Lemonade 5¢

It's March. And here in Southern California, that means a return to the 85 degree mark. I know, many of you are groaning as you're stuck still in the throes of winter. But this should cheer you up - who can resist cold lemonade? (Even if it is freezing out of doors and your backyard picnic has to wait another month or two.)

Pitcher & Cups - $0.99 at the Dollar Store
Lemon & Leaves Vinyl Decals - $2.50 from Belvedere Designs
Application - DIY (aka free)
Fresh Lemons - $0.50 each at our local Farmer's Market
Fresh Lemonade in a prettified pitcher for your first backyard picnic of the season: Priceless

But you don't have to wait for a picnic to break your new pitcher in in style. Serve this lemonade at your next Sunday dinner, book club meeting or family get-together. It's that good.

Fresh Lemonade
1 1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. boiling water
2-3 tsp. grated lemon rind
1 1/2 c. fresh lemon juice
5 cups cold water
Lemon slices, maraschino cherries (optional)
Ice

Combine sugar and boiling water, stirring until sugar dissolves. Add lemon rind, lemon juice and cold water; mix well. Chill. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and maraschino cherries (if desired).

Drink Up!