Summer Hostess Gift: Freshly Squeezed Lemonade

Summer weekends have a tendency to be filled with parties, picnics and get-togethers. When attending one of these events it is always proper etiquette to bring the hostess a gift. Since nothing screams summer quite like an ice-cold glass of freshly squeezed lemonade. Here is a simple hostess gift for under $10 that is perfect for any summer gathering.

You will need: 
• 1 pitcher (I bought this glass one for $5.00 at TJMaxx)
• 5-7 lemons (depending on size)
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• recipe card with the recipe on it
• wooden spoon
• optional: garnish I used lavender

Freshly Squeezed Lemonade
Ingredients
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (5-7 lemons depending on size)
• 1/2 cup sugar

Directions
1. Creating a simple syrup: in a saucepan, combine the sugar and a 1/2 cup water.  Bring to a rolling boiling, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved: allow to cool. * while cooling add a slice or two of lemon to infused the syrup with flavor.
2. In a pitcher, combine the syrup, lemon juice and 3 cups of water. Serve over ice and enjoy!