I absolutely love lavender!  I like to use it as a simple perfume, a spritz of aromatherapy, a fancy topping for a spring salad, sprinkled in my baked goods, and, of course, as an extra zing to my drinks.  It has a rich, floral taste that compliments just about anything and has amazing healing properties, too. 

Not only is it antiseptic, but it's also a gentle pain reliever and overall nerve tonic.  I like to make this simple syrup to have on hand to add to lemonade or cocktails to make them feel extra special.  It even elevates everyday sparkling water to a fancy lunchtime beverage.  Spring seems like the perfect time to keep this simple syrup on hand as it is evocative of the fresh, floral energy of the new season. 

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons dried lavender buds

1 cup sugar

1 cup water

To make the simple syrup, bring water and lavender to a boil. Stir in sugar until fully dissolved.  Reduce heat.  Simmer for 5 minutes.  Remove from heat and let cool.  Strain out lavender buds and pour syrup into a mason jar.  Store in fridge for about one week.