A Work in Progress

The house continues to be a work in progress, just like this little corner of cyberspace real estate.  I thought I’d take the opportunity to begin to post some new pictures.  We are no longer in construction around here, but I am enjoying the ever continuing opportunity to help things find their home in my home.

The first thing to go. We replaced the water heater within weeks of moving in after it showed itself unworthy!

...Soon to be followed by the furnace. Last inspected (and possibly installed) in 1958, it was time.

It has been a delight to see the living room go from this....

...to this. Note the beautiful french sofa - a gift from a family friend. And a perfect addition to a house of this era. Lovely!

A little artwork on a peaceful day off, and now I have the opportunity to reflect on the fruit of the Spirit with each step.

With a new set of stairs, you can now easily come to visit! The welcome mat is out!

Stay tuned for next week’s post:  A Walk in the Garden

Home Sweet Almost Home

We’re getting there! The wallboard was added, the texture sprayed. Moving day came and went without a final finish on the floor — hence the couch guarding the sink! And finally, with many prayers, and some creative lifting, a home was born. My heart is brimming with gratitude for all the people who have helped make this happen. And the flowers bloomed in the midst of it all!

Glimmers of hope

During this initial phase of demolition, I have been joking with people that a part of me has delighted in tearing something apart. So much of my life is geared towards building things and the ‘long obedience in the same direction’ that is required by building up a life, the church, people, or new traditions. But despite the catharsis that comes from ripping out walls, I’m grateful to finally be turning towards rebuilding. Today brought a first glimmer of what is to come.

The floors are almost done, and it is a delight to see the rich tones of the wood, and even the evidence of 110 years of life lived on their surface. You can see where one wall was torn out by the patterns of the nails. You can see where parts of the wood are more worn than others. And you can see where time has taken a toll. But the warmth and sparkle of this old fir is wonderfully endearing!

And it begins…

The process has begun! I received the keys to my first home on Friday, May 30, and have launched into taking ‘this old house’ and making it mine. We knew looking at it that the living room was going to need a bit of updating. SO, don those overalls, a little haz-mat gear, and grab the nearest flat edged tool!

Before and After:

The walls are made with an insulating paper that covers over wood slats. The paper, after 110 years, was beginning to slide down the walls. Removing the damaged parts was like opening a time capsule. On top of the insulating paper was 3-4 layers of americana wallpaper – gold embossed flowers, and green and brown 1950′s style just to mention two. In addition, there was an attempt to repair the walls with texture and several generations of paint. Quite a treasure chest. I wish I knew the stories that go with each layer.

Other pictures of the work done today, June 6: