What happens when a woman used to pens and paper and a reliable computer takes on a new venture? A journey of wood, paint, power sanders and other tools she has to learn how to decipher? Well, there are a lot of stories she could tell. Some have the word broken involved. That would be the band saw. Others have a frustrated husband in them. (Actually, that would also be the band saw story.)
I happen to have the kind of husband who loved shop class and has been building things since the beginning of time, including a real log cabin. He's a natural. Me? Learning how to craft wood products for customers isn't easy on the best of my days. And then there's that thing about working with your spouse.
I've had to learn humility. Patience. How to listen and not just hear. How to keep my mouth shut.
With the laser engraver, I created a set of blocks from end cuts. I'm a missionary kid and frugal to the core, so being able to craft something from wood that would otherwise be tossed away is a great concept for me. I sanded the blocks, painted, set them out to dry overnight, and then sanded for a rustic look. I used glitter paint for the roof and the block with the heart. I sealed them with a clear top coat.
While working, I felt creative. Different than when I conjure up characters and plots. An artsy creative.
Even in the wood, I can put what I like to pen on paper: Love Lives here.
Loving those around us. Loving God. Loving self. Reaching out to those who need us. Loving through listening, forgiving, and growing, and being patient.
We remind ourselves in the chaos of this world, that we make a stand. We won't be swayed by nasty-doers. We won't let the temptation to be nasty, or sarcastic, or mean-spirited, or rude, take over. We will remember that we are crafted to love and be loved.
Love lives here.
I touch the way the words feel in the pine. They match those etched on my heart.
Make a statement. This is how we choose to live.
To visit our Carved By Heart shop to see more products, click here.
