— Columns —

A 75-mile round trip with beautiful scenery and wind on my face begins and ends my work week, and I’m not on a motorcycle.  I tool around in a 40-year-old Volkswagen Beetle rusted through in many places and almost no rubber seals to keep the weather out.  Old machinery is a lifestyle and a commitment.  Few people choose to keep a clunker car, lawnmower, tractor, etc.  These machines are hard to maintain and do not fit the classic role of a machine (to serve a purpose).  Old machines serve their purpose, most of the time…  These contraptions require effort above and beyond factory-scheduled maintenance, oil changes, regular washing. etc.  Most of our population will tolerate old machinery only until they can afford new.  Life is easier that way. “Out with the old, in with the new.”

During this daily commute, I notice things for sale (or free) along the roadway (out with the old?).  I also notice equipment in the backyards and barns of homes along the trip.  Much to the displeasure of my wife, I often acquire and bring this stuff home.  Recently I brought home two riding lawnmowers (non-running and free!).  With the help of my two children of seven and nine years, we have removed the old engines and installed other engines from similarly obtained push mowers.  These are fun projects, and for about one hour at a time, hold the interests of the children.   I’m trying to see if my children are interested in the “old machine” lifestyle.  My observations indicate the children will choose new over old when the time comes (go figure?).

Currently, one mower is in working condition without brakes or clutch and the other is soon to be the same.  The summer’s dry grass (fire danger) and extreme heat keep the projects on hold until the fall.  Weather conditions are not the only thing keeping these projects on hold.  Interest is also lost when a point in the project requires money.  Money!  Who wants to spend money?  The sign said “Free”...