The One Notebook Principle

From: 4 June 2022

Today I used a reel mower for the first time.  Our decision to buy a reel mower was predicated first upon my fiance’s dislike of the sound motorized mowers make, not that I disagreed with him.  The environmental benefits and not having to buy and store fuel was also a plus and a consideration.  

The past few weeks my fiancé has been mowing the lawn and, as the lawn is slightly on a hill, has a lot of tree roots, and is in an odd shape, he’s been having a tough time of it.  Today, since he broke his toe yesterday,  the chore fell to me.  

I started at 7 in the morning, just after taking the dog out, since I knew if I went back inside I would never want to come back out.  My fiance’s general philosophy on mowing with a reel mower seems to be to just walk with it, in a grid-like pattern, and occasionally go back over spots if need be.  

My philosophy, I discovered this morning, is somewhat different:

1. I mow like a vacuum.  It’s sort of straight lines, except when it’s sweeping arcs, and the yard is divided up into smaller sections or “rooms.”
2. When a slower speed and a longer push doesn’t work, short strokes or pushes at higher speed might.
3. Sometimes it pays to come at the same patch of grass from different angles.
4. Tree roots are fun and a chance for innovation and strength.
5. Hills – see number 4
6. The ability to raise and lower the blades is a gift.
7. When all else fails just bend down and pluck out the stubborn stalk of grass that refuses to be cut.

I don’t know if it’s obvious from the list but I enjoyed mowing the lawn all things considered.  It was cloudy and humid out, though I mostly lucked out with mosquitos and other bugs.  I covered myself pretty well which helped with the aforementioned bugs but also meant I sweat like crazy.  I still had fun though, and it was nice to just be doing something active and outside for an hour.

I should, however, add two notes for future me: The next time you want to mow, try to eat breakfast first.  Also, drink water before and during, not just after you finish.