Wash, clean and trim artichokes. Fill a large 2 quart pot 1/4 of the way full with water and bring to a boil. Add all ingredients to the water - squeeze the lemon first and then put the whole thing into the water. Return to a boil. Add artichokes stem side down (to moisten) and then flip so that the stems are up. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for about 45 minutes. Use tongs to remove artichokes when done and strain upside down in a colander.