Welcome, amy55. I appreciate what Pelican writes above, and it does go both ways for us here. Sometimes, we need a honest perspective from a recovering alcoholic! I've learned so much from the posters here who have experiences on both sides of the fence - I am grateful for the input and wisdom.
I, too, bought a fixer upper recently. It has been a summer of projects and I have learned a lot about home repairs. Hopefully you have a local hardware store with good employees that can become your friends! I also haunt garage sales and thrift stores for stuff that people throw out - got several light fixtures this way, for only a couple bucks each. I also salvaged a gorgeous old cabinet that had been in a house fire, and it is on its way to becoming a new bathroom vanity. For me - having "stuff" to do has been immensely helpful as I go through some pretty tough stuff. I have learned that I need to keep occupied so I dwell less often, and what better way than to tackle house projects.
Congrats on your life choices...sounds like you are on a great path!
~T