We often hear that when life gives us lemons, we should make lemonade. But let’s be real, it’s easier said than done. However, there are incredible stories out there that remind us that with determination and hard work, nothing is impossible, no matter the obstacles.
Cara Brookins found herself trapped in an abusive marriage. As a mother of five, she knew she needed to protect her children from the toxic environment they were living in. So, with incredible courage, she gathered her kids and ran away from home. But she faced a new challenge – she didn’t have a place to live, and money was tight.
However, Cara had a bold idea – she decided to build a house with her own hands. With no previous experience in construction, she drew up her own construction plans and turned to YouTube videos to learn everything from laying a foundation to installing plumbing. It sounds incredible, doesn’t it?
Looking back, Cara admits that the whole journey seemed impossible. But that didn’t stop her. In 2007, she purchased a one-acre land for $20,000 and secured a construction loan of approximately $150,000. Armed with determination and her children by her side, she started building their new home.
Her eldest son, Drew, helped her with the plans, while 11-year-old Jada used buckets to transport water from a neighbor’s pond since there was no running water on-site. Together, they mixed the water with heavy bags of concrete to form the foundation mortar.
Every day after school, the kids would go to the construction site and lend a hand. For the more complex tasks, Cara hired a part-time firefighter with building experience. It was a family effort, driven by their unwavering belief that they could create a better life for themselves.
Finally, on March 31, 2009, the family moved into their new home – Inkwell Manor, named after Cara’s dream of becoming a writer. It wasn’t the easiest journey, but it was the most rewarding one. Cara reflects, “We were mortified that building our own shelter was our best alternative. It wasn’t anything we were really proud of, but it turned out to be the most beneficial thing I could have done for myself.”
Cara’s story is an inspiration to all of us. She proves that with determination and the willingness to take small steps toward our goals, we can achieve anything. She encourages us to find our own aims in life and stick to them, no matter how challenging they may seem. And let’s remember, there is power in bringing along others who need healing on the journey.
So, the next time life throws lemons your way, remember this incredible story. Share it with your family and friends on Facebook and let them know that they too can achieve remarkable things when they set their minds to it.
