“Sign the deed or I’ll sn:a:p your arm right here!” my brother screamed while slamming me against the truck outside Sunset Lavender Co. as our parents watched without emotion.

the agricultural consultant who originally helped me build the farm, confirmed my land’s unique topography made it one of the highest-yield independent lavender operations on the East Coast.

Verdant Ventures wanted to buy me out.

At first, I refused fiercely. I had bled for this soil. I had frozen inside that house. This farm was part of my soul. But continue reading …