Mowing

There is something therapeutic about mowing the yard.

Yes, I said that word.  Therapeutic.

Just think.  When one is mowing the yard, on a rider, NO ONE, and I do mean absolutely NO ONE can ask for a drink, expect you to take a phone call, expect an answer to a text, or want dinner prepared.

No one expects the mower of the lawn to carry on a conversation.  There is something to be said for silence.  Well, as silent as a lawnmower can be!  But no one wants to talk, no needs to listen, no one converses.  The mower of the lawn is alone.  A L O N E.  Bliss!

No fashion statement is made on a mower.  Mowing a lawn is the perfect reason to look dirty and sweaty, wear shabby mis-matched clothes, and go without make-up or a great hairstyle.  I never mind if someone stops by unexpectedly when I am mowing the lawn because I don't have to look good.  The same effect is possible when gardening or cleaning the house, but the sweat and dirt gathered on the body from a lawn mower is perfect!

All other work can be put aside when mowing is needed.  Heavy rains make for greener higher grass, and it must be cut, right?  In the spring, summer, and fall, time must be carved out each week for mowing.  How many times have I said "Oh, I can't do this or that. I have to mow."  Many, many times.  It is a perfect excuse for NOT returning a text, folding laundry, washing windows, cleaning out the refrigerator, grading papers, making a phone call, or scheduling a doctor's appointment.

Finally the most therapeutic reason for mowing the lawn is the peace that comes from just having that alone time.  I often think, as my dad always said, DEEP thoughts while on the mower.  I can solve all of my problems. I can cool off from a heated discussion.  I can think through a problem and come up with a solution.  I can talk to God. I can relax.

And maybe the best thing is that after a few hours on the mower in the dirt and dust and having grass blown all over me, I can clean up in a hot soapy shower and feel totally rejuvenated.

Dad put me on a mower when I was 9 or 10 years old, and I have never looked back. He knew what he was doing, didn't he?  I love it!  

*A Speedex lawn tractor, similar to the first one Dad had when we lived in The Little Brown House on 62.  I learned how to mow the yard on this type of mower.