Updated: 05/11/2009 4:56 PM KSTP.com | Print Story
By: Art Barron

BARRON: Getting my hands dirty with yard work

Okay I have to admit, sometimes you need a little prodding or inspiration to get things done around the house.

Friends coming over, Mom visiting from afar, neighbors walking by, or probably most importantly if you're a single guy, that special person has entered your life. I still want to spruce things up because I want to impress myself. So, I am really trying to remove the unsightly weeds and old fall leaves and leave a good impression.

Tools, yes, a few have gotten lost over the years, but I make do with what I have. I don't like gloves because you can't feel the dirt when your using potting soil or spot checking those smaller weeds. I enjoy the dirt under my nails, and looking messy by day's end. It's sort of like parading around showing off the fact that I've gotten some things accomplished. It is a liberating feeling. Now, one could say I look that way without actually improving the look of my yard. I can honestly say I'm making progress. raking, scraping, pruning, weeding, and planting. Yes, after an afternoon of humming to myself so no one else has to listen to my dorky melodies, and getting the job done... I walk into the house, and grab a beverage. I let out a long sigh as if I have been working the coal mines hoping for just a tiny bit of sympathy from my kids... coupled with awe of the work ethic I'm trying to display. My kids don't buy it, "Dad is actually doing yard work?" quips my son Brad. I motion him to come outside so he can see the fruits of my labor. "That's it?" he says. Well, I am getting a lot more accomplished. I can honestly say, there is now real curbside appeal! Now, I'm working on all of the outdoor planters so they have, um, well, plants that blossom. Next, making my lawn greener. Later, it's the three season room. Smells musty. Like the old pro I am... a nice cleaning will take care of that. Anyway, all kidding aside, it's all shaping up and it is really enjoyable.