Sounds like he's motivated to get that one done. Parental support is important to getting merit badges completed. In my case, it was a critical need for transport as I wasn't old enough for a driver's license. I did have to work to cover the material costs. The push lawnmower was mine to use as necessary. I didn't have to compete with lawn service companies at that point in time.
Well he likes science badges and some outdoors stuff very much but actually he's not thrilled about Communications. He's had the blue card for awhile now and not started it on his own.
Frankly he knows it is an ER badge so he is going to do it. He is very Eagle-motivated.
It's really hard these days, or maybe just where we are, for teens to find jobs. Our oldest has been looking hard and not had one phone call. She is in a Venture crew and volunteers on weekends at one of the BSA camps here.
I bet that was a great experience for you - mowing lawns. Sounds like your parents were terrific.