In 1977, when I purchased my first condo in Chicago Earl presented me with a hard hat to honor the occasion. It’s followed me ever since and hidden out in more than one closet.That was six residences ago.
Today I rescued it from its current hiding place and put it in a spot of honor in my office. It is to remind me that I’m serious about my unexpected New Year’s resolution to obtain a Michigan Builder’s License. (See January 2 blog.) After all, the hard hat looks almost new, and I want to do something about that.
I started by finishing the first online lesson of my builder’s class. There are eighty-nine to go, so I need to do at least a couple every week to finish this year, take the qualifying test, and obtain my state license.
I’m not sure I really want to build a house, but it does seem like a logical extension of my many moves and many homes. I’ve built out condos in Chicago, gutted rooms to the studs in St. Joseph, and generally love to create a unique living space. I just haven’t done a project from the foundation up.
And even if we decide to build a house, I’m not sure I want to be on ladders pounding nails at this age. Still, whoever builds the house for us won’t be able to use shortcuts. My hard hat and I will be there watching.
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