Lavande

What is it about lavender that is so enchanting? I think my love of lavender started many years ago, when my family and I first visited Provence. We went to a lovely place, hidden in a valley, not far from the village of Gordes in the Vaucluse. Amidst a field of lavender was a weathered and beguiling building - the Abbaye de Sénanque. There is something about that place that really enchants you. The heat, the sweet smell of lavender in the sun, and the buzzing of bees all around - very dishevelled and wonderful.

The smell of lavender will always transport me back to provence. I always picture the warm colours of Roussillon, or the clear blue sky, or even the potted pansies in January. Sigh.

The Abbaye de Sénanque produces several lavender products - but the beauty of the place is what attracts me.

There is nothing better than Lavender sachets. I love the colours of the Provençal fabric.

I make dried lavender bunches such as these often. I pick the lavender from my backyard and then make wands... a very agreeable pursuit!

I have no words to describe the beauty of this place - though I would venture a guess that fairies live here...

Speaking of which! One of my favourite flower fairies - the Lavender fairy! I once received a gift set of lovely perfume and lotions all stamped with her impish visage.

The iconic solitary tree amidst lavender fields. This picture is symbolic of all of Provence...There must be hundreds of solitary trees there, but every picture is beautiful to me.

Hope you are all enjoying your summer weekend - and I hope you come across some lavender, wherever you are!

xox

A.