Gentlemen’s Corner

You can DO IT!

Ever since I was young, my dad always pushed me to learn to do things for myself. Every time a project or task needed to be done, he had me in tow to watch over his shoulder. I attribute my current knowledge about ‘stuff’ to him. If you didn’t have someone to teach you, there are plenty of ways to learn in today’s world. You Tube has become a personal favorite. This week, I’d like to suggest a few things that all Gentlemen learn to do and of course, pass along to the next generation. Start small and work your way up!

Going back to basics

I’ve put together a short list of tasks that require a little bit of knowledge but a whole lot of desire to do it yourself. Sure, we can pay someone to do it (I have several Handymen friends by the way so let me know.) but today its about diving in and taking it on yourself. These are all fairly simple projects that you really can’t screw up too bad.

  1. Change your oil. Yep, I know, there’s an easy way to do this by going to Jiffy Lube or the Valvoline shop. As a car guy, I can tell you there is something special about taking time with your vehicle and doing it yourself. The oil is cheaper when you buy it in bulk too! Get yourself a jack and some jack stands please. This could get messy so wear your worst T-shirt for this one. Consistent maintenance on your car will make it last longer too!

2. Clean the back of your refrigerator. I bet you didn’t see this one coming. Here’s another ‘ounce of prevention’ task that may save you from buying a new fridge sooner than later. Yeah, you need to pull it out and clean the mess behind it that you didn’t know existed. I’m more focused on the coils and the vented area. Vacuum it ALL! Without proper cooling, the compressor will work harder and thus, not last as long. This is an EASY one.

3. Change the mower/tractor oil. Just like your car, these tools need care as well. Even if you don’t use them more than once a week, the oil still goes bad. Do a full check of the gas lines, spark plugs and the air filter, if there is one. If you are up to it, have your mower blades sharpened too. Your grass will thank you! I’ve seen some pretty nasty mowers in my day that just don’t have the will to live. Save yourself from having to buy a new one!

4. Clean your outside windows. If you have access to the outside windows in your home, buy yourself a cool window washing tool with a squeegee. Use that old painting pole you have somewhere and go get the pollen and bird poop off of them. Not only will this extend the life of the window by not allowing the dirt to collect on the sills but it makes looking out them so much nicer.

5. Change ceiling fan. Every apartment and home I’ve ever lived in had a ceiling fan. We’re in the south, doesn’t everyone? Once you get past the electrical concerns, it’s a pretty simple task. PLEASE turn off the power to the fan before making ANY changes. Follow the directions and have a buddy nearby. Think about how awesome it will be to walk around your place with all the new fans on day!

Are you ready for the challenge?

I hope this was helpful. Sure, not everyone has the need to do all of these, but I hope you get my point. Take on that uncomfortable project yourself. If you have a handy ‘brother,’ have him over for a beer to watch and make sure you don’t screw it up too bad. I promise you, the feeling of accomplishment is tangible when you can get your Honey do list done in a weekend!

Shoot me your stories of how you did!

Colin Furcht- BRO Beard Products CEO

Colin has been a long time Lake Norman resident and has been very active in the community. From Commissioner to founding the Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade to now a featured Author and small business owner! His desire is to bring men together and encourage them to reach out. He has always said, ‘look out for yourselves and each other.’ All men need a Brotherhood. www.brobeardproducts.shop

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