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The Truth About Wearing Sweatpants in Public {and Agave Pink Grapefruit Lemonade}

My high school chemistry teacher, Mr. Joo, was young and hip before hipsters existed and everyone loved him. He told us to stay away from drugs, listen to good music and not be stupid. We always did our opening chemistry exercises while listening to the band Oasis.

He also hated sweatpants.

He said, "wearing sweatpants in public, means you're giving up on life."

I'm pretty sure he was gearing this comment to the token few who always wore pajama pants to class, but that statement stuck and I can proudly say, I have never worn sweatpants in public. (Mr. Joo, I hope you're proud.)

Sometimes the husband beats me home from work and as he hears me coming through the door he'll say, "Hey love! How was your day?" and I'll shout, "Not yet!" and head straight for my closet. It is only when the proper sweatpants are in place that I can go on living that day - because when you wear fancy blazers all day for work, there's nothing more welcoming than oversized sweats.

This recipe is your pair of sweatpants.

Except we're not giving up, we're comfortable.

It's lazy and comfortable and it makes you look real good. Also, is there anything more welcoming than a glass of lemonade with a friend in your sweatpants? No. The answer is no. ;)

Seasonal note: If you're local, the grapefruit right now are insane and shower juices when you cut into them. Make sure you choose grapefruit that's free of visible bruising and feel heavy. I always pay the few extra bucks to go organic. Grapefruit is winter's last gift to us as we transition into Spring. Take advantage of it while you can.

Also, this would make a great drink to celebrate with this weekend. xo

AGAVE PINK GRAPEFRUIT LEMONADE

This recipe is a great excuse to squeeze the hell out of some citrus, but if you're not feeling up for it, feel free to buy high quality lemonade to replace the homemade. Whole Foods sells a beautiful agave-sweetened lemonade. Psst! They also sell a beautiful grapefruit juice too! Like I said, we're comfortable here. I also want to note that I use light agave because I like the slight change in flavor and color - but any agave will work just fine. Why agave? Agave has less carbohydrates and has a lower glycemic index than regular white sugar. Everyone wins.

  • 1 ½ cup / 355ml squeezed lemon juice

  • 6 cups / 1500 ml cold water

  • ¾ cup / 177ml agave (or to taste)

  • 2 cups / 500ml pink grapefruit juice

  • 1 pink grapefruit (thinly sliced)

  • 2 lemons (thinly sliced)

  • ice-cubes (to serve)

  1. Squeeze lemons until you produce enough juice for 1 ½ cups of lemon juice. Place the water, lemon juice, agave and grapefruit juice in a bowl and mix to combine. Place in a 2 ½ liter jar or jug with the grapefruit, lemon and ice-cubes. Serve ice cold.

Baker's note: Save the grapefruit and lemon slices to put in the glasses just before serving, as having them sit in the lemonade for too long might give the drink a slightly bitter note.