Putting things back - examples

Spring work: A couple of days ago, I went over to my son's place to help with some spring stuff. I took some tools along for the spring maintenance on their lawnmower - changing the oil, sharpening the blade, cleaning the air filter. And of course, I had to have my 4-year-old grandson help me. He loves to help Grandpa. As I finished the first task, my daughter-in-law asked, "While you're at it, could you check the weed eater and blower." Then I got in on some trimming that was too high for her to reach. It was one of those perfect spring days, so being outdoors was enjoyable and the work was satisfying. Accomplishment feels good. I ended up spending so much time there that I didn't get my own lawnmower cleaned up. I got that done yesterday.

Put them back: The point I'm getting to is about putting things back when you are done. As soon as I got home I took the tools out of my temporary tool box that I use to transport tools and put them back where I store them. A while back I didn't do that, then couldn't find some tools I wanted to use. I finally remembered they were still in the transport tool box. By taking them out right away and putting them back, I will be able to find them next time I need them. I sometimes feel lazy and want to put it off until later. Then I forget. It is much better to do it right away.

This includes toys: When I came back home, I brought the 4-year-old with me. We played a while until the rest of the family joined us for dinner. Then we went for a walk which included a tricycle and wagon. At the end of the night there were toys out in various places. My wife reminded me that they needed to be picked up. Suddenly that seemed like a lot of work. I was tired from the outdoor work. I wanted to pretend that I didn't know where all the toys are supposed to be. But in the end, they were all put back. Now the grandsons will be able to find them when they come over next time. Because they always expect them to be in the same place. They know right where to go to find something. My wife is very organized, and her "insistence" that the toys be put back helps keep our house neat and tidy. And it is a safety thing. If we get up in the middle of the night, we won't be tripping over toys. So I'm not complaining. (My wife just read this and said, "Not complaining! The whole thing looks like whining to me!") She just doesn't understand. :)