The Vacuum Cleaner Is Not A Piggy Bank

I'd like to propose a theory.  It's a universal law, spanning time, language, and cultural boundaries, which states all children are born with the knowledge that when parents purchase something new, it is their sole responsibility to break it within a month's time.  Our new vacuum cleaner supports this theory, but more testing is needed.

We spent more time than probably needed when we searched for a new vacuum cleaner, but after 8 years of marriage and decades of buying crappy products, we've learned it's better to pay more and get what you want than to settle on a price.  We were on a search for the best upright vacuum cleaner, and for us, that means we'd rather have an easy empty filter, fold down handle, and automatic cord rewind, than Wal-Mart's off brand $30 special.  Sadly, it's the last option that may have us looking for another vacuum already.

Even sadder, we couldn't find a haircut attachment.

It certainly does suck.

We've been emptying our loose change jar and sorting coins as we prepare to implement a new chore system for the boy.   Our daughter has been un-sorting (<-----not a word) them and storing them for herself.  I'm glad that she enjoys saving money, I just wish she would start using her piggy bank instead of our vacuum.

Above is a piggy bank.  Notice the easy access slot that is just large enough for coins to slip inside.

This is a vacuum cleaner.  I can see how one might confuse the automatic cord rewind slot for a coin slot.  Actually, that's not true.  I don't see how you could confuse the two.  The piggy bank offers a nice obstruction-free way to pinch those pennies.  The cord rewind slot has a HUGE ELECTRICAL CORD BLOCKING THE SLOT.  Apparently it doesn't block it well enough because I spent a solid hour of my time on Tuesday tipping our upright vacuum cleaner into many different positions, none if which was actually upright.

After taking the cord rewind box apart three times, I ended up scoring around 10 cents in pennies.  There is still a nickel floating around in there somewhere, but with all the tossing and turning it has wedged itself nicely inside the vacuum.  I figure this should help increase the re-sale value.

The important part of any experience like this is that you learn something.  I learned a little more about the inner workings of our vacuum cleaner.  And, being able to bust out some tools, helped me feel manly after an entire day of mopping floors, cleaning dishes, and folding Dora and Disney Princess underwear.  Most importantly, my daughter learned the value of saving...and the correct means of doing so.

Put down the camera before she sticks that pop-tart in the piggy bank.