Lavender Water

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

Glass jar (or jars) with lids that close securely

Lavender buds (enough to fill jar)

Vodka

Lavender has a wonderfully fresh and delicate smell that is calming and induces relaxation. This recipe for lavender water is easy to make and can be used as a counter spray to keep bugs and flies at bay, a room freshener, a fragrant addition to a hot bath, or in the laundry during the rinse cycle for great smelling sheets that will have you drifting off to sleep in no time.

Lavender is quite hardy and will survive in a big pot of soil with lots of sun and regular watering, should you not have a giant backyard to plant in. The plant is cheerful to look at and just brushing your hands over the leaves leaves them smelling great. If you don't have your own plant, check out your local farmer's market or organic food store.

Clip the lavender buds from your plant; use only the buds. I cut older buds whose flowers have dried up and fallen off rather than new buds since the bees really love my plants and I enjoy providing an ecosystem for wildlife. Fill your jar, mason jars work great, with the buds until full. Pour the vodka until the buds are covered, close the jar tightly and place in the sun. You can buy the cheapest vodka at the store since the alcohol will evaporate in the sun and you are not using it for drinking. Leave the jar in the sun for 18 days, turning the jar upside down and back to mix the contents daily.

After 18 days, strain the liquid, removing all lavender buds. Put the lavender water in a spray bottle for easy use, or clean jar, and enjoy the fresh scent of lavender whenever you want!