Oneforthetable.com

Summer is winding down, which likely means you're sunburned, overtired and ready for your kids to go back to school. I'm here to help. Are you ready for some relaxation? Here's what you need to do:

1. Make a batch of this sparkling rosemary-ginger lemonade and refrigerate it. Chill a tall glass in the freezer, and fill it with the ginger lemonade.

2. Find a comfy hammock or chaise lounge, preferably in a shady spot. Recline on it while sipping your ginger lemonade.

3. Tell your significant other, your kids, the dog or whomever to leave you alone. OK, maybe not the dog.

4. Listen to the hum of bees. Smell the sharp scent of freshly cut grass. Watch the clouds float by. It's a lazy summer day. Make the most of it.

5. If you're still not relaxed, pour yourself a second glass of ginger lemonade and add a shot of vodka or gin. Repeat steps 2 through 4.

Sparkling Rosemary-Ginger Lemonade

Makes 4 cups

4 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh ginger

2 whole lemons, chopped with rinds, seeds removed

1 tablespoon sugar

1 sprig fresh rosemary

1 cup water

3 cups lemon flavored sparkling water

Ice

1. Combine ginger, lemons, sugar, rosemary and water in a blender. Puree until well blended and no clumps remain.

2. Pour through a sieve into a bowl, using the back of a spoon to squeeze the lemon mixture and extract all the juice.

3. Pour into a pitcher along with the sparkling water and lots of ice. Garnish servings with a lemon slice and a sprig of rosemary. Serve immediately. If you're not serving it immediately, then omit the ice and chill in the refrigerator.

(Susan Russo is a freelance food writer in San Diego, Calif. One for the Table is Amy Ephron's online magazine that specializes in food, politics and love. www.oneforthetable.com.)