Hello Again: Shed Project

Unfortunately this poor blog has not been at the top of my priority list. I thought it might be time to carve out some time to post again.

Our hands have been full with transforming and finishing off part of this old pole building. We do not have a basement, therefore we decided that an above-ground basement would have to do. Our vision with fixing up this building includes having a nice area to host large groups, along with a place for our kids to burn off some energy. Never would I have ever guessed that this eye sore could amount to anything, but it has made quite an improvement.

Initially, we were just planning to paint the exterior, but as most projects go (at least for us), the budget gets doubled or tripled and we ended up having a crew re-side it completely. 

BEFORE

AFTER

As far as the interior, this is what we started with. Previous owners of the property housed animals in this part of the building. It had become a bit of a catch-all for us and did not serve much of a purpose.

When Nate started banging around and hammering in 2x4s, part of me secretly thought that he was a bit crazy. He is the dreamer to my practical side.

We had lots of family help and hired electrical, drywall, and carpet-laying out to the professionals.

The concrete being poured was definitely a family affair. My dad, uncle, a brother, and nephews all pitched in to help us out.

I love this picture that my mom took of Bennett watching his daddy!!

Drywall made quite the transformation. It is beginning to look like a real room!

Old steel coming off...

and new steel going on.

Nate did an awesome job at putting the fireplace together. It truly is the focal point when you walk in.

We may put a kitchenette in this space at a later time.

Nate laid this waterproof laminate down before the carpet was installed.

We had a local company install the carpet, and what a difference it makes. It really changes the whole space and makes it feel soft and cozy.

I tackled the painting, and let us just say, I still have a ways to go, but the first coat is complete. My parents came and helped me because I was feeling a bit overwhelmed. I was on a bit of a time crunch with carpet coming. I will just have to be extra careful when I do the second coat.

It has been a blessing to venture out to the shed and have a little bit of quiet time, away from the dirty dishes or boisterous toddlers. I would say that it has been worth every penny thus far.

We have trim and many finishing touches to make, but that won't stop us from hosting. I hope that my family will break it in when we host Mother's Day for my side of the family!

This shed project has been an unexpected blessing for our family. God really does enjoy giving His children good gifts. The favorite gifts that He has granted to me have been those that were completely unexpected. The gifts that I did not even ask (or beg) for. 

I find myself waking up and typically doing the same things over and over. My little people are not always the most appreciative when I serve them, and I can tend to get bored operating under the same mundane routine day after day. Even the little things that God drops in my lap seem to bring me much joy and encourage me to stay faithful and keep the faith.

We serve a creative God and I am thankful for all of the creative souls who have contributed to our project. We hope that we can use the space, not only for our personal use, but also for His glory and praise!

A Glimpse Of Our Summer

We have been having such a good summer. Bennett and Calla still have plenty of needs, but they are figuring out that they do not mind doing a few things on their own too.

We made a visit to the Oubache State park one Sunday evening. The buffalo were grazing and were fun to watch. I believe the words that Bennett used to describe them were huge and ginormous. I'd say those would be fitting.

Bennett talked Daddy into climbing the park tower two times.

Surprise! They ran into cousin Colten, who was at the top of the tower too.

We enjoyed a date night, in Ft. Wayne, celebrating our 7th anniversary. How has it been seven years. I am beyond blessed to do life alongside my amazing husband. Alone time is such a treat (plus the Cold Stone ice cream we got). We both look forward to quality time with one another after the kids are down for the night. I hope I always crave time with my hubby like I do now, even when we are empty nesters.

Our Bennett boy turned 4 at the beginning of May.

He has a broad range of interests. From gardening, to farming, to kittens, to transformers, to playing dolls with his little sister. He asks 100 questions per day and loves to learn about all the things. Life will never be dull with this little guy around. He can be challenging and sweet all in the same hour.

His new planter from grandma was his favorite present.

Memorial Day weekend we headed up to Shipshewana, IN and stayed a night at the Bluegate Garden Inn.

We took an evening walk down the Pumpkinvine Trail.

The kids had a blast exploring the hotel and climbing on the animal statues.

Let's get some energy out before bed!

The pool was a hit too, especially for Bennett. He is becoming much more of a water bug than he ever used to be.

Our golf cart gets daily use. When the kids are going at each other (and are about to drive me crazy), I say "let's go on a golf cart ride and get some fresh air." Calla is quite fond of going on rides, she cannot seem to get enough of it. We drive to grandma's house or the nearby pond and often play in the sand for a while.

Calla turned 2 at the beginning of June. It is hard to believe that she has been in our lives for two years. She has brought so much delight and joy to our family.

She had to taste-test her birthday cupcakes.

The way that this little girl nurtures her baby dolls is a foretaste of her sweet, caring personality.

Here are a few more snapshots from our summer days.

Snacks in the living room with cousins!

Swimming at Aunt Staci's pool.

Swinging with cousin Lacie at the Manz Family get together.

Grandma and Grandpa came to stay for two days. The kids were royally spoiled.

My handsome boys ready for church. I am one blessed wife and momma.

Last, but not least, Bennett watching his daddy and the mixer truck. Daddy and trucks are at the top of his list of favorite things.

Nate has a big project that he has been pouring his energy into lately. We are excited to see the outcome!

I hate to think about the warm days fading away. The coldness will put a screeching halt to our weekly trips to the park and that makes me sad. It will be alright though. The Lord provides, whether it be during the cold, blistery Winter days or in the early mornings where I just do not know if I can muster up the energy to face the day or not. He knows and He cares. The days can get long. My kids are early risers and we spend many many hours together, but I know that I will wish these days back. It might be hard to fathom that I really would, but I know I will.

Blessings!