O is for Olive...

The Good of Charity is signified in all that an olive tree provides. Fruit bears life giving sustenance, oil anoints the sick and wood creates canvases for intricate works of art. The olive is ever giving to mankind.

Olive trees are evergreens that tolerate heat, cold and arid conditions. The root systems are sturdy and span enormous lengths. The trees are tenacious and continue to prosper even when pruned of all branches. They are survivors!

The olive has historical significance within societies. Greek, Roman, Jewish, Christian and Islamic writings reference this holy tree. In the Jewish Tanakh or Old Testament a dove returns to Noah with an olive branch signifying God’s mercy on humanity. This leafy branch is a predominant symbol of peace that spans centuries.

My Friend Olive exemplifies the attributes for the tree she is named. In reality, she was named in honor of her Mother. This is a genealogical fact but the above descriptions of ever giving, surviving and peace making truly describe her.

I can never repay her for all she has done or the kindness she has shown my family.  She is one of a kind.  Thank you Granny Olive!

Thank You... Alphabet Soup

Today's segment is being brought to you by the letter K

That's Karla with a K!

Karla is truly one of our best friends. She is crazy, funny and has a heart as big as TEXAS! She is like Auntie Mame, Miss Texas and the naughty little girl next door all mixed together. She is also the first person on the scene when any of her friends or family needs support. I should say when anyone needs support as her generosity has extended to complete strangers. We have seen each other through the joys of life and held hands through the ugly rough bits.

She stood by my side when I (Brandon) searched and found my Birth Mother many years ago. Yes, I am adopted but that's another story for later. She has also made it possible for us to forge ahead with our own adoptions plans.

On or around my 40th birthday we had a long talk about unfulfilled dreams. All in all, these aspirations had long passed both of us by. Adopting a child was one of my dreams that remained unfulfilled. You see, Jose' and I considered adoption over nine years ago but it was so complicate, for domestic partners, we gave up. She gave me the confidence, resources and contacts to make our dream became a reality. We do not have a baby yet but we would not have gotten this far without Karla's love and support. We can not wait for the day when we can introduce our baby to the person that helped us along our adoption journey. Karla, thanks for the laughs through the years and thanks for always believing in us.

Much Love,
Brandon (and Jose')