Harvesting Joy: My Story of Healing, Creativity, and Community

Hello! Rachel here. I want to introduce myself to any new readers. I’m a queer artist, maker, and herbalist living on the unceded lands of the Clackamas, Multnomah, Cowlitz, and Kalapuya native tribes, also known as Portland, Oregon. I’m also a chronically ill empath and practicing witch, and have crafted my own unique lifestyle and career path that defies social norms and expectations in many ways. Chronic pain has been one of my deepest teachers for the past 10 years, requiring me to center my life around health and wellness. Instead of following the traditional path, I’ve found my own way. Through my creative, spiritual, and land-based practices, I’ve built a lifestyle that balances structure, support, and freedom to do my soul’s work in the world. I have a BFA in graphic design, but I don’t work a ‘normal’ 9-5 job. Instead I run a small business offering unique, natural, handcrafted candles, art, and self-care tools. These offerings are more than consumer goods; they are energetic exchanges with my customers. Each product is crafted from and through my healing journey and magical practice with nature.

My booth at Crafty Wonderland Spring Art & Craft Market, May 2024

I can’t believe we’re halfway through 2024. So much has happened in my life and work this year. This season of change feels very exciting after years of deep internal shifts. My sister had her first baby in April, and welcoming my niece into the world has transformed me and my family dynamic in the best ways. I’m also turning 40 this year and am reflecting on all the changes—what I’ve lost, let go of, and what I’ve grown into.

I also released my new lip balm line! This project has been years in the making and has been the focus of my creative practice this year. Creating this new line has expanded my work in exciting ways. The process of crafting the lip balm begins in the garden. Once spring arrives, I begin harvesting herbs for my lip balm recipes. This spring, I’ve been busy foraging lemon balm to dry and use to make my Lemon Mint lip balm. I forage in my backyard and neighborhood, bringing home bags of fresh lemon balm. After destemming the leaves, rinsing them well, and drying them in a food dehydrator, I garble the herb in a food processor before storing it in a mason jar. The chamomile I planted at my community garden last year came back for a second year and is the largest patch of chamomile I’ve ever grown! I use chamomile to make my Tansy Apple and Cozy Spice lip balms.

Foraged lemon balm freshly picked (left) and dried (right).

This process is repeated with all the herbal allies I use, including lemon balm, chamomile, calendula, and lavender. I harvest the flowers and leaves all summer, drying and storing them until it’s time to make the potent whole plant extractions in apricot kernel oil—a key ingredient in my lip balm recipe.

Why use herbs in skincare like lip balm?

Something I learned from my teacher, Rosemary Gladstar, is to not put anything on my skin that I wouldn’t put in my mouth. I believe that connecting with the healing power of plants is our birthright. Each plant contains its own history and wants to share its wisdom and healing properties with us. Plants like lemon balm, chamomile, lavender, and calendula are all easy to grow and deeply soothing and nourishing to the skin.

Blooming chamomile, 2024

In my second season as a member and volunteer at a community garden, I’ve expanded my gardening practice, growing more plants this year than ever before. I love being part of a community of gardeners. Our mission to grow food and share it with our community aligns with my passion and purpose. Collaborating and building new friendships with other members has been so fulfilling, especially after years of COVID isolation.

This growing season, I am the crop lead for onions, peppers, salad greens, and of course herbs. As a crop lead, I’m responsible for planting and tending these crops for the Cooperative, with support from other members. Gardening with the community has helped me deepen my relationship with the land and the plants I love. It feels good for my body and brain to attune to the cycle of nature while weeding, planting, and harvesting food and medicine year round. That is, if I don’t overwork myself, which I am often inclined to do. I’m learning about sustainability and how to farm in a way that respects the land, plants, my body, and community. The garden’s mission to give back to the community through weekly donations has also expanded my mutual aid efforts. It’s felt enriching and aligned with my work and creative practice to be part of this community.

Garlic harvest at Albina Cooperative Garden, July 2023

As I reflect on these significant changes and new beginnings, I’m filled with gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead. My journey this year has been one of growth, transformation, and deep connection—with the land, my community, and my family. I’m thrilled to share these experiences with you and invite you to join me in celebrating the beauty of nature, the power of personal transformation, and the joy of community. Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Your support allows me to continue doing what I love and sharing it with the world.

With love and gratitude,

Rachel