Have you ever tried to buy a second hand stiff yard broom that works?
Right then, you'll know how I feel. But unfortunately the one that was left three years ago for sweeping up the front yard that faces the street (think typical northern terrace!) died, fell apart and swept nothing. Yard was a scabby shambles so new broom it was.
The daughter and family are fitting a new kitchen to replace the one that has fallen apart and was done on the cheap to start with and expressed a desire to have a particular clock to fit in with the furnishings. Of course it was a very artistic one that cost an arm and a leg. As I said, forget birthdays, Christmas, wedding anniversary and any other celebrations you choose to have till back end of 2010. But they were happy to accept that. So one "crime" covers what might have been many small ones.