Friday, December 13, 2013

Olive Tree Chivalry and Other Acts of Kindness



On my daily afternoon walks, I pass a kaleidoscope of orchards, vineyards and olive groves, where fragrant fruit trees and knotty grapevines are meticulously pruned and impeccably tailored, in anticipation of the next spring bloom and autumn harvest.

 

Smiling, I greet the olive trees that stand in perfect alignment, forming an umbrella of an arbour that beckons a romantic stroll. They stand tall and still, as if on guard, until I pass by.  Knowing my schedule, (and just seconds prior to our paths crossing), they seem to uproot themselves on cue,  to confirm that the road ahead is safe, and then, just in the nick of  time, they jump back into place, pretending to be lazily basking in the warm rays of the afternoon sun. Later, on my way back, their heads bowed, upper trunks slightly bent over, they 'take off their hats', as they bid me adieu, having completed their act of chivalry for the day.


Almost immediately, the mountains come into view, and even though they are across the valley, their peaks pierce the skies above and the thick vegetation below, specifically to keep an eye on me, until I reach the neighbouring village, my designated destination.


Once there, I stop for a moment to rest, before making my way back home. Catching my breath, I find myself, time and time again, wondering who might have occupied the now abandoned stone house, on the hill across the road. It hovers above me, like a trainer tracking my progress, as I catch my breath, then quench my thirst, and having just struggled with the steepness of the incline, I imagine a proud pat on the back.  Just when I start to get comfortable on the weather worn, wooden bench, I hear the screeching of a silent whistle, warning me that I'd better get a move on, so as not to lose my momentum.


For a few minutes, the trek is downhill, and I am grateful for the spectacular, unobstructed views of the coastline. The calmness of the sea, in contrast with the rugged, rocky terrain in the distance, rejuvenates me. Suddenly, a strong gust bends branches and the congregation of leaves waver in the wind, many ready to fall, in compliance with the season.  I marvel at this multitude of plant life, closely nestled together, like rowdy kindergarteners posing for their first class photo, dressed in casual attire boasting favourite animated heroes, which they try to emulate, as they smile playful, toothy grins for the camera.


Midway between the two villages, a powdery half moon quietly appears on the scene. Still sleepy, it hides behind the opaque shade of a blue blanketed sky, gathering strength for the midnight shift - a permanent position.

 


Around the bend, an unveiled, bare grapevine takes centre stage, and like a prima ballerina, it strikes a pivoted pose, proudly showing off its scrawny frame, evidence of persistence and hard work during the season. Yes! I definitely see a semblance of dancing swans, frozen in its stillness.


 As I take the turning into my own neck of the woods, a flirty drizzle catches my attention, and I imagine the collection of critters that must seek refuge from heavy rains under the canopy of the leafy trees, that borders the gardens of the last little church in my vicinity.


 And I am home.

Today, marks the anniversary of my 1ooth post, and I want to tell you all how much I appreciate your kindness and your presence, here at Poppy View! For me, the adventure of blogging, much like my afternoon walks, has allowed me to breathe the fresh air of new ideas, great inspiration, and most importantly, form friendships with so many sweet and talented women, who have accompanied me on this sensational path to daily self-discovery.

Thank you!


xo
~Poppy~

Our Tis the Season Blog Tour is still on,
so, don't forget to visit everyone else!

Monday December 9, 2013
Jemma of At Home With Jemma   

 
Tuesday December 10th, 2013  
  Wednesday December 11, 2013
Sherry, Jess, and Nel of Red Rose Alley
Patty of Home and Lifestyle Design

 

Thursday December 12, 2013
Melanie of Comfy House
Brenda of Cozy Little House


Friday December 13, 2013
Melinda of The Refeathered Roost
 
Saturday December 14, 1013
Kathryn of The Dedicated House
Dewena of Across the Way

52 comments:

  1. Poppy, you never know who you'll reach or touch with a blog post, and yes the friends are so special, but I too find the best thing about it is the self discovery and the challenge to be true to ones self.

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  2. My dearest Poppy,

    Congratulations on your 100th post! I am extremely proud of you. You have come so far. I am always amazed at how new inspiration is born within you and your wheels of creativity are set in motion. What you produce is always so heart-warming and makes me smile every single time. This post is no exception and I, being obsessed with Victorian England and the chivalry of the men in that era, enjoyed this story immensely. The analogy of the olive trees to courteous and gallant men tipping their hats was delightful! Your writing always has a way of immersing me in a story that I feel I am part of and experience along with you and when it's over, it's as if someone snaps their fingers and I come out of a captivating daze!
    I love you very much and I miss you.
    Love,
    Liberty

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  3. I loved going on your beautiful walk with you along the road and through the olive grove. Your descriptions of things along the way opened my eyes to new beauties. Thank you, Poppy. And congratulations on your 100th post! Have a blessed weekend.

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  4. 100 posts? But you sound as if you have been writing for years!AriadnefromGreece!

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  5. Ζήλεψα αυτή την καθημερινή σου βόλτα !!!!!!!!
    Είμαστε πολύ χαρούμενοι που είσαι ανάμεσά μας.
    Πάντα να μας κάνεις να χαμογελάμε !!!!!!!!!
    Μια μεγάλη αγκαλιά !

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  6. Poppy, congratulations on your milestone post! Your blog is a joy to read! You shared a beautiful walk with us today!

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  7. "like rowdy kindergarteners posing for their first class photo!" oh poppy.
    i walked right along with you. and i saw things i've never seen before. i should have known that trees also talk to you the way they do to me! they talk with no words. the best kind of talk.
    i loved this post. and to be so blessed to live with that kind of everyday beauty at your fingertips . . . or at your toes as it were! lucky poppy.
    happy 100th post !!!! isn't blogland the best? i have a new friend in greece you know!

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  8. Happy 100th post, Poppy! Your poetry always inspires me to observe nature around me more closely, to try to see it even a little bit as Poppy would, even though my walks are through a Tennessee valley and not through old olive groves, mountains in a distant, with a glimpse of the sea .Sigh!

    And like Tammy above I am charmed by your rowdy kindergarteners and your congregations of leaves. They come to life before my very eyes as I visit Poppy View.

    Lastly, oh the reward for your creative work, it must be, to read the thoughtful and loving comment from your daughter! That would surely rank as the best comment ever!

    Love to you,
    Dewena

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  9. Oh Poppy,
    I am so touched by not only your creative and inspirational writing but by the tender and uplifting words of your daughter. I know that this has warmed the depths of your soul and lightened your heart and day with unspeakable gratitude and elation. Our children are indeed the inner source of so much of our happiness and peace of mind.
    Wishing you a lovely weekend with the warmest of thoughts coming to you across the way...
    xoxox-
    Jemma

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  10. Your pictures are wonderful and your writing is terrific. I feel that I'm along with you on your walk. Thanks so much.

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  11. I love that you always have something new to share with us on your daily walks. And it is always beautiful!

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  12. Congrats on your 100th post Poppy! You have such a unique writing style and beautiful images to share. Always enjoy visiting!

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  13. YAY!!! 100 posts.....
    Your poetic words are as beautiful as your photography....I really enjoy your blog..
    Love, Mona

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  14. Of course the trees can talk and you are Elven enough for them to take you under their care. They can see underneath your bark/skin and know you are a kindred spirit! Congratulations of 100 pieces of sharing.

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  15. Perfect prose from my playmate Poppy.

    I am in love with that stone fence.

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  16. Well done on reaching your 100th post Poppy! I really enjoy your pretty words and photos, so I am very happy to have found your blog. Enjoy your weekend!

    Louisa x

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  17. Happy 100th, my friend!! How time flies :) And those beautiful ancient olive trees....perfect for this milestone post. Here's to the next 100! Cheers, L

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  18. Congrats on your: 100th post... And, also smiling, "I'll send greetings ..." to these perfect olive trees, beautiful and outstanding trees of yours shown above!! Thanks for sharing with us!

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  19. Well done on achieving your 100th post milestone. Alsol, thank you for allowing me to join you on your afternoon walk. I must head out for a walk tomorrow. It's evening now and the outdoor Christmas lights on many homes are adding a bit of brightness as the snow falls.

    Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

    -Karen

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  20. Happy 100th Post, Poppy! Thanks for taking us with you on your walk today...I can't get over how beautiful it is, and that this is your "everyday" scenery! As always, your words made me see things differently than I might have on my own. Loved this post! A perfect 100!

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  21. Poppy, One hundred posts Is a marvelous milestone to reach. Your posts are beautiful, they keep drawing me back over and over again. Your pictures are delight to the eyes, and your words are poetry to read. Thank you for reaching out and touching so many other lives. I find myself referring to you and so many other wonderful ladies from the blogging world as my friends, my friend in Greece, or my friend in Portugal, or my friends in England, France, and all over the world. This is a special medium for so many special people to convey their thoughts, ideas, and indeed share their lives. Thank you for being a wonderful part of this world and thank you for sharing with us.

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  22. Poppy, You live in such a beautiful place and I always enjoy seeing the pretty landscape. Congrats on your 100th post and Happy Holidays to you and your family.
    xx,
    Sherry

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  23. Poppy, I have enjoyed your writing and post. Congrats on your 100th post, I am looking forward to many more. I love all the photos of the orchards and the mountains views. What a pretty place for a walk. Have a happy week ahead!

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  24. Poppy, what a wonderful post for #100. Lovely scenery with just the right words. I love olive trees and orchards and think trees have so much to teach us. Beautiful place to walk and get close to Mother Nature. Have a lovely week.

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  25. Congratulations on your 100th post. This one is a beautiful tribute, lovely. Take care and have a wonderful week. Jen

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  26. What a lovely post that was. I always enjoy a walk, especially one in as pretty a location. Congratulations on your 100th post. I agree with you that blogging is a great adventure!

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  27. Gorgeous views. What a lovely place to call home. Congratulations on your 100th post. Valerie

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  28. Such a lovely post, Poppy, thanks for taking us along. How refreshing it must be for you as well as the good exercise!

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  29. Congratulations Poppy...100 posts is grand! It shall go very quickly now to your 1000 th ;) Such talent, such a beautiful place to walk, to share, to photograph and write about...always so imppressed I am by the way you expose what you see in such a beautiful way. The Olive trees are so pretty all lined up...I adore Olives and Olive Oil...so good for you too. Happy week Poppy!~

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  30. What a very lovely meditation -- I love sharing your thoughts as I walk with you through your beautiful countryside (it really does feel as if I had been along for the walk). Your post gives my spirit all the benefits of a good walk (but I guess I better tie my shoes and get out there myself for the physical!)

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  31. Beautifully written, Poppy, like poetry :)

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  32. I love this romantic view in words and pictures of your walk. And such glorious words and pictures they are! So uplifting. What history these old olive trees must have seen, and how many people must have walked beneath their branches. A beautiful post. thank you. Have a wonderful week. I am joining you through Mosaic Monday.

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  33. I enjoyed the walk with you Poppy and send congratulations on your 100th post. Blogging certainly does bring people together.
    Judith

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  34. Congrats on your 100 posts! You have such a beautiful blog and you are always so sweet to visit and leave nice comments. It's been a joy to get to know you.....and to take this walk with you today! Sweet hugs!

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  35. I loved the photo of the very healthy pretty palm. I wish my palm trees grew that full and pretty.

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  36. Poppy, you have such a gift for looking at the world with uniquely creative eyes and a whimsical sense of humor.

    I had no idea you've only been blogging for such a short time. You've made such fabulous progress and you've touched so many lives with your poetic prose and gorgeous pictures.

    Congratulations!

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  37. oh my goodness what a spectacular place to walk!!

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  38. What a wonderful post. When I was in London on a walk one day through the parks a man told me that there is energy in the trees. So as I wore myself out walking I gave a tree a bit of a hug just to see if indeed there was some energy as I needed it for the trek back to the hotel. Happy 100th
    Hugs
    Becky

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  39. A beautiful place to stop and enjoy your walk! The lovely scenery of Greece is visible for us from your gorgeous photos. The views of the mountains and the sea is beautiful but the lonely cottage does make you wonder what stories it could tell. Thanks for sharing your walk!

    Pam

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  40. Poppy
    You always make your beautiful surroundings come to life with your descriptive words!
    Someday you will have to share with us how you made it from cold Toronto to the warm and gorgeous country of Greece.

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  41. Congratulations on #100! Your afternoon walk looks lovely- especially since I couldn't bear to force myself from my warm home to the cold Ohio snow today. The coastline view made me long for spring.

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  42. Hey that's wonderful Poppy! Congratulations. :) It seems to me like I've been reading your posts for so long that it's more like 500th lol. Lovely story and just the warmth I needed for here in dreary wet England. :) (PS. I talk to trees all the time)

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  43. Poppy, you are living a life so many dream about. How wonderful you write these posts giving us a glimpse of every-day life ( a walk to a neighboring village ! ) in Greece.

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  44. Poppy, what a beautiful view. Congrats on your milestone.

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  45. Poppy, what a poetic, beautiful post... in images and words! You must love your walks! Congrats on 100 posts! Much like an afternoon walk, blogging is certainly exhilarating!

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  46. I love strolling along with you on your walks, always so pretty and your descriptions are magical. Thanks tons for linking to Inspire Me. Hugs, Marty

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  47. Oh boy, I get to be number 50 to congratulate you on 100 posts!

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  48. Ever the poet, you certainly know how to capture one's interest as you take your little strolls around the countryside. I love the path through the olive trees. Looks like a place where one could stop and dream for a while. I have always allowed nature to take me where I've never gone before. Thanks for taking me along with you, Poppy. Congratulations on 100 posts and we're all so happy you stepped out to blog. Wishing you a lovely holiday and thank you for sharing at my HOME.

    Christmas blessings,
    Sandi

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  49. Congratulations on a beautifully written and photographed 100th post. Your heart may be in Canada but you it's lovely to walk along with you and admire the wonderful scenery in Crete.

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Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment. I really appreciate hearing from all of you! Have a great day!