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!