In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine sugar and one cup of water. Bring mixture to a boil, stirring often until sugar is completely dissolved (about 5 minutes).

Allow mixture to come to room temperature and chill for 1 hour.

In a large pitcher, combine juice from lemons, the remaining seven cups of water and the sugar water mixture. Stir well and chill.

Serve cold with a mint leave, or, if you're feeling extra fancy, wet the rim of you glass with some water, then dip into a small pile of sugar to coat the glass rim in something sweet