Along with the recent holiday season, there was an unfortunate discovery that we had also been gifted a leaking toilet. After some investigative work on the part of my husband, Bob, it seemed there had been some water damage to the upstairs bathroom floor. To what extent was yet to be revealed, but it was clear something had to be done quickly.
Because of the holiday hangover happening in our bank account, and being the resourceful, "can-do" people that we are, my husband and I agreed that this was a job we could tackle together. We had survived and mastered home improvement projects in the past, so surely with the weekend and extra day we had off for New Years Day, we could do this.
My primary advice after this most recent experience? Once you've projected the hours required to finish the job--double it. Planned trips to the home improvement/hardware store--double it. Estimated costs--double it.
But don't let these observations deter you from the HGTV project of your dreams. There are so many tools and resources available to assist you with any project you wish. From free in-store classes, YouTube tutorials, and expert advice from neighbors and friends, there is no shortage of moral support. Just understand going in, like so many worthwhile things in life, that nothing will be easy. Your body will ache from the lifting, kneeling, stretching and hammering (insert other active verbs here). Problem-solving, communication skills and, yes, 7th grade math will undoubtedly also come into play.
So, if you can ride out the seesaw of the emotions that will rise and fall with the setbacks and successes of any project, know that you can bask in the afterglow of your handy-person accomplishments. It is an active way to learn something new and bond with your partner, friend, spouse or yourself.
The results of home improvement, self-improvement, happiness and satisfaction once the job is complete? Double it.
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