Blooming in Her Memory: A New Season at the Farm
I had hoped to get this post out sooner, but life has a way of shifting priorities. The past few months have been filled with unexpected events that put the farm on the back burner for a while.
The most significant of these moments was the passing of my grandmother, Alice Bloomer. There was no one stronger, kinder, or more loving than her. While my mom comes in a close second, it’s my grandmother who planted the seed of our love for plants and gardening. She and my grandfather founded Bloomer’s Nursery in 1970, building it from the ground up with hard work, dedication, and a true labor of love. It’s safe to say that soil runs through my veins, just as it did for them. I remember spending hours at their house as a child, flipping through seed catalogs in awe of all the unique varieties offered. I was always drawn to miniature fruit trees and kits for sunflower and corn forts. Grandma’s spirit will forever be with me and my mom on the farm, and I can feel her presence in every corner of the property, watching over me as I work.
Along with her kindness, Grandma was famous for her shortbread cookies— a recipe we continue to use for our lavender shortbread. It’s one more way her legacy lives on, bringing comfort and warmth to anyone who tries them.
Her passing has left a hole in my heart, but I’m deeply grateful for the life lessons she shared and the love she gave. She will be missed beyond words.
As for me, I took on a seasonal job in addition to my full-time work. Let me tell you, it kept me busier than I could have imagined. Working 60+ hours a week didn’t leave me much time or energy for the farm. But now, with more time to focus, I’m thrilled to dive back into everything. The past month has been a whirlwind of catching up, but I’m excited to get back on track.
On the farm, we’ve been wrapping up the cut garden and soaking in the first blooms of spring. Our perennials are coming in strong, and I just finished seeding a few days ago. I’m excited to see what thrives this year and what might be swapped out for something new next year. We’ve also installed the new gate, successfully keeping the deer out, and revitalized the fountain with a new solar-powered water feature.
In the fields, we’ve been busy with a much-needed "manicure"—tackling weeds, replanting missing plants, and pruning the wild growth. We've added some fun new touches: a gorgeous metal awning and a purple tricycle, perfect for photos and fun moments.
Next on the list: wiring the lavender barn for the generator and seeing if the old donut machine still works after all these years. We’re all excited about it… though maybe a little nervous about the impact on our waistlines! (But, who can resist donuts?) Also, with the cut garden being at its prime during the summer months, we’ll also be hosting flower events, so stay tuned for more details.
We can’t wait to see everyone at the farm this year!
All our best,
Holly and Laura
Mom (Laura) and Grandma opening year. We will forever be grateful to my cousin Apryl for brining Grandma up from Eugene to see the farm open and in action.
