We spent a good chunk of money on landscaping and have a very large lot for the city. I told her the exact same thing. I was distracted by my son (3 at time) and found out the a 6.5HP Toro can annihilate a Variegated Spirea. She was pissed and seeing how I just started mowing the lawn. I said "Here, finish up and I'll play with Ian (our son)." She went back in the house, and I bought a new Spirea and small barricade.
I ended up trashing the barricade later on. Why some women find the need to put watermelon in the middle of a lawn is beyond my comprehension. It's like they want an obstacle course set-up or something.
I feel yer pain Beej. I'll have to talk to you about this, LOL.