As we stood there face to face, I was trying to remember the last time my dear friend and I last met. Counting back the months in my mind, it figured out to be around four but it seemed as if it was just yesterday. As I embraced my dear friend, excitement rushed through me. You haven't changed a bit, I thought, wishing the same for myself. Oh how I value the investment I've placed in this relationship. A relationship for the most part that is very reliable and faithful. After our embrace, we made our way to our usual spot to reunite...the garden.You see, my dear friend is "Red." A 2.0 hp rotor tiller (red in color). I know, you're probably let down by the lead in to this blog, but I truly do have a great relationship with my tiller (pitiful huh?). Seriously, the financial investment of this small powerhouse has been so valuable for preparing our raised garden beds. In my early teens during summers on my grandmother's farm, I would watch her use her full-size tiller, thinking how cool it would be to run one. She never let me. Probably because I tossed her out of the garden cart that was hooked to the riding mower I was driving on our way to the fish pond. I freaked out and she just laughed it off. She knew I wasn't ready to work the tiller quite yet (chuckle).
Earlier this week, I cleaned out the chicken house, hauling the enriched straw/shredded paper blend to the raised beds. Then Red did her magic. What's so nice about Red is that I can start her on my own. Purchased her new a few years ago. Only takes a few pulls and she starts right up; reliable and faithful. Most of our equipment is used or worn-out; otherwise "rigged", so you have to face the east, stand flat-footed, close one eye, hold the choke and pray, all at the same time, hoping whatever it is will start. Otherwise, you have to wait until hubby gets home from work to start it right up. Arrg...not a good thing. So that is why I treasure my friendship with Red.
The garden beds are now ready for spinach and seed potatoes to be planted. I'm so ready for my dirt therapy and reconnecting with Mother Earth.
