Introduction

They say that if life hands you lemons, make lemonade. Cara Brookins took this adage to heart when she left an abusive marriage and decided to build a new life for her family. Here’s the incredible story of how she, along with her five children, built their own house from scratch.

The Decision to Leave

A Brave Move

Cara Brookins, a computer programmer analyst, found herself trapped in a violent marriage. As a mother of five, she knew she had to protect her children from the toxic environment. With no viable housing options, she made the brave decision to leave her abusive husband and start over.

A Unique Solution

Building a Home from Scratch

Unable to afford a house large enough for her family, Cara decided to build one herself. She created construction blueprints and turned to YouTube for tutorials on everything from laying a foundation to installing plumbing.

The Financial Challenge

Funding the Dream

In 2007, Cara borrowed about $150,000 for construction and paid $20,000 for an acre of land. This significant financial commitment was a leap of faith, but she was determined to provide a safe haven for her children.

Family Involvement

Everyone Plays a Part

Cara’s children played crucial roles in the construction process. Despite their young ages, they all pitched in. Her eldest, 17-year-old Drew, helped create the construction plans, while her 11-year-old daughter, Jada, carried water from a neighbor’s pond since there was no running water on the property.

Overcoming Obstacles

Facing Challenges Head-On

The family faced numerous challenges, but they tackled each one head-on. Cara hired a part-time firefighter with building experience to help with the most difficult tasks, paying him $25 per hour for his knowledge and guidance.

The Physical and Emotional Strain

Pushing Through the Exhaustion

The physical demands of construction were immense. Cara, weighing only 110 pounds, often found herself exhausted. The emotional strain of leaving an abusive relationship and building a new life from scratch was also significant, but her determination never wavered.

Moving In

A New Beginning

After years of hard work, the family finally moved into their 3,500-square-foot home, Inkwell Manor, on March 31, 2009. The name symbolized Cara’s dream of becoming a writer, a dream she nurtured alongside building the house.

Reflection and Pride

Looking Back with Humility

Cara looks back on their journey with a mix of pride and humility. “We felt ashamed that the only option available to us was to construct our own shelter,” she remarked. “We weren’t particularly proud of it, but it ended up being the best thing I could have done for myself.”

A Testament to Human Resilience

Inspiration for Others

Cara’s story is a powerful testament to human resilience and determination. “Anything is possible for you if I, a 110-pound computer programmer, can build a whole house,” she declared. Her journey from domestic abuse to self-sufficiency is nothing short of inspirational.

Setting Big Goals

Encouraging Others to Dream Big

She encourages others to set big goals and pursue them relentlessly. “Select one goal and stick to it. Choose a big project you’ve always wanted to do, start small, and take the others who also need to recover with you. That has a great deal of power,” she advised.

Spreading Hope

A Beacon of Hope

Cara’s story has inspired thousands around the world. Her book, “Rise: How a House Built a Family,” details her journey and has become a beacon of hope for many facing similar struggles.

Media Attention

A Symbol of Strength

Her incredible journey has garnered significant media attention, leading to interviews and features that highlight her resilience and ingenuity. Cara has become a symbol of strength and perseverance, showing that with determination and effort, it’s possible to overcome even the most daunting challenges.

Conclusion

Building a Better Future

Cara Brookins’ story is one of courage, resilience, and the unyielding power of a determined spirit. Her journey from a violent marriage to building a dream home for her family with her own hands is truly inspiring. It reminds us that no matter how impossible a situation may seem, with the right mindset and unwavering effort, we can overcome adversity and build a better future.

Share This Story

If Cara’s story inspires you as much as it does us, please share this amazing tale with your loved ones and spread the message of hope and determination.