That became Rule #1 of Plumbing: Never start a plumbing
project you
can't finish.
1A: Scope out the job, and figure out what tools, and parts
you need. Get the parts before you begin. Get a couple
extra, whatever, if they are cheap. Like copper elbows.


Rule #2: For project of less than one day in scope, add at
least 3
hours and two trips to the hardware store to your estimate.
2A: Since you have scoped out the job, and gotten parts, you
won't need so many parts runs.

For
longer projects, add 1 day per estimated day. Wives scream
less if
you finish early.
2B: It's good to figure extra time.

Rule #3: When the pipes are cut, the plumber is wet and
things aren't
going okay, it is okay to lie to people about anything you
want if it
gets them to leave you alone.
3A: Honest people will be honest with their family. It's OK
to honestly tell someone you need to be left alone with your
work.


Rule #4: Always give your wife a bill. She'll blow you
off, but at
least she might see that whatever you did had some value on
some
planet.
4A: Only if you want to be billed for sex, food, and
housekeeping.


Rule #5: Don't tell anyone when you're done so you can get
the first
shower.
5A: That's the male prerogative. You don't have to lie.


I'm sure there are more.