Projects on top of projects

We have an unusually high number of projects happening right now at our house.  Each day seems to take on a mind of its own because we often don't know where to start with any of them.  We're currently in the middle of adding a mud room onto to our house, re-doing our back deck, re-arranging the garage/building storage and reconfiguring our basement to create a "secret lair" for the boys (a young boy's version of a man cave).  We kind of bit off more than we can chew.

It's been a bit overwhelming, to say the least, yet it's also provided many opportunities for new experiences.  So, it's also been fun and rewarding.

I don't have a carpenter's brain.  I'm not the typical handy-man, so I always feel out of place picking up lumber at Menard's.  Additionally, Liz is not a visionary when it comes to projects.  My dad is, though, and we've been making progress together.  We've also seen each of our boys step up to the plate in a variety of ways and we've been able to see their personalities shine in new ways.  That was unexpected.

We'll continue to hodge podge our way through these projects and eventually be finished with each one in time to start some more.  Just at the time when we've grown tired of the clutter, I have a fresh perspective on the chaos going on here.

I think it's important for us to take on some projects that are outside our areas of expertise and force us to see life through some different lenses, seek good advice, and ask for help.  In our situation, it might have made more sense for us to hire a contractor to complete our addition.  It would have been cleaner and more efficient, but we'd miss out on the growth areas and the opportunity to model to our children what we encourage them to do daily.

So, my advice tonight is to take on a project.  Build or create something.  Do something outside of your expertise and everyday routine that forces you to ask questions and get some help.  It's good for your soul and practice for the areas where you excel at life.