Beauty is always present in the world around us, and a significant part of its charm lies in the incredible diversity of plants and flowers, stunning rock formations, vibrant hues, enticing fragrances, and unique sights.
If you’re a traveler, you surely understand this feeling. One of the most captivating aspects of exploring a new country is the chance to experience nature in ways you’ve never encountered before.
Now, although I’ve never visited Brazil, I was utterly mesmerized when I stumbled upon an image of the jabuticabeira tree. Curious to learn more? Read on!
For those who may not be familiar, the jabuticabeira tree is native to Brazil, and its appearance is truly striking. What intrigues me most is the peculiar way this tree, also known as the Brazilian Grape Tree, produces its fruit. The jabuticaba fruit, which is a deep purplish-black, grows directly from the trunk, giving the impression that the tree is infested with some strange alien creatures.
However, the jabuticaba fruit is not only edible but is also believed to offer numerous health benefits. It’s said to positively affect respiratory functions and can help alleviate issues like diarrhea. Additionally, it’s thought to open bronchial passages, which can aid conditions such as asthma.
Moreover, the jabuticaba fruit is packed with antioxidants, which may lower the risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. This remarkable tree, native to Brazil, allows its fruit to be consumed fresh or transformed into jellies, jams, juices, or even wine. Have you ever come across this stunning fruit before? I certainly hadn’t until now!
Woman buys abandoned lighthouse and turns it into cozy “nautical” home
Picture owning your very own lighthouse, a majestic beacon overlooking a vast bay, embodying both hope and history.
Sheila Consaul, a 65-year-old aficionado of historic preservation, turned this dream into reality.
For a sum of $71,000, Sheila purchased a derelict lighthouse in Fairport Harbor, Ohio, and embarked on a journey that would see her invest over $300,000 in transforming it into her dream vacation home.
Living in a lighthouse is far from ordinary; solitude greets you at every turn.
Forget about a driveway leading to the front door; instead, you park half a mile away and transport everything you need by hand, from groceries to generator fuel. Yet, the experience, once embraced, is unparalleled.
Sheila’s journey began from her passion for historic preservation and a desire for a unique summer retreat.
Upon discovering that the government was auctioning off lighthouses, she saw an opportunity to merge her interests.
Though the lighthouse she acquired was in a sorry state, with cracked windows and peeling plaster, Sheila remained undeterred.
With the aid of a home equity loan, she embarked on a challenging yet fulfilling renovation project.
Renovating the lighthouse presented numerous challenges; every construction material had to be hoisted by crane and transported by boat due to its remote location.
Furthermore, being entirely off the grid posed additional hurdles; rebuilding the electrical system and relying on a gasoline-powered generator were just a few of Sheila’s tasks.
Despite these obstacles, the transformation is remarkable.
Today, the lighthouse boasts a fully equipped kitchen with granite countertops and modern appliances.
The plumbing and electrical systems have been overhauled, while the once-broken windows now showcase stunning stained glass.
However, preserving its historical essence was equally paramount.
Original features like dark brown floorboards and cast-iron stairs remain intact, alongside innovations such as a rainwater collection system.
Since 2012, Sheila has welcomed guests to the lighthouse, hosting annual open houses and sharing this community treasure with others.
Maintained by the Coast Guard and still serving as a navigational aid, the lighthouse stands as a testament to community and heritage.
Would Sheila embark on this journey again? Perhaps not, but the rewards have been immeasurable.
While she currently has no plans to rent out her unique summer home, she remains open to the possibility.
For now, she revels in the fruits of her labor and the extraordinary experience of lighthouse living.
Sheila Consaul’s story exemplifies what happens when perseverance and passion converge.
She didn’t just acquire a property; she rescued a historical gem, ensuring it endures for generations to come.
Take a virtual tour of the lighthouse in the accompanying video below!
Feel free to share this remarkable tale with your loved ones.
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