My Cottage Renovation...A Farmhouse Facelift

Time for an update on our ambitious plan for renovating our farmhouse. Its been a while since I have kept you in the loop on our progress. We have made a lot of changes that don't show and are kind of boring, so I am showing what I know looks the most interesting for all you fellow home renovators out there! It won't be long and things will get more interesting as we move to the inside of the house and get to building the additions.

If you'll remember this is what we started with...

BEFORE

New windows were installed

New siding was applied to the front of the house.

A big improvement for sure!

Other things that we have accomplished since my last posting...

1. Chimney removal...(a big big mess! )
2. New heat pump and ducting was installed.
3. Foundation work, (major work) leveling the kitchen end of the house and pouring of new footings.
4. New well is being dug as we speak. We are hoping to hit water soon!
5. Demolishing of the old out buildings making way for the new garage.

Stay tuned for more! Be sure to hit the "My Cottage" button at the top of this blog to follow the progress from the beginning! There is so much more to come, see ya soon!

Multitude Monday

Lately I have been feeling overwhelmed by LIFE...by the constant barrage of "things" to do. I sometimes find myself longing for more calmness and peace in my life, wishing I didn't feel pulled in so many directions.

I long to live a life that is simple and full of joy.

I am a list maker by nature. I have lists for everything I can think of. Kids activities, school schedules, budgets, groceries, and everything in between. List making is my way of freeing my mind. Somehow, when things are written down, then I feel better.

Today I stumbled upon a fellow blog, where I learned of another kind of list.

A list that could truly change my life.

A list to serve as a constant reminder of graces given to me.

A list that could be added to over months and even years.

A list to look back on and see how God has provided time and time again.


After reading about this kind of unique list-making, I knew I needed to try this new habit in my life. Today I am starting my One Thousand Gifts journey. I am excited to see what changes this will bring to my life.

I am inviting you along in my journey as I look at life from a positive perspective. I anticipate that this will effect my heart in ways I never imagined. Each Monday I will be posting here, a list of blessings that I am grateful for, and in doing so I hope it will be an encouragement to you as well. You never know... you just might want to start your own list.

I am thankful for...

#1 A family that blesses my life every day.

#2 Fresh inspiration when I need it most.

#3 My humble home that serves as a refuge in the midst of chaos.

#4 The Bible that is the blueprint for my life.

#5 A husband who loves God.

#6 My precious child, who spontaneously says "I Love You Mommy"!

#7 For the ever changing seasons that keep life interesting.

#8 For an encouraging word from a friend yesterday.

#9 Cool crisp autumn air and changing leaves.

#10 Cozy warm wool socks.

#11 Love that knows no bounds.

#12 Tears that bring healing.

#13 Birthday blessings.

#14 Meaningful conversations that fill my heart with joy.

#15 Coffee time and good chat with a friend.

#16 The song in my heart that seems to bring a melody when I need it most.

#17 Red crisp apples and autumn pears.

#18 Provision at just the right time.

#19 Hope for the future.

#20 Peace that passes all understanding.

A Moment Captured In Time

There we were viewing a beautiful waterfall like I had never seen before.

It was as if time stood still for that moment.

The train had stopped for a short minute so the passengers could take in the fantastic view. We sat on the narrow railroad tracks teetering over the beauty that seemed to take our breath away...we were speechless. Yes, even my four year old twin boys were speechless and still.

A true miracle!

Have you been able to enjoy the beauty of God's creation lately? Look around, breath it in and enjoy! Take in special times, words, and experiences that maybe only last for a second, a minute or even a day. You just might be changed forever!