Being Handy Comes in Handy

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My mom is constantly watching home decorating shows, doing DIY projects, painting rooms….
That’s what inspired me to write this blog.
Ever since my mom was a teenager, she would repaint her bedroom walls and properly use
tools. Over the years she has learned to use more basic power tools, recaulk the bathroom tub,
recover the seats of the dining room chairs, and give all sorts of old furniture a new life by with
simple updates. She says that the trick is not being afraid to make a mistake! It makes me
wonder, “why don’t I give it a whirl?”

When I was little, I remember going into Home Depot on Saturday mornings with my pappy and
seeing little projects kids could build like jewelry boxes, birdhouses, and other fun things (they
even served popcorn sometimes, yum!). As I got older, I could appreciate that there are many
handy people in our family! My pappy Ed put siding on his own twostory house (it took him all
summer). My great grandfather made Adirondack chairs, furniture for our dolls, and many more
amazing things out of wood. He once built my mom and her sisters a doll house, and my great
grandmother sewed tiny curtains and even upholstered a tiny couch he made for it.


Maybe I have a few crafty skills, but in a different way with journaling, crocheting, and other
creative interests.
I’ve learned that being a little handy can come in handy basic things like checking smoke detectors, mowing the lawn, and keeping up with household. Thanks to my family, I have learned how to properly use the washer, dryer, dishwasher, vacuum, to use certain basic tools, and to drive a car. Of course I can’t fix a car, but I know how to call AAA if I ever need help!
For me personally it makes me feel connected to my family, and projects you’re working on can
be a great conversation starter!


I feel my curiosity is a blessing because I want to learn as much as I can to prepare for the
future. I feel that the more you know, the more prepared you are. You can never stop learning
new things. And I have a lot to learn! On my list of things to learn or practice is how to properly
perform CPR, how change a tire, how to properly treat minor cuts and bruises, and kickboxing!

Sarah Matincheck

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