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.
Hurray for Olive! A delightful tale and neat graphics.
Even her names were filled with love! Thanks so much, Christine.
An impactful story Keith. Contentment with her gifts made Olive special. A wonderful message Keith.
Thanks so much, Suzette.
Beautiful story
I’m pleased you liked it Beth, thank you.
Olive would have been a joy to know.
Olive by name. love by nature!
A heartwarming story Keith.
Thank you, Sadje.
You’re most welcome
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!
Without the I there’s only Love.
You are worried? How do you think I feel? !!
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.
I couldn’t have wished for a nicer reaction, Nancy, thank you so much.
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.
I’m pleased it came across that way, Jenne. The story appeared the moment I saw the picture.
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?
This is quite lovely Keith.
Happy to meet you, Keith. Loved the story. Much to ponder.
<3 <3 <3 Lovely story and so well told. Olive Grove rests easy in my mind.
Thanks so much, Lisa.
You’re welcome, Keith.
Some people are possessed of that rare gift, the gift of spreading sunshine wherever they go.
Indeed they have. If only…
Living small often leads to great things. Such a sweet and clever story about the best things in life!