My sink faucet has been loose for a while, resulting in slight leaking into the cabinet below, which was annoying but manageable since I put a dishpan there to catch the water.  Recently the top of the faucet started coming off when we turned the water on – I think it was a little disconcerting for a couple of guests to turn it on with the intent to fill up the washing cup, and have a piece of it end up in their hands!  So the time to replace it had finally come. 

Dh bought a replacement for it, but as you might have realized, he has more things to do around here than time to do them!  So the replacement faucet has been sitting on top of the computer for over a month, waiting to be replaced.  Today dh took care of it, and the kids learned some new home repair skills in the process.  We’re an equal opportunity home – boys and girls get to learn useful skills, regardless of what gender traditionally performs them – girls have learned to drywall and cut tile, and boys cook and do dishes. 

Today dh and ds15 wrestled the old sink out – part of the piece below the sink had rusted and what should have been a quick and easy repair job became very time consuming and laborious.  Once they got the hacksaw out and cut through the metal pipe, the rest went quickly.  Dd12 put in the new faucet once the old one was out of the way.  It’s a nice feeling of accomplishment for her, to have done it herself and to see the very visual difference. 

Once again, being willing to learn to take care of our own repairs has saved us a bundle, while simultaneously teaching our children practical skills that will stand them in good stead!  Now, on to the next project….

Avivah