What is really important to us?

I have been thinking that no matter what we say, what is really important to Kiwi's is family, friends and good times.

New Zealanders are an interesting bunch. We are seen as hard workers by some standards and yet I have a sneaky suspicion we could do so much better.

I was at a meeting last week and we talked about Labour Weekend marking the beginning of the end of the year. The weather is getting better, work slows down and people start to think about parties.

For the last few years it has seemed to me that I can't get much out of most companies before February so if we are winding down before November that means we are really only working nine months of the year.

I believe this is a lifestyle choice. We have chosen to be more relaxed and have a more balanced life than most. Because of that we work our butts off the rest of the year so we can hang out at the beach.

So what about my suspicion we could do so much better. Well imagine if we all started winding down one week later. The added week of production what be a huge boost to our productivity.

It's just a thought but I want the best for my country and if working harder for one more week can help, I'm in. How about you?

Something a bit different: Time tested beauty tips

Today is Labour Day in New Zealand and we are all on holiday. I thought I would take the opportunity to share a poem I think has some points that really make sense when you get to have a day off.

The following poem by Sam Levenson was reportedly Audrey Hepburn's favourite. Ms Hepburn is one of the classiest and beautiful woman ever to grace the screen and from what I know of her I can see why she might have chosen this as a favourite.

Time Tested Beauty Tips.

For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.
For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.
For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.
For beautiful hair, let a child run his fingers through it once a day.
For poise, walk with the knowledge that you'll never walk alone.
We leave you a tradition with a future.
The tender loving care of human beings will never become obsolete.
People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed.
Never throw anybody out.
Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you'll find one at the end of your arm.
As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.
Your 'good-ole-days' are ahead of you.
May you have many of them.

I love the line, "Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you'll find one at the end of your arm".

Great poem. Have a fantastic day and the three winners of Mike Hutcheson's book are Norah, Matthew and Tony.

Thank you for all the entries. I am hoping to get some other great giveaways before Christmas.