Theme Thursday = Roof

Several years ago, we were heart broken at the thought of losing

our beloved Willow Manor. The tragic events of September 11th

nearly destroyed WT's international business. After struggling for

a few years, we sadly came to the conclusion that we had no choice

but to give up our creaky old limestone house. And to add insult to

injury, severe storms nearly blew Willow Manor off it's hinges that

year. One morning, there was an unexpected knock at the door.

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Looks like your roof has suffered quite a bit of storm damage.

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Yes, you're right, it has. Our insurance deductible is high and we've

been putting it off.

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Don't worry about that. Let me handle your insurance company.

You'll have a new roof by next week.

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Several days later, pallets and pallets of glorious, fragrant cedar

shingles were stacked high on our driveway. Tears streamed down

my face at the sight of it.

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Hey, Honey, what's wrong?

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I can't bear the thought of having to leave Willow Manor now,

especially with this gorgeous new roof. How could this be

happening?

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Oh, no! Don't you see? It's a sign! It means we're going to stay.

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To make a long story short, WT was right. It was a sign. And a very

symbolic one, too. For me, Willow Manor's cedar roof will always be

a beautiful picture of security, protection and unity. Not just a

sturdy armour of wood on an old stone house, but a shield of love

for a family, as well.