Transformations

It has been a slow road, but it's coming along. What was once an ugly eyesore is still an ugly eyesore, but the potential has been unlocked. I am beginning to see what it could be. I can see where Monkey and I will cook dinner and cuddle on the couch. I know it must get uglier before it will get better. It is a small house, but perfect for a Mama and a Monkey to live. I am blessed to have a roof over my head (and one that is all mine), a family who supports us no matter what, and a Monkey who tells me he loves me as he falls asleep each night. I know I have had my share of heartache, but I am grateful for the blessings in my life.

This is the wallpaper I took out of the bathroom. For some reason, I had to keep a piece. I am going to put it in a frame and hang it somewhere where no one will notice. It will serve as a reminder of how far I have come. Sometimes there is beauty in what is old and battered. You just have to look beyond the scars and wrinkles to see it. The bathroom is down to the studs. It is all gone. I love watching it all get put back together, all shiny and new.

Tearing out these old walls was the best therapy I have had in some time. Who knew all I needed was hammer, some sweat, and just a few tears to feel a whole lot better?

The kitchen before....

The kitchen now....

What the kitchen will be...

When I first walked into this house I had a feeling it was the one. It is actually the exact same floor plan of the first house I remember as a child. In a way, I knew I was home. Instead of sad memories of my old life, I looked around and remembered the happy moments of my childhood. I could close my eyes and see my family gathered around the dinner table. I could hear the laughter of my siblings and feel the love of my parents. It is just the place to raise Monkey. It will be our home full of love and laughter. In a way, I am coming full circle. I am home again.