A Home That Tells Our Story

Our home from the front door to the back, from downstairs to upstairs, from the north walls to the south walls, and throughout every room tells people who I am and the things I value most. My husband lets me design and create, so it’s full of flowers, mostly my favorite red roses. It is nice being surrounded by such beauty, but I try not to overwhelm my man with too many flowers. Each room is full of color, with basic tan throughout the home.  I have one wall in my office that is dedicated to our children. Each frame has an up-to-date picture, a baby picture, and a card displaying the meaning of their name.  Circled around that son or daughter’s picture frame is their spouse, and children with the same display of pictures and name cards. Being a long-distance grandmother, it does my heart good to see these pictures every day, since I typically only have the pleasure of seeing them in person once, maybe twice a year. I also have a dedicated wall in the dining room for extended family, which includes ancestors as well.

We have opened our home to people in need – – immediate family, nephews, nieces, cousins, even an elderly church member, because it is a warm, safe, secure environment. The guest rooms are always available to weary travelers needing to rest overnight or longer. When you extend the love of God, He blesses you abundantly.

My Sacred Space

There is, however, one particular space in which I pray, create, ponder, cry, meditate, and entertain. It is a space full of color and flowers, of course, with comfortable furniture and lots of fresh air breezing through which helps create a peaceful atmosphere. It is a three-season sunroom that my wonderful husband built for me a few years ago. He really scored big points with this one. This room is perfect for many things, but what tops the list is of the utmost importance to me- – my prayer space. Each day early in the morning, the Lord leads me through lots of decision making: how to handle difficult business situations when necessary; how to deal with awkward moments in our marriage; what book topic to write about next; how to give a friend constructive criticism; how to be content with being a long-distance grandmother; and much, much more. We have held business meetings, praise dance practices, small intimate dinners, and large church dinners in this wonderful space.

A Place to Exhale

Our whole home in general is a very peaceful, comfortable place to live, but my special room supersedes all. When most people step into the room, their reaction is “AWWW.”  Immediately they exhale, settle in, then do not want to leave. Whatever challenges they had been having that day seem to at least temporarily leave. It is a space where everybody feels at home. I have had family members as well as friends needing to get all sorts of things that are personal to them off their chest. Family matters, marriage and dating concerns, parenting challenges, and workplace turmoil are just a few of the topics that have been discussed. I usually just listen and let them vent, cry or whatever they need. I have always been a good listener and a trusted confidante with private information, so this room adds just what is needed. Since this is where I pray fervently, the spirit of God dwells there, so that explains the beautiful calmness and peaceful atmosphere. Where the spirit of the Lord is, there is peace. You can also put your feet up, lay back and relax, watch television, read, or just enjoy the silence of the moment.

A Retreat at Home

My special blessed space is decorated with a Dominican Republic/Hilton Head Island Resort feel in mind, complete with seashells and vivid color designs. It typically holds about 15 live plants and is lined with flower-filled lights around the ceiling, which at night give an atmosphere with a soothing ambience. The ceiling fan and heater allow us to enjoy our space through most weather conditions, including rainy days.

Birds can be heard singing, and you can watch the squirrels, rabbits, and chipmunks run and play. Our German Shepherd Husky mix likes the big backyard and keeps all of the critters busy. Most summers I have a vegetable garden, which enhances my relaxation. What a wonderful thing it is to plant a seed, nurture it, watch it grow, and then enjoy the sweet savory, chemical-free fruits or vegetables, when of course, the critters leave some for us to harvest and share with others.

Waiting for Spring

When the harsh winter season is upon us, I close my space and patiently wait for the beautiful spring weather to return once again. I believe my husband knew I not only wanted this room, but I needed it as well. If everyone had a place this therapeutic in which to retreat, regroup, and pray, I am sure this world would be a much better place.

Begin to imagine an area that makes you happy, with whatever you enjoy. Creating does not have to be expensive. Thrift stores and garage sales are perfect places to explore for items to begin putting together a personal space that you value. When you go home from a busy day at work, a crowded mall, a troubled friend’s house, etc., you will be glad to experience your precious “me-time” in your very own private part of this big world.  Exhale! Enjoy! Relax! Create!

Blessed beyond measure
Fueled by the spirit of God
www.judithbrewer.com