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Thursday, January 6, 2011

Determined to Try New Things

I am reading a great book by Gretchen Rubin titled The Happiness Project.  Gretchen is a happy person who sets out on a year-long experiment to be happier.  One of her monthly challenges was to try new things and push her boundaries.
I was inspired.
First of all, I must say that for the most part, I am spoiled.  I am blessed with an amazing husband who takes care of SO many details in my life.  However, I find myself taking for granted and relying on (dare I say "expecting") his courtesy.
Enter the dripping faucet.
Following a kitchen remodel project last summer our kitchen faucet began dripping.  And it was irritating.  Everytime I turned it off I spent several seconds attempting to get the handle in the exact position that would stop the incessant plinking of water.  I think in the back of mind I just assumed this was a project for my Man.  (I know, I never would have made it as a feminist.)
But, wait...Here was a perfect opportunity to "push my boundaries" and try something new.  I would fix the leaky faucet.
And I did it!
It wasn't easy.  I googled "leaky faucet fixing".  I watched several YouTube videos.  I called the Delta faucet hotline (yes, there is one and they are pretty nice).  Come to find out, breaking through the mineral build-up on the faucet parts was the most difficult part.  Once all the parts had been sufficiently doused in vinegar they loosened up.  I found the parts that my research indicated were the most likely cause of faucet drips - the seats and springs.  I made a quick trip to the local hardware store, bought the parts and reassembled the whole thing.  I hesitantly turned the water supply on and lifted the faucet.  Water came out - but then that was not the original problem.  I turned the faucet OFF and guess what?  No more drips!
And you know what, it made me very happy!
Here's a picture of one of the last drips from my drippy faucet:

3 comments:

  1. Yay! Go you! I should really push myself in this area too. Great photo!

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  2. Love this post! We had a leaky faucet for almost two years....yes that is a long time! I thought the same thing and probably should have pushed myself beyond my boundries...you've inspired me. Love your photo!

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  3. Cool photo.... I like the grain and the light

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