The first pull, nothing.

Second pull, nothing.

Disconnect spark plug, blow air on the end.  It probably did nothing, but why not?

Pull, nothing.

Check gas and oil, because it seems like the right thing to do.

Pull, nothing.

Tilt mower to the side.  Perhaps gas will flow to previously unknown regions of the mower.

Pull, nothing.

Pull again, harder.  Nothing.

Again, again, again, again.  Nothing.

Flip over the mower.  Clean out some leaves.  Tug on some cords.

Pull, chug, cough, puff of white smoke.

What?!?  A sign of life?

Pull again, more chugs, lots more white smoke.

Progress.

Pull once more.  Steady engine.  White smoke less and less and no more.

Welcome back, old friend.  Let’s mow.