Refreshing Porch Punch...Great for the Sultry Days of Summer

On of the lessons I learned living in Mississippi is you always have refreshments to offer guests.  You never know who is going to stop by, and I love it! My front porch faces East, and is often enjoyed in the afternoon with friends catching up, and swating mosquitos. 

Unlike in Oklahoma, your front porch is another extension of your home. I guess the Oklahoma wind prohibits decorating your porch like another room because you would find your decorations in the neighbors yard.  Anyway, I can remember my first visit to Scott's Mom's and couldn't believe she had table cloths on the outside tables, just because.  They weren't about to sit down to eat, they were this way all the time!  I still remember mentioning it to Scott, and he thought I was crazy.  That is until he visited Oklahoma in the summer and the wind never stopped blowing!

With the lack of wind, a gentle breeze is a welcome treat on a summer afternoon, much like that delicious glass of porch punch.  I have been a tea drinker my entire life, and know that my Mom had a glass of tea at all times.  Usually in a styrofoam cup, and it was afixed to her hand.  She would have loved this recipe, and its wonderfully complex taste.  I encourage you to try this, as it is super simple, and your friends will think you are extremly talented!

I don't have a hard time finding mint.  My neighbor has a huge patch of it growing in her yard.  Mint thrives here, and I am amazed that I spot it in yards all over town!  The mint is the key to this beverage.  You can find mint in the produce section of your grocery store, or at your local garden center.  Be careful if you plant mint in your yard, as it will take over.  I have some in a pot, and it has thrived year after year.

I hope you enjoy this refreshing beverage to entertain guests, or to simply after a long day.  Until next time, keep adventuring and looking for joy in the small details of life!

Sarah



Refreshment in a glass...come and join us on the porch!

 Porch Punch

1 family size tea bag
12 large mint leaves
1 package (2 qt.) sweetened lemonaid drink mix, I used Crystal Light
4 cups boiling water

Bring water to a boil, and pour over tea bag and mint leaves in a heat proof container.  Cover and allow to steep for 30 minutes to 1 hour.  Remove tea bag and mint leaves and add drink mix.  Stir well, and add enough water to make 2 quarts.  Serve over ice with a garnish of mint and a lemon wedge.