My husband and I are quickly (re)learning all of that. Showing up on time, willing to do even dirty jobs, being respectful, and willing to go above and beyond seem to be the key.
He has been "out of work" for well over a year and we were making ends meet with what we used to call "side jobs." It is getting to the point where we almost have more work than we know what to do with. 95% of it being through word of mouth referrals. More than 10 years ago he walked away from the "home improvement" biz and got himself a coat and tie job, well that's gone now and he's back to jeans and work boots. And I've put away the hose and heels and swing a paintbrush or hammer or shovel right along side of him, when I'm not washing windows or scrubbing toilets.
We've got a child to feed and a mortgage to pay, painting walls or cleaning houses is not beneath either of us.......even in this economy there are still people who want someone else to do it and are willing to pay to get it done properly and in a timely fashion. Apparently folks like my husband and I are hard to find :)
Ditto! Old house fever runs in my family, so I actually enjoy the things I can do, but being a petite woman I can't do everything.
You're lucky you fell in love with a carpenter, I hope I do someday! :)
Gabz,
We’ve had our differences but I believe you are a respectable hard working American who adapts to their circumstances and perseveres.
Hats off to you and God bless!
Mike