Coming back from summer holidays with the kids is always a special moment.
It's filled with memories, laughter, salty hair from endless swims, and that wonderful feeling that, for a little while, life slowed down enough for us to truly enjoy it.
If you read my previous post, you may remember that this summer I made a promise to myself: to stop constantly thinking about the next project and spend more time enjoying the house exactly as it is.
To relax.
To slow down.
To appreciate what has already been created.
And honestly, I think I did quite well... at least by my standards!
Because, as you probably know by now, I simply can't stop thinking about the next move. The next improvement. The next little detail that could make this house even more beautiful and welcoming.
That said, I approached things much more calmly this year.
I only booked seven meetings with my wonderful local contractors and craftsmen on the island (which, for me, is real progress!), and instead of rushing into new projects, I spent more time discussing ideas, exploring possibilities, and dreaming about the next steps for what I lovingly call my "paradise house."
As always, I'll be sharing those ideas and plans gradually, and I'd love to hear your thoughts along the way.
But the very first thing I did when I arrived wasn't to make a to-do list or plan the next project.
It was to pause and feel grateful.
I stood quietly and looked at the olive trees.
Year after year, they continue to grow.
Each summer they are a little taller, a little stronger, a little fuller than the year before.
And every time I look at them, I'm reminded of where this journey began.
They remind me that beautiful things take time.
They don't appear overnight.
They grow slowly, patiently, cared for season after season.
Just like this dream.
Just like this house.
And of course, none of this would be possible without the people who have supported this journey from the beginning.
One of those people is my faithful gardener, Mr. Costas.
He has been there through every season, making sure the trees stay healthy, the garden remains alive, and the outdoor spaces continue to flourish.
Thanks to his dedication, the garden becomes greener every year. Little by little, the olive trees create more shade, more beauty, and more life around the house.
We haven't yet reached the lush green oasis I imagine in my mind—but we are getting closer every year.
And that's one of the lessons this house keeps teaching me: dreams don't need to happen all at once.
They grow.
They evolve.
They take shape one season at a time.
So today, I simply want to say thank you.
Thank you, Mr. Costas, for all your hard work, your care, and your commitment to helping this dream grow.
And thank you to everyone who has followed this journey with me, shared advice, encouragement, or simply enjoyed reading these stories along the way.
Because a dream house is never just about walls, terraces, or beautiful views.
It's about the people who help bring it to life.
And this summer reminded me of that more than ever.
🌿🏡💙
"Like olive trees, dreams need patience. They grow slowly, season by season, until one day you find yourself sitting in their shade, grateful you never gave up."