Big news: Dad tracked down a John Deere zero turn mower all the way in South Dakota, just so he could put me to work. Once the machine landed in Melrose, I officially became the lovely assistant to the regional lawnkeeper (aka Grandpa). It’s basically a grass-eating go-kart, so not only did I get to whip out those zero turns, I also had zero complaints!

Grandpa gave me an A+ on my first mow and I got paid… not just in cash, but also in a chocolate malt and a giant plate of nachos. BEST. PAYCHECK. EVER. I even earned the ultimate badge of honor: a farmer tan. Now, my face and arms are ready for summer, but my shoulders and thighs are still living in January. They should update the job description to include the bonus perk: FREE BUILT-IN T-SHIRT. I guess I have something to show for all of my hard work!?

Child labor? Maybe.
Fun & Delicious? Absolutely.