With the past two weeks offering a pause from the usual rhythm, I have spent time reflecting on my life as a FarmHer in our beautiful Valley. Capay Valley Lavender has grown and matured significantly since I planted my first “test” field in 2017. I certainly did not anticipate creating a public-facing, educational environment, yet that is exactly what we have become. Watching that growth has been both grounding and rewarding. Of course, growth brings with it opportunities to learn new things – and, often, to have some fun. 2025 featured three milestone events at the Farm that offered a little of both.
First, have you noticed our brand new road sign along Highway 16? Did you know that the County must approve signs of that kind, even when they are placed on your own property? Talk about a learning opportunity. I learned the structural requirements for posts, how deep to set them, and just how much concrete is required. Thankfully, on the very day we were digging the mandatory 32-inch-deep holes, our local fire department was in the area conducting property inspections. We received a much-appreciated assist from the crew and passed the County inspection with flying colors!
Another meaningful milestone: Our spectacular olive harvest! I now officially tell folks that I grow lavender and olives. Our final 2025 harvest net 520 gallons of rich, smooth olive oil. Proper storage required the purchase of four stainless steel storage tanks. (These gorgeous Italian-made tanks are bling for this FarmHer!) The learning part? Tanks with floating lids will help maintain the purity and quality of our oil as the grove matures. (I find myself wondering how many tanks we’ll grow into in the years ahead!)
Now for the just-plain-fun part! For years, I had been dreaming of finding an old pickup that would feel right at home here at the farm, something eye-catching and welcoming. One day in August, she appeared on Facebook Marketplace. Our Honey Bee is a sweet yellow Chevrolet, “born” in 1953, just like me. After a bit of restoration, she’ll be ready for prime time. I can’t wait to fill up her bed and drive her to pop-ups and festivals this spring!
And now it is 2026, and I am dreaming once again. Dreaming of ways to continue growing the farm and our presence in the Valley and beyond. Dreaming of ways to share the story of this land and the unique blessing that is Yolo County. And of having just a little more time to be with visitors and enjoy the special community that has grown here.
With that in mind, I’ll be beginning a search for a Retail & Product Operations Manager to help oversee product production, retail operations, and seasonal events during our busiest months. This person will work closely with me, our field operations lead, and our seasonal retail staff. It’s an ideal role for someone who appreciates a seasonal position on a small rural farm and who takes pride in organization, follow-through, and a well-run operation. If this sounds like you, or someone you know, I’d love to hear from you. In the meantime, Richard, Capay, Honey Bee, and I are ready to head down the road into a brand-new year. We can’t wait to share the journey with you.
