We had our church community group over last week for an ice cream social and in some ways, a little introduction to our much-prayed-for new home. Well over forty people ate ice cream and had a blast, with kids ranging in age from zero to seven running all over. The hit with the kids, oddly enough, was a little DIY outdoor fountain I put together the day before.

When we moved in, the previous owner had left a large, 20 inch across leopard print planter pot in the back yard, propping up the broken back gate. It had no drainage, so I spray painted it bright blue, filled it with water, and added a $12 solar fountain. I thought it was peaceful, but all the kids thought it was the best toy ever, and had fun getting plenty soaked through. I had to laugh when I saw one of the two year old completely dunk her head into it, much to her mom’s dismay.

Another hit at the party was my homemade strawberry lemonade. Here’s the recipe for that (some of the ingredients repeat, in different quantities, so read carefully!):

Ingredients

4 cups of water

2 cups sugar

1 pound strawberries

1/2 cup of sugar

2 cups lemon juice

8 cups of water

Directions

Heat four cups of water and two cups of sugar until sugar is dissolved, set aside. Blend starwberries, one-half cup of sugar, and half of the lemon juice in a blender until as smooth as possible. You can strain out the seeds at this point if you like, but I never do. In a large gallon pitcher, combine the simple syrup you made, the strawberry puree, the rest of the lemon juice, and eight cups of water. Stir and serve over ice!

Quick note: you could make this with honey if you’re avoiding refined sugars, but it will have a distinct honey taste.