Humble Home

On By K.L. HaleIn christmas, Essay

It had been snowy for a couple of days. Freezing temperatures prompted me to fill my freshwater tank, shut off the water supply, and ensure my black tank was completely drained. The R.V. life had become routine. I knew the ins and outs of making sure I could stay as comfortable as possible in my tiny home of 335 square feet. There was something about the coziness, although a challenge at times, which made me feel safe. One year prior I genuinely thought I’d own a different R.V. (a Class C). There was a campground in Alaska, near my son and his family, which needed a workcamper. It would be a 5 month experience I knew I would enjoy. The thought of being on the “side of the world” closest to my sons and their families gave me joy, too as I had found a campground near my youngest son and his family in which I could workcamp possibly that fall or the following summer. My blogging had started and I dreamed of writing on the road, moving from place to place based on weather and places other campground friends were staying. And then…a pandemic progressed, and the country was shut down. I had decisions to make. Around a fire, or at game night with friends, and most importantly around my parents’ family table, my tiny life proved groundbreaking.

K.L. Hale

It was snowy when I moved into my house. Much like the tiny home I desired and had designed at one time, this new home was perfect. The foundation was old but everything in it was brand new. One year ago today, with leftover snow sprinkled around, I took over ownership and walked into my front door. “God, thank you for bringing me home. Thank you for allowing me to clearly hear your voice and clear the clutter of clinging; clinging to that which was no longer your plan. No matter what, wheels or rock below me, you have me.”  Within the first month my heat was not working properly, my water heater had issues, another appliance needed replaced, and an adjustment period paused my pace. I’d hear, “That’s part of being a homeowner!” Stoicism steered my stranglehold.

Mainstream is not my measure. Buckling down, I committed to the classes I needed, the coaching (a wonderful investment), and the foundation to further my faith and pursue a dream. Finding my purpose, aside from motherhood and one occupation, was no longer fastened to how it looked to others. Energy could not be drained due to unrealistic expectations. It was accepting a huge truth in my life-a feeling of abandonment that had tried to overtake my self-worth and sabotage my spirit. You may have been there or are experiencing it now-an empty nest feeling or reeling with the reality of what you THOUGHT your life would look like. Grief can grab you when you least expect it. Grief over loss or grief over what you feel you are missing. Back away, Satan. You’re a liar.

Twelve months. What has changed for you? We’d all be in denial to think that this world has not changed us in the last twenty-four months; much less, twelve. To “normalize” we can:

  • Manifest mania in the madness
  • Magnify the make-believe world of social media
  • Stay hidden without hope
  • Paralyze ourselves with paranoia
  • Explode in unrealistic expectations
  • Numb or neglect others with negativity
  • Create a reality unaligned with our Creator
  • Fuel our faith with foundational truth, family, and friends.

Which do you find can happen? At one time or another I’ve done all. But I’ll continue to choose the last one. We all need stress reducers. But at some point, we must stop ruminating over what we feel is ruined. You and I are not defined by where we live, who we are, what we’ve gained, what we’ve lost, or any other “measure” that the world uses to define “normal.”  As we approach the end of this year, I hope you remember this: no amount of presents under the tree, the titles to that which you own, the certificates with your name, how you look, your years spent in a contract or on a job, or any other worldly measure will change your worth in the eyes of a Savior. In one week celebrations will occur. Some may have a hard time with the holiday seasons; we must be mindful and caring. 💚

As I stood staring at the stars last night outside my home, I could feel the wonder. Flashbacks of past Christmas’s flooded my memory-traditions with my sons (oh, how I love them so)- hearing their laughter and seeing their joy! How blessed am I that I remember caroling to strangers, services at church, driving in the car to see lights, and enjoying “old-fashioned” Christmas’s?

On Christmas Day, in my small home without wheels, and with my pup, I’ll await the opportunity to “see” my kids and grandkids via technology. I’ll hear the giggles of the grandkids and see the wonder in their tiny eyes. I’ll smile in gratitude and plug into peace. My mind will marinate in the magnificence of our Maker. I’ll read the Christmas story in my Bible, watch an old black and white movie, sip hot coffee and cocoa, and cherish the new memories around my tree. Oh, what a day that will be! The snow may or may not be falling. I won’t be worried about a black tank or heat (hopefully 😉). I will count myself blessed beyond measure.

Two years ago, I began a blog, “Living Large in my Tiny World.” Things changed. My flannel and faith were two constants in my tiny world. Thus, Flannel with Faith was born. I’ll never forget the tiny way in which Jesus came-lowly and humbled in a small space. I think of the small group, particularly the animals, which gathered around him. He needed little, gave so much, and left his mark with the most ultimate gift. It’s a gift for us all. I hope you open it.

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”

Luke 2:11-12

Have faith💚

As long as I’m with you, Momma!
I wore my good wool in honor of the last time doing this. LOL
Brrrr!
A new view but same world
Last night in R.V.
An old view but same world
Snowy doorway!
Cozy

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48 thoughts on “Humble Home”

  1. Finn’s looking good in that Christmas outfit! It’s been a tad chilly here (40s) so Max broke out his Pendleton sweater and his Christmas pajamas may be coming out next. As they say in the winter RV world, happiness is an empty black tank and good underfloor insulation. The fireplace looks cozy!

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    1. Thank you from Finn and me! I don’t have pj’s for her but she would look cute in them. She has 3 legs so I’d adjust them as needed. 😃 that expression for the RV world is true indeed. I was fortunate to have the fireplace, everything insulated underneath, and a heated tank! I can’t wait to see Max in his Pendleton sweater! 🐾

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  2. atimetoshare.me

    You have touched my heart in so many ways with the way you weave your words and fill them with optimism. Thanks for sharing your experiences with us and for being such a sweet friend.

    Liked by 1 person

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  6. Dear Karla and Finn, Merry Christmas! Although I’ve experienced loss recently and it is so very true that grief can pounce on you at any moment, I’ve been wrapped in the embrace of the Great Comforter (aka the Holy Spirit). I am safe, I am loved, I am at peace! I wish the same for you this Advent and Christmas season…

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  7. jpayne98

    Precious times and the pictures of you and Finley are so beautiful. Blessed time for sure. Love the little world you have made for yourselfs. Love always J. ❤️🙏🐶

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  8. What a great post! So well written and filled with so many important truths and guidelines. I am still trying to put these into practice in my life… some days more successfully than others. I love them all, but the line I especially appreciate from your writing is this one: ” Finding my purpose… was no longer fastened to how it looked to others.” That was a theme for me for WAAAY too many years.
    I also have to say… you are the undisputed QUEEN of alliterations! They are so good for helping drive home a point and helping your readers remember it!
    Christmas blessings to you and Finley,.

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    1. Russell, thank you so very much for your feedback, encouragement, and support! I understand the theme you shared. I giggled reading about my royalty with alluring alliterations☺️😉…I have found through my own learning strategies ways that make things “stick” in my mind. I sometimes fear it’s overwhelmingly overused. But then I rethink my reason and rally again. Seriously, Russ, I appreciate your wisdom and support so much! Blessings to you and Joan.

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  9. Merry Christmas Karla! Love this post because it’s filled with your heart and soul. Your home was on wheels when you needed movement, perhaps now that your home is grounded life will seem so too? Like you say “we might not know what the future holds but we know who is holding it.” Wrapping you in hugs and love my friend, Merry Christmas 💕C

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    1. Merry Christmas, C! I always appreciate your thoughts and kind comments! I love that perspective on being grounded. That has been my theme. We definitely know who is holding us. I’m sending hugs and love back to you. ❣️🤗

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  11. I find that I live to the size of my home. If it is large I seem to acquire more stuff. If it is smaller I become much more tidy and less exuberant. I do like the cozy better. Both your homes look marvellous. Comfortable places to live. I hope you enjoy the miracles of the season and accept the spirit with the kindness it is meant. (O) (O) (O). (my version of a hug)

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    1. Pam, thank you for your kind words about the homes. I feel so blessed. I understand exactly what you mean. I lived in large homes and after several downsizes I was the most content in smaller spaces. I realized how much I don’t need to live a simple life. That’s why the RV life feels so “freeing” to me. I have a bigger closet, but refuse to put any more things in it. I’m just that way~I don’t buy anything unless I give something away because I won’t even buy new hangers. Lol. One of my quirks! I’ll be thinking of you on Christmas and sending the same spirit of kindness. Many hugs and peace my friend.

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  13. I enjoyed this little “peek through the windows” of your homes and the always journeying attitude you bring to the present reality of where you are. Home is where the heart is and with a heart as big as yours, the size of the container has little effect. Joy to you today.

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    1. What a precious response, Jane. I’m so happy you enjoyed my post. What kind words about the heart and the container~ oh my.❤️😭 joy and peace to you this Christmas and every day.

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    1. Thank you so much, Pam. I appreciate you so much. In a world filled with so much being questioned, or argued about, it’s a comfort knowing the truth. Merry Christmas to you, Butch, and your precious family. ❤️🙏🏻💚🎄

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  18. Karla, thanks for personalizing your journey over the past couple of years. I agree with you that holding on to God’s foundation has helped to keep me well-grounded in a world of changes and challenges that none of us have ever experienced. Blessings to you and your family. Merry Christmas!

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  19. Jean McDonald

    Another amazing post with this one really really hitting home! God has been giving me a lot to think about lately, well actually for several months now. The last couple of weeks He has been very persuasive or maybe I’ve been more willing to listen to what He’s been trying to tell me! It has to do with what you’re talking about in this post, what we think we originally have in mind vs what is actually where He wants us to be & how to get there and everything & one involved in that. Do you believe that God reveals or maybe helps us prepare for what’s coming in our lives to get us ready to be able to make the right decisions? I do & it’s amazing at the new adventure ahead! Have a merry Christmas full of peace & love! We’re going to have a quiet day at home. Love you dear friend hugs your way (I do read all your posts & always take away something to mull over as Jubal & I do our 5 miles per day which I’m grateful for!)💖💝💕☕🙏

    .

    On Fri, Dec 17, 2021 at 12:36 PM Flannel with Faith wrote:

    > K.L. Hale posted: ” It had been snowy for a couple of days. Freezing > temperatures prompted me to fill my freshwater tank, shut off the water > supply, and ensure my black tank was completely drained. The R.V. life had > become routine. I knew the ins and outs of making sure I c” >

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thank you so much my friend. 💙 your thoughtful comments and support are always encouraging! I believe just as you in how God reveals his plan. I’m so happy this piece resonated with you. I’m excited to hear about new adventures for you all. And I can see you and Jabal walking your miles. You inspire me! Sending you love, hugs, and prayers. Merry Christmas to you all! ❤️🙏🏻🎄💚 ☕️

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    1. Thank you so much my friend. I’m thinking of you this morning as I prepare to fly to WA to visit my youngest son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter, the honorable Whitley of Washington! I will soak in every moment! ❣️❤️💕

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  24. Reblogged this on My Blog and commented:

    “One cannot always tell what it is that keeps us shut in, confines us, seems to bury us, but still one feels certain barriers, certain gates, certain walls. is all this imagination, fantasy? I do not think so. And then one asks: My God! Is it for long, is it for ever, is it for eternity? Do you know what frees one from this captivity? It is very deep serious affection. Being friends, being brothers, love, that is what opens the prison by supreme power, by some magic force.”
    – Vincent Van Goch, letter to his brother, July 1880 (from Open: An Autobiography by Andre Agassi)

    http://www.beyondboundaries.limits.wordpress.com

    “If the Lord makes you successful, I’ll keep you humble.”

    Hi KL
    Thanks for the follow (+ like(s)
    Happy blogging/writing and all the best with your blog
    “early bird sleepy-head” craig

    “And, as imagination bodies forth The forms of things unknown, the poet’s pen…”

    http://www.craigsblogs.wordpress.com
    http://www.craigsbooks.wordpress.com
    “It always seems impossible…
    until it gets done!”
    – Nelson Mandela
    http://www.mandelamadiba.wordpress.com
    http://www.craigsquotes.wordpress.com
    You CAN…if you THINK you can

    “Put your fears behind you and your dreams in front of you…always.”

    Best wishes from the First City to see the light

    PPS

    Don’t worry about the world ending today
    it’s already tomorrow in scenic and tranquil ‘little’ New Zealand

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