We have an unwritten rule in our household regarding renovations: no matter how long it takes, we WILL finish what we set out to accomplish. The operative words are “no matter how long it takes.”
When I was expecting Lil Sweet Pea, we moved a house onto our property that needed some renovating. We ripped out the indoor/outdoor carpet that was in the kitchen and dining room (yes, you read that correctly... I was so thankful Hubby was insistent that it got replaced). As some renovations seem to evolve, this became more of an undertaking than we realized; the carpet was glued to vinyl tiles that were glued to the subfloor. We ended up having to put in a new subfloor because it was impossible to get the floor level after removing the layers. We had exposed subfloor for 18 months until we were able to install beautiful birch hardwood. Lil Sweet Pea grew up learning to crawl on subfloor. It wasn’t ideal but I was so thankful we had waited to find what we wanted and could buy it with cash.
Presently, we are in another renovation project. I hate to admit that we began renovating our master bathroom ensuite during Christmas holidays of 2017; I am certain it was a powder room squeezed into a former closet. Although Hubby doesn’t like renos, we both realize the importance of upkeep and improvements to add value to our home. I offered to do most of the demolition (which I thoroughly enjoy) and Hubby was more than happy he didn’t have to do it. Changes were made to the floor plan (with an added bathtub instead of a shower we had previously agreed upon) and again, I offered to build the wall and put up drywall (with his oversight).
I have helped my dad and Hubby with numerous renovations over the years, so I was pretty sure I could attempt the project. With some help, I was able to build a wall, insulate, apply the vapor barrier and hang drywall. This project has been satisfying for me; becoming a treasure hunt to find the best bang for our buck. It began with finding three boxes of new vinyl plank flooring for sale on a local social media auction site. To date, we’ve bought most of our supplies at reduced rates as I’ve kept my eyes open for bargains.
Thankfully, the end is in sight. Hubby hung a new light a couple nights ago. We have trim, a new countertop and sink to install and then I think we can call it FINISHED! It has all been worth the wait!
I can’t help but think of how God desires to renovate our hearts, bringing forth beauty deep within, no matter how long it will take, He promises that “the good work He has begun in us, He will complete.” We are not meant to walk through life burdened and bound up. Jesus has come to give us life and life more abundantly. He will give you beauty for ashes, oil of joy for mourning, and a garment of praise for a spirit of heaviness. He is your deliverer! He is your healer! He is your redeemer; redeeming your life from the pit! He is your saviour! He is your guide. He is wisdom. He is peace. Allow Him to do the necessary demolition of the old ways, the old hurts and the past. “See I am doing a new thing!”
God is calling us all to have clean hands and a pure heart. Allow Him to begin renovations on your heart today.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
