When I pulled into the driveway yesterday afternoon, the grass was incredibly long – skinny and weak, but long. It had just been mowed a few days ago . . . and here we were with a last gasp mower and this derelict-appearing yard. So, I roused Cameron to see if we could manage one last beyond the call of duty action for said gasping mower. Unfortunately, when I tested it out, I immediately hit a grass-submerged rock by a tree . . . and that was not good. Oh, not good at all. But it restarted, vibrating to beat the band and clanking loud enough to cause passing drivers to turn and stare.
Calling on 50+ years of experience, I told Cameron, “I’ve got this one.”
I got my hands in a position to minimize the teeth-jarring vibration and started off at a fast clip, knowing my time was borrowed. It didn’t cut evenly and I had to go over several areas . . . and it almost died several times. However, it drew on some inner strength and the motor revved up on its own.
Then, as I was chasing down errant tufts of grass, it ran out of gas. Done.
I have yet to turn the mower on its side and look at the blade; when it first happened, I was of the opinion that what I didn’t know would help me persevere and when it was over, I couldn’t bear to see it at the time.
So, I will probably bring the Lawn-Boy mower down to Kendallville, or get another mower I have here fixed. That will definitely be the time when I tell Cameron, “You’ve got it, now.” These mowers are much heavier than the little red 20″ cutter that gave its all. I’ll say this: Briggs & Stratton, you guys make great engines.
I do have an electric mower, but that one with its 18″ cutting width and trailing cord is a psychological challenge – better suited for little teeny tiny lawns – the ones that take four passes and you’re done.
Now, for today’s possible news. I may just get up the nerve to mount the old Wheel Horse and try to tame the re-growing grass at the LaGrange House. But that’s only possible.
