One of the phrases you hear often in home decorating is "bring the outdoors in." Sometimes that means filling a room with towering plants or creating an indoor garden. I find myself thinking about it a little differently.
Right now the Farm is in the middle of harvest season. The lavender harvesters are making their way through the fields, wagons are bringing fresh-cut lavender to the distillery, and our copper stills are running seven days a week, using nothing more than steam to gently release the lavender's essential oil. We've already harvested more lavender than we did during all of last year's season, which makes this FarmHer smile.
While we're busy harvesting lavender here at the Farm, here are a few ways to enjoy lavender in your everyday life.
Perhaps it begins in the kitchen. Last week I shared my updated recipe for lavender scones, inspired by the many visitors who told me how much they enjoy baking with our culinary lavender. A warm lavender scone for breakfast or one of our favorite lavender brownies shared with friends is a delicious reminder of summer at the Farm.
The fragrance of lavender belongs in more than the kitchen. Our Team of Teens spent part of the summer weaving traditional lavender wands. Tucked into a sweater drawer, linen closet, or among stored blankets, they add a gentle lavender fragrance while helping discourage clothes moths—a simple tradition that has been enjoyed for generations.
Then there are those hot July afternoons. One of my favorite luxuries is keeping a bottle of our Lavender Mist in the refrigerator. A quick spritz on your face, neck, or wrists is wonderfully refreshing after working in the garden, walking the dog, or simply escaping another 100-degree Capay Valley day.
And when the day is done, a light mist of our new Linen Spray on your sheets or pillow brings the gentle fragrance of lavender into your bedroom. It's a lovely way to unwind, close your eyes, and perhaps dream of walking through a field of blooming lavender as the sun sets over the Farm.
One of the unexpected joys of this summer has been meeting so many wonderful people. Your stories, recipes, questions, and ideas have reminded me that while the harvest season eventually comes to an end, the enjoyment of lavender can continue every day at home.
Thank you for making this another memorable lavender season. I hope you'll find your own favorite ways to enjoy lavender in your everyday life.
