Everthing from the mower deck to the steering system is detailed in exploded view diagrams. These include he shows up with a pair of manicure scissors and a Ziploc and his nickname is the Unamower. Occasionally, I get the misguided idea that the way to take care of all of the grass is to eliminate part of it by putting in flower beds. The Front Garden by Mary Riley Smith contains many ideas for creating aestheically pleasing alternatives to turf. For a moment I forget or maybe even disregard how much time is required to keep up these small spots of color.
Seasons pass by but few things really change.
Everyone cringes as I pull the fertilizer spreader out of the garage more out of the fear of increased lawn growth than from environmental concern. My lawn seems destined to always be infested with crabgrass and clover. And burst of water in the face from a sprinkler out of control is very unpleasant and is a major contributor to a bad hair day. I have resigned myself to a few simple life truths when it comes to yardwork. My lawn will never be chosen as a candidate for the Yard of the Week award, not even as runner-up.