I woke up to sunshine and an 80 F forecast today. We’ve probably got some Junuary ahead, but summer has made an appearance in Seattle this week. This is my favorite time of year, when it is sunny but not overly hot yet. Mid-eighties triggers my Alaskan nostalgia, along with a strong desire to test whether I could actually sit inside the fridge if I took out all the drawers and shelves.

For now, though, I can put on my sunscreen and sit in the backyard with a cool drink and be as happy as a cat with a full basket of clean laundry to sleep on. Here’s what I’ve been drinking, so you can make it for yourself.

Quick & Simple Raspberry Lemonade

Peel and slice one lemon. I do this with the vague assumption that I will candy the peel for garnish on baked goods.

Add half a dozen ice cubes, lemon slices, a handful of raspberries and a spoonful of sugar (to taste) to a quart mason jar. Substitute the raspberries with strawberries, peaches, basil, rosemary, etc. We had strawberry-basil lemonade this morning.

Put on the lid and shake until ice cubes pulverize the fruit. (This is the fun part!)

Add water. Add alcohol if you wish. Drink from the jar, or strain into nice glasses and garnish with lemon peel if you’re feeling fancy. 

Enjoy your summer days!