When life throws you lemons, make lemonade – an old saying that we’ve all heard. But let’s face it, that’s much easier said than done. Still, if we truly commit and put in the hard work, even the most daunting tasks can be achieved. Cara Brookins is a shining example of this determination. Faced with a violent marriage, she made the brave decision to leave, taking her five children with her to start a new chapter. What makes her story remarkable? She didn’t just find them a new house – she built it herself, from the ground up, using YouTube tutorials and a sheer force of will.
Cara was no professional contractor; she was a computer programmer analyst. In 2007, realizing she couldn’t afford a house big enough for her family, she took matters into her own hands. Using DIY videos, she learned everything from laying a foundation to installing plumbing and erecting walls. The task seemed impossible, but Cara was determined.
She secured a $150,000 loan for the construction and bought a one-acre plot of land for $20,000. Her kids played a crucial role in the project. With her youngest child just two years old and her oldest at seventeen, every family member had a part to play. Her daughter Jada, who was 11, carried water from a neighbor’s pond to mix mortar, while her son Drew helped draw up the plans. They worked side-by-side with a part-time firefighter who had building experience, paying him $25 per hour to handle the more complex tasks. Despite the obstacles, this relentless family pressed on.
After two years of hard work, the Brookins family moved into their new home, which Cara named “Inkwell Manor,” a nod to her dream of becoming a writer. Reflecting on the experience, Cara admits that at the time, they felt a bit ashamed that building their own home seemed like their only option. But looking back, she recognizes that it was one of the best decisions she ever made.
“If I, a 110-pound computer programmer, can build an entire house, then anyone can achieve their goals,” Cara says. She encourages others to take on big projects, no matter how impossible they might seem. “Start small, stay focused, and bring others along for the ride – especially those who need to recover, just like you.”
Cara Brookins’ story is one of resilience, strength, and the power of perseverance. Inspired by her journey? Share her incredible tale with your friends and family on Facebook!