Don't go cheap on a brush either.  

As for painting, don't buy cheap brushes or roller covers. 

I would imagine you had success with your mural because it was a lot of brush work, and the paint was properly loaded.Go to your local Sherwin Williams and ask for pro block oil base primer.

Since I don't own a texture spray gun anymore I just do a "random" drag on mine, no 2 square yards look alike.I just take a heavy texture brush and dip it into slightly thinned joint compound and "splook" it onto the ceiling.

So far have replaced drop ceilings and wood paneling with smooth painted surfaces, replaced brass fixtures and hardware with brushed nickel, installed high efficiency toilets and shower heads.

So long as it's not a "real" mortgage they just brush it off as irrelevant.

@Engelo Rumora I wasn't trying to start any banter, I just thought your statement was a little broad-brushed, sorry if my sarcasm bled through the keyboard...I would love to meet up when you are in town.

Any idea how much is normal to clear brush/trees on vacant land?

It is as important a process as you will ever need to know as you decide to place your hard earned money into those well reasoned bets.  401K's are not the static vehicle we would like them to be portrayed... the problem is, like all other investment choices, they need to be actively managed or you will not take advantage of what they offer.  401K's are not something you hand over.. do the auto contribution thing then 18 years later.. take a look and say OH, how you've grown up into a nice young portfolio..If you are not looking, checking, adjusting, contributing, turning contributions off/on when appropriate, shifting/balancing portfolio, then you are not investing, you are saving. 

I just hope you really see what mistakes you have made, brush yourself off, but get back on that horse, just this time with more knowledge.