The Pergola with New Gate
Updated: Jul 20
As Barefoot Rob poured and spread concrete, I felt God pouring his blessing on my faith. Because of the incredibly low cost for the patio, I had some savings left to spend on the pergola, a sitting area out of the sun. As an inexperienced novice, I had no clear idea of the cost or its design, except I wanted it to be cedar.
Several contractors gave me ideas and prices, but as usual, they were out of reach. Finally, I found Nick--sincere, respectful, and patient with my indecisiveness.
His simple, sturdy design idea was perfect, and the price amazing. We worked out some basics, but some decisions were made as it was built, such as how far apart the two by twos over the top should be. A roof was too costly, plus I didn't want to block the natural light in my house. I opted for 2x2’s spaced 2 inches apart as a cover. I hoped the close spacing would keep the sun out, but I underestimated its intensity. Waiting for shade was a lesson in patience. It took years.
The pergola was large, spanning 20’ across the patio and extending 15’ out from the house. I left the rounded half of the patio open to the sky, which, as you will read later, was fortuitous. I went with a dark oil stain that Nick said would last about 5 years in our Texas heat; it’s been 15 years now and I haven’t had to restain it yet.
The Gate
Committed to be true to the vision, a new gate and arbor was included in the bid for the pergola. A specific detail noted in my journal described a sign over the gate with the words “Enter With Thanksgiving”, taken from Psalm 100:4. I found a picture of a gate and used editing software to create what I visualized.
When the work was finished—the pergola, gate, arbor, and staining the whole thing, I was delightedly surprised. The cost was, almost to the dollar, the remainder of my savings, which made the words I had etched into the concrete literally true. All For Him.
The primary structural components of my prayer garden were complete. I had stepped out in faith and used all of my savings to build it. Now what was I going to do?
Part 3 of 3 Click NEXT to read Part 1 of Provision: Now What?
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