We've Got Olives!

And some thoughts on blooming, summer, and life.

I didn’t have high hopes for the small olive tree I bought at the supermarket a year ago. But I found a spot for it on our small patio, and watered it every weekend.

Fast forward to last April, and I noticed tiny buds that grew into a pretty flower. I was speechless, and I even felt a sense of guilt for not expecting the best.

According to Google, olive trees can take years to bloom and looking back, it was so easy to lead with that version.

Good thing olive trees don’t need my permission to bloom, and here we are a year later with three tiny olives standing strong through the summer heat.

The story is not so much about the olive tree, but rather about my assumption that blooming is not on the way. We’re all believing something about our lives; mine is usually the need to keep it neutral—as in water the olive tree now and then, but don’t hold your breath for spring.

When the flowers and fruit showed up, it made me think about where else in my life I shy away from expectation.

Everywhere.

Then, this summer became a soft bloom a season of small miracles and answered prayers I had forgotten about.

Enjoying an outdoor concert with my sister as Lauren Daigle sang the night away.

Sitting at the coffee shop I used to study at ten years ago, and thinking of how far God has taken me.

Eating ice cream before dinner at 9:30 pm (highly recommend it).

Joining a writing class and sharing my work with a group of strangers.

Printing out newsletter postcards without a marketing plan.

Hello from here:

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17 (NIV)

What a gift:

The beauty of knowing good things are not a casualty.

The reminder that my lack of faith is still good soil.

The blessing to gather these messy words and send them your way.

Talk soon,

Stella