BUYING OR SELLING IN ARVADA?
You’re entitled to the best Arvada real estate agent you can get. Personal. Intelligent. Engaged. Thoughtful Strategic. And most of all, Effective. These qualit ies are what make Ryan who and what he is – and why his cli ents come to him to intelligently sell their homes again and again. I look forward to working with you.
To our littlest joys!
This issue holds a special place in my heart. Children are more than just the future—they are the heartbeat of our communities today. Their laughter, their curiosity, and their potential shape the world in ways we can’t fully measure.
As parents and caregivers, we put so much effort into nurturing their growth, teaching them, and investing in their futures. But let’s not forget that children also shape us—they bring joy, laughter, and meaning to our everyday lives.
But we also cannot overlook the powerful role pets play in our families. They offer unconditional love and teach us valuable lessons in empathy, responsibility, and companionship. The bond between kids and their pets can be transformative, fostering deep emotional connections that last a lifetime.
At the core of both children and pets is a simple truth—they need us. Our care and attention shape who they become, and in turn, they shape us. This issue is dedicated to celebrating the kids and pets who fill our homes with joy and love and the dogs of Arvada.
I hope this month’s issue inspires you to pour a little extra love into the children and pets in your life. They are the ones who remind us of the simple joys and the importance of unconditional love.
Here’s to our future, our little ones, and the pets who make everything better. Cheers!
LYNN
DAVIS, EDITOR @ARVADALIFESTYLEMAGAZINE
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Mirka Penn | mirka.penn@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lynn Davis | lynn.davis@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Lynn Davis | lynn.davis@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jess Perry- Life in Photos | jessperry6412@yahoo.com
Rachel Audette - The Turquoise Camera rachel@theturquoisecamera.com
STAFF WRITERS
Michelle Parnell | michelle.parnell@citylifestyle.com
Kristi Sellers | ksellerswriter@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kali Kasprzyk, Amy Tinnin, Pauli Reep
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, AVOS Dental Specialists
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
With City Lifestyle’s
print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online.
city scene
1-7: AVOS Dental Specialists took their incredible team to Elitch Gardens for a day of fun outside the office. We love seeing businesses celebrate the people who make everything they do possible. A team that is celebrated and enjoys working together is a sign of a successful business and positive work environment.
Photography by AVOS Dental Specialists
business monthly
Open House with Nationally Known Hearing Aid Expert
Hear Again America is hosting an open house featuring a nationally known hearing aid expert September 1-3 at their Wheat Ridge location on Kipling. Guests can receive a complimentary electronic hearing test, ear scan, hearing aid cleaning, and the opportunity to experience Starkey’s newest Omega AI hearing technology. Appointments are required. Call 720-500-8205 to reserve your time.
Scan to read more
New Wellness Offerings at Hydrate IV Bar Westminster
Hydrate IV Bar Westminster and Lakewood now offer expanded wellness options, including nine unique Peptides, Niagen, and Taurine. These treatments are designed to support a variety of wellness goals, from recovery and healthy aging to overall vitality. Their team provides personalized consultations to help clients explore options that fit their wellness journey. To learn more, visit hydrateivbar.com/locations/westminster.
AVOS Dental Specialists Welcomes 2 New Board-Certified Specialists
AVOS Dental Specialists is excited to welcome Dr. Andrew Nordlie, board-certified periodontist, and Dr. Meena Bhatti, board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, to their team. Bringing advanced training and a passion for patient-centered care, both specialists are dedicated to providing exceptional treatment. Their expertise expands AVOS’s commitment to providing comprehensive, collaborative dental care for the Arvada community. Visit avosds.com to learn more about their incredible team.
Photography by Hear Again America
Photography by Hydrate IV Bar Westminster + Lakewood
Photography by AVOS Dental Specialists
FURRY FRIENDS, LASTING BENEFITS
DEEANNA OSBORNE ON THE BENEFITS OF GROWING UP WITH DOGS
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY RACHEL AUDETTE
The Barking Lot owner DeeAnna Osborne’s passion for being around and working with dogs naturally transferred to her daughter, Taya. From a young age, Taya wanted to be around dogs and DeeAnna knew she had to learn to do so safely. “This meant teaching her how to read a dog's temperament, how to be confident and stern in her voice, and it also grew into her tagging along for training sessions,” shares DeeAnna.
As Taya learned more about interacting with dogs, DeeAnna noticed that she grew in other ways. “Taya is an amazing kid who is neurodivergent and we’ve tried everything to give her the tools to succeed,” DeeAnna says. “But it wasn't until she started coming along and really engaging in the training sessions and playing in play yards with me that she finally started growing into her own confident self.”
Taya’s growth and development, as well as her special connection to Sadie the Boxer, mirror what DeeAnna sees in children who have dogs and care for them. “Daily tasks like feeding, walking, grooming, and playing give children concrete responsibilities and a daily routine,” she explains. “Caring for a dog teaches empathy and kids learn to notice hunger, fear, and discomfort and respond appropriately. Training and play require calm, repeated effort, teaching patience and delayed gratification when a child helps a dog learn a new skill. It builds confidence, social skills, and a sense of accomplishment.”
Interacting with dogs also plays an important role in a child’s emotional development. “Dogs provide unconditional companionship and a nonjudgmental presence that supports emotional regulation and reduces loneliness and anxiety,” says DeeAnna. “They help children practice social skills, read body language, and use gentle touch. Regular walks and play also promote activity and can lower stress hormones.”
For interactions to go well, kids need to know how to approach and treat dogs. “Adults should always supervise interactions, especially with young children,” she says. “Teach children to ask permission before petting a dog and
gently pet the sides or shoulders rather than the face or tail.” She also encourages avoiding eye contact and having respect for a dog’s safe spaces such as a crate or bed.
DeeAnna recommends that families choose a dog that fits their lifestyle and that dogs be well trained and socialized to keep interactions positive. Dogs who have the opportunity to expend energy in a fun, safe environment such as The Barking Lot often exhibit positive behavior which creates a happier family dynamic. By providing dogs with structure, enrichment, and opportunities to socialize, families can help create a stronger bond and a more rewarding experience for both pets and owners.
The Barking Lot offers training, daycare, boarding, and grooming services designed to keep dogs happily in their forever homes. Their team is passionate about providing a safe, welcoming environment where dogs can learn, play, and thrive while giving pet owners peace of mind. A trusted favorite in Arvada year after year. For more information, visit thebarkinglot-arvada.com, call 303-420-5388, and follow @arvadabarkinglot on Facebook.
SusanEllis,founder of Good Manners Consulting
MEET SUSAN ELLIS
In a time where children are learning to navigate everything from classroom friendships to digital communication, confidence has become one of the greatest gifts parents can give. While academic success is important, many families are discovering that kindness, communication, and self-assurance are just as essential for helping children thrive.
Few people understand that balance better than Susan Ellis, founder of Good Manners Consulting. Susan has dedicated her career to helping young people develop the social skills and confidence they need to succeed, not only in school, but throughout life.
According to Susan, “Good Manners Consulting began from a very personal place. Many years ago, I wanted to help my husband's daughters develop confidence through simple social manners, communication, and everyday life skills. They had been homeschooled, and while they were wonderful girls, I could see there were opportunities to build their confidence in social situations. I searched everywhere for someone who could help them, but I simply couldn't find the right person. That's when I realized this wasn't just a gap in the market; it was my calling.”
For Susan, etiquette has never simply been about knowing which fork to use or remembering to say "please" and "thank you." At its heart, it is about helping children feel comfortable in their own skin, communicate with confidence, and show respect for themselves and those around them.
“I define etiquette as understanding how to treat people with kindness, respect, confidence, and consideration. It's about knowing how to communicate, how to make others feel comfortable, how to navigate different social situations, and how to present the very best version of yourself. I often tell my students that etiquette is social survival for the fittest. It equips children with skills that help them succeed not only socially, but academically and professionally as they grow,” says Susan.
Susan brings lessons to life through oneon-one lessons and private group sessions, where learning is designed to be engaging,
interactive, and fun. Rather than memorizing rules, children participate in experiences that build confidence while teaching practical skills they can use immediately. Parents often notice changes that extend well beyond the classroom, as children become more comfortable meeting new people, speaking up, and navigating social situations with ease.
According to Susan, “One of my favorite classes is our Four Color Personality program. Children learn to recognize different personality styles, both in themselves and others, and discover that not everyone thinks, communicates, or responds the same way. Using fun pop culture characters and interactive activities, they quickly understand the confident leader, the caring nurturer, the analytical thinker, and the energetic social butterfly. Once children understand these differences, they become more patient, more accepting, and much better communicators.”
CONTINUED >
Of course, confidence doesn't begin in a workshop, it begins at home. Ellis encourages parents to remember that children are constantly watching and learning from the adults around them.
“MY HOPE IS THAT EVERY CHILD WHO WALKS THROUGH THE DOORS OF GOOD MANNERS CONSULTING LEAVES NOT ONLY KNOWING HOW TO INTRODUCE THEMSELVES, COMMUNICATING WITH CONFIDENCE, AND DINING WITH GRACE, BUT BELIEVING THEY ARE CAPABLE OF ACHIEVING EXTRAORDINARY THINGS.”
“My hope is that every child who walks through the doors of Good Manners Consulting leaves not only knowing how to introduce themselves, communicating with confidence, and dining with grace, but believing they are capable of achieving extraordinary things. Because confident children become confident adults, and that is one of the greatest gifts we can give the next generation,” says Susan.
As families look for meaningful ways to invest in their children's future, the greatest lessons may not always be found in a textbook. Sometimes, they begin with confidence, kindness, and the simple belief that every child has the ability to grow into someone who feels comfortable introducing themselves, treating others with respect, and stepping into the world with assurance. Those are life skills that never go out of style.
Contact Susan Ellis to learn more at goodmannersconsulting.com and follow along on Instagram at @good_manners_consulting.
CINNAMON MONKEY BREAD IS A FUN DESSERT FOR CHILDREN TO MAKE AND SHARE!
ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
There is little more satisfying to your sweet tooth than ooey-gooey cinnamon rolls. Here is an easy and fun way to make this tearable, shareable treat!
aroun d
INGREDIENTS
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 3 (12 oz.) cans of buttermilk biscuits
COOKING INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Generously coat the inside of a bundt pan with cooking spray or butter. Melt the butter in a pot or bowl. Mix the sugars and cinnamon in a separate bowl.
Open one can of biscuits, separate, and cut each into four sections. Next, roll each quarter into a ball and then put each one into the sugar mixture to coat. Place the balls in the bundt pan in a single layer and drizzle a little melted butter evenly over the top. Repeat with the other two cans of biscuits. Sprinkle the remaining sugar mixture over the top and bake for 30-35 minutes.
Be sure to let cool for a minute or two before turning the bread onto a plate and carefully removing the pan. If you leave the monkey bread in the pan much longer, it will stick and be hard to remove.
I sometimes make icing by adding a few tablespoons of milk to about a 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with a splash of vanilla. Drizzle over the top while warm and enjoy!
serving up confidence
How Phamily Tennis is inspiring confidence, connection, and a love for tennis
Sometimes, the most important lessons learned on a tennis court have very little to do with tennis.
At Phamily Tennis, every serve, rally and high-five is part of something much bigger. The Arvada-based nonprofit, co-founded by Eric Pham, Xalen Mitchell, and Aiden Seo, is creating opportunities for young people to discover confidence, build friendships and develop life skills through the game of tennis.
Phamily Tennis isn't simply about teaching kids how to play a sport; it's about creating a community where every child
feels welcomed, encouraged and supported. By offering free programming, the nonprofit opens the court to children who may never have imagined tennis was a sport they could enjoy.
According to Eric Pham, “We wanted to create something meaningful for our community and give kids the opportunity to experience tennis regardless of their family's financial situation, their background, or whether they had ever picked up a racquet before. We wanted to provide completely free instruction, equipment, and a welcoming community where kids could learn and grow.
ARTICLE BY KRISTI SELLERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHAMILY TENNIS
Phamily Tennis Coaches
Today, many children face increasing pressures and distractions, organized sports can provide a sense of belonging and consistency. At Phamily Tennis, success isn't measured solely by wins or losses, but by the confidence children gain as they challenge themselves, encourage teammates and celebrate each other's progress.
“You can do everything right and still lose matches. The biggest lesson that tennis teaches is that failure is just a stepping stone, a part of the journey. It is not something to be afraid of, but rather a means of improvement,” says Eric.
A spirit of community is woven into every aspect of Phamily Tennis. Families, supporters and local partners all play a role in creating an environment where children feel seen, valued and inspired to grow.
According to Eric, “ Phamily Tennis truly would not exist without the community behind it. Our volunteers give their time and energy to work directly with the kids. Our coaches help make every child feel welcomed, encouraged, and supported. Our sponsors, donors, and other supporters make it possible for us to provide racquets, equipment, and programming while keeping everything free for families.”
For parents, the benefits often become apparent long before a child masters a perfect serve. Confidence grows. Friendships form. New goals emerge. And perhaps most importantly, children begin to believe in what they're capable of achieving.
“A child may forget the score of a match, but they will remember the coach who believed in them, the teammates who made them feel included, and the moment they realized they were capable of something they once thought they could not do. Those experiences can shape the way a child sees themselves for years to come,” says Eric.
At its heart, Phamily Tennis is about much more than a game. It's about opening doors, building community and reminding every child who steps onto the court that they belong. One match, one mentor and one smile at a time, the organization is helping young people discover that some of life's greatest victories happen long before the final point is played.
Meet the local pups that make our community brighter
DOGS OF ARVADA
From our hiking trails to our dog parks, to our homes and beer garden patios, dogs are a part of what makes Arvada so special. In this feature, we are happy to share some of Arvada’s most beloved four-legged friends that bring joy to our city.
Meet Austin and Maggie Maethorn, the furry kiddos of Hannah and Mason!
meet the DOGS OF ARVADA:
Our dogs are more than pets; they are family. From the energetic, playful pups to quiet, loyal longtime companions, these dogs bring smiles, joy, and a little extra love to the people and places that make Arvada feel like home.
1. The handsome and adventurous Hank, roommate of Ryan and Emily Mead | 2. The infamous @perfectparker4
An 8-year-old Coton de Tulear born with cerebellar hypoplasia who brings a smile to everyone he passes with his cute and wobbly walk. | 3. Mr. James Blonde and Winston | 4. Miss. Mia LeVere | 5. Pancake stealing Mabel, sister to Miss. Mia | 6. Say hello to Mr. Bourbon | 7. Cutie Gracie Lou | 8. Always ready for an adventure, Coven
9. Sunbathing Betty | 10. Too cool for school, Miss. Luna Bear | 11. Milo ready for business | 12. Meet Mr. Gus Kessler 13. Piper always ready to celebrate those she loves | 14. Sweet, loyal, and endlessly loving Django | 15. Loki the St. Bernard | 16. Pup Cup Loving Koda Bear who also serves as a therapy dog at Vanderhoof Elementary | 17. Cooper Dog, the cutest dog in the world
BY AMY
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Homemade Dog Food
Recipe from Amy Tinnin - A Cup Full of Sass
ARTICLE
TINNIN
My two pugs are more than pets—they’re part of the family. That’s why I started making their food at home, and it’s been one of the most popular posts on my blog. You may be surprised just how easy this recipe is. I add all the ingredients to my slow-cooker to cook, and my dogs love it. If you decide to try this recipe for your pet, please consult your veterinarian. Every dog has different needs based on age, weight, and any health issues. You can even share this recipe with your vet to see if any changes are needed. The ingredients are flexible and can be easily swapped to substitute the turkey for chicken or beef, and even try different dog-safe vegetables. Making dog food at home isn’t hard—it just takes a little planning, and my dogs love it.
Slow Cooker Homemade Dog Food
Ingredients:
• 3 lbs ground turkey (85% lean)
• 1¼ cups frozen sweet potatoes
• 1½ cups frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup frozen spinach
• 1½ cups uncooked brown or white rice
• 4 cups water
Directions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Break up the ground turkey and mix all the ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on High for 3–4 hours or Low for 6 hours, stirring occasionally.
Note: My dog food was ready in 3½ hours on High. Let cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for later use.
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
realty report
AUGUST 2026
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 2ND
Burn & Sip at Fade It Golf & Social Club
Fade It Golf & Social Club, 14701 W 65th Way Ste 12, Arvada, CO 80004 | 2:00 PM
Tee up your creativity with a 2-hour burning workshop and design your own leather score book & ball markers. Easy to carry and fits in your back pocket, every golfer needs a customized score book. One draft beer is included and spots are limited. To reserve your spot, text Debra at 720-636-3936.
AUGUST 5TH
Arvada Kid's Club: Magic Meets Science
Arvada Marketplace, 7490 W 52nd Ave. Arvada, CO 80002 | 10:00 AM
Join the Arvada Kid’s Club for an interactive morning filled with science, magic experiments, excitement, and fun for all. The free event is for kids 10 and under and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Weekly events are hosted in the courtyard next to Snarf’s Sandwiches. Search Arvada Kid’s Club on Eventbrite to register your spot online.
AUGUST 8TH
North Jeffco Tennis Club: Summer Splash Fundraiser
Apex Center, 6430 Miller Street, Arvada, CO 80004 | 2:30 PM
Join the North Jeffco Tennis Club for its annual Summer Splash Fundraiser, 2:30–8:00 PM. Enjoy tennis match play, food, cold drinks, and club fundraising activities. Whether you're a member, returning to the game, or picking up a racket for the first time, this is a great opportunity to experience tennis in Arvada. Spots are limited, register at NJTC Events Page
AUGUST 8TH
Bubble Palooza
Arvada Marketplace, 7370 W. 52nd Ave. Arvada, CO 80002 | 11:00 AM
Step into an afternoon of fun at Bubble Palooza. This free festival is packed with 13 interactive stations where kids can chase bubbles larger than their heads. With a live DJ and non-stop family fun, it’s the ultimate summer afternoon for kids 14 and under. In the parking lot across from Sam’s Club; children must be accompanied by an adult.
AUGUST 8TH
Olde Town Arvada Second Saturdays
Olde Town Arvada, 5700 Olde Wadsworth Blvd. Arvada, CO 80002 | 5:00 PM
Grab the whole family for a night of live music, local vendors, a designated kids’ zone, food trucks, and more. With two stages and fun activities for kids, the whole family will be dancing, singing, and enjoying a great night where the community comes together in Olde Town.
AUGUST 15TH
Cars and Coffee
Fade It Golf & Social Club, 14701 W 65th Way Ste 12, Arvada, CO 80004 | 9:00 AM
A morning of cars, coffee, and conversations with your neighbors and community. Walk through and browse classic and custom cars, trucks, motorcycles, and even more wheels included each week. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee and a donut while you explore rides brought in from all over Arvada.
AUGUST 15TH
Double Feature Movie Night for Excalibur Outreach at Fade It
Fade It Golf & Social Club, 14701 W 65th Way Ste 12, Arvada, CO 80004 | 6:15 PM
Family movie night just got more fun with a double feature of the Twister movies at Fade It Golf & Social Club. Enjoy Twister (1994) at 6:15 PM followed by Twisters (2024). Proceeds from movie snacks will benefit Excalibur Outreach. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a fun night of movies, snacks, and community.
AUGUST 22ND
Candelas Fest
Eng Orthodontics Parking Lot, 18148 W 92nd Lane, Arvada, CO 80007 | 2:00 PM
Hosted by Eng Orthodontics, this year’s Candelas Fest is bigger and more exciting than ever. This free community festival brings neighbors, businesses, and families together for an afternoon of entertainment, discovery, and fun. Enjoy live music, food vendors, adoptable animals, a climbing wall, mechanical bull, and more. Attractions and giveaways are still being added. Follow @candelasfest on socials for updates.
AUGUST 22ND
Pints and Pups Dog Expo with the Bark n’ Bolt 1k
Colorado Tap House, 14982 West 69th Ave. Arvada, CO 80007 | 10:00 AM
Bring the whole family, dog included, to Colorado Tap House for a day of fun. Enjoy dog-themed vendors, live music, giveaways, the returning Dog Costume Contest, “Name That Breed” trivia, and of course, the Bark ‘n’ Bolt 1K dog race. Explore dog vendors, enjoy food, then be sure to stay to watch Eric Lane play from 2-5 PM.
The Perfect Summer Lemonade
You’ve harvested the lavender from your herb garden, now it’s time to make a refreshing twist on a classic summer favorite. This lavender lemonade is the perfect combination of bright, floral, and perfectly balanced with the fresh zing of lemon. Whether you are hosting a backyard BBQ, relaxing on the patio, or have a house full of kids, everyone enjoys this beautiful and delicious lemonade.
Not only is this drink simple to make, but it’s also a wonderful way to use fresh herbs from your garden and bring a little homemade charm to your summer gatherings.
Pro Tip - save a bundle of fresh lavender, make an extra batch of the lavender simple syrup and you have the perfect hostess's gift for your next get together.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)
• 4 cups cold water
• ¾ cups sugar (adjust to your liking)
• 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
• ½ cup hot water
• Ice
• Fresh lavender sprigs and lemon slices for garnish (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Make a lavender simple syrup. Remove the lavender flowers from the stem and cover with sugar in a bowl. Add hot water to a small saucepan and add the lavender and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves and let steep for up to 30 minutes (or longer for a stronger syrup).
2. Strain out the lavender and allow the syrup to cool.
3. In a pitcher, combine lemon juice, cold water, and lavender syrup. Stir well.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or lemon flavor as desired making it as sweet or tart as you like.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh lemon slices and fresh lavender.
TIPS:
1. For an extra refreshing summer version, try adding sparkling water instead of cold water for a bubbly lavender lemonade spritzer.
2. Make extra lavender syrup and store in the refrigerator in a glass bottle.
When it's time to harvest your lavender, it's time to make lemonade.
