The Joys of Yard Work

By Jeanne Moseley

Standing in the checkout line at the corner grocery store, I overheard a woman say, "I'm glad I mowed my yard because it looks like rain this afternoon." Looking up, I noticed her to be about 75 or 80 years old.

Just days after that, an out-of-town friend wrote to say he'd driven past West Main Street only to see "Miss Dot," now in her 80s, mowing her yard.

So following their inspiration, I decided it was high time I mowed our front yard. After all, how difficult could this be? I've often mowed the back area on our riding mower; and with the weather still on the mild side, I figured this was a doable deal.

My husband made sure he was nearby and took to cleaning the flowerbeds while I methodically "pushed" the mower up and down our yard. I recalled how he'd often likened mowing to therapy, so I decided to "zen out" while making a pathway through the soft, green grass.

About 3/4 of the way through, I stopped for water and he offered to finish. "No," I said, "I can make it." And so I did ... still waiting for the zen experience.

Admittedly, it almost did me in. The next day I didn't do much except soak in the tub and make good use of the sofa. All the while wondering how in the world Miss Dot could still do this at almost 30 years my senior.

My sweet husband never said a word, but did make a slight declaration, something about appreciating him a little more.

And it wasn't long before my neighbor called with a firm warning. "Now my husband will think I can mow. Look what you've started!" she laughingly said.

Never fear. Some women just aren't cut out for yard work, and I'm one of them.