Ever been interested in growing your own fresh lavender only to find that your thoughts quickly shift to, "What will I do with it?" I've been there. And what did I do? I started Googling, of course. I was only slightly frustrated to find that most of my results called for dried lavender buds. This is already taking it a step too far.

Then, I came across a blog from Preparedness Mama. Now, this was helpful. From some basic tips on how to harvest and dry lavender to recipes, uses, and links to other blogs, I found everything I needed.

So when my sister sounds like the voice I previously heard in my head and she asks, "What are you going to do with your lavender?" here are my answers:

1. Lavender Water. We'll test it as a natural insect repellent for the outdoors, mist it on bed linens and use it as an air freshener.

2. Lavender Lemonade. Doesn't this recipe from Small Footprint Family sound delish? With spring oh-so-close, this sounds absolutely refreshing. Honey, lemon, and lavender? Yes, please!

3. Lavender/Rosemary Bath Salts. Why buy bath salts when I can infuse my own with rosemary and lavender from my patio?

4. Lavender Dryer Sachets. Whaaaa? Why didn't I think of this on my own? Of course, this is a thing! And it sounds awesome. Perhaps a wee bit crafty for me, but it will be worth a try.

5. Lavender Syrup. For a lavender martini of course! (You can also buy this on Amazon but I am going to try to make my own.) I found an enticing recipe on Making Lemonade and directions for making the syrup at AllRecipes.

In November of 2014, I made my first significant career change. After almost seven years at one of the largest and most successful advertising and public relations agencies in Indianapolis, I made a decision to consider other options. And, it wasn't easy. You see, my agency was home. It was friends and fun, hard work and growth. It was family -- and a huge part of my life. But, like a high-school graduate leaving the nest, I needed to test myself and see what I was made of. I needed a change.

My second agency brought more family -- people I instantly loved (and people that instantly shared their love with me.) One of those very special people, Sue, would say, "all the things." It's a term I now use often. So many of us try to do "all the things."

My passion for personal growth means I want to help others grow in their lives and careers. My interest in Tower Gardening means I want to build an appreciation among society for those who grow what we need to survive. I want to contribute in some meaningful way to a healthier society.

I want to share what I know and learn from others who want to also share what they have learned. And, along the way, I want to focus on "all the things" that relate to living, loving and growing.

Cheers, to each and every one of you. Let's live, love and grow with one another.

What to do with Fresh Lavender

"All the things."