Linda Andrews

The hubbinator and I knew the table was old. We’d had it for at least 20 years. And while we kept tightening the legs, they kept loosening up until collapse was eminent.

Which we knew but didn’t inform my sister about when she was visiting and offered to mop the floors. I have a lot of flooring which I am reminded of when I mop the floor. But I digress. She attempted to move the dining table when she realized it was resembling downward dog in yoga, then stopped and carefully placed it back. Then called to tell me of the catastrophe.

After I finished laughing, I told her we knew of the problem and had planned to replace it but with the overages in the house redo, didn’t think like any replacements we could afford.

But we live near a retirement center where people are downsizing into smaller homes or no longer need them so used furniture places abounded.

Since I was heading over that way so my sister and I could visit with family, I thought I’d check them out. My sister decided to come, so did my mother when she mentioned it, who then roped in my older sister, too.

With 3 folks in tow, we entered the store. I preferred one table but my Mom hated the chairs and wouldn’t be comfortable sitting in them for long periods, such as card games or dominoes after dinner. I didn’t think this was too much of a downside, which earned my a look and a promise of retribution later. (I came by my evil naturally).

By passing the Danish modern work of art and its very high price tag, I found another table which passed by mother’s sitting test (not really, but she agreed that she could sit in the chairs longer). I asked about a leaf extension then if there were more than 6 chairs. There was an 18 in leaf but only 6 chairs but the saleslady wheeled 2 fabric chairs over and slid them in place.

Somewhere about this time, I became a spectator in the whole buying a table adventure. My mom mentioned leaving when the price was mentioned. My older sister opened the gate for negotiations (which made me want to leave). Then my other sister swooped in and got a final price that was $180 cheaper than the price on the tags.

Next came the topic of delivery and when I said the hubbinator and I could haul it ourselves with the truck, the full brunt of the negotiators turned on me. As the youngest, I folded like a soggy house of cards and had it delivered. Here it is almost fully set up.

Either way, I am happy with the table. The hubbinator is happy with the table. And it actually looks pretty good, all thanks to the combined powers of my family.

Until next time.