Faith & Freedom Lifestyle

Our dream was what everyone wants, “the American dream”. Right? It was always part of the plan. A nice house, nice yard, kids, date nights, family vacations, a pet or two, good food, game nights, church on Sundays and everything in between. We still very much value those things in our lives, and it is okay. However I believe our priorities, and the order in which some of these things fall on our list, are starting to rearrange themselves. In the Winter of 2018 our “forever home” was complete. It was everything we dreamed it would be. We were excited to see our vision come to life. From flat, lifeless blueprints to a perfect, and visually pleasing structure that we get to call home. The foundation and bones of this house were plastered in scripture.

Everything about this build was ideal. From our amazing contractor that didn’t cut a single corner, to the final touches that made this house a home. The main reason we built on this private acre was so that we could, eventually, own a camper. The HOA restrictions in our previous neighborhood would not allow it. We are a traveling family. That is one of the things that the four of us enjoy most in life. Owning a camper was a simple way to make that happen, especially when the pandemic hit. We had an outlet without worry or limitations. It has served us well and has given us lasting memories with one another and the best of friends.

We have lived in three houses prior to this one. Each one a building block, allowing us enough equity to purchase the next. We were certain that this was our final destination (at least until the boys were grown). We have lived here for four wonderful years…but something significant has started to change. Now, don’t get me wrong. We do not, and I repeat, DO NOT discount our blessings. We are very thankful for everything the Lord has provided. Most of the world would probably turn up it’s nose reading this blog, however, this journey is about a mindset change. Not materialism.

Our heart strings have been pulled, subtly, for quite some time. Some people are good at reading between the lines and hearing that still, small voice inside their souls. Others, like us, need BIG bold signs to get our attention. So that is what we started to pray for. What needed to be conveyed to us? What were we missing? Are we supposed to sell and relocate, or stay and rearrange other parts of our lives? We believe the Holy Spirit had been preparing our hearts for something, but we couldn’t place a finger on exactly what it was. Then, came the weekend that changed our lives…