allow you to mix up some cocktails the ladies will love. Mention "strawberry" and they're in. And the touch of ginger Cruzan's added to the mix, takes some of the edge off the sweetness. So it's not to syrupy, or cavity inducing. After all, a drink still needs to be a drink. We'll leave the sugary stuff for the kids.

Here are a few recipes you'll want to have at the ready at your next backyard bash:

Cruzan Mojito with a Twist
2 parts Cruzan Strawberry Rum
2 tsp. sugar
3-4 mint leaves
Juice of half a lime
Club soda
Muddle sugar, mint, lime juice, and a splash of club soda together in a tall glass. Add rum and garnish with a strawberry.

Cruzan Strawberry Mai Tai
1 1/2 parts Cruzan Strawberry Ginger Rum
1/2 parts Dekuyper Orange Curacao
1 1/2 parts Fresh Lime Juice
3/4 parts Simple Syrup
1/2 parts Finest Call Orgeat Syrup
Fill mixing glass 3/4 with cubed ice, strain into 14oz. mixing glass full of crushed ice. Garnish with a pineapple cube and cherry speared and a mint sprig.

Cruzan Strawberry Ginger Lemonade
Pour into a 14 oz. Mixing Glass with no ice
1 1/4 parts Cruzan Strawberry Lemonade
1 1/2 parts Fresh Lemon Juice
1 1/2 parts Simple Syrup
Fill mixing glass 3/4 with ice, shake for 5 seconds and strain into a full glass of ice
Top with 3/4 oz. Club Soda

Cruzan Strawberry Ginger Daiquiri
2 parts Cruzan Strawberry Rum
1 1/2 parts fresh lime juice
1 1/2 parts simple syrup
Fill mixing glass with 3/4 ice. Add all ingredients and shake for 5 sec. Pour into chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.