I was only ten years old when I asked my mom what I could do to earn money for college, because it is never too early to save money! She simply answered "lavender". At the time we only had two lavender bushes, so we planted more. We are now in our 11th season!
The picture was my first day at the Buhl, Idaho Farmers Market. I started out on one small table with simple soaps and a few other products. I was very proud of the $40 I made on my first day! Now I can barely fit all the products on three tables!
I am now 22 years old and still making some products, but my mom has pretty much taken over.
As for myself, I am currently a college graduate with a degree in biological engineering from the University of Idaho, and have a job with the U.S. Forest Service. The money I earned from the farm covered a large part of college expenses. My mom is now a former teacher, running a coffee shop here in Buhl, named 208 Caffeinate. Our culinary lavender is featured in a house special called the Lavender Goddess! This is an exciting adventure for all of us.