The Dishwasher is Fixed

Further testament to the power of positive reinforcement. (See: When Theology, Psychology, and Pedagogy Coincide)

In the battle of husband vs. dishwasher. Husband wins another round. As it turns out the timing mechanism was sticky or something--causing it to stop before the drain cycle. WD40.

It all started when Sears came out the first time it broke and told me it needed a new motor. They also happened to offer me a $200 coupon for a new dishwasher--as the cost of replacing the motor was worth more than the dishwasher was worth.

Why you ask, in suburban Minnesota did I not put a new dishwasher on my Sears card right then? As an act of rebellion against replacing a seven year old dishwasher, and to show the kids that we can't just rush out and buy something new every time something breaks, I decided to go ahead and replace the motor. When the serviceman arrived, funny. . . it turned out it was only a $7 plastic valve that had broke.

Since then, we--okay--Bill, has replaced two handles, the entire door mechanism and rebuilt the steam escape do-hicky. He is going to order the pump and the motor, the only pieces that haven't been replaced. If those parts are sitting in the basement shop, that should ensure the health and well being of the appliance for several more years.

At the risk of sounding too virtuous, the real reasons I don't get a new DW are thus: I like the handles to match the stove, and I can't bear the thought of shopping for a new one.

I think this might be a rare occasion where the simple life and the beautiful life are as one.

Speaking of beautiful, the real reason I wanted to write tonight is to say congratulations to the eight students who played so musically and I would add, passionately, yesterday at the Recitals for Advancing Students, put on by the Twin Cities Suzuki Piano Teachers Guild. Calvin, Oliver, Lena, Grace, Aidan, Anna, Christina and Cassy--I was so happy in my heart to hear you all play. Can I add that I had tears in my eyes at several moments? You are one determined group! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!