Best in class

Upgrading the McDermott fridge had an even better pay-off when it came to the kids returning to school.

- PAT MCDERMOTT

The day came, a few years ago, when five kids growing fast meant we needed a bigger refrigerator. At least I thought we needed a bigger refrigerator. The MOTH (The Man of the House) thinks long and hard about buying anything he can't find at the chemist or a petrol station.

It was only when he realised the old fridge didn't keep beer cold anymore that he agreed I might have a point. I headed straight for the mother of all refrigerators - the biggest, whitest and heaviest in the store.

It took three gallant men and a lot of shouting to muscle it out of a truck and lift, drag and roll it into place in our kitchen. I remember standing at the door to make sure they didn't step on the baby or the cat by accident.

When the fridge was finally in place and plugged in, the kids took turns opening and shutting the door to see the light go on and off. A neighbour popped in to have a peek.