This has truly been a beautiful experience. It was so rich and valuable. I couldn't recommend a better experience for a couple, family, or even an individual. This process has brought my partner and I so much closer which I didn't think was possible. Thinking back over these past 5 months, there are a few things that I have gained.
1. An appreciation of family. I moved back home during the building process. It was rough at first, but once I got the pillow top for the wiry pull out bed, things jelled soon thereafter. It's not often when you get to move back home on a good note. Usually it's either to take care of sick parents, or other reasons that may bring you back to the nest. I was able to come back TEMPORARILY and be more of an asset to my parents. It felt good to have flash backs of the "good old days" in the house they bought to make memories for me.
2. Patience. I got this by force. No matter how much I stayed on top of the process, timelines, etc., things are bound to happen that are out of my control. Just like how our settlement date has been pushed to the end of this week to Friday instead of TODAY. You would think my potty mouth chart would be toppled over with paper toilets but all I can say is that, "It is well!". It is this reaction that demonstrates the level of patience I have gained.
3. Flexibility and compromise. We wanted it ALL, shoot I STILL want it all. But it's a must to prioritize and to be flexible. It's a give and take. Having other small projects around the house will give me something to look forward to. So, it's ok that I didn't have EVERY bell and whistle, I got enough! I'm still blowing baby!
4. Faith. We each have our own faith, beliefs etc. For me, this experience drew more of my attention to God's wonder, dominion, and power....down to the little things. I am so grateful to have been paying attention.
FINAL WALK-THRU was last Thursday. It wasn't to bad. Our Jacuzzi was not working, the bar seemed to be off with its symmetry in some places and there was a crack in one of the kitchen cabinets. Those were the major things. Everything else was minor but we were sure to point out EVERY TEENY TINY MINOR THING we saw: Paint touch ups, caulking cracks, grouting cracks, window smudges-- I was on it like the Brown Hornet.
Sooo- as I re-set my countdown clock to Friday, I will enjoy this last 3 days with my parents, no bills, and free food! IT IS WELL!