Yeah, I remember when VCRs were one of those unreachable luxuries that us common folk couldn't even dream of having (much like answering machines!). I remember knowing there was no way my family could ever afford one, so I never bothered asking for one, but then there was this contest (sponsored by a sugar cereal of some sort) where you could win one, and I remember knowing that my parents couldn't even afford to shell out for the cereal to win one. That was how I learned what "no purchase necessary" means (because I did send in my postcard to win), as well as how I learned that I will never win a cereal company contest, even if I buy the cereal.

That was back in the day when I dreamed of owning a VCR because owning a VCR meant getting to watch The Karate Kid whenever I felt like it.