Hi, Vannie! I rejoined WW back during the winter, and I opted to do the Core plan this time around. I found the Flex-points plan exhausting to keep up with, to be honest. I've been much more successful this time by knowing exactly what foods I can eat and have really enjoyed the cooking that goes along with it. I keep a mental list of the "required" foods needed for a healthy diet: 2 tsp. healthy oil, healthy grains, lean meats, veggies, and dairy. So much easier! They didn't want you walking out of there with their literature because you didn't pay for the privilege. It may seem mean to you, but the literature goes along very well with the training you receive after your first meeting and sign-up and subsequent literature you'll receive over the first 10 weeks of membership. Members pay for this knowledge, which is why you weren't given anything to take home to read. If they'll allow you to attend another meeting for free, by all means ask if you can stay for the info meeting for new members afterwards to learn if or which plan is for you.

Hi Cooper. The most important thing is to get a copy of the owner's manual. It should include a service schedule for things like oil changes, air filter changes, blade adjustment and sharpening, etc. Some engines require valve lash adjustments and belt changes. Different engines require different maintenance schedules. Follow the manual religiously and more than likely the mower will last a long time.

There is no way around edging maintenance. St. Augustine will grow over 12" high border, or even higher if you let it. In general, the taller the border, the uglier it will be. the best look will be a mowing strip and since you have to "edge"/trim, you might as well go with the best look. It is not that bad if you get a dedicated edger.

If you are going to drain it into something and then pump the water out, I recommend this Ryobi pump from HD. It moves a lot of water and will handle both clean and dirty water pumping. https://www.homedepot.com/p/RYOBI-18-Volt-ONE-Hybrid-Transfer-Pump-P750/300258095 I used it several times after rain during my landscape work and while I had a big hole in my yard before they poured footings. It works very well. I also like the option of using a battery (separate purchase) instead of A/C power, since wading around in water with an A/C device just makes me uncomfortable. Bruce