Vodka.

Do I have your full attention??

Yes, I bought some of this last weekend. No, my kids didn't send me to drinkin'.....they actually were at their grandparent's house.

I bought it to make homemade vanilla extract. Yep. I've been looking forward to this day for a month. I've been holding on to (and smellin'!) those wonderful vanilla beans I bought more than a month ago, but hadn't made the extract yet, because I hadn't made the liquor store run yet. But I went this weekend...and came out of the store...vodka, paper bag and all.

So here's how this supposedly works:

Buy vanilla beans. Apparently, this is a great price (and where I bought them from).

Take these three ingredients...vodka, vanilla beans and an air tight container (basket not necessary). I used mason jars, of course.

Take 4 vanilla beans and slice down the middle with a sharp knife, opening the bean up. Then cut into 1/2" - 3/4" pieces.

Pour 1 cup of vodka into your airtight container of choice.

Add vanilla beans to your container and shake vigorously.

Store it away in a cool, dark place. It will take 30 days for the extract to mature. Take the container out one time each day for 30 days and shake vigorously.

I stored mine in the cabinets above my refrigerator. It's not exactly the easiest to get to daily to shake, but it's the coolest, darkest place in my kitchen that my kids can't get to and consume. Boy, I'd have a situation on my hands!

At the end of 30 days, strain the liquid through a coffee filter or colander to use. You can also put it in a decorative jar to give away.

Since I've never made it before, I'll let you know on September 12th how it turns out!