lessons

1) in matters of home projects, always double the budget

2) in matters of home projects peripherally or directly connected to ikea, always double the projected time allotment and frustration margin allotment

3) stay hydrated

4) temporary pain for long-term joy

5) realize that #4 is just something you tell yourself to get to the end

6) if there is a sliver of doubt, step aside, hire a professional