My dad came round today to rebuild, wth an incredible level of proficiency, the window ledge I accidentally demolished two months ago. Because dads can do that. Not this dad. Those dads. Up in that generation.

Unfortunately, as this didn't involve any work on a computer, I was hanging about like a spare wheel so I figured I'd make myself useful and go round to the back of the house to strip and paint a flaking window ledge on the first floor.

However, I could see the concern in my dad's eyes and, as he followed me out to the back, he watched as I retrieved my extension ladder and tried to look purposeful. One question though proved to be enough to strip me of all credibility.

'Which way up does the ladder go?'

I got the answer right, just, on the third go. The third go man, how is that even possible? There are only two answers, surely? Well I found an extra one. Which was wrong too.

I just hope someone invents some home improvements that can be carried out by computer or DIY's going to die out with my generation. Cos electricity has now assumed the same importance as oxygen. We're the first generation that'd die out in an extended power-cut.