February 18

I have been contemplating the balance of work and play lately. To complete my to do list and do it well is a challenge. Thankfully there is always room on the next day's list. As I reflect back on this day I have a sense of accomplishment and that is a priceless feeling. All too often I angst about what still needs to be done and that is not good. Today though I had my mental list imprinted on my brain. The unruly foothill winds supported me in this as my to dos were inside detail work that had been on my procrastination list. Polishing the cabinets and renewing the wood floors were even fun today because in the back of my mind I set time aside for play. Our girl and I needed to get out on one of the neighborhood trails.

This image, from a couple of years ago on a women's build day for our local Habitat for Humanity, exemplifies the right combination of work and play. The entire day was a symphony of nail guns, drills, saws, conversations and laughter. That was snow on the ground and the temperature was quite chilly. This work day for Habitat just made it all the more worthwhile.

I am grateful to look back on today and smile with my entire body.

This is the real secret of life--to be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now. And instead of calling it work, realize it is play. ~Alan Wilson Watts

Peace.