Feel the heat? Get melon.

A little something for my watermelon-loving cohorts in celebration of the last day of the month. Politics, fashion, cocktails, what more could you ask for?

THE JAMES BOND MELON BALL
Adapted from Trummer Home, Greenport, N.Y.
1 large watermelon
7 ounces vodka
2 ounces Grand Marnier
2 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice
Splash of Champagne or sparkling wine.
1. Cut watermelon in two. Carve out the entire watermelon, and chop contents into small pieces. Fill one half of watermelon shell with the cubed watermelon pieces and ice.
2. Pour in the vodka, Grand Marnier and lime juice. Stir the contents gently. Top off the drink with a splash of Champagne, and place four straws in melon. (You may also mix ingredients in a pitcher and serve in glasses.)
Yield: 4 servings.

And if you're pregnant, or not imbibing for other reasons, you can enjoy your cocktails in the shower.
Thanks to the NYT Fashion & Style section. Go to www.watermelon.org for more melon-related recipes.