Funny how hurricanes force you to re-think everything.
We were one sheet of underlayment away from having the base of the roof covered before we left for our beach vacation. Apparently, Hurricane Florence decided to follow us home. Before we knew it, forecasters were predicting sustained winds up to 50 mph and possibly 12″ of rain. This could be the first test of the Tiny House on the Hill’s survival despite the fact that summer storms march over these mountains like soldiers going off to battle. The wind, the rain, the wind.
Thankfully, Brian secured her to the ground with these bad boys early on in the process. We felt she’d stay put, but with the potential for tropical downpours, it was vital to find a way to protect the interior of the house. Although empty, we prefer she stay dry for obvious reasons.
A few of the tarp grommets popped off during a recent storm so our confidence was waning. Let’s just say it didn’t take long for Brian to work his magic, aka, head to Lowes.
He purchased four overly-sized straps and a sturdy rachet system. Two straps hooked together created one large enough to wrap around the entire house. We buckled her down at the front of the house, as well as the back. Finally, a thick sheet of plywood was bolted over the door opening.
No, it wasn’t her prettiest moment, but it certainly was her most secure.
While we had no control over Florence’s path or destruction, we rested in knowing we’d done everything possible to secure her well. Thankfully, Florence skirted around us, but our hearts broke for those who faced her head on.
Pre-hurricane sky with no filter.
The broken, but well-braced tiny house, reminds me of us.
None being whole, perfect, or complete. Missing pieces in the form of loss, feeling invisible, waiting, or the gaping hole within us that longs to know or draw closer to God.
Being a Christ-follower doesn’t always protect us from diseases, accidents, or hurricanes. Few people explain this better than John Piper but suffice it to say, when our spiritual positioning is under the umbrella of Christ, we can know that He covers and protects us in such a way that we can find rest during any storm this life may bring.
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. Psalm 91:1 NIV
God covers it all.
Is there some way I can pray for you today? Nothing is too small. If you prefer not to share your request in the comments section, feel free to email me via the envelope icon in my sidebar. I count it a privilege.
Thanks for stopping by the Tiny House on the Hill!
Oh, she looks like she is wrapped in protective arms. I needed that thought today.
“So let the storms rage high
The dark clouds rise
They don’t worry me
For I’m sheltered, safe, within the arms of God.”
Yes! I love this, Charla. What a sweet picture of His protection. When I wrote this post last week, I had no idea we would be preparing for another hurricane this week. Thanks for this reminder. 🙂
I marvel at the way you take the every day and weave in biblical truth. Thanks again for causing me to breathe deeply as I relax into the power that surrounds me no matter the storms of life. <3
I love your phrasing, Sandra. “…as I relax into the power that surrounds me.” There truly is a leaning into that’s required to find His rest. Thank you for taking the time to share, as well as the kind words. Blessings!
Praying that you don’t get any effects of this new hurricane!
Thanks, Kim! I think he’s supposed to blow over the majority of SC so we’ll probably get something but I’m thankful he’s moving fast for the sake of NC and other areas flooded by Florence. Is your home in his path?
Yes indeed our spiritual positioning is under the umbrella if Christ. Praying for everyone to be safe regarding Hurricane Michael. Great blog as always. Thank you Cathy.
Thank you for your prayers, Elaine! Praying for all who are in his path. Hugs from the Carolinas. 🙂
She looks safe and warm like us in God’s arms
Thanks, Jann! Since this picture was taken, we’ve removed the tarp to start working on the roof. Little did we know a second hurricane would come our way in a matter of weeks. Wow. 🙂
Cathy,
There was a tragic limo accident this weekend in a small local community near to us. Everyone was killed, 20 souls. Please help us pray for the survivors of these families, many young couples and one with four sisters, all deceased. I cannot imagine the devastation to the families. Sorry for such a sad comment but we need prayers for the community of Amsterdam and Schoharie. Thank you, my friend. I know you will pray…
Please, no apologies. Prayer trump all other things. I just heard about this accident this morning. My heart goes out to the families, survivors, and everyone touched by it. Thank you for sharing it here, Cynthia. Many prayer warriors are a part of this community and count it a privilege to join you in prayer.
You are gifted with words. Your tiny house looks like it’s covered with a prayer shawl for all those in harm’s way.
Thank you, Daphne. 🙂 She was covered for Hurricane Florence but we’re having trouble getting her prepped for Michael. Praying for the best but I’m especially praying for those whose lives and homes are in harm’s way. Stay safe, friend.
I love how y’all secured your tiny house before Florence’s arrival, and how you explain our security in God. Such a great post! Thanks, Cathy.
Thank you, Kim. Due to a couple of issues, we were unable to replicate this type of security for Michael so it should be interesting. At least there’s not a hole in the roof this time around. A tiny prayer would be appreciated. 🙂
Prayers are our oversize straps that keep us protected in the storms of our lifes. Therefore, I’m praying for the strength of the tiny house’s straps to stay in place in order for it to be filled with praise and thanks giving when the storm moves on. Write on!
Thank you for the prayers, Carolyn! We believe Michael has finally blown over and the Tiny House on the Hill is still intact. We’re very thankful but continue to pray for so many who lost much more.