My mother had an aunt who lived in South Dakota and according to family lore was married to a "charming ne'er do well." When my mom was around 8 or so, so this would be around 1925 or 1926, her father decided to go up there to get her, taking the train to what must have been the back of beyond to people from Chicago. To keep food on the table her aunt was a cook for the crews that came through harvesting wheat, and when they got to whatever town it was where the family lived, they found a post office/general store, a tavern, a silent movie house and a gas station and that was about it. Water for the town came from a town well, and while the businesses had electricity, most of the residences didn't. My grandfather pronounced the place unfit for habitation and promptly packed up the family (minus the ne'er do well") and brought them back to Chicago. My mom always talked about how when they got back to the house in Chicago, the family was so fascinated by the toilet they kept flushing it over and over again.

Emphatically YES they are better than those of years ago. In answer to your list: 1. I used Seventh Generation dishwasher liquid (or powder) for years with great success. I now use Finish Powerball tablets, which I break in half, using only half each time with very good results. Most new detergents work using enzymes to break down the dirt. 2. Indeed, no etching of dishes - this was usually because (as I understand it) of the old, harsh detergents. 3. They are much more efficient with water use, both hot or cold, using far less water than old models. 4. Many newer models don't have heated drying at all - for example, my Bosch has a stainless steel lining, which allows the steam to condense on the surface, and drain away at the bottom drain. No heat is required for drying. It can take longer, however, as you need to keep the door shut to complete this process. 5. Many new machines have a 'quick' cycle which is perfectly adequate for most needs, as well. Nowadays, the types generally fall into two, which are sometimes referred to as 'European style' and 'traditional'. Basically, the 'European style' has no heat drying cycle, using the stainless steel condensing system, and has no macerator, merely a filter which should be rinsed periodically (I probably only do this every 4 months or so, if that, so not onerous). The more traditional style has a macerator for grinding up food residue, which makes it noisier. Whichever type you use, please be aware that you should NOT rinse dishes these days - just scrape. The new detergents need something to 'work' on, and if you pre-rinse, they will not work effectively, plus you waste more hot water. Whatever you decide to do, I hope this gives you some starters for ideas. I you use the search facility for this forum, there are lots of discussions about various brands and types. You should also be aware that there are now different sizes available: 18" wide units (I've used these in rentals and they're great) and dishdrawers.

Happy Anniversary, YaYa, I'm sure glad that you and Twink got hitched to each other. 2 of my favorite peoples..... Woody and I will celebrate 27 years together in early May. Linda- Happy Anniversary to you and Bob! Bob is very lucky to have you!

Happy elopement day Anniversary! Happy anniversary to you as well Anneliese! Hope both of you are having a great day.