We didn’t know it was going to happen—at least not this fast. But, of course, the timing was perfect. Now, if you know my husband and me you know that, although we absolutely love our simple apartment living, we are, in that deep–inner–most–sweet–spot, first and foremost, wilderness people. So, awhile back, my husband started looking for a camp for us. Never mind that we really didn’t have a clue as to how we could make it happen. Then, unexpectedly, a series of events merged in that heart–pausing dance of divine synchronicity and . . . heaven arrived—complete with a purple outhouse! I mean, really! How could it get any better?!
Our wonderful realtor was a bit shocked when we called all excited. “You do realize it has no plumbing, no electricity, no running water?”
“Yes!” Didn’t budge the needle on our heart meter! We’d seen the pictures. This was our place!
“Uhhh, I think there’s a hose that comes down from the underground stream up the mountain. But that’s all the water that goes to the place.”
“Perfect!”
“And, it’s quite a long drive up.”
Why was she discouraging us???
When we arrived, she wasn’t able to make it up the drive either by car or foot so she missed the showing. So, boy, was she surprised when we called–on the way home–to say, “This is our place! We’d like to make an offer!”
“Okay . . .” she said slowly trying to hide that, “What are you doing?” in her voice.
And then, our kids thought we should be seriously committed!
“You crazy kids!”
“Are you sure you’re ready for outhouse living?”
“Have you really thought this through? It looks like a lot to take on.”
“Are you sure you can handle it all–afford it?”
And, on and on and on!
Ahhhhhhh . . . but in just the few weeks we’ve owned it I’ve already discovered some important things: how much soot and ash can come out of an old antique stove and how good it can feel to bring it back to life; how our blessed spring bubbles up our water without fail and how it can only flow straight down into our sink–as long as we keep the hose clear😊; how the spirit of the land is wild and has clearly been well loved; how the tall trees and hovering mountains shelter us and whisper in the sweet night sounds; how the outhouse is actually a step up from the in–the–dirt we used to do when wilderness camping; how the old stone fireplace keeps close the special rocks from children exploring in days past; how a screen porch opening to the wild can be all that is needed to cleanse, heal and restore a weary soul; how dirty feet and a hair tie is the most appropriate attire to dine in God’s hall. And, how, as I walk around the land my heart can suddenly, without notice, irrupt singing aloud . . . Allelu . . . (Check out the song Sing Allelu on the Odes of Solomon Project CD and you’ll understand.)
So, crazy? “YES!” Thank God!
But . . . I’ll let you be the judge . . . here are some pictures. The first ones are from our first night and the rest are from just the few visits since . . .
Enjoy!!
Reverend Stephanie's Blog 
Love love love!!!!!! We wish you both happy moments full of love and laughter!! Christy and Chuck
Thank you Christy! You guys can come visit anytime!!!
Oh how I love this cabin and the beautiful forest that surrounds it…..but what’s best is you Stephanie and Doug there together at last. So happy for both of you wilderness dwellers. May you be well and happy in your earthly heaven on earth.❤️
Thank you Anne! It does so feel like our “earthly heaven on earth.” Thanks again:)
love, love, love! the words, the photos, the joy in your experience… all of it, love. I can so appreciate how much you love being in the wilderness! so happy for you!!! 😍💖😘😘😘
Thank you Camilla!!! Many kisses right back at’cha:)
So very happy for you and Doug! Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!
Hi Nancy! So wish you were closer so you could come for a visit:):):) Love you!
Congrats! It looks absolutely perfect for the two of you.
I can tell by the content look in your eyes and the smile on your faces.
May the solace and peace of nature live always in your hearts!
Bright Blessings!
Hi Susan! Thank you so much for your kind words…maybe one day you’ll get to visit:) I’d love that!
Looks perfect for both of you! Wishing you Peace and Joy in your new place on earth!
Linda
Thank you Linda! So good to hear from you:) Hope you are well and enjoying your work:)
This is so divine for you two. Reminds me of Lauderdale just a bit—Nanny would approve. I love you so much.
Hi Jane!!! Oh my…I think you’re so right! Nanny would be right at home there…probably is much like her home was when Granddaddy first bought it when mom was a child…Love you soooooooo:)
Wow! It’s much less rustic inside than I imagined. I love the woodwork and fireplace and porch. Beautiful view, too. And the outhouse ain’t bad! Plenty of room on that bench for reading material! 🙂
What a great idea – to add reading material!!!! Thank you!!!
Oh Stephanie, It’s beautiful!! I feel your joy and the love you both have for this special place, already! It feels meant to be! Enjoy every blessed minute there!💗
Hi Beth! Thank you so much! Would love to see you sometime:)
Oh Stephanie, it is GORGEOUS!!! Where is this?? We had some wonderful property in Hillsdale, NY, at one point, a tiny ,one room with sleeping loft shack, no electricity, a commode which had to be emptied each morning , and magnificent 50 foot deep gorge right outside the cabin. With the sound of rushing water putting us to sleep each night. Propane lamps and stove, beautiful trees all around. So I know that what you found is your sanctuary, with alot more amenities than we had. Many blessings on your new getaway abode, and may the Mother bless the space, the trees and your time there. Lots of love DD and RR
Oh Deb and Roger!! How wonderful to hear from you and to hear your story as well!! Your getaway sounds like it was heavenly for you too:) How the Mother does bless us with such wonderful places just perfect at the time for our soul’s need and joy:)