I finally bought a new vacuum cleaner after pondering the matter for a long time. My last few vacuums have been cheap Bissells in the $50 - $60 range, and I think I've been penny wise and pound foolish, because they seem to pick up debris on the front end and spew out dust from the back end. I also don't love the idea of buying disposable crap to send into the waste stream every few years. I wanted better filtration, but light weight was also one of my top criteria, and of course I didn't want to spent more than necessary. I made a decision and ordered one online (cheapest model Miele). The company rep called me and told me they were having supply chain issues with the brand across their entire line. He offered me a vacuum by another brand that runs $100 more (Sebo), but said he would give me the same price as what I ordered. I checked it out online, and it seemed to have all the virtues of my original selection, so I went for it. It even has a 5-yr warranty vs. 1-year for my original choice, so I think I'm getting a good deal. I can report back on how satisfactory it is.
I also went to Savers with Sis yesterday. I found a brand-new Lands' End plaid shirt for DH, and a nice flowy kind of black cardigan thingy for me (in anticipation of an occasion where Vista camp pants and hoodie won't do). The cardigan looked brand new as well. It was senior discount day, so I paid about $12 for the two items., which felt like a nice score.