Hi Subscriber,
You know, when you're talking quiet places and calm beauty,
there's nothing quite like a lavender farm. I have always wanted to visit one, so this was how Wes and I chose to spend our 4th of July.
Long tracks of open farmland rolled gently by the car window as we made our way to Lane Lavender Farm in Milan, Michigan. Corn stood tall and bursting with its bounty, nearly ready to be plucked. Hawks hunted just above.
I knew we were getting close when the scented air reached us, even with the windows closed against the mid-summer heat.
When we finally reached the farm, it was completely quiet. I wasn't expecting that. I was just sure they'd be open and bustling on July 4th. I hadn't seen any indication on their website stating otherwise.
We pulled in and were greeted by a young fellow sorting and packaging lavender seeds. He called the owner, Courtney, outside.
Courtney assured us that although they were closed in preparation for the Lavender Festival the following weekend, (that's TODAY by the way) we were welcome to walk around and take pictures.
I explained that I was a local artist scouting out quiet places to paint and wondered would it be ok for me to paint on location at her farm sometime. She affirmed that it was and suggested some times that might work best if I wanted to catch the morning sun.
The paintings above were done from photographs I took that day.
I had such a busy week, which included a minor foot injury, so I decided to forego the festival, but I'm going back soon, this time to paint something a little bigger.
If you or someone you know lives in the area, please share the Lavender Harvest Festival info with them. I know it's late notice, but oh so worth a change in plans!!
It's truly a must-see-in-person. If you do go, please let me know.
I'd love to hear about your experience!
Map: 12040 Plank Rd, Milan, MI 48160
Their Website:https://lavenderlanemi.com/
I took a video that caught some very happy bumblebees and birdsong.
It's on my Instagram and Fb pages if you wish to see/listen.
Sound is best when viewed on your phone.
ENJOY!!
Jan
