THE LIBATION

To truly descend into the "Dong Pocket" lifestyle, one cannot simply sip a chilled Pinot Grigio. Your palate is already screaming from the fermented fish guts and the neon lime popsicle residue. You need a beverage that acts as both a solvent and a celebratory flare.

In the back of my lean-to, I discovered a half-empty box of "Sunset Blush" bagged wine and a bottle of Fireball that had been sitting in the direct sun long enough to achieve sentience. I call this creation The Barstow Backfire.

The Libation: The Barstow Backfire

A high-octane, low-rent cocktail served in whatever vessel hasn't been used for motor oil.

The Preparation:

  1. The Extraction: Squeeze the air out of the wine bag before pouring to ensure no oxygen taints the vintage.
  2. The Fusion: Combine the wine and Fireball in a glass over gas-station ice.
  3. The Activation: Top with the ginger ale—the mixture should turn a hue best described as "Industrial Safety Orange."
  4. The Descent: Drop the Cheeto in and watch the nebula of spice form.