Question
We are in the process of moving into a new home in Port Washington, new construction. Since we are dirt poor at this point (trust me, the internet connection is a real treat now), I am hoping to take care of some of the landscaping myself.  I have not purchased a lawnmower yet but we were thinking of doing that at Home Depot next week. Would you be able to provide a rating generally or specifically do you have any recommended lawnmower brand?  I am a beginner but I learn fast. Thanx.

Answer
Did you say you are dirt poor?  DIRT poor?

Good one...I'll have to remember that next time I run out of money.  Which is going to be soon unless they lower the price of gasoline.

I have a quickie answer to your lawnmower question.  One word: BRILL.

This is a Germany company that makes a precision reel mower.  You can buy the Brill Lexus 38 for $209 (free shipping) from People Powered Machines (www.peoplepoweredmachines.com/brill_luxus.htm); $190 (plus s/h) at Frost Proof (www.frostproof.com/catalog/brilllawnmower.html);
$209 (plus s/h) from BonaFideLady (www.lawnmowerz.com/5/lawn-mower-reel.php); and Clean Air Gardening (cleanairgardening.com) which sells it for $191 (plus s/h).

Reels by Brill are light, easy to use and will make you thinner and healthier.  What more could you ask for in a lawnmower?