This will definitely be a summer for the books. After spending the summer building our handicapped-accessible home, we’re sharing it with others during the Medina Parade of Homes.
We’ve been working on our dream home all summer. On our groundbreaking day for our home, Randy called to tell me the equipment was set up and moving. I couldn’t get Jordan and Gabriella dressed and ready fast enough to be a part of such an exciting event.
We spent most of the day watching the ground being moved for the placement of what we would be calling home – one that will allow Jordan to move freely whether he’s crawling around, walking in his walker, or propelling himself in a wheelchair or stander.
As we were guided through the planning process, our main focus was Jordan’s area. His room has its own shower that he’ll be able to access with ease. It also has wider doors and flooring that will do its best to withstand equipment.
Our builder was so patient as we walked through the process to try to think of current and future needs. We went through other handicapped accessible homes, spent hours on Pinterest, and spoke with others about ideas they may have.
We designed it with a ramp to enter the garage, a large closet in case we need an elevator in the future, wider doorways and an open floor plan to allow easy maneuvering. And our new home isn’t just good for Jordan, but also other friends who visit who have difficulty getting around.
As we visited the construction site each day and watched our dream become a reality, we were blessed by each worker who entered our house.
When the rooms were framed we walked through and added Bible verses to each room and prayed they would be blessed.
We added Jeremiah 29:11 to Jordan’s room: “For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord, Plans to prosper you and not to harm you to give you hope and a future.”
In Gabriella’s room, we chose 1 Peter 3:3-4: “It is not fancy hair, gold jewelry or fine clothes that should make you beautiful. No, your beauty should come from within you – the beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit.”
By the front door, we added Deuteronomy 28:6: “You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out.”
The living room verse says: “Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:30-31 )
Hebrews 13:2 is written in the dining area: “Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it.”
As the summer moved on so did the construction. To be totally honest I am not a quick decision maker. I always hated multiple choice exams in school. I truly dreaded the thought of needing to make so many decisions.
However, it wasn’t bad. I just hoped the choices we made would be OK because after we left a room from making our selections I honestly couldn’t remember what they were.
We’re overwhelmed at all the workers who put their best effort to make the reality of having our home completed in time for the Medina Parade of Homes.
So here we are. The Pollock Homestead is ready and we are sharing it with those who are invested or just plain curious. The house will be open the first 3 weekends in October from noon to 5 p.m.
We thank the Lord for the opportunity and are blessed by his provisions for our family.
When we were preparing for our journey of Jordan’s hip surgery, our goal was to watch our tenacious little man walk through the door of our new home. As of right now he has only crawled.
When we’re officially given our keys, we want to have Jordan cut through the ribbon with his biggest fan Gabriella and walk through the door in his walker. Let’s start sharpening those child safety scissors!