Monday, July 25, 2011

Tractor Pull



After rescuing the tractor from the yard, its rolling again (strangely not mowing...). Almost repaired enough to beat the power of the HPX. We did a few laps again this weekend - the driver is the important part not the metal.... she navigated at rabbit speed between the vet and truck without scratching a panel - much to our astonishment. I think my favorite part of this toy is that technically there is no break. You remove your foot from mashing the gas and it automatically applies a break - which on blacktop results in a skid stop, very cool for a 2 year old.

And finally the slip-n-slide, you know 40% clearance at Fred's cause its July 24th. However, this is only day two of temperatures high enough to hit the outdoors in a 'kini. It was a bit short resulting in some skid stops on grass. No problem, we have grand plans for the DIY Slip-n-Slide. Its a terrible thing when you sit and discuss what mill strength would work best.


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Sunday, July 10, 2011

Grass


The new house has surprises around every corner, some fun some not so fun. Jon has explained many times the benefits of a larger mower deck on his riding lawnmower...that he hopes graduates to a John Deer One Series...but a deck as large as his truck?! This is a little ridiculous. We've had lots of good luck so far, it seems an investment in a new 'tractor' would be smart. The hot tub is working with less than $500 investment (new pump and new sensor), the kitchen is solid, bathrooms work (with your eyes closed) - the move so far hasn't cost a significant investment in surprises.

One very nice surprise is our cul de sac of neighbors - supportive and yet respectful. That second 'tractor' down there is the neighbors. As Jon stood scratching his head and replacing his hat (as he does when he is super angry and no one is there to yell at) - the neighbor cruised over with a spare (and then very respectfully left Jon to his space). The grass will not grow another week. The thought of cutting grass with 2 or 3 weeks of growth is the only thing I can think of that gives men nightmares. During another episode of mowing (at dusk in the rain - concluding in calling me at 9pm to get more gas), another neighbor brought Jon hot dogs...these guys must know to stick together!

Now I know why farmers sit and watch the grass grow - they are planning their route and thinking about the next time they mow. I'm sure many more discussions about 'the grass'.
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