A job well done

I finished a major book project yesterday – itself a series of 25 separate woodworking projects – and now it’s time to celebrate.

I’ve always celebrated the end of major endeavors, although “celebrate” isn’t exactly the right word. I think I need a word that says observe, reflect, commemorate and, yeah, celebrate, all rolled into one. The bottom line is that I’m pleased with the work (and pleased that it’s finally done), and I want to reward myself before diving into the next big project.

The first thing I did was order me a copy of the new Star Trek movie, which comes out on Tuesday. Then I picked up the phone and called one of my reenactor buddies, telling him that I can attend an event this weekend that I previously thought I couldn’t because of work. My weekends have been completely wrapped around the project for months, and I’m finally giving myself a chance to relax and play.

I also need to run out to do some mundane errands today, so while I’m out I’m going to indulge myself in a treat of some sort, although whether it’s going to be a couple of chocolate donuts or an extra large sundae from Dairy Queen, I haven’t decided. (Although if history is any guide, I’ll do both.) After that, I’ll swing by one of my Big Box stores to restock hardware and supplies, another end-of-project ritual. On the way home, I’ll get a six-pack of some good beer (Guinness Harp) to have with tonight’s dinner. Finally, when I get back from my reenactment on Sunday, I’ll spend all day giving the shop a top-to-bottom cleaning, and enjoy every minute of it.

These are all pretty ordinary things, but they’re things I nearly always do as a way of celebrating the successful end of a major time-consuming project. But surely, I’m not the only woodworker who indulges in the practice.

Whether it’s a huge commission for a customer, any large renovation of your home or just a big project you’ve been working on for months, how do you celebrate when it’s completed?

A.J.