of Saving Time mainly through word of mouth. “The
demolition world is very small,” laughs Joel.
And it’s during the demolition process, memories
are uncovered that seem to be the sweetest of all.
From photos from the late 1800s to etchings on the
walls, pulling every wall down and every floor up tells
reminders of a different time. On walls, they found
a drawing of a man in a sailboat, a child learning to
write his name, and marks indicating the counting of
years. And all of these things were sheltered for future
generations to uncover.
Their current project is a home in the Commerce
area. Similar to the first project, the house has “been
in one family for many generations. We are hoping,”
comments Sherry, “to bring it back to its original walls,
floors and character. Out with the paneling, vinyl
floors and rotten boards. In with the hardwood floors,
corbels, rosettes, plinth blocks, and so much more.”
Not for Everyone
Watching Joel and Sherry take on a project is exhausting,
and where one is, the other is not far behind;
again, that hand-in-hand concept in action. From
tearing up floors down to the red clay or stripping the
walls, board by board, with bare hand and pry bar, they
are not afraid to tackle the dirty or difficult.
“It’s extremely hard, rewarding work,” affirms Joel.
“It’s not for everyone. You will get bruised, cut, infections,
back aches, pulled muscles, sleepless nights and
headaches. But, when it’s done, you will fall in love and
have made it possible for many generations to come to
love it as much as you do.”
The most endearing moments are when they hear a
knock at the door.
“There’s something special about someone knocking
on your door and saying my grandfather built this
house,” notes Sherry. “Watching them touch the walls
and take in the love that once lived there.” Each house
tells a story, but it is only by stripping away the layers
of decades of living that you find the original version.
With all the projects thus far, they have yet to be
stumped as to the design or renovation. Learning how
it was crafted a century ago is one of the most gratifying
elements of what they do. Every house teaches
them something and gifts a reward upon completion.
Joel and Sherry are quick to state that they have no
regrets about this enterprise that is deep-rooted within
their hearts. Always on the look-out for the next home,
they are excited about what is to come.
The 1920 farmhouse speaks to the character and
drive of Saving Time. Elements of lives lived there decades
earlier coupled with the story of Joel and Sherry
make it feel like home.
And will this be their forever home?
“So far,” declares Joel, smiling and reaching for Sherry’s
hand.
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