Lavender Lemonade

Ingredients (makes about 1 quart)

5 cups water, divided
1 cup of sugar
1 1/2 tbsp. dried lavender flowers
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 7-8 lemons)
Ice cubes
Lavender sprigs for garnish

Method

Create a simple syrup by combining sugar and 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Add dried lavender to pot, cover and set aside to let cool - approximately 1 hour. Strain the liquid and discard the lavender. Pour liquid into large pitcher, adding lemon juice and remaining water.  Stir to mix and refrigerate until cool or ready to serve. Pour over a glass with ice, topping with a sprig of lavender to garnish.