First thing Saturday morning I decided to fix the washing machine. This decision had not been reached lightly. The cold water pressure was weak so I had checked with two experts at work (i.e., they had both owned washing machines at one time or another) and determined that it was a sticky solenoid. I grabbed my toolbox and told my wife what I was planning.
Itll be fixed in ten minutes, I explain as I head down to the basement. Meanwhile, she is looking up the number of a 24 hour emergency plumbing service and entering it into the speed-dialing function of the telephone.
Shouldnt I call the plumber? she asks, making it obvious that she doesnt understand men. Of course, she has her reasons – Ive had some bad experiences. In fact, Ive yet to tackle a home improvement project that has actually improved the home.
But today I was feeling confident. I carefully removed every screw from the back of the washing machine only to discover that it still wouldnt come off. So, using the largest screwdriver I could find as leverage, I applied gentle pressure until suddenly there was a god-awful screech followed by two loud snaps and the back of the washing machine...