The art of letting go - Vacuums included

I don't have good luck with vacuums. I would like to say that it isn't my fault...but that would be ridiculous. Of course it's my fault, after all, I am only $200 away from a really good one right?

It all started a few Christmas' ago. We were wrapping-up the unwrapping and my dad was getting rather giddy. I inquired further the means for his behavior and he soon there after reveled to me a completely refurbished 1970 vacuum for my very own! Since I had just moved into my condo in Kirkland, the timing was quite apropos. I chose to ignore the fact that the thing weighed 80 lbs, had no extension hose for those "hard to reach places" and required new dirt-bags every 3rd use. I graciously accepted it and vacuumed with enthusiasm and appreciation for the time and effort Dad put forth to give me a special gift.

Fast forward 5 years and envision a very frustrated Andi who tries to keep a tidy home, but finds such task impossible when said refurbished vacuum continues to sneeze out it's internal guts every time I turn the dang thing on. On a particularly sunny day, I happened to observe just how much dust it spat out while I was trying to pick up the week's worth filth on my carpet. That was it! The end of my emotional-attachment to this dang machine that doesn't do what it was made to do. So, I ripped the chord out of the wall, mid-vacuum, and promptly sat myself in front of my email to kindly thank my father for this gift he poured much time into all those years ago, but it was time for both of us to let-go. I was officially in the market for a new, perhaps a bag-free/Hepa filter vacuum. You know...really indulge in the fine luxuries in life. I even contemplated the Roomba...you know...no hands/no time/no effort needed. Just turn it on and walk away. Nick laughed at me and asked "Why would you want that?" I am sure the look on my face was enough of an answer, but just in case he didn't get it...I answered his question with a question: "When was the last time YOU vacuumed or swept the floor?"* But either way, my destiny was not for a new vacuum. No instead, my frugal father responded to my email saying he had yet another vacuum for me...not refurbished, but perhaps an upgrade. And since I am my father's daughter, I accepted graciously...happy to be saving the extra bucks, thinking I just scored an awesome deal.

Yesterday, I realized the truth...this vacuum sucks too! And not the good way! It seems to have the "smearing" effect. Just kinda pushing the dirt around until it feels like sucking it up. So I spend MORE time than before trying to get the dirt off the ground. At least this one actually keeps the dirt in. It is also is a bit easier to push...with the other, I ended up de-layering due to overheating as I progressed from room to room. Thankfully, my upgrade does have an extension hose...so all those hard to reach places can satisfyingly get clean. Aesthetically, it is rather sad. A very dull blue color and chunky to boot; lowest of the low 1980 model. I try not to complain...it was free after all...and everyone knows I love a great deal!

And a perk for my parents: An enthusiastic daughter, willing to vacuum their home with every visit. They have an internal vacuum system...no bags, no weight, no problem! Wonder how much that costs to install??? Naw...I will just add that to the "wish list" for the next house.

*Nick is actually a very good house cleaner...when he remembers to do it AND makes the time. I just happen to have a higher need of cleanliness around our humble abode.