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)!