I’ve been trying for several weeks to get someone to mow my lawn for me, as I had no idea how to so much as start the mower. Today’s attempt failed because my designated mower couldn’t get the machine to start. Neither could I, when I tried, but I got more stubborn. I went to my neighbor, out mowing his own lawn, and requested his aid and assistance. I thought about doing the “damsel in distress” routine, but I’ve gotten a little to self-confident to be able to carry that one off convincingly anymore, and I really didn’t want to make a total fool of myself. Besides, my neighbors are young enough to be my kids. In the event, he was quite willing to essay the attempt, and was indeed met with success. Of course, I realized forthwith that I had neglected such details as picking up the hose and drain pipes, and that I didn’t dare let go of the mower lever lest I be back where I started. So I simply began the project, doing our postage stamp sized front yard first and then moving to the back. I would have been better served with a couple of sheep or a scythe for the back yard, but I did my best with the machine. And indeed, one can see where I have been and where I have not. I ran out of gas, and it was getting dark. But you know, I’m still not sure what I accomplished. I may have mowed a part of the lawn, or I may simply have reseeded dandelions. Either way, with the rain due the next few days, I am fully expecting the part I mowed to be indisinguishable from the part I didn’t by the time it’s dry again. But we shall see. At least now I know how to start the mower.