Dea Adams has waited two years to have a new home. She was chosen by the Catoosa County Habitat for Humanity selection committee in 2010, and they immediately broke ground for the new construction. But an unforeseen tragedy would put her dreams on hold.

The tornado that ripped through Ringgold in April 2011 delayed Habitat's plans to build the Adams' family house while many habitat volunteers and board members rebuilt their own homes. As an entire city put forth efforts to rebuild, Adams waited for her future to begin.

"Through the process I have had doubts and frustrations, but it has paid off," Adams said during the Habitat house dedication on Sunday, Jan. 27. "Without the support from friends and family and Habitat, it could not have happened."

The three-bedroom, two-bath home is perfect for herself and her two children. The family was all smiles during the dedication ceremony as they showed off there individual bedrooms.

"I love it," said Adams. "We actually have our own home and our own rooms."

The back corner lot located on Habitat Way is more than an acre in size. The house has a large back porch with towering pines lending privacy. The bold blue color in the living room is exactly Adams' style, she said. Because Habitat requires the owners to contribute 500 hours of “sweat equity” during construction, Adams painted, cleaned and worked in the yard, creating even more pride in her new house. The house is completed, but Habitat is looking for donations to make the private drive more accessible to homeowners and future development, said Habitat affiliate coordinator Sandra Powell.

"We determine the family based on need and we felt Dea to be the person who needed a home and we are glad it has united this family," Becky Hatcher said.

Becky and Jimmy Hatcher led the dedication by presenting Adams with a Bible and challenging her to make the house into a home for her family.

"We will make it a home," Adams said. "You have answered my prayers to have a home for my children. You all have made this possible."

"Habitat is glad to help you have a house and we will help you build a home," Jimmy Hatcher said. "Accept this challenge, to honor God in the place He has led you."

Habitat for Humanity of Catoosa County has an office at Community National Bank. Habitat offers an interest-free loan for 15 to 20 years on a new home. Families are chosen based on need. For more information contact the local office at 706-861-5858. The organization is currently looking for volunteers for upcoming projects.