Today is the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year. It seemed like an appropriate time to pause for a moment and look back at the spring that brought us here.
Earlier this week, I happened to look at the blog and realized I hadn't posted anything since February.
Oops.
The good news is that life on the farm has been anything but quiet. We've continued sharing the rhythm of farm life through our weekly Wednesday newsletter, where I write about the bloom, harvests, events, successes, and occasional surprises that come with farming.
If you're not already receiving those updates, you'll find a newsletter sign-up form at the bottom of every page on our website.
Since February, there have been several highlights worth sharing.
California State Fair Recognition
One of the biggest surprises of the spring came from the California State Fair Olive Oil Competition, where our French Blend was awarded Best of Show and our Coratina received Best of Class honors.
For a small family farm, those recognitions are both humbling and gratifying. Growing olives requires patience, attention, and a willingness to learn from both successes and mistakes. It is rewarding to see those efforts recognized.
Lunch in the Valley: Before the Bloom
In May, we welcomed guests to our inaugural Lunch in the Valley: Before the Bloom. Working alongside the talented culinary students from Esparto High School, we created an afternoon that celebrated local food, hospitality, and the beauty of the farm just before lavender season began.
The students did an extraordinary job, and the event quickly became one of my favorite memories of the spring. From the lavender coffee and scones to the chicken salad luncheon and lavender crème brûlée, every detail reflected the care and enthusiasm of the students and their instructors.
Bloom Season Arrives
And then, almost before we knew it, June arrived.
The lavender fields are once again glowing with color. Visitors have been strolling the rows, photographers have been capturing sunset sessions, and the farm has been filled with the familiar energy that bloom season brings each year.
After months of pruning, irrigation checks, planning, and preparation, there is something deeply satisfying about seeing the fields at their peak. The lavender, olive trees, and golden hills create a landscape that reminds me daily how fortunate I am to call this place home.
Looking back, perhaps that's where the last four months went.
Awards. New friendships. Good food. Purple fields. Long days. Early mornings.
It's been a good spring.
And now, with the Summer Solstice upon us, summer begins.
