In Praise of Lavender
I used to think I hated lavender. I equated it with smelling like old people. I don't quite know what happened, because some time around spring of last year, I fell deeply, deeply in love with lavender. I think it was last year's Spoutwood festival, and the lavender cupcake I ate. It didn't taste like lavender exactly-- you know how rose-flavored foods inevitably have a tang of soap? Well, this wasn't like that at all. It had the aroma of lavender, but that didn't change the flavor overmuch. (And I think the fact that it was covered in edible glitter helped, too.)
So, lavender. Some things I have tried, and some things I am lemming.
Lavender-infused honey by Honeyrun Farm
I got some of this to add to my tea... OMG, so delicious. Truly. It's so mild but has a lovely lavendery scent. Great in Earl Grey, jasmine, orange pekoe... yum.
Salted Lavender Honey Shortbread by Butter + Love
I had some of this with my breakfast this morning. The salt isn't especially noticeable, but it gives it a nice depth. Yum.
Lavender Marshmallow lip balm by Epically Epic Soap Co.
My current lip balm. So freaking yummy-smelling. I'm almost through it, though, so...
Macarons by Norweigan Wood Bake Shop
As I mentioned, I'm becoming kind of addicted to macarons. I got a flavor sampler from Norwegian Wood, and they were deeeelicious. My favorite was the lavender chocolate. Delicate lavender scent, rich chocolate ganache. Omg.
Lavender Fleur de Sel Caramels by Calabasas Candy Co.
I have tried several of the caramels and marshmallows by Calabasas, and they were alllll yummy. (Chocolate fleur de sel & strawberry caramels have been my favorite thus far.) So of course I am game to try this out.
Peeps Lavender Vanilla lolipops by The Groovy Baker
I've tried something like 25 of her lolipop flavors through her samplers and have loved them, including lavender honey, which only had the slightest hint of lavender.
Lavender Chocolate Tea by Alva Veda
Doesn't this look yummy? On the wishlist.
Chocolate Lavender Caramels by Bon Bons Confections
Definitely on the expensive side (16 for $25 + shipping), but hand painted with "fresh lemon, local farm honey and cardamom, and raspberries, which plays like a symphony in your mouth"? Ummm, yes please.
Cacao Lavender Mint by Flying Bird Botanicals
Not 'til Autumn and chilly weather, but this is on my wishlist, too.
Lemon-filled lavender cupcake recipe by Yummy Mummy Kitchen
Oh god, it's enough to inspire me to bake.
Yesterday, I went hiking in Thurmont-- a nice trip around Wolf Rock & Chimney rock, but it was cut short by a massive rainstorm that left me sopping wet (and driving home pantsless). Quick shower, then to Trader Joe's to Buy All The Things. Their chicken-less chicken? SO MUCH like the real thing. I am super duper impressed, just FYI. Also I have tropical fruit in the fridge. Yum.
Okay, time to get ready to head over to Anna & Brad's for dinner. Later!
So, lavender. Some things I have tried, and some things I am lemming.
Lavender-infused honey by Honeyrun Farm
I got some of this to add to my tea... OMG, so delicious. Truly. It's so mild but has a lovely lavendery scent. Great in Earl Grey, jasmine, orange pekoe... yum.
Salted Lavender Honey Shortbread by Butter + Love
I had some of this with my breakfast this morning. The salt isn't especially noticeable, but it gives it a nice depth. Yum.
Lavender Marshmallow lip balm by Epically Epic Soap Co.
My current lip balm. So freaking yummy-smelling. I'm almost through it, though, so...
Macarons by Norweigan Wood Bake Shop
As I mentioned, I'm becoming kind of addicted to macarons. I got a flavor sampler from Norwegian Wood, and they were deeeelicious. My favorite was the lavender chocolate. Delicate lavender scent, rich chocolate ganache. Omg.
Lavender Fleur de Sel Caramels by Calabasas Candy Co.
I have tried several of the caramels and marshmallows by Calabasas, and they were alllll yummy. (Chocolate fleur de sel & strawberry caramels have been my favorite thus far.) So of course I am game to try this out.
Peeps Lavender Vanilla lolipops by The Groovy Baker
I've tried something like 25 of her lolipop flavors through her samplers and have loved them, including lavender honey, which only had the slightest hint of lavender.
Lavender Chocolate Tea by Alva Veda
Doesn't this look yummy? On the wishlist.
Chocolate Lavender Caramels by Bon Bons Confections
Definitely on the expensive side (16 for $25 + shipping), but hand painted with "fresh lemon, local farm honey and cardamom, and raspberries, which plays like a symphony in your mouth"? Ummm, yes please.
Cacao Lavender Mint by Flying Bird Botanicals
Not 'til Autumn and chilly weather, but this is on my wishlist, too.
Lemon-filled lavender cupcake recipe by Yummy Mummy Kitchen
Oh god, it's enough to inspire me to bake.
Yesterday, I went hiking in Thurmont-- a nice trip around Wolf Rock & Chimney rock, but it was cut short by a massive rainstorm that left me sopping wet (and driving home pantsless). Quick shower, then to Trader Joe's to Buy All The Things. Their chicken-less chicken? SO MUCH like the real thing. I am super duper impressed, just FYI. Also I have tropical fruit in the fridge. Yum.
Okay, time to get ready to head over to Anna & Brad's for dinner. Later!