My machines are old and simple

and

I haven't found any "steals/deals" at thrift shops, garage or estate sales.

Me neither!

Sounds like you have reliable machines - can't beat that. Woo Hoo...

I'm really not "lacking" -

but I do experience a twinge or two when someone writes about their longarms and their studios and their brand new super duper machines.

At times, I feel like someone that still doesn't have electricity or phone service and still carries water in from the creek and burns wood for heat.

I'm with you, I would love to find a smokin' deal. But then again, maybe I shouldn't be greedy since I inherited a beautiful little FW 9 years ago (only started using it last year - before that I had no idea what I had! Still looking for deals though. I went to antique stores yesterday and decided maybe I'm the one that needs to have a garage sale!

I haven't found any steals either. But I've found a few deals.
I don't really think I'd want a LA though. I'm more of a hand quilter trying to learn MQ but that's about it. I'm so glad we have LA who will offer services on the board and have taken them up on a couple :)
But my addiction to vintage machines has to stop! :D:D

I feel blessed. I was given a late model brother (simple, no bells or whistles) and a vintage Kenmore after my house burned. We lost everything in the fire just before christmas 2003. No insurance because the ins. companys wouldnt touch the old house. Friends, and even strangers were there to lend a hand in our time of need. Thru the grace of God we were able the build a new house, mostly from salvage materials and our own labor. My husband worked 2 jobs and I was the construction crew for the most part. He is a custodian in a school and bagged groceries. We have every thing we need and I am always pleased to see other people recieve their blessings too. The new house is insurable and insured.

No good deals at estate sales, yard sales or Goodwill stores. I've checked several, there are a couple of new ones that I pass occassionally, but yuck! Even the new stores smell awful when you walk in the door, and the prices aren't that good.

I'm fortunate to have two mahcines. When my father died, I used part of my inheritance to buy a Bernina 153QE. That was before stitch regulators, has no embroidery or anything like that.

Last year, I bought a used Janome Platinum to take to retreats, classes, guild sew ins, etc.

My envy is around sewing rooms. Our house is small and no room for one. I thought when DD moved out of state, it would happen, but DH wanted it for other things. So my stuff is in the family room and is frequently a mess!

Much as I love my Bernina, I'd happily give it up if I had Dad back.

I think to find the good deals you have to be looking, and that is work. You probably have to see dozens, maybe hundreds of so-so deals before you bump into the really good one.

I think of the wonderful deals in the same category as winning big money at any of the Lottery things or slot machines.

It happens - but I think not as often as the pictures seem to indicate!