Our Olive Tree Journey

On Monday, a sweet gift showed up at our door.

That gift was my daughter, Staci, and bonus son, Larry.

Between warm conversations and a delightful dinner at a beautiful new Japanese restaurant, our hearts and tummies were full.

But this visit had purpose woven all through it — time together, a walk through the Bullock Texas State History Museum (so amazing!), and an intentional drive to Dripping Springs. “What’s in Dripping Springs?” — you might ask!

Let’s find out! Staci has been finishing her new book on healthy and whole living. Along the way, she found herself drawn — almost unexplainably — to the olive tree. Its beauty. Its meaning. Its quiet strength.

So she looked up where olive trees grow best.

The Mediterranean topped the list.

And right beneath it — unknowingly, was Dripping Springs, Texas.

What a great surprise — right here in our backyard — so to speak!

So off we went, winding through those breathtaking Hill Country roads, the landscape stretching wide and welcoming. And there it was — The Texas Hill Country Olive Company — right near home.

We were enamored with the delicate aromas which enticed us to enjoy the food in the bistro — a cafe with farm-to-table dishes, salads, flatbreads and sandwiches.

We had a delicious lunch, infused with olive oils and balsamic vinegars, followed by a guided tasting and tour. But what stayed with me most wasn’t just the flavor…

It was the meaning that proved Staci’s new book is right in when it comes to health and healing.

From the very beginning, the olive tree has symbolized peace and new beginnings. After the flood, a dove returned to Noah with an olive leaf—a quiet whisper that life had begun again. (Genesis 8:11)

The olive tree grows slowly, but it grows strong. Scripture compares it to a righteous life — rooted, flourishing, and fruitful. (Psalm 52:8)

And then there’s the oil.

Used to anoint kings and priests, olive oil represents the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. A gentle reminder that God’s strength doesn’t come from our striving, but from His Spirit working within us.

Even the pressing has meaning.

In Gethsemane — “the olive press” — Jesus was pressed, surrendered, and obedient….so His life could be poured out for us. Oh, what love. Oh, what a Savior. Oh, hallelujah!

What began as a simple drive became a quiet reminder: God plants meaning in our lives long before we recognize it.

And sometimes, the sweetest blessings are found closer than we ever imagined — shared with family, discovered in His creation, and tasted in the goodness of the Lord.

God plants beauty, purpose, and peace in places we least expect sometimes right in our own backyard.