Two hundred and forty-nine words…

for The Unicorn Challenge which is brought to us by  Jenne Gray and C.E.Ayr. 

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Olive Glover was born with the gift of spreading happiness. As a baby, a toddler, and as a child her constant smile was infectious. 

Growing up she spent much of her time creating little works of art; pictures, embroideries, bracelets and dried flower posies. Most, she gave as gifts, but many she stored away in boxes beneath her bed.

She was never particularly academic, nor did she wish to be. She was happy with the skills she possessed and wanted nothing more. She had no desire to leave home nor did she yearn for a partner. The love she received from those around her was more than she desired.

In time she started selling her creations from a stall in the marketplace. It was inevitable that one day she’d have a small shop, a place in which she’d dwell. Not only did she sell her own work, but she offered local craftspeople somewhere to market their handiwork.

Olive’s Gifts became the place to visit for those wanting special presents. Young lovers, those about to be betrothed, couples sharing anniversaries, others bidding farewell to loved ones, she had something for everyone.

Much later in life, Olive received an unexpected gift. One she shared with a charming gentleman, the gift of mutual love.

They retired and moved away. Soon after, her deserted shop and those alongside were demolished, making way for a small housing development. 

She’s gone, but her name will never be forgotten, especially by those living in Olive Grove.

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© Doug Jacquier although it’s not really his pic.

26 thoughts on “Two hundred and forty-nine words…

  1. Suzette Benjamin's avatar Suzette Benjamin Aug 5, 2023 / 18:13

    An impactful story Keith. Contentment with her gifts made Olive special. A wonderful message Keith.

    Liked by 1 person

  2. Sadje's avatar Sadje Aug 6, 2023 / 08:59

    A heartwarming story Keith.

    Like

  3. ceayr's avatar ceayr Aug 6, 2023 / 09:52

    Very clever, Keith, how you show without telling that there was no ‘I’ in Olive.
    Very sweet tale, I’m starting to worry about you!

    Liked by 1 person

  4. Nancy's Notes 🖊️🎶's avatar The Sicilian Storyteller Aug 6, 2023 / 12:06

    Not the first time I find myself with a lump in my throat after reading your stories, my friend. A very lovely and poignant read today. Lovely indeed.

    Liked by 1 person

  5. jenne49's avatar jenne49 Aug 6, 2023 / 12:18

    A delightful tale of a woman who quietly and selflessly made the lives of those around her much richer.
    A really creative use of the letters in the picture, Keith.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Keith's Ramblings's avatar Keith's Ramblings Aug 6, 2023 / 16:36

      I’m pleased it came across that way, Jenne. The story appeared the moment I saw the picture.

      Like

  6. clark's avatar clark Aug 6, 2023 / 18:29

    A view of a reality not permitted in a post-Eden* world.

    Refreshing in a very positive if not idealized character.

    * for the record, not suggesting a certain Garden was anywhere as perfect as the endless procession of preachers and other spiritual hustlers make it out to be. (Just ask Adam’s first wife.)

    …. damn, is this thing still on?

    Like

  7. Asha Seth's avatar Asha Seth Aug 6, 2023 / 20:21

    Happy to meet you, Keith. Loved the story. Much to ponder.

    Like

  8. Lisa or Li's avatar msjadeli Aug 6, 2023 / 22:32

    ❤ ❤ ❤ Lovely story and so well told. Olive Grove rests easy in my mind.

    Liked by 1 person

  9. Liz H-H's avatar Liz H-H Aug 11, 2023 / 15:46

    Living small often leads to great things. Such a sweet and clever story about the best things in life!

    Like

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