The traveling washing machine

In early September, our stackable washer/dryer broke--well just the washer part--it wouldn't spin out the water after rinsing. When they took it out, I asked when I'd get it back and they laughed and said for Christmas. The guys here couldn't fix it. They called in a technician and determined they needed a part from the USA. It didn't come. We have joked a lot. In October I suggested they buy a new one and save that unit for parts, since there are seven other units just like it in various apartments in the building. But still they waited for the part to arrive... I think it did come on a slow boat from China. Well, amazingly, the day before the inspection from SLC visitors, they fixed it and returned it to our apartment. We had lots of fun jokes going back and forth. As they left, everyone wished me an early Merry Christmas. The next day I washed a load of clothes in it and it was great--but the dryer didn't heat. Carlos offered to buy firewood for us to hang clothes over. They took the unit out again, robbed a fuse from a dryer downstairs and returned within two days. I was happy. Last night we washed a load of clothes--or we tried to--the washer only hums, doesn't add water and doesn't use the detergent in the drawer--basically, it doesn't work again. I think it is jinxed! Today at our Christmas Devotional, I told the temple engineer about it. He said he'd get the technician again, but after the program he told Spencer that they would buy a new machine--tomorrow. I'm not holding my breath--but it would be nice. Wish they had done it in Sept. or Oct. All of the other missionaries have working units (except the Latin couples in the studio apartments--who only pay a stipend to live here). I've been sharing laundry facilities with them and with all the towels and bedding used by guests who stay here. Just thought you'd enjoy a picture of the traveling washer/dryer. That is my saga!