Love of Lavender

Lavender is not only one of the most soothing fragrances, it makes a beautiful garden.

It also makes the best tea I've ever had.  Check out serendidpTea's organic lavender tea, and you won't be disappointed.

As you might be able to tell from my profile picture, I have very curly hair.  I fight it and straighten it most of the year.  But my husband prefers it curly, and in the summer months, I give in and let it curl!  "Curly Girl" by Lorraine Massey writes a convincing argument for why you should let your curls loose and how to care for them.  

Taylor Swift doesn't present a bad argument either with her beautiful, natural curls.

And I love when Sheryl Crow goes curly.

So if you want to give into your natural curl this summer, here's a DIY Lavender Mist that Massey says " not only makes your hair smell like a lavender field in Provence, it's indispensable for cleansing and reviving your curls."  Curly girls out there, try it, and let me know what you think!  She suggests making it in quantities, so you can make enough for 3 spray bottles, to use in the shower or to take with you for on-the-go touch-ups.  These spray bottles from The Container Store are only $1.99/each.  Click on the photo to be directed to their website for purchase.

The recipe:

1/2 gallon water

5 drops pure (not synthetic) lavender essential oil

To make:

1. Fill a large pot with 1/2 gallon of water

2. Cover, bring it to a boil, and simmer for 1 hour to purify.

3. Remove from heat, add lavender oil, stir, and replace lid.

4. Let steep until cool.  Pour into spray bottles and spritz as needed.

Whether for your garden, tea, or hair, lavender has many uses in addition to its calming scent.  Let me know how you use lavender.  I currently use lavender room spray, and I love the way it makes my home smell like an English (or is it French?) garden.