if it were a man, I'd marry it!*

Instead of attending the Black Sheep Gathering last weekend, I went out and bought a washer and dryer. This was a difficult purchase--more fraught than the decision to buy the entire house.

When it came to buying a washing machine, I wanted to give the good ole top-loaders an even break. I looked at them, I considered them, but they were no match for the efficient, water-sipping Consumer Reports darlings. Tax credits, rebates, and sale prices bring the low- to mid-range front-loaders almost down to the top-loading models with desirable features like multiple water levels and spin speeds. And when you factor in the savings over the life of the washer, well... [Please excuse the rationalization. It allows me to sleep at night].

OK, I admit it. I chose my washer and dryer not so much for their admirable work ethic and great personalities. I did it for their looks. As hard as I tried, I could not resist the allure of the sex-ay, sex-ay front-loading washing machines and their equally attractive drying counterparts. This pair is going to be sitting essentially right out in the kitchen, not lurking in a garage or basement. I'm going to have to look at them every day for what I hope is many, many years to come. I want them to be attractive, dammit!

There, I said it. I'm shallow. Looks matter to me.

I'm so ashamed...

...but I am pretty happy that I didn't have to pay extra for black.

ROWR!!

*actual quote from product review on Sears.com