Last weekend our old GE countertop microwave died after 33 years of service. Made in the USA, before carousel turntables. But everyday since it croaked we have caught ourselves as we fill a ceramic dish with food to thaw or cook, or prepare to warm a cup of liquid, only to realize it has to be heated in a pot on the gas stove. Geez, it's like living in the 1970's before household microwaves were common. It makes you realize how reliant we become on new technologies.

A new microwave oven arrived yesterday, transferred from UPS to USPS for delivery. The box clearly showed that it had been dropped on a corner, and inside, the cabinet had been crunched. A one day lifespan. Who knows where it happened but I'd guess the mail persons don't like having to deliver heavier packages for UPS. A replacement has already been shipped and should arrive Monday. Retail efficiency in the days of cheap Chinese goods. Any bets on whether this one will survive shipment, or last 33 years?