In a message dated 98-06-24 17:16:49 EDT, [log in to unmask] writes:

<< The chairs might have lasted a lifetime if my brother & I
 could have been trained not to tip them on the back legs. >>

My grandmother's furniture lasted because it was not used, but mainly looked
at. Everything was covered with layers of plastic and newspaper. I use
furniture, so buy Salvation Army with the expectation of unfettered use. Our
kitchen table, a hand-me down from my mother, has cuts in the corners from use
as a saw horse.

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