Out from Bethel: New Beginnings

By now you are probably aware that I have moved back to MS, and Bethel is "under new management". You can read about the next chapter of my journey at http://outfrombethel.blogspot.com

Life happened, and I failed to update this blog as I should have. Pictures of many improvements were never posted. The following pictures don't do it justice, but I couldn't close out this chapter without posting them. 

I am deeply grateful for all of the assistance I received in this endeavor, and most grateful of all to the God who led and provided every step of the way. I have left this dear little house in the hands of others who will love and appreciate it. May it always be a blessing to all who walk through it's doors. To God be the glory for great things He has done!

"I am the God of Bethel, where you anointed the pillar and where you made a vow to Me. Now arise, get out of this land, and return to the land of your family." Genesis 31:13

Yes, Lord! Your servant is listening! 

Farewell, sweet Bethel! What a blessing you have been in my life!

Snow at Bethel

 

While it has been an exceptionally mild winter here in Michigan, it's still winter in Michigan. How well we have been reminded of that the last few days! Temperatures have hovered just above zero

degrees with wind chills well below zero. Brrr!!! The snow has begun to pile up, making travel a bit treacherous - especially at times when visibility is rather poor. Nonetheless, it IS beautiful. I enjoy simply standing or sitting near my windows with a cup of hot tea watching the snow quietly cover the landscape. It's very peaceful.

 



I am also very grateful for the servant-hearted men at my office. Yesterday when the snowfall was quite heavy several of these guys collected keys from the ladies at closing time. They went out into the frigid blowing snow to warm and brush off all of our cars. This morning a couple of other men plowed and shoveled my driveway so that I could get to work. A neighbor cleared the sidewalk with his snow blower. What a blessing!

As I sit in my snug little house I again marvel at all God has done for me. Life is good. God is good. I am blessed!



Sun Room

The sun room at Bethel is without question my favorite spot in the house. Unfortunately it was in far worse condition than any other room. Originally added as a porch rather than a true room, it had only thin storm windows and a storm door. There was no heat. The roof was rotten, and the ceiling was collapsing. With dark paneling on the walls it was a depressing area except for the wonderful view.

With no air conditioning in the entire house, I spent most of this past summer in this room, even sleeping on the sofa. Squirrels and other critters could be heard crawling around between the roof and the ceiling, not a comforting sound given that the ceiling was falling down in places and "ventilated" with holes in others.

I knew this room seriously needed to be overhauled before Michigan winter set in, but it promised to be a large, pricey project so I prayed. A lot. Every day for weeks. God had promised to provide for Bethel, and He had already provided furniture for my favored retreat. He would doubtlessly take care of this in His own time and way. Most of the work on the house had been accomplished with volunteer labor, but none was forthcoming for this project. Fall's arrival required urgent action, but the situation appeared quite hopeless.

One morning in early October I strongly sensed the Holy Spirit whispering the assurance that help was on the way. Telling nobody about this, I just kept praying. Before the day was over I had a call from a dear friend who revealed her family's desire to come to my aid. I was instructed to get estimates and call her back. I spent several days interviewing contractors, most of whom were ruled out for one reason or another. In the end it came down to two choices, one of whom could begin immediately. With timing a significant factor, I chose that team.

After hearing the figure, my friends pledged a portion of the cost, and other financial gifts began to come in. A deal was made with the contractor, and work began on Monday, October 8, coincidentally what would have been my thirty-sixth wedding anniversary. The pictures which follow give an overview of the project which took more than a month to complete. I believe you will agree that the transformation was nothing short of amazing!

 

The horrid awnings, storm windows, and door are history!

 

 

The rotten soffit and fascia have been replaced, and new lights have been installed.

 

 

Notice the white duct tape used to patch holes in an attempt to keep little rascals from joining me.

 

Recessed cans replaced the dated pendant lighting.

 



 

With extreme gratitude to Him who has done exceedingly abundantly above all that I could have ever imagined (and warmest thanks to those who gave generously in obedience to Him)!



Back to Blogging

Having been reprimanded for neglecting this blog, please allow me to explain. Following my last post in October I began an extremely intense season of major remodeling projects. That would have logically been a crucial time for blogging because of the enormous changes in my little house. Except for one thing - I scarcely had time to sleep. I DID shoot lots of photos, however, so as time allows I will bring you up to date.

The other reason I've been AWOL for this long is because I went back to MS for six weeks. I apologize for not letting you know, but it didn't seem prudent to announce my extended absence online. For the first time in four years I spent the holidays with my family. Fresh out of the Navy, my son Stephen flew to MI to visit with me for a week in November. Then he and I drove to MS to spend Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day with our family.

It was a wonderful trip in every way. I attended various holiday events, and I had the opportunity for long, unhurried chats with many dear friends. Every day was full of new and fun things to do. My daughter and son-in-love, Jamie and Marc, were most gracious to allow Mama to settle into their comfy guest room for a very long time, and I spent a few days in the home of Leigh and Neil as well.

Stephen drove me back to MI after the New Year, then flew back to San Diego on Sunday. Today is the first day in almost eight weeks that I haven't had at least one of my children around. It is also my first day back at work. As soon as I catch my breath a bit I will be posting lots of pictures, so stay tuned! :)

House Under Destruction

God has done it again!!! Regular readers of this blog are aware that I have been praying about some major needs at Bethel. With winter approaching, the sunroom/den roof and ceiling were urgent needs. The ceiling was literally falling down, and the roof over that room was in very poor condition. Neither was likely to hold up through another long Michigan winter. There was also no insulation in this room where I spend most of my time, and the windows were not at all suitable for this climate.

While praying about this on Friday morning, Sept. 28, I strongly sensed God's assurance that He was going to meet this need. Though I couldn't imagine the resources and labor becoming available in the few short weeks before snow starts falling, I took Him at His word. After all, He is Jehovah Jireh, my Provider!

Within a few hours I received a call from a dear friend who informed me that her family would like to help meet this need. She instructed me to get some estimates and get back to her. I asked for recommendations from friends, and spent the next week getting estimates from a number of contractors. The figures left me reeling, especially since every single builder told me that the roof on the entire house needed to be replaced.

Timing was a major factor in this project as winter comes early in Michigan. Temps have already dropped below freezing, and snow will be falling in a few short weeks. Providentially, one highly-recommended contractor had a free week before his next project. He could begin right away! As other friends have learned of this massive undertaking, other promises of funds have been coming in, as well.

Over the weekend I emptied the sunroom of most of its contents, and the workers moved the heavier furniture this morning. When I left for work today the ceiling was coming down and electrical work was being done. My whole house is a mess, but by the end of the week it will be a much nicer, more comfortable home. The old roof should come off tomorrow, and the new one should be installed on Wednesday. New windows, insulation, and drywall are also anticipated this week.

If you ever doubt God's faithful provision, come take a look at my little house. It is wondrous proof that He is able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all that we could ever imagine!

Stay tuned for pictures!

And There Was...

LIGHT!!! Yes, indeed! Thanks to several very helpful guys there is now functional lighting in my kitchen and dining room. Running water and lights sure do make a difference. Cooking and washing dishes have never been more fun.

Lauren, my new housemate, has gradually been moving her things into Bethel. It is fun to watch her space come together as she adds her youthful touches to our home. Next week her address change becomes official. I'm looking forward to having her with me. Perhaps you will get to meet her soon.

Last weekend some of my neighbors sponsored a block party. The weather was perfect, the food delicious, and the company most pleasant. I enjoyed chatting with people I already knew as well as getting acquainted with those I had not previously met. Once again I gave thanks to God for planting me in such a special neighborhood.

Slowly, but surely my life at Bethel is coming together. It's a quite different place from what it was even six weeks ago. I'm currently praying for new windows and insulation as winter approaches. Kitchen cabinets are also a major need that hopefully will be supplied in the near future.

Thanks for hanging in there with me! I'll try to post more pictures before too long. :)

Moving Right Along!

Yes, I know I'm behind in my updates. Sorry about that! The last few weeks have been extremely busy at Bethel. Busy, exhausting, and productive! God sent Kirk, a wonderful handyman who has been coming often to deal with a multitude of projects large and small.

Though electrical, drywall, and painting remain unfinished, the main bathroom is blessedly functional at last. I have moved into my own bedroom where it's a joy to wake with the sun filtering through delicately embroidered sheer curtains against soothing sage walls.

The front door facelift is nearly complete. I painted it a medium sage green. Kirk installed brushed nickel hinges and a new lockset. The nickel door knocker and peephole are works in progress. A full-view storm door, new threshhold, and fresh weather stripping are welcome improvements. The other exterior doors are undergoing minor, but less extensive changes, as well.

A temporary kitchen sink now provides long-awaited running water. I'm told that more permanent developments may soon be forthcoming. Yay! Meanwhile, I am painting the cabinets that were so graciously donated to Bethel, and choosing countertops and hardware. I am also painting interior doors and trim in anticipation of new brushed nickel doorknobs.

While several large projects and many smaller ones remain, much progress has been made in the month of August. Several of my wonderful neighbors have also involved themselves in the work at hand. Just as He promised, my Jehovah Jireh is providing all that is needed, and He's even throwing in some lovely surprises along the way. :)

Changes

After a much-needed break at Bethel, things are happening again! Last week I was blessed to have central heat and air conditioning installed. Interestingly enough, the timing coincided with cool, rainy weather so I haven't even used the AC yet, but it's exciting to know that it's there when I need it.

It's also wonderful to be sleeping in a real bed again! Until now I've slept wherever it was coolest (or least hot). In June I slept in the basement. July found me sleeping on a narrow sofa in the sun room. Now I am thrilled to be sleeping on a comfy bed in a real bedroom, but one move yet remains. My final destination across the hall is dependent upon the exchanging of mattresses between the two rooms as my back seems to prefer the guest room bed.

With frequent showers and cooler temperatures the grass has begun to grow again, and some of my roses are in bloom. I find great joy in cutting those beautiful flowers to enjoy in the house. Just looking out the window at healthy green grass is much more refreshing than viewing dead, brown stubble.

I'm also happy to report that I have begun to cook a little - something I haven't done in a very long time. Nothing earth-shaking, but it's a start. In the last few weeks I have baked brownies and chocolate chip cookies, and I have cooked several meals for myself. Cooler weather, a shiny new stove, and a hearty appetite have provided new motivation for this retired cook.

While all of these are welcome changes, the most exciting development of the last few weeks is that I am getting a new housemate! God has sent a delightful young woman (from Mississippi, no less) to share my home. I'll be revealing more about that soon, but for now I simply ask for your prayers as we attempt to get Bethel ready for a second occupant. I'm really looking forward to having her with me.

The most urgent project at the moment is the completion of my primary bathroom. My roomie will be taking the back bedroom and half bath while I move into the front bedroom and hall bathroom. The main bathroom does not at this moment have either a toilet or lavatory, and there are other incomplete necessities in that room as well. Minor drywall and electrical work remain unfinished, and there is painting yet to be done. Please pray for the completion of these projects in a timely manner.

So, yes, there are many positive changes in the works at Bethel. Just as my grass and roses have responded to long-awaited rain, and my body is being restored by cooler temperatures and better sleeping conditions, my spirit is also being encouraged and refreshed as I witness the unfolding of God's amazing plan for my life and my home. He continues to bless in unforeseen ways and to fulfill every promise He has made. And I think that is just downright awesome! :)

Just for Fun

Just a few fun shots taken before I moved into Bethel. :)

List of tasks, and appreciation for my wonderful workers!

To God be the glory! Great things He has done!

 

Chipmunk near dryer vent.

 

Antique crates and baskets found in the basement.

Ugly mailbox and newspaper draperies.

Serenity

It is not uncommon for people to comment on the peace and depth of faith that are so much a part of who I am. I can take no credit whatsoever for either, for both are unmistakably gifts from God. The strength others observe is not my own. It is God's strength that flows through a life surrendered to Him.

I have known God most of my life, and I have walked closely with Him for a long time. The death of my son followed by the death of my husband only served to draw me nearer to Him. I am comforted by His sovereignty, and I find deep peace in His will even when it collides with my own.

Throughout the years of grief and pain He gave me grace to trust in His great faithfulness, but there were moments when I felt the pain was more than I could bear. One night a few months after my sweet Jimmy died, I learned that someone I loved dearly and depended upon greatly had made a decision that would rock my world. The news came to me on an evening when I was physically and emotionally depleted, and I did not handle it well.

Sobbing and wrestling with God for many hours, I found myself at the very lowest point of my life. "How much more will You take from me?" I asked Him. The answer came swiftly, clearly, and almost audibly: "Everything!" the Holy Spirit said to me.

Though I had walked in surrender to the God I love for so long, that night I realized that there were still people and things I was holding onto, and that night I began the process of releasing each one totally to Him. My family, my home, my pets - He wanted them all.

Within months my home and pets were gone for good, but my heart was at peace. I found myself living far away from my children in an unfamiliar world where I had no option but to depend upon God for every single thing. He proved to me again and again that He, Himself, is enough. Not what He gives me. Not what He does. He alone is my life, my peace, my everything.

I love my children with all my heart. I enjoy my home. My work is fulfilling, and my life is richer for the many friends and loving family He has given. But make no mistake. While all of these are wonderful blessings, I do not truly possess them. If He chose to take them all away my heart would go on because He will never leave me nor forsake me.

He is my constant. Relationships change. Disappointments come. Difficulties arise. There are delays as I wait for work on my house to be completed. Uncertainty is a fact of life. Control is an illusion. But God is real. He is present. He is in control, and He never makes mistakes. I can be sure that everything He allows to come into my life is there for my good and His glory. He is good when He gives. He is good when He takes away. His will is mine. He is trustworthy. He is my Husband, my Provider, my Friend. He is my life.

Being Neighborly

Sometimes I feel as though I have landed in the midst of Jan Karon's "Mitford". My new neighbors have taken me into their lives so quickly that it is difficult to remember I have only known them a few months. They are warm and gracious with ready laughter and eagerness to help.

Dusty and Bob were the first to welcome me to the neighborhood. I couldn't have asked for better next door neighbors. They offered to let me share their trash receptacle since neither of us has much trash. This has been a real blessing given my limited budget. Bob took me cruising in his bright red 1966 Thunderbird, windows down, and Neil Diamond playing loudly. It was quite a trip! :) Dusty brought me delicious strawberry jam and invited me to dinner. She and I walk together, sharing our daily lives.

Luis enjoys the advantage of a gate connecting our back yards as he often comes over to work on my electrical issues. He calls to make sure I'm ok, and makes himself available to help out in any way he can. As a brother in Christ, he has a wonderful servant's heart and a sweet spirit that make him a dear friend. We often chat about the Lord and the ways He has worked in our lives.

Claire lives around the corner, but she comes by with her gorgeous Australian Shepherd, Sydney, when they go out for their morning walks. He loves to chase the squirrels in my back yard which is a veritable wildlife refuge. Hearing him early yesterday morning, I sat up from my sunroom sofa bed where I was still snoozing. I adore this beautiful canine, and enjoy watching him play. Soon Claire appeared, leash in hand, apologizing for the intrusion. Finding the whole scenario delightful, I was soon participating through the window in a lively conversation with Claire as well as Bev and Ann who joined us at the fence a few feet from my window.

I could go on about the other wonderful people on my street, but I'll save those stories for another day. Suffice it to say that I am very grateful for the lovable neighbors who make life at Bethel meaningful and fun. Here I am content. Here I am blessed!

Three Months and Counting

Bethel has been in my possession for three months today. It's unbelievable how this little house has changed in such a short time. Two months ago, the drywall work and priming hadn't even been done. The painting and floor installation began seven weeks ago, and I moved in shortly thereafter. Ceiling fans were also hung that week.

I've been living in the house for almost seven weeks, but it seems much longer. In every way it feels like home. Most of the furniture is now in place, and though there are still many inconveniences I am quite comfortable. Until this house became a reality I did not realize how much my heart needed a home.

Friends frequently ask about progress on the house. Most are pleasantly surprised at the appearance within. With my things in place, walls painted, and beautiful flooring, it's not so hard to overlook the absence of a kitchen and bathroom. There is still quite a lot of work to be done, but I know that God will provide in His own time and way.

I continue to pray for central heat and air conditioning, for the sunroom to be remodeled before winter so that I can continue using it, and for lighting in the kitchen. There are also a number of smaller tasks with which I need help. Simple things such as hanging blinds and curtains, moving  things around, and hanging my new mailbox. I would like to paint the front door, but I haven't figured out how to remove the old lock.

All will be accomplished eventually. When I feel like it's taking forever I just look back and remember how far I've come in a matter of weeks. Jehovah Jireh continues to provide, encourage, and bless more abundantly than I could ever have imagined. His ways always surprise me. I look forward to watching the rest of the story unfold.

Call Me Cool!

Independence Day here was extremely hot, but quite enjoyable! Attending two separate outings with good friends, I ate my quota of fried chicken, watermelon, and homemade ice cream. Yum!

I thought I left hot summers behind when I moved to Michigan. This summer has proved me wrong. It has been unseasonably hot here for days. When actual temps reach 104 degrees, and the heat index hits 114, something's just not right. Especially when you have no air conditioning.

Up until the last few weeks, living without AC hasn't been too bad. I slept in the basement where the air was considerably cooler. Then an unrelenting heat wave hit, and I began to feel a little desperate. Following several sleepless nights I knew something had to change. By Thursday morning I was pleading with God for air conditioning. He answered within the hour!

At one of the July 4th gatherings, my friends Frank and Margie learned of my plight. Their daughter reminded them of a small window unit they had in storage, and they gave me a call. By Thursday afternoon these sweet friends had delivered and installed that blessed piece of equipment in one of my sunroom windows, the only place in the house it would fit properly.

Only three days prior to that, after learning that the long-awaited ceramic tile would not be laid in the sunroom as anticipated, Dan and Noah had moved a sofa and other furnishings into that room for me. Until that point I had been spending a lot of time in the garage because that's where the sofa was being stored.

I decided that a raw concrete floor and the pathetic condition of the sunroom (see exterior picture at right) shouldn't prevent me from enjoying that room with a wonderful view, so I began hanging out in there. Now with air conditioning my little garden room has become a cozy sitting area where I spend most of my time. I've even been sleeping in there since it's the only cool spot in the house.

Living in one room with three walls of windows has its challenges, but I am quite comfortable there.  With a bit more tweaking it will become a cute little sanctuary for me. Stay tuned for pictures, and stay cool, everybody!  :)

Of Water Heaters and Chipmunks

On Sunday morning the hot water in my shower was minimal, but adequate. On Monday it was non-existent. Nada. Thus began a daily trek to my friend's house for a morning shower. Inconvenient, but not a big deal.

On Tuesday morning I was awakened at first light by very loud sounds of gravel hitting metal. I assumed it was one of my plethora of chipmunks digging a hole near the dryer vent. The noise continued, so I eventually gave up on sleep and tried to find the little booger. He was not to be found, but the noise continued.

Occasionally I turned on the dryer, attempting to discern if he was in the dryer ductwork. Since nothing happened, I decided there was no cause for alarm. Still the noise continued. For two days. Because I have no air conditioning, I sleep in the basement near the dryer. I wasn't getting much sleep.

On Wednesday morning Henry arrived to install a new water heater. Hallelujah! Hot water is a wonderful thing! While he was there Henry spent an extra few minutes pulling out the dryer. When he disconnected the ductwork some gravel fell out, but nothing else happened. What a relief! There was no chipmunk in there!

Then he turned the dryer on. Suddenly a chipmunk blew out of the back of the dryer, scrambling across the floor. I jumped into a nearby folding chair that almost folded. Henry was gracious enough not to laugh. The little varmint met his demise at the end of Henry's shoe. Henry was also kind enough to clean up his remains.

"I put him in a Wal Mart bag for you," said my hero. "Where do you want me to put it?"

I laughed.

"In the back of my truck?" he asked.

Chivalry is not dead. However, I heard from a reliable source that Henry shared this story with a few friends. He laughed. ;-)

My Office

Living Room Pictures