I believe in the power of words. As a lifelong book lover, I savor words, treasure them, and count on them for encouragement. It was this belief that led me to write words of encouragement on the framework of our home while it was being built. Other than photographic evidence, no one will ever know that they are there. But these secret verses hiding behind the walls throughout my home encourage me. I wrote in various places, some scripture, some quotes – my children did this in their bedrooms as well, including wisdom from Star Wars and Stan Lee. It was our way of “blessing” the house, of creating spaces with intention that are uniquely ours, even if it is in secret. (Perhaps especially because it is a secret.)

One of my favorite scriptures is Jeremiah 6:16. “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” I put this by my front door – reminding me of the path that brought me here, being at a crossroads, to rural Iowa. But it is perhaps more indicative of the path I must continue to walk.

                        

And over my desk, behind my bookshelves, I wrote: “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.”

                             

My children’s rooms received such wisdom as, “If you have an idea that you genuinely think is great, don’t let some idiot talk you out of it,” by the legendary Marvel comic book writer Stan Lee. Or, “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you.” Isaiah 48:2.

              

These photos of our freshly framed home reminds me of the anticipation and excitement I felt as it began to come together. Plans I had seen only on paper were now coming to life. Our words handwritten on the structure itself seemed to make it all just that much more personal, our dream come true.

(Credit for the quote “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.” – Jennifer Lee)