I can do it!!

Dad's need to know how to do things.  Its a rule.  Ever since watching my dad take a few winters to put together our basement from the studs on up, its been my belief that Dad's need to know how to do things.  Ever since buying a house I have taken the stance that while I don't know how to do a lot, I'm willing to learn.  So far I've learned to build a deck, change out counter tops and install a new sink and faucet, and master the surprisingly defined art of installing a dual ceiling fan and light switch.  I can now claim a new skill: Removing existing wiring from a wall switch to a light fixture while venturing into the attic to ensure proper installation.  The wiring skill is fun for me because I deal with electrical work at my job day in and day out, and I know how things can go wrong.  The good news is that I've got a couple of professionals to draw upon.  The father-in-law Frank and my dad know more than enough to get me from beginning to end on a successful project.  Knowing full well that it isn't a Kevin project unless a few bumps are encountered and an extra trip to Menards is absolutely necessary.

Luckily this time around the project wasn't too difficult to begin with.  The surprises came part way through, which isn't ideal but we made it work.  Baby Swan's room now has a functioning ceiling fan with a dual switch that independently operates the ceiling fan and the light switch.  I suppose when you say it like that, it sounds marginally difficult.  In reality, like most projects, it is very easy when you know what you are doing.  This time around it was my on the job training, and the expert showing me the way was Frank.  Kelsey and I started by removing the old light fixture and examining the current wiring, only to find that it was insufficient for what we had.  Frank steps in with his knowledge of running new wiring and the logistics of getting the new wire to the desired location, and all the while I'm taking mental notes so I can use the knowledge next time around.  Without many speed bumps, we get the wire set and all that's left is to assemble the fan.  No problem.  The fan is up in about 15 minutes and I can safely say that Baby Swan will not be warm if I can help it.  That fan is perfect for his little room.  Mission accomplished.

I'm sure the projects that are coming down the pipeline for this house are a little smaller in the grand scheme, but if there is a new house in our future, I will use what I know now, and be ready and willing to experience everything that the new house will offer to our family.

On the baby front, Mom and Baby Swan are doing rather well.  The days are getting fewer and the due date is getting closer.  We have some baby classes to go to, which I am REALLY excited for (funny how blogs can sometimes pick up on sarcasm) but i think Dad needs some information to do the little things like change a diaper, or other Dad things that I'll be ask to do.  Gotta practice and do it right for when the little slugger arrives.

Until next time, i'll just continue to work on the projects and do the Dad stuff, whatever that is. :-)

Dad-to-be