You guys can have a second life as a vacuum cleaner salesman!!! You are too funny. I'm going to check out those I don't know about. I know about Electrolux, just didn't know they made an upright vacuum. Since I have so little carpet, I think an upright that can clean my hardwood floors and suck up all that hair and plant matter is the right thing.
I'll let you know what happens. Keep the suggestions coming. In the meantime, my friend has lent me a Hoover!