Lavender Peach Skillet Cobbler

We picked up some AMAZING Peaches today from Blake's Orchada in Armada, Michigan... This is on the dessert menu for this weekend! I LOVE FALL! (Photo courtesy of Donna Agusti Photography)

Lavender Peach Skillet Cobbler

This cobbler boasts the same buttery flavor and crunchy topping as old-fashioned cobbler, except we make it in a skillet!  This fruitful dessert offers a delightful sweet ending to any meal. It’s best served warm and topped with Ice Cream, and we recommend Rich Lavender Honey Ice Cream for an extra-decadent delight.

Filling:
3 cups fresh peaches, peeled, pitted and sliced (may substitute for frozen)
1 cup fresh blueberries or raspberries (may substitute for frozen)

¼ cup sugar

1 tsp cornstarch

Topping:
1 cup flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup brown sugar

¼ cup sugar
¼ tsp ground cinnamon

¼ tsp ground nutmeg

½ tsp organic culinary lavender buds

5 Tbsp butter, very cold and cut into chunks
 
Heat oven to 425 degrees.

In a large cast-iron skillet or oven-proof skillet, heat together the ingredients for the filling over a medium heat until the mixture begins to bubble. (2-3 minutes) Mix well and remove from the heat.

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, brown sugar, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and lavender. With a pastry blender, (or with your hands) mix the butter in until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle over the fruit mixture. Place the cobbler in the oven and bake, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes.

Recipe courtesy of The Lavender Gourmet by Jennifer Vasich 

What's in the 2012 Summer Olympic Bouquet? Lavender, of course!

By Gina Souders, The Herb Companion

In 2010, Herb Companion readers were very interested in the strange flowers featured in the bouquets handed out at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. This year, the flowers are more identifiable, but I still found myself wondering exactly which gorgeous flowers were in the victory bouquets given out to all of the medalists this time around.

The 2012 London victory bouquet, which is fashioned in the style of a nosegay this year, is sectioned off by four rose varieties—Illios (the yellow rose), Marie Claire (the orange rose), Wimbledon (the green rose) and Aqua (the pink rose). These four colors reflect the colors used in the London 2012 logo. In and around the colorful roses rest the fragrant apple mint, rosemary, English lavender and wheat, according to the London 2012 website.

Jane Packer, a florist who was based in both the UK and Tokyo, designed these charming bouquets before she unexpectedly passed away in November 2011. All of the bouquet flowers were grown in Britain; and local business and local college students helped put the bouquets together. More than 4,000 bouquets will be handed out by the end of the London 2012 Olympics.

Courtesy  Jane Packer  

What do you think of this year's Olympic bouquets? Leave me a comment and let me know!

Read more: Olympic Victory Bouquet is Home Grown in Britain
The worlds most watched bouquet - the 2012 London Olympic's Victory Bouquet
London Olympics "Victory Bouquets": Fresh and British
Victory Ceremonies - London 2012

Lavender Farm & Festival Resource Guide

Agri-tourism is one of the fastest growing travel-trends in the Unites States. Lavender farms that offer tours, classes and annual lavender festivals are certainly helping to push this movement fast-forward. In some areas, such as Sequim, Washington, lavender has become an important role in the sustainability of agriculture and tourism as a whole. Boasting nearly 40 farms in the Sequim-Dungeness Valley alone, the area grows over 110,000 lavender plants each year, and draws 25-30,000 visitors to the area for their annual lavender festival held in July.

If you‘ve never yet had the pleasure of touring a lavender field when it is in full bloom, I highly recommend that you add it to your “to-do” list. Nothing can compare to the tranquility that permeates from lavender, and her rows of streaming purple ribbons neatly lined across the hills and slopes of a lavender farm will draw you into a state of pure lavender bliss.

The following is a brief list of lavender farms and shops throughout the states that offer various lavender activities and events, as well as fine lavender products.

Lavender Farms:

California

The Lavender Fields

1332 Industrial Ave. Escondido, CA 92029

760-839-1489 – www.thelavenderfields.com

Hawaii

Ali'i Kula Lavender

1100 Waipoli Road - Kula Maui, Hawaii 96790

808.878.3004 - www.aliikulalavender.com

Maine

Cape Cod Lavender Farm

PO Box 611 - Harwich, MA 02645
 508-432-8397 – www.capecodlavenderfarm.com

Michigan

Gabriel’s Garden Lavender Boutique

At Blake’s Orchard

810-523-9853 – www.allthingslavender.com

Texas

Hill Country Lavender Farm

P.O. Box 1266 – Blanco, TX 78606

830-833-2294 – www.hillcountrylavender.com

Lavender Festivals:

Here are a list of lavender farms across the United States who offer festivals throughout the year. This is by no means a complete list. If you know of other festivals, please share them with us in the comments section below. Enjoy!

California: www.ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org

Michigan: www.michiganlavenderfestival.net

New Mexico: www.lavenderinthevillage.com

Texas: www.blancolavenderfestival.com

Washington: www.sequimlavenderfestival.com

Lavender & Tea Tree Baby Wipes

Have you read the list of ingredients found in baby wipes lately? If you do a little research, you may be shocked to discover the toxic ingredients found in the personal care items we use on a daily basis. Even products that claim to be “all natural” often contain harsh ingredients such as mineral oil, alcohol, parabens, and other undesirable additives that have harmful side effects. Not exactly the sort of thing you’d want to expose baby’s tender skin to on a daily basis!

The good news is that there are great alternatives out there. Not only are these baby wipes are a snap to make, they will save you money in the long run. The best part is that the essential oils will actually help to keep diaper rash and irritations at bay, eliminating the need to purchase separate creams!

Here’s what you need:

·        1 Roll of paper towel (Hint - name brand paper towels work much better)

·        1 ½ Cups Distilled Water

·        ½ Cup Organic Aloe Vera juice (found at your local health food store)

·        12 drops Lavender Essential Oil

·        8 drops Melaleuca (Tea Tree) Essential Oil 

Directions: Cut the paper towel roll in half with a serrated knife.   Place half of the roll into your container and save the other half for later. (The best container to store them in is a tall, cylinder-type storage container found at your local grocer.)

Mix together the water, aloe vera and essential oils, and pour over the paper towels in your container.
After the mixture has soaked for an hour or more, remove cardboard from middle of roll and start dispensing with middle towel with the cylinder baby wipe container.

For best results, we recommend using doTERRA brand Essential Oils – www.purelydoterra.com. 

To download a free E-book filled with great ways to use essential oils, visit www.lavenderlady.doterrapro.com and click on the LEARN tab.

Lavender Workshops!

The Michigan Lavender Festival is just two weeks away! It's time to grab your spot in one of these wonderful workshops, which will take place during the 10th Annual Michigan Lavender Festival at Blake's Orchard in Armada, July 13-15, 2012.

2012 LAVENDER FESTIVAL WORKSHOPS:

Guests can register for the workshops at the festival entrance, or through the number/website listed by the class description. Ages from 12 yrs. to Adult. Most workshops are approximately one hour. All materials and handouts are included in workshop fee. Pre-registration is recommended, but not required.

Green Cleaning

10:30am & 1:30pm each day: Essential Oil University Booth

Stop spending a fortune on cleaning products that introduce toxic chemicals into your home, and learn how to make effective household cleaners with simple ingredients, that work in every room of your house! Besides smelling FABULOUS, these natural, non-toxic cleaners are a snap to make and are highly effective in killing germs, mold, mildew. Taught by Jan Smokler, green cleaning expert.  Pre-register by EMAIL

Workshop fee: $25. Includes everything you need to make the products being taught in the class (Wild Orange & Olive Furniture Polish, Lavender Laundry Powder and Lavender/Lemon Countertop Spray) and the Green Cleaning recipe booklet.

The Lavender Home Spa

12:00noon & 3:00pm each day: Essential Oil University Booth

Create a relaxing oasis in your home with your own luxurious lavender spa products! While it has been said that she’s no shrinking violet, lavender has profound and amazing health benefits that can benefit your mind, body, and home. Jennifer Vasich, lavender expert and creator of the Gabriel’s Garden line of herbal bodycare, will share recipes and ideas for creating beautifully fragrant products for bath and body, including solid lotion bars, effervescent bath salts, body sprays and more. Pre-register by EMAIL

Workshop fee: $25. Includes everything you need to make the products being taught in the class and a copy of The Lavender Home Spa recipe booklet by Jennifer Vasich.

Herbal Esthetician: Natural Facial Skin Care Class 

11:00am & 2:30pm each day: Handmade Gift Guide Booth

Join Anne Hayman, Holistic Health Practitioner, Herbalist, Aromatherapist and Holistic Esthetician for this fantastic mini workshop that delves into natural skin care. You will learn the various ways to use herbs and essential oils to maintain and improve the health of your facial skin. All skin types will be discussed. There will be a make and take at the end of the workshop where you will create an amazing brightening facial scrub that improves the texture of your skin and brightens up your complexion.

Workshop Fee: $25 Includes everything you need to make the products being taught in the class and handouts. CLICK HERE for more information or to register.

Lavender Craft: Embroidery Hoop Home Decor

1:00pm each day: Handmade Gift Guide Booth

Crafty University is hosting a workshop that features a Lavender themed embroidery project. You will learn basic stitches used in embroidery, and all supplies are provided.

Workshop Fee: $15 Includes a kit with everything you need to complete the project: fabric embossed with a Lavender flower pattern, wooden hoop, needle case and needle, embroidery floss. All skill levels welcome, from newbies to advanced stitchers.

CLICK HERE for more information or to register.

Lavender Painting Classes: 
10:15am, 11:45am & 2:00pm each day: Van-GO Art Booth

Jane Weis, premiere local artist of Yale and owner of the Yellow Brush Art Studio, brings art to you with her Van-GO Art Classes on Wheels.  Jane teaches an easy and FUN step-by-step method in this acrylic painting class in what she calls a Van-GO Paint-in’ Party.  Within an hour-long class, you will create and take home a beautiful 5 x 7 framed acrylic painting of lavender using lavender scented paint. Open to adults and children (ages 7 and up).

Workshop Fee: $20 Includes a  1-hour class, materials and frame.

Sign up upon arrival at the festival, or pre-register for specific time by calling (810)-387-2444 or SEND JANE AN EMAIL. *Pre-register before July 10th to receive a special gift at the class.

 

Classes begin promptly each day at these times: 10:15am   11:45am   2pm

#1 Lavender with Ribbon (pictured at left)

Friday at 10:15am, Saturday at 11:45am, Sunday at 2pm

#2 Lavender Field and Sunrise (pictured below)

Friday at 11:45am, Saturday at 2pm, Sunday at 10:15am

#3 Lavender with a Flying Flower (pictured bottom left) Friday at 2pm, Saturday at 10:15am, Sunday at 11:45am

Sweet Lavender: A Gift Fit For Royalty

The fresh, clean aroma of lavender has enthralled humankind for thousands of years. The word lavender is derived from the Latin word "lavare" which means "to wash" or "to bathe", signifying this herbs delicate cleansing properties. Lavender has often been referred to as the "Queen of Herbs". Rightfully so considering that many royal dignitaries have developed a fondness for lavender's soothing properties throughout time...

French king Louis XIV bathed in lavender water, and Queen Elizabeth I of England commanded that lavender conserve be served at the royal table. She also decreed that fresh lavender flowers be made available every day of the year...a task sure to make a gardener weary, especially in England's climate.

It has been recorded that King Charles VI of France demanded lavender filled cushions wherever he went so that the lovely fragrance could lift his depression. (The king needed a little "cushy" for his "tushy"...Sorry, couldn't resist!)

Perhaps the greatest lavender lover of all times was Queen Victoria, who appointed someone solely to supply her with lavender products and oil. Queen Victoria also used lavender as a disinfectant.

If for nothing else, the sweet aroma of lavender will help transport you to the land of serenity... And hey, if lavender is good enough for the Royal Family, then it's good enough for me!

 Lavender in bloom at Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire, England

Lavender Therapy 101: Sunburn

Here's a great recipe for summer! Aloe and lavender offer immediate relief and help to speed the healing of sun burned skin, while the peppermint is cool and refreshing.

Aloe Lavender, & Peppermint Sunburn Spray

2 oz organic Aloe Vera Gel
2 oz. distilled water
12 drops Vitamin E Oil
16 drops Lavender Essential Oil
2-4 drops Peppermint Essential Oil

Mix all ingredients, pour into a 4 ounce bottle, and spray directly to sunburned skin as often as desired. Shake well before using. Store in refrigerator to increase its cooling affect upon the skin.

Lavender Therapy 101: Congestion

Head congestion can be very annoying, not to mention uncomfortable. Want a quick way to relieve some of that congestion while soothing your senses? Try a Lavender Steam Inhalation treatment!

Directions: Add 4-6 drops of lavender essential oil to a bowl of hot water. Place a towel over your head and inhale deeply to breathe in the vapor. (Keep your eyes shut.) Continue to breathe deeply for a few minutes, occasionally removing the towel and your head from the bowl.

Aaaahhhhhhhh!!!! This treatment is so soothing! The steam will help to relieve head congestion and any nervous tension will be erased.

Another bonus? Lavender essential oil can be beneficial in your fight against acne. This treatment can be turned into a soothing Lavender Facial Steam for acne. Follow the directions outlined above, enjoy the steam for 5-6 minutes, and finish by washing your face with cold water afterwards to close your pores.

Learn everything you always wanted to know about lavender from one of the experts...

Learn how to grow, harvest, and use lavender for health & enjoyment at this free online class!

Love, Laughter & Lavender
Monday, April 23rd: 11:00am EST

Because of its versatility, lavender has been referred to as "The Swiss Army Knife" of herbs. For centuries, lavender has been used medicinally to soothe burns and prevent infections in wounds, and in creams for its skin soothing properties. Great chefs have discovered its amazing appeal in everything from desserts, marinades, soups and main dishes, and lavender is a treasured ingredient in soothing tea blends.

Join Jennifer Vasich, author, aromatherapist, and co-founder of the Michigan Lavender Festival, as she shares her love for lavender and teaches you how to grow, harvest and use the “grandmother of herbs” for health & enjoyment.

Registration includes handouts and recipes. (To arrive via email directly after the webinar)

Title: Love, Laughter & Lavender
Date: Monday, April 23, 2012
Time: 11:00am EST

After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Webinar.

Space is limited.
Reserve your space now at:
https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/410932070

12 Ways To Use Lavender For Your Wedding

Love is in the air... and the sweet scent of lavender is sure to accompany with these lovely wedding ideas. Lavender will help soothe those wedding jitters for the bride and the groom while offering a unique -and fragrant- spin on tradition. We hope that these ideas help to spark your imagination, and get your creativity flowing...

For the Ceremony itself:
 

1. Fresh lavender in the Bridal and/or Bridesmaid bouquets add color and fragrance. Dried Keepsake Bouquets of roses, lavender and rosemary are also very unique...you can add a card or message to the bouquets with the legend of each flower. (The Language of Flowers used by the Victorian's provides an in-depth meaning to each flower/herb. For instance, Lavender is the flower of "Devotion", Rosemary is for "Remembrance", and Roses, depending on the color, depict "Love", "Purity", etc.)

 

2. Pressed lavender programs (or invitations) will help turn the ordinary into extraordinary! You can make these yourself, and each will be a one-of-a-kind.

3. Lavender buds in the ring bearers pillow scent the ceremony for the Bride, Groom and wedding party -it can be very aromatic, romantic and memorable. The pillow fragrance will last forever and can find a place on your bed to hold the memory and freshen your linens.

4. Dried lavender buds for the flower girls to strew down the aisle fills the space with scent.  As the bridesmaids follow, stepping on the buds releases even more fragrance that will last throughout the ceremony.  (You need not be concerned about clean up...no one has ever objected to the lingering scent of lavender in the vacuum cleaner)

 

5. Bunches of dried lavender tied with big bows at each pew or row of chairs adds a beautiful ambiance. Dried lavender stems can be cut to any length and made just the right size to work with the bow.

After the Ceremony:

 

6. As a wedding toss, place dried lavender flowers in little cones made from pages of a romance novel -or book of poetry-  and give them to each guest to toss over the departing Bride and Groom. Dried lavender will not harm birds.

For the Reception:
 

7. Dried lavender bouquets in little vases or in a large centerpiece are very popular. For an outdoor or more casual wedding, use mason jars or metal buckets tied with pretty ribbon. For formal weddings, use European style urns or antique vases.
 

8. Add culinary lavender to the food! Lavender can enhance the food and beverages served at the Reception.  Many delicious recipes can be found in The Lavender Gourmet to make lavender scented cakes, ice cream, cookies and punch.

9. Tie the seating cards to a little bouquet of lavender. What a charming way to help each guest find the way to their table!

After the Wedding
 

10. Store your wedding gown in a cloth bag or a large box with acid free paper and tuck in a lavender sachet to keep mustiness and moths away.  A young woman of the future may want to wear your dress!  Tuck lavender scented shoe stuffers into your shoes to keep them new and fresh.

11. Add 5 drops of lavender essential to 1/4 cup Epsom Salts, mix well, and add to tepid bath water. The lavender will help soothe sore muscles and erase provide a bit of stress relief after the big day.

12. Take a nap with a silky eye pillow filled with flax to reduce puffiness and lavender to ensure restful sleep and sweet dreams, or give yourself a mini foot massage by adding a couple drops of lavender to your favorite lotion.

Lavender is one of the most beloved herbs and scents in the world and is equally enjoyed by men and women so use it liberally and experiment with your own creations! We would love to hear stories of how you brought lavender into your wedding!

Lavender Dreams,

Jennifer Vasich

Celebrate National Popcorn Day...with a lavender twist!

Today is National Popcorn Day. We couldn't think of a better way to celebrate than with some Lavender Chocolate Covered Popcorn. Lavender is an earthly elixir that enhances the flavor of chocolate. (And who can resisit chocolate??) Here's a recipe from The Lavender Gourmet, by Jennifer Vasich, that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy!

Lavender Chocolate Covered Popcorn

10 cups air-popped popcorn (without salt or butter) ¼ cup honey
2 Tbsp butter
¾ cup milk chocolate chips
¼ cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 tsp coarse ground kosher salt (or sea salt)
1 tsp organic culinary lavender buds
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Pop the popcorn according to the package directions. Place the popped corn on a large cookie sheet lined with parchment (or waxed) paper.

In a small saucepan, heat together the honey, butter and milk chocolate chips over a low heat, stirring until the chocolate is completely melted. Remove from the heat and allow the honey and chocolate mixture to cool slightly. Pour the mixture over the popcorn, stirring to coat evenly. Chill until the chocolate sets.

Once the chocolate has hardened on the popcorn, melt the semisweet chocolate chips over a low heat, stirring constantly. Drizzle the semisweet chocolate over the popcorn. Sprinkle with the kosher salt and lavender buds and chopped nuts (optional). Chill until the chocolate hardens and then break into pieces. Enjoy!

Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Makes 10 cups.

The Lavender Gourmet, by Jennifer Vasich, is available on amazon.com! GET THIS BOOK

"The Lavender Home Spa" F*REE Ebook offer!

Alright lavender enthusiasts, here is your chance to get a complimentary copy of our new ebook, The Lavender Home Spa! Now you can create your own handmade lavender bath products using pure lavender essential oil, organic oils and butters, lavender buds grown from your garden and other natural ingredients.

The best part is that the book really is free... When you subscribe to our Lavender Newsletter, you'll receive a copy of the book! CLICK HERE to get a copy of The Lavender Home Spa... You're going to love it!

{Recipe} Cocoa Lavender-Mint Foot Scrub

Soothe your soles to this invigorating treat!  This scrub will smooth and cleanse, while the cocoa butter makes your feet ultra soft and supple. Natural peppermint oil deodorizes, energizes and soothes tired soles, while relaxing muscles. Lavender essential oil adds an extra soothing touch, while also relaxing achy muscles and joints. This foot treatment is super easy to make, and is the perfect way to end a hectic day!

• 1/3 cup Epsom Salts
• 4 tablespoons Cocoa Butter, grated
• 4 tablespoons Jojoba Oil
• 8 drops Peppermint Essential Oil
• 8 drops Lavender Essential Oil 


DIRECTIONS:
1. In a microwave safe glass container, gently heat Cocoa Butter and Jojoba Oil until cocoa butter melts; stir well.
2. Add Epsom Salts, peppermint and lavender essential oil, and mix well.
3. Massage into clean feet and rinse with warm water, paying special attention to heels and dry patches.

Lavender Oil helps fight Seasonal Affective Disorder (also known as "SAD", or "The Winter Blues")

When the first snowflakes start to fall and most people are making their holiday plans, we are thinking about lavender & sunshine! Every year, we welcome thousands of visitors to our Annual Lavender Festival, (in July) and begin preparing for that event as early as November. We strongly believe that surrounding ourselves with lavender all the time has truly helped us to combat the syndrome known as “The Winter Blues”.

We would like to share an article written by a fellow aromatherapist talking specifically about how to overcome the stagnant days of winter with…you guessed it... Lavender! If you or anyone you know happens to suffer from this bit of winder doldrum, we hope that you will benefit from this article.  Lavender Dreams!

It's that time of year, again. People start to feel bad, lethargic, irritable, and depressed. Many gain weight. For some people the winter months are merely an annoyance. For others, it can be a major problem. Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects twice as many females as males. 

Scented Sentiments

I recently came across an article I wrote a few years back while organizing some files on my computer. It was published in the Summer, 2008 issue of Gabriel's Garden Magazine. (A short-lived publication that we once produced with a great zeal and ambition...before the quick realization of how daunting, tiresome and tedious producing a magazine truly was.) We loved the magazine, but between running two businesses and raising a family, there simply wasn't any more we could give...and so, the magazine had three issues.

In any event, we thought that it would be a great thing to share with all of you. With December being the most hectic month of the year for so many people, this idea is sure to offer your friends and loved ones a nice break from their day! Enjoy! -Jennifer

“A handwritten note is like dining by candlelight instead of flicking on the lights, like making a gift instead of ordering one, like taking a walk instead of driving. Handwritten notes will add a lot to your life. You can still use the telephone or the Web for the daily chores of staying in touch, but for the words that matter, it’s courteous, classy, caring and civilized to pick up a pen.”  ~Margaret Shepherd, author of The Art of The Handwritten Note

When the daily mail arrives, do you find yourself sifting through all the mess, and feeling your stress levels rise when it seems there's nothing but bills? When a pretty handwritten envelope arrives, do you immediately set that one aside to open first? In this high-tech world, a handwritten letter is a limited commodity that few people take the time to create yet everyone treasures. Give yourself a break from the fast pace of life to tell a friend or loved one how much they are cared for using the sentiment of a handwritten note. The letter doesn’t have to be elaborate, in fact, we suggest keeping it simple. Using your favorite pen is a must. It helps to unlock the creative side of your brain and gives you the satisfaction of liking your own handwriting. Start first with a rough draft and then make necessary edits. Copy your letter onto your favorite stationery, in your best handwriting. The most common mistake that people make is being too critical of their own handwriting. If it doesn’t look like John Hancock penned it, don’t worry! The recipient will love it. For an even more personalized appeal, try your hand at creating Lavender Scented Stationery to send your correspondence. The recipient will treasure the essence of your fragrant letter from beginning to end, and you may even find that writing gives you a restful, and much needed reprieve from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day living.

Lavender Scented Stationery

It’s like tucking a fresh little bouquet of Lavender into every envelope!

Directions: 

Squeeze a lavender sachet (or two) and place in a box with your favorite stationery. Allow the lavender oil from the buds to infuse your papers for 2-3 weeks before using. Your writing papers and envelopes will be filled with the essence of the French Countryside!

“To love a person is to learn the song that is in their Heart, and to sing it to them When they have Forgotten." — Author Unknown

Fill your home with the Scent of Lavender

Here are just a few ways you can fill your home with the unforgettable fragrance of Lavender to create a warm, restful ambiance...

Sprinkle Lavender Buds directly on your carpet before vacuuming. The oils in the Lavender will release a pleasant fragrance in your entire room when you vacuum them up!  (lavender is regarded as being safe for pets) 

• Arrange a dried Lavender bouquet in a decorative vase or place on a table for a beautiful (and fragrant) home accent.
• Diffuse Lavender Essential Oil in any room to remove household odors.
• Put a drop of lavender essential oil to the bottom of your feet before bedtime, or spritz your pillow with Lavender Pillow Spray to help promote a restful nights sleep. May also be sprayed in any room for a wonderful air refresher.
• Place Lavender Sachets in your drawers to leave your linens and fineries fresh with the essence of the French Countryside, while keeping moths at bay.

 

Fill your home with Lavender & enjoy the soothing, calming & healing benefits of this remarkable herb.

The Secret to Radiant Skin

Have you ever wondered if there was a secret to healthy, younger looking skin? What if that secret was virtually free and easy to achieve? Well, the good news is that there is a secret, and that it is easier to achieve than you might think…it is called “Dry Skin Brushing”. The benefits of this simple “Home Spa Treatment” may pleasantly surprise you.

The Facts:
Or skin is the largest organ in our body, and after the liver, it is the second largest organ of detoxification that our body uses. In fact, the skin is responsible for eliminating one quarter of the body’s toxins every day. If our elimination is poor, these toxins become trapped in our system resulting in dull or tired skin, acne and clogged pores. Clogged pores are not just a cosmetic concern. Failing to rid the body of toxins can result in poor health. Dry skin brushing actually helps to eliminate these toxins by assisting your body to shed wastes, which in turn, helps promote overall health and vitality.

There are many benefits to skin brushing, a few of which include:

Wild Orange & Lavender Lip Balm

Dry, cracked lips? If you’re looking for a more natural solution to the chemically laden, petroleum based lip products on the market, look no further! Not only is making your own lip balm simple to do, it will save you a lot of money. Once you try this recipe for natural lip balm made with lavender essential oil, chances are you’ll never go back to the manufactured ones. 

Lavender oil soothes and relieves chapped lips while calming your senses, and the Wild Orange essential oil is like sunshine in a bottle. Get ready to spoil yourself! 

Ingredients 

·        1 Tbsp Organic Olive Oil

·        1 Tsp Grated Beeswax or Beeswax Pellets

·        1 Tsp Shea Butter

·        1 Vitamin E Capsule (as a preservative - optional)

·        4 drops Lavender Essential Oil

·        4 drops Wild Orange Essential Oil

Lavender oil is a powerful antifungal that fights skin conditions, Candida

(NaturalNews) New research out of Portugal has found that lavender oil is a powerful antifungal agent that fights and prevents skin and nail infections, including Candida albicans. Published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology, the study found that lavender essential oil exhibits amazing protection against a wide range of pathogenic fungi -- and it works better than all known antifungal drugs at doing so.

"In the last few years there has been an increase in the incidence of fungal diseases, particularly amongimmunocompromised patients," said professors Ligia Salgueiro and Eugenia Pinto from the University of Coimbra , authors of the study.

"Unfortunately there is also increasing resistance to antifungal drugs. Research by our group and others has

Honey Lavender Caramel Apples

As the cool, crisp Autumn season rolls in, our taste buds begin to crave the fruits of the season. We will be sharing a few of our favorite fall recipes in the days to come, all with a lavender flair, of course! This recipe happens to be one of our favorites. After one bite of these buttery, sweet and salty caramel covered apples, you may never want to eat a "Plain Jane" caramel apple again. Bon Apetit!

Ingredients:

1 cup milk
1 ½ cups heavy cream
2 teaspoons dried lavender buds
¾ cup unsalted butter
¾ cup honey
1 ¾ cups sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
4-6 apples, cored and sliced (we prefer Granny Smith)
toasted hazelnuts or cashews, chopped (optional)

{Gifts From The Garden} AROMATIC BATH SALTS

Bath salts are quick and easy to make at home, and are a treasured gift for anyone who loves to soak in the tub. Remember, it's all in the presentation! The secret to turning simple bath salts into a fabulous gift has everything to do with the packaging. The right package can transform even the most basic of bath salts into a much appreciated gift that look stunning in the bathroom.

This recipe for Aromatic Bath Salts will make the water feel silky soft, and the added benefits of pure essential oils will make them therapeutic.

  

Aromatic Bath Salts

1/2 cup Dead Sea Mineral Salts -OR- Epsom Salts

1 Tbs. baking soda

15 drops Lavender Essential Oil, OR your favorite essential oil blend, such as Balance or Serenity (Available through www.purelydoterra.com)

4 Tbsp Dried Botanicals such as lavender buds or rose petals  (optional)

Mix dry ingredients together, then add essential oils. You can mix in a bowl or put salt in a plastic, self-sealing bag, add essential oils, then tightly seal the bag. Toss bag around to

Sleeping never smelled so good!

Do you have trouble falling asleep? Do you feel sluggish and lethargic during the day? I recently read an interesting article on Dr. Joseph Mercola's website which I found quite alarming. In this report, Dr. Mercola states that, "Americans get about 25 percent less sleep than they did a century ago -- and this isn’t just a matter of having less energy. Too little sleep impacts your levels of thyroid and stress hormones, which in turn can affect your memory and immune system, your heart and metabolism, and much more. Over time, lack of sleep can lead to: weight gain, depression, High blood sugar levels and an increased risk of diabetes."

YIKES! That was certainly enough to grab my attention, and I quickly thought of all the reasons why I love

Lavender Citrus Shortbread

Per request of our customers, we are sharing the recipe for this "new & improved" shortbread, which was adapted from a recipe originally published in The Lavender Gourmet by Jennifer Vasich. 

So then, how do you improve something that is already superb? This new version uses CPTG Essential Oils (Wild Orange & Lemon), which perfectly compliment the lavender. If you've never used Essential Oils in baking, you're in for a real treat. Remember that all Essential Oils are NOT created equal. When using them for consumption, you must use Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade (CPTG). Our all-time favorite essential oils are from doTERRA, since their level of quality and purity is unsurpassed. Lovely Lavender: She's no shrinking violet! This recipe for shortbread will fill your home with a heavenly aroma when baking... Enjoy!

Lavender Citrus Shortbread

1 ½  Cups unsalted butter, softened

1 Cup Sugar

3 Cups flour

¼ tsp salt

1 ½ tsp Pure Vanilla extract

10 drops doTERRA Lemon Essential Oil

10 drops doTERRA Wild Orange Essential Oil

1 ½ Tbsp Organic Culinary Lavender Buds

Coarse Ground Sugar, for garnish (optional)

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

In a medium sized mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, lemon essential oil, wild orange essential oil, and lavender buds with an electric mixer for about 4-5 minutes, until it is light and fluffy. Slowly add the flour (one cup at a time) until well incorporated. If dough is still sticky, add a touch more flour.

Form dough into logs and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate until firm. Slice dough into 1/2 thick slices. Lay cookie slices on parchment lined baking sheet. Sprinkle the top of each cookie with coarse ground sugar (optional). Bake for 10-15 minutes or until edges are slightly golden. Cool on cookie sheet for 10 minutes before removing from pan. Allow to cool completely on wire racks before serving. Makes approx. 3 dozen. Adapted from a recipe for Lavender Lemon Shortbread originally published in The Lavender Gourmet by Jennifer Vasich.

Autumn Bliss

Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and autumn a mosaic of them all.  ~Stanley Horowitz
 
I don't know about you, but I can't get enough of this beautiful Autumn weather we've been having! It has been a gorgeous week, and the change of colors has been simply breathtaking out here in the country where we live.

While working in the garden and pruning some perennials this week, I thought I had better remind everyone that it is best to not prune your lavender in the fall here in Michigan. Pruning should be done in the spring before new growth starts. (Take 1/3 of the entire plant off, and reshape it into a nice mound.---We willre-post this again in the spring.)

As for this weekend, I am definitely enjoying these last few days of warm sunshine and looking forward to attending the family reunion tomorrow at my sister's house. We are going on a hay ride, and I'm