A good time was had by all

 A little fire, a little fountain, a little jerk chicken and (more than) a little mojito. Now that's a splendid Fourth of July!

Note to self: Plant more mint. I use common spearmint to make mojitos and grow it in several pots around the deck and yard. It's a no-brainer of a plant -- keep it well-watered, fertilize occasionally and snip at will. But keep it in pots unless you want it running all over the place.

Here's how I make mojitos for two. In a cocktail shaker, muddle eight or so sprigs of mint with 2 ounces of simple syrup and 1-1/2 ounces of fresh-squeezed lime juice. (Use as much mint as suits your taste -- I like it minty.) Add 3 ounces of white rum and a couple of dashes of bitters. Add ice and shake. Divide between ice-filled glasses and top with club soda. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.