The thing about building something up is that sometimes you first have to knock it down, to make space for all the growth.
At least that’s the mantra I keep repeating every time I drive by my house. Or more specifically, by the remains of my house. Because here’s what it looked like 3 weeks ago…
And here’s what it looked like a week later…
Neighbors and friends keep texting to say, “OMG, I knew you were remodeling but I didn’t know you were doing THIS!” The truth is, neither did I. Sure, it’s all in the architectural plans and there’s even a page or two dedicated to something called “demolition” but my mind has not been on the dismantling part–it’s been all about the end product. Eye on the prize! The after picture is so much prettier than the awkward, in-between phase. In construction and, of course, in life.
But change is all about the transition and our family is knee-deep in it right now. In our living conditions and elsewhere. Two kids are making obvious leaps…from elementary to middle school and from preschool to kindergarten, but it’s also becoming a season of smaller, more subtle changes in all five of us. Shifts in maturity, in confidence, in perseverance, in patience.
In general I’m a nostalgic type, but I have no room for it right now. This season of transition is one of moving forward. The kids are ready for new adventures. I’m ready for more challenges. We are all ready for a little more space and some room to grow.
So instead of nostalgia, I’m mostly standing back in awe as the house gets taller and wider. I’m watching the upstairs comes alive and the downstairs transform. I’m hoping to hang on to this awe when it comes to all the changes happening right now.
After all, my family doesn’t need me pining for the old when the new is so promising…
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Speaking of new stuff: I’m happy to share that my photo artwork is now featured on Great.ly.
If you’re a maker/tastemaker/shopper, please check it out and follow!
As always, my full collection is found at ewmcguirephoto.com. Email me with any questions or special requests.
I’m always on the lookout for new projects!
It’s really moving along and will be awesome….
You should see it today! :))
I can’t wait to see what the end result looks like! I have to hand it to you, I would have just moved to a bigger a house rather than imagine what could be. It sure is impressive!
Well, buying a bigger house would have been too easy, and I have a knack for doing things the hard way.
Oh, boy – do I feel you on the dismantling-to-make-it-better crunchiness. (You have no idea.)
Cheers to you on tearing it down to build it back up to new heights – it will be totally worth it. Hang in there!
XO
A.
I love your attitude of forward momentum. Can’t wait to see the “after” photos!
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