In yesterday's post, I mentioned the wonderful tisane, or herbal infusion, that concluded my meal at Stone Barns. It inspired me to go out and snip some herbs from my garden to make one at home. (And it didn't cost $15!) I experimented with fresh mint, lavender, Spanish sage and hyssop, all of which made delightfully aromatic brews. As per the restaurant's directions, I did not mix up the various herbs, but savored them separately so as not to muddy the flavors. With cooler weather on its way (eventually), I decided to cut many of these declining plants and dry the leaves so that I can enjoy tisanes all winter long and be reminded of the lush greenery of my summer garden. I recommend you try this, even if you can only get your hands on mint. It's a fun process, and the tisanes are very relaxing and therapeutic. Many of these herbs are restorative, aid in digestion and help calm the spirit.

It's best if you can procure your herbs from an organic source so you don't have to wash the leaves. If you do feel like you need to, then be sure to spread them out in a single layer to dry. Leave them, lightly covered with a tea towel or paper towel, in a cool airy place for several days, until completely dry.

Unlike tea, these dried herbs do not become bitter the longer they are brewed, but instead give up more intense flavors and colors. In addition to tisanes, you can use them to infuse simple syrups for cocktails or to drizzle over panna cotta, ice cream or pound cake. You can also stuff them into little muslin bags and place these in your drawers or in your pillowcase to enjoy their sweet fragrances. Don't laugh at me. These are simple little things you can do to really enhance the quality of your existence. And that's what it means to be a glutton for life.