Back on August 4, 2024, I wrote about our Cape Jasmine.

We had relocated it to a spot near our main entrance.

Partly because we wanted to enjoy its beautiful white flowers.

But mostly because we loved the sweet vanilla-like fragrance it produces when in bloom.

Since then, we have given it extra care.

We watered it with rice water, the water left over after washing rice.

We pruned it when needed.

And I spent more time than I would like to admit removing stubborn caterpillars that seemed determined to make a meal of it.

Yet despite our efforts, the results were disappointing.

For the past two seasons, the plant produced only a handful of flowers.

Just enough to remind us of its fragrance.

Not enough to fill the entrance with that sweet aroma we remembered.

This rainy season, however, something changed.

The Cape Jasmine returned in full bloom.

Its fragrance now drifts through our entrance and carport.

Every time I walk outside, I notice it.

The sweet aroma we had been hoping for has finally returned.

It made me realize how often we expect results to arrive quickly.

Yet many things seem to work on their own schedule.

Sometimes all we can do is give them the care they need and wait.

The Cape Jasmine certainly took its time.

But standing outside this morning, surrounded by its fragrance, I think it was worth the wait.