Over the years, Olivia Ruiz has crisscrossed the entire United States in search of a stable life for her four children: Sherlyne (18), Kimberly (17), Ivan (12) and Jayden (11).

After living in Dallas, Texas; Naples, Florida; and San Diego, California; Olivia finally settled in Bryan, Texas, and works full time at Wayne-Sanderson Farms.

Like so many working single moms, Olivia struggles to make ends meet. The rent for the family’s three- bed, two-bath rental unit has increased from $850 to $1,200 a month in four years. With the recent arrival of the first grandchild, the need for more space is at an all-time high.

Olivia knew about Habitat for Humanity because of her mother, who lives in a Habitat home in Naples, Florida, and encouraged her to apply for a home through Bryan/College Station Habitat for Humanity. When her application was approved, Olivia recalls getting the news.

“My children and I were so happy because it was the biggest dream to have our own house, and we been looking forward to realizing that dream ever since,” Olivia said.

Everyone in the family can’t wait to move into their five-bedroom, two-bathroom home when it’s ready. The extra space will give the children more privacy and make it easier for them to study for school. When school work is over, the family can then enjoy play time and picnics in their own yard. One thing that won’t change: Olivia’s two youngest boys playing Nintendo together!

In the meantime, Olivia says her Habitat journey to homeownership has been one of the best experiences of her life. She also learned something important:

“I have learned to be patient and wait for God’s timing,” she said. “It’s not just when you want something, it’s when He has it ready for you.”

To all the financial sponsors and volunteers who helped build the home she has always dreamed of, Olivia thanks them all and asks God to give them many more blessings.

“You really don’t know the happiness you are giving my children and me,” she said. “I have faith that once we have our own house, we will be better off financially, but — more important — we will finally know what having a true home really means.“