We’ve got one of the cheapest, most useless dishwashers in our house. It didn’t even work properly when we closed, but functioned well enough for our home inspector to approve it. Putting a new timer dial on it probably cost more than the thing is worth. Even with that repair, the dishes constantly come out unwashed. Glasses have streaks, and food remains on the silverware and plates.

Today, we finally sealed its fate. A new, quiet, self-emptying Kenmore will be installed on Thursday. Yay!

I’ve been doing so much grumbling lately that I forgot to mention we’re going to Italy in May! Kelly’s family put the trip together and we can’t be more excited. It’s been a while since we’ve taken a vacation outside the borders of our Fatherland, er, Homeland, and Italy sounds like a great place to go next.

We’ll be visiting Siena, which has been called the worlds’ most beautiful city. Oh, and for you crooks out there, our neighbors’ Rottweilers will be holding down the fort while we’re gone.

Ciao!