There's a moment I'll carry with me forever: two tiny orange bees, cuddled in lavender, a scene I wish I'd captured. My name is Bekah, and my story is woven with the threads of nature's magic, from sprawling gardens to the simple joy of strawberries.

My passion for lavender began years ago, and it wasn't just a fleeting fancy. It was a deep, visceral connection. There's something almost magical about the way lavender transforms a space. The air fills with its soothing fragrance, the vibrant purple hues paint a serene landscape, and the gentle hum of bees creates a symphony of nature's music.

I remember my first large lavender garden. It was a tapestry of 30 Provence lavender plants, a sight that never failed to take my breath away. It wasn't just a garden; it was a sanctuary. I spent countless hours among those fragrant bushes, watching as bees of all shapes and sizes danced from flower to flower. It was a place where I felt truly at peace, a place where I felt connected to something larger than myself. Even the resident Carpenter Bees visited the lavender flowers, adding their robust presence to the harmonious hum.

Growing lavender became more than just a hobby; it became a calling. I loved nurturing these plants, watching them thrive, and knowing that I was creating a haven for pollinators. It was a partnership with nature, a symbiotic relationship where we both benefited.

And speaking of pollinators, let's talk about bees! They're the unsung heroes of the lavender world. Without them, our beloved lavender wouldn't flourish. Those busy little bees are essential for pollination, the process that allows lavender to produce seeds and propagate. They flit from flower to flower, collecting nectar and pollen, and in doing so, they ensure the continuation of the lavender's life cycle.

I've always been fascinated by the intricate dance between bees and lavender. The way they work together, each playing a vital role in the other's survival, it's a testament to the interconnectedness of nature. I remember one day, as I was preparing to harvest my Grosso lavender, I saw two little orange bees, a kind I had never seen before, cuddled up in one of the flowers. They were so small and peaceful, a tiny secret nestled within the purple blooms. When I am asked when I go to heaven what I regret, one of the things I will say is that I didn't take a picture of these little cuddled up bees before I harvested the lavender. Instead, I shook it gently and sent them on their way. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated joy, tinged with a little regret for a missed opportunity to capture its beauty.

Life, as we all know, has its unexpected detours. After a divorce, I found myself navigating a new chapter, a smaller space, but still with a deep-seated desire to cultivate life. My sprawling lavender fields gave way to strawberry boxes, a smaller, more manageable endeavor. It's a different kind of joy, a quiet satisfaction in nurturing these sweet, red berries.

At 72, I've learned to appreciate the simple things. I've learned that gardening isn't just about the size of your plot; it's about the connection you forge with the earth, the plants, and the creatures that share it. I've learned that even in a small space, you can create a haven for pollinators, a place where life thrives.

My journey with lavender has taught me the importance of patience, perseverance, and the power of simple moments. It's taught me the beauty of connection, both with nature and with others. And I'm so excited to share that journey with you.

My hope is that by sharing my story, we can create a community of people who appreciate the beauty of lavender, the importance of bees, and the joy of growing. Let's celebrate the simple moments, the buzzing of bees, the fragrant blooms, and the shared love of nature.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. I can't wait to see what blossoms in the future.

With love and sunshine, Bekah.

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