I set out on my journey to the Frog Creek Lavender farm knowing it was going to be a scorcher. Marching on, wearing a weather appropriate sundress and flip flops, off I went. Heading up 10th street my air conditioner decided to switch over to heat. I rolled my windows down, turned off the stereo and took in the smells and sights with the wind blowing in my face. It's a little like going into another world dropping into upper Ojai. I love that it looks like I'm out in the country somewhere instead of 40 minutes from the bustle of the city. I saw horses grazing and apricot trees heavy with fruit. In fact, I was enjoying the scenery so much I blew right by my turn.
As soon as I arrived, I could smell the lavender blossoms and the earthy smell of vegetables growing fat with the warmth of the sun. Larry and Kristal who own Frog Creek Lavender farm were very gracious and knowledgeable. As I approached the cozy little store, opening the screen door, my senses were enveloped with the healing energy of the luscious smell that makes lavender so popular. They provided patrons with baskets, hats and scissors. It is an absolutely charming place. There were even two hammocks strung beneath ginormous shade trees. Larry introduced our group to the four different kinds of lavender they grow, letting us smell a bit of each. In my imagination, I was a sommelier. With that, we were turned loose with our scissors. I enjoyed delectable moments of solitude with nature as I cut my bundle of lavender. Conveniently, ten feet away, their neighbor Richard grows organic produce. I bought a fat juicy basket of blackberries still warm from the sun, garlic, apricots, peaches, zucchini, and even lavender sugar. They are open every weekend and I see myself going back there often.
Carie Sipka is an Inspire Family Liaison serving the Ventura county area.