GGal ... I hadn't heard there was a new 8900 on the market! What are you sewing with now? Don't let your rational self get too much in the way of what might be a good step for you. I really like my 6600 and am sure you would love the 7700 ... and knowing its history would be reassuring.
Honchey ... Oh goodness! I'm sure you were so PC with that woman ... I'm not sure I would have been! You mentioned Joann's ... is the store you work for, set up within JOann's. Would be nice to have a job that you can "play" at!