Death of the washing machine

You never realize how much you rely on something until it is broken, gone, or damaged beyond repair. Like when you cut your finger and it makes everything you normally do with your hand awkward. 

The washer died over the weekend. Sad. Trying to wring the water out of jeans is nicht so gut. 

Thankfully, Dave saved the day and today we picked up a new-to-us washer at the Appliance Exchange center. We even got a 2 year warranty just for giving them our broken one. 

Having even just a few days without a washing machine made me think of how much I have. I know I am always aware of my pioneer (and not pioneer) ancestors shaking their fists at me for being picky or "spoiled" even when I think I have it bad. I am glad I have running water that is clean and drinkable... ooh, doesn't a huge glass of water sound delicious?.... I am glad I have a heater, a safe house, and a computer. I am glad I could have my babies in a hospital with an epidural.... not hanging on to tree branches for this lady. I am grateful for cell phones and my Volvo wagon. And so many other things. 

Even the poorest people in America have it better than so many people in the world. 

Speaking of America, I can't help myself, but I still cry when I hear "God Bless the USA" when they sing the part  about "and I won't forget the men who died who gave that right to me." 

Random. I know. Don't even ask me to sing it.