September 11, 2006
The Outpost Arcade
A few months back, The VP purchased a pinball machine. I wasn't very happy about it. I said it could stay if we got rid of the television in the basement. There were hand shakes all around. The TV is out in the garage and EarthShaker takes up a corner of our family room. I'm still not happy. It's ugly, it makes a lot of noise, and The Senator consistently beats my high score. But what was I to do? A deal is a deal. Besides, it's hard to be upset with something that brings so much joy to the boys in this house.
Until last night. Right after this post, I'm setting up an eBay account. First item up for bid: two pinball machines. Yes, two. Introduce one bad element into your house, and the next thing you know, he's invited his reprobate friend to crash as well.
As it turns out, The VP purchased two pinball machines a couple of months ago. One was ready to go; the other needed to be refurbished. So my spouse, the person whom I trust above all others, led me to believe that he only purchased one. He figured he'd just deal with the wrath when the second machine arrived. I went to play soccer last night and came home to find WhirlWind already ensconced in the basement.
The real kicker? Everyone knew. The Senator knew. The Governor knew. My in-laws knew. My neighbors knew. Everyone knew we were getting another pinball machine. I expect this was a strategic maneuver on The VP's part. If his body disappeared, there would be several witnesses who could attest to a motive.
Whether or not WhirlWind stays is still up for debate. The boys have not fulfilled their end of the bargin. If a pinball machine comes into the house, something else has to go. The Senator did offer to get rid of his bed. He said he could sleep on the machine, but I imagine the county's Child Welfare Officer might have a word or two against that plan.
If anyone is interested in obtainly a newly refurbished arcade game...feel free to leave an offer in the comments.
Posted by Cathy at September 11, 2006 09:23 PMTell them these two guests have to eat, and what they eat is quarters. As long as they're fed, whether it's using allowance or whatever, you'd be happy to let them stay. Then you pocket the change and buy yourself a luxury item one day.
Posted by: kingdavid at September 12, 2006 07:08 AMOh dear. If I ever tried something like that, I think the first thing to leave my house would be connubial relations.
Posted by: Jeff at September 12, 2006 09:24 AMI so want to come over and play. I hope it is free....
Posted by: Paula at September 12, 2006 09:44 AMAt one point in time the Outpost had three pet dogs and no pinball machines. Now you have one dog and two pinball machines. Since the dog/pinball total is still three no further sacrifice should be required.
Posted by: Sheriff Bart at September 12, 2006 09:59 AMSheriff Bart, don't go putting ideas in those boy's heads.
I don't think The Chairman would take kindly to the idea of replacing Hoocher with a pinball machine. Just keep in mind that this is crazyweiler.com, not earthshaker.com.
Posted by: aelfheld at September 12, 2006 12:55 PMCool! Let me know if you get an "8-Ball Deluxe" or "Fireball" game next and I'll see you on E-bay!
It sounds as if the VPs next purchase should be flea powder, as he'll be in the doghouse for some time.
Posted by: Night Writer at September 12, 2006 02:15 PMThe author of The Far Wright was hoping to meet you at the MOB black-pajama soiree last weekend.
Posted by: Douglas at September 12, 2006 05:56 PMOMG. I can't believe they all did that to you. I would be spitting mad if it had been me. And not only would the second machine have to go, every single one of them that knew about it and didn't tell me would have to grovel and beg for forgiveness.
I'm sure they're making light of it: "Ha, ha! Cathy didn't know! Bet she was sure surprised!" But I don't think it's funny when your husband does an end-run around you like that. Not to mention the $$$ it must have cost, yikes! We have a general rule that anything that costs more than $100 gets at least a passing discussion. (Me: Do we have any money? Him: What do you need it for?)
So sorry you're having to deal with this. Good luck finding a buyer!
Posted by: Joan at September 12, 2006 07:23 PMLast thought: in front of the window?!
It obviously can't stay there. Sheesh!
Posted by: Joan at September 12, 2006 07:24 PMHA!!!
Now it's your turn to get something you want. A trip to Scotland, a cute puppy, an extra night of soccer...
The VP must have stones the size of basketballs, especially if you still have your credit cards. This falls under man's rule #4--better to beg for forgiveness than to ask permission.
MKP-Your idea that an extra night of soccer equals a cute new puppy is something that I may take you up on.
Posted by: davep at September 13, 2006 02:58 PMI'd love to think that I would take the high road but let's get real. Revenge is a dish best served expensive. Go get yourself something hideously nice but not necessary. 5 million threadcount bedsheets would be good.
Posted by: Jordan at September 15, 2006 03:07 PM