The last thing I did purely for play—no deadlines, no multitasking, no “let me just check my phone quickly.” It was a peaceful, joy-filled trip to the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond. And let me tell you, my soul said, “Ahhh… finally!”

From the moment I walked in, it felt like stepping into God’s personal art gallery. Flowers were blooming like they were competing for “Best Dressed,” trees were standing tall like elders giving silent wisdom, and the air? Fresh enough to make you forget all your problems—at least temporarily.

I strolled through winding paths, pretending I was in a movie montage—smiling, breathing deeply, and nodding at strangers like, “Yes, we are all healed here.” I even caught myself slowing down… on purpose! Imagine that. No rushing. No agenda. Just vibes and vitamin D.

Here’s the funny part: halfway through the walk, I realized how rare it is for adults to play. Not productivity-play. Not “self-care with a checklist.” Just simple joy. Looking at flowers. Sitting quietly. Laughing at nothing. That kind of play feels rebellious in adulthood—but also necessary.

And let’s be honest, nature has a way of humbling you. You see a tiny flower pushing through the soil and suddenly your problems shrink. Life whispers, “Relax, you’ll bloom too.”

So yes, my last act of fun wasn’t loud or extravagant—but it was rich. It reminded me that play doesn’t always mean excitement; sometimes it means peace. Sometimes it means walking slowly, breathing deeply, and letting your inner child stretch her legs.

If you haven’t played lately, consider this your gentle nudge. Find a garden. Take a walk. Laugh at the sky. Life is too serious already—add a little fun on purpose.

Peace!