The story behind one of our new shirts: “Work Hard, Play Hard, & Enjoy Life.” At first glance it’s completely self-explanatory, but I wanted to dig a little deeper. The “Work Hard” part is usually pretty easy, I enjoy the challenge and the reward of working hard. It makes me feel needed, accomplished, productive, and good about myself. Then the “Play Hard” part I need for stress relief, enjoying the blessings we’ve received from working hard, experiencing this world, and simply getting out and having a good time while I can, because we never know what tomorrow will bring, so if we wait too long to “Play Hard” some opportunities will pass. “Work Hard, Play Hard” is a really common quote/saying, but I felt I personally needed to add the “Enjoy Life.” I’m really good at working hard and playing hard. At times I almost feel like a robot, handling one task after another and planning trips, and activities, filling up all of my time so I can truly “Work Hard & Play Hard.” For those who know me well, know I’m not an overly emotional person. Actually, people even joke and tease me about it at times. On the surface not being super emotional is a great thing, because emotions don’t consume me or slow me down, but when I reflect more on the bigger picture, I’ve realized it also holds me back from experiencing, feeling, connecting, living, and seriously enjoying the moment! I have to intentionally tell myself to slow down, focus, and be present so life’s little and big moments can still take my breath away. Life is so meant to be lived to its fullest and I don’t know about you, but I want to live and enjoy life in every way possible! So today my goal is to pause in the little moments to feel and enjoy this life I’ve been blessed with and I hope you all do too! PS, if you have any wisdom or tips on this quote, I’d love to hear them too.