9 Jan 2014

growth


We planted these olive trees not long after we brought her home. Muslin wrapped and quiet she smelled of marshmallow, cornstarch and new dreams. The air clung to us and the haze around was reminiscent of a Tuscan summer;  as we chipped at the dry earth we hoped this would be an omen for their growth.

Yesterday she turned five and the trees bore fruit for the first time. And like with any birthday, nostalgic meandering was ever present. We watched baby videos together and laughed at her straight legged crawling and bubbling speech. Old friends were spied in the corners of photographs and melodic stories were told. Oh how that jet haired babe has grown.

It seems she has mirrored the growth of those olive trees. Quiet and slow one moment and after Spring rain all leggy and willowy. With gentle pruning, nourishment and care we have cajoled their branches and guided their growth but for the most part they have reached for the sky despite us. Ultimately they will choose their own form, as will she.

All we can do is love her - unconditionally, playfully, fiercely and wholeheartedly. And she will grow.

Steph x

11 comments:

  1. So so beautiful. A very happy 5th birthday to your sweet little one. I hope that her day was as special as she is to you. xx

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  2. How wonderful. She is such a beautiful little lady.. How blessed she is to have a family like yours :) x

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  3. Happy belated birthday! she's such a pretty little lady. What a beautiful detail about the olive plant, gave fruit the same day as her birthday, that's a bless :)

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  4. beautiful post!

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  5. Aww Happy Belated Birthday Miss Bijou!

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  6. What a gorgeous tribute to your lovely daughter. Happy birthday Bijou :)

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  7. Happy birthday Bijou! I love that the trees bore fruit for her birthday... So Cool!
    My french mother in law is visiting and often calls Tadpole "Bijou"... makes me think of your baby all the time!

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  8. Happy birthday darling girl x

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  9. I don't really know why, but this made me cry, Steph ~ such beautiful words you've written about your beautiful girl xxx

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  10. Happy birthday sweet girl xx

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Your words brighten my day! Thank-you so much for joining me on my adventure. x