New Widow's Need

 Widows, especially older ones, are faced with many challenges and they aren't always what you think. Sure, it would be nice to have Prince Charming trot in on his steed but Princes are hard to find when you're over a certain age. First of all, there is the old saying about acquiring a man: "purse or nurse" and it is very true. Second of all, old men think they prefer younger females. Not to worry.The first male with intentions, who comes along doesn't always pan out to be what you think. But practically speaking, living alone doesn't mean that you can't do just about anything around the house or a "place" that a man can. A friend of mine was reduced to tears when she couldn't get a new floor fan out of a box. Suddenly, overnight, you must be able to get that jar lid off, change the light bulbs and take out the garbage. And don't ask family or other men and become a terrible nuisance. No personal reward in that! You soon find that tears don't work, even though they make you feel better momentarily. After getting a grip on yourself get a gripper for jar lids in the kitchen and one like the "old folks" had, called a grabber, that reaches into high or narrow spaces that you can't. I had a sock that fell behind the washer and this was a quick way to extricate it. If all my advice makes you feel antiquated, forget it. Pride is nice, but of no practical use whatsoever.  Next tool is a safe step ladder that is sturdy and has at least enough steps for you to reach a light bulb. If you live in a place with stupid high ceilings that eat up money on heating, find a Handy Person Helper who doesn't come with a fancy truck and uniform. They cost a lot. Ask around and you'll find one you can trust and not have to pay an arm and a leg for. One of them I called, had a broken arm and no tools. He asked me if he could borrow mine. I have a perfect one now, who does other jobs but is worth waiting for. He can fix anything. But it costs. Buy a cart of some kind for when the delivery person leaves that huge box with one tiny item inside, outside your door.  The cart or trolley should be one that folds away and is versatile. You can go on line or prowl around hardware stores to find it. Always try these things out and don't be afraid to develop the habit of asking a lot of questions. There are unscrupulous types out there who can see a widow coming. Get used to it. The trolley must accommodate garbage bins, hallways, doorways, elevators and sometimes a few steps. No need to spend a lot. Do try it out. Prepare a box of good quality tools. You will need an adjustable wrench, a pair of pliers (I use mine for champagne corks at times), a screwdriver with many heads in the handle, a sharp utility knife, a small saw, a light but strong hammer, a folding measuring tape, scissors that will cut through a wire, duct tape, good wood glue, a few nails and screws ( ask about dry wall screws),  big tin of WD40 and a large sack of patience.  Go on line for fixing things the easy way and browse. But your best tool, is a sense of humour for when things go awry. Shed the tears and go for the laughter instead.  Surprising what you can do all by yourself!