a simple purchase made complicated

M emails me that she impulsively purchased a little Nikon Coolpix camera at Costco for an upcoming trip to Europe.  I remember the Coolpix I bought and returned to Costco a few years ago; the flash popped up exactly where my fingers held the camera. I call M to clarify her criteria: 

• How small does the camera need to be?
• How powerful should the built in zoom be?
• What about megapixels?
• Is touchscreen ok?
• How important are the camera aesthetics?

I understand the reason for all the different features.  Cameras are complicated.  They cater to different people having different needs.  Same with cars.  Computers. And houses.  But some things just aren’t worthy of multiple features.

After helping M with her camera search, I go to Home Depot to buy a new toilet seat, mine actually broke. 

I find a salesperson and ask, “I need someone who’s an expert on toilet seats.  Would that be you?”  The young guy I’m addressing smiles, shrugs his shoulders, and says, “Ya, I guess so,” not exactly thrilled to be deemed an expert in this area.  But then he does sound like one as he asks me about my criteria:

• Do I want wood or plastic? 
• What about the hinges, plastic or metal? 
• Is my toilet round or elongated? 
• Do I need a night light on the toilet?  
• Would I like a toilet with a seat warmer? (I almost laugh and tell him I'm not planning any long trips on my toilet).
• What about a non-slamming seat? 
• And here's one where the hinges actually lift so you can clean under them, would I be  interested in that? 
• Or would I rather have a seat that completely detaches so I can more thoroughly clean around it? 
• Do I have brand preference? 

In the end, M and I decide on the Panasonic Lumix DMC SZ30 for her.  As for me?  My decision is more complicated; I'm still considering my options.