“You may be right,
I may be crazy.”
Billy Joel
Whoa – wait. What? You’re going to do what? Document the restoration of your woefully run down house on PinkToolBelted.com for all the world to see? What on earth for?
I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve asked myself those questions. Usually it is while contorting my face and scratching my head. But there are numerous reasons I’m undertaking the restoration of my home on my own, as a single woman, with a limited budget, and absolutely no experience whatsoever doing most of the tasks required.
First – it’s imperative! I absolutely love my house, but time, money, and the responsibility of being a single Mom have precluded me from being its best owner for over 20 years. But my daughter is soon embarking on her PhD studies, so it’s time for me to reassess priorities. And my house is near the top of the list. (And yup – I’m #1 on that list for the first time ever.)
Second – I can’t afford to hire the caliber of experts I would allow to touch my beloved house. I’ve gone the economy route and learned that you get what you pay for.
Third – I’m a tad independent. (Okay, that may well be the understatement of the century.) I’m also self-confident and fearless – typically not a good combination, but in this case it might serve me well.
Fourth – I love to learn. In fact, I’m convinced that life-long learning is the secret to being ageless. Listen to any interview of Warren Buffett or Bill Gates if you don’t believe me. They love learning, too.
Fifth – I love to teach. My intent is to pass on tips and tricks, cost-saving ideas, creative solutions and bit of whimsy and inspiration as well.
Sixth – I love to write – I’ve recently changed careers to write about software instead of developing it as I have done my entire adult life. And when I can combine writing with learning and teaching, it’s almost better than sex!
But finally, and perhaps most importantly – I’m nuts! I mean, not in a clinical sense. But when you see the types of projects I’m tackling and how I’m conquering them, you may even concur. And perhaps that’s why I like how Billy Joel’s song continues –
“But it just may be a lunatic you’re looking for.”
So come with me on this ride to restore my home. It will be arduous but fulfilling. I hope it is cost-effective and ultimately profitable. It certainly will be educational and challenging. And I’m hoping that along the way, it might also be encouraging and motivating to anyone else contemplating their own similar adventure.
I certainly plan to do my best. And besides, I don’t scare easily — see why.
And for confirmation of “crazy”, check out these past projects:
Driftwood Planter
Clinker Brick Courtyard
