A 10-letter word for a smart way to pass the time? Crosswords! They’re a daily habit for me. I’m downright obsessed with them, and I’m not alone. They’ve been the most popular word puzzle in history for almost 100 years. Today in America, they are in almost every newspaper and over 40 million people solve them daily, some of them in ink! I never graduated beyond a pencil with a strong eraser, one that’s up to the job of allowing me to make revisions along the way as I’ve gotten more information or seen something in a different light. (Come to think of it, there are some parallels there to how I live my life, but that’s another blog post subject!)I have some books of crossword puzzles, but I can’t say no to the daily crosswords in the newspaper. It’s probably my imagination, but it seems to me that they start off manageably on Monday and progressively get harder during the week, culminating in Sunday’s mindbender, which often ends up as a group effort in our family, effectively debunking the idea that crossword puzzles are a solitary endeavor.
The invention of the crossword puzzle is highly underrated, in my opinion. The benefits are many: they enrich our vocabulary and sharpen our minds; they keep our brains flexible and healthy with daily bursts of sustained cognitive effort; and they lead us into so many areas of life, culture and history. After six days of hard eight-letter words, I’m considering taking Tuesdays off from my word puzzles as a day of rest. Oh, look! Today’s crossword theme is ‘Bookends’! Maybe I’ll begin my day off next Tuesday…
(This image is actually a painting by Darren Maurer)
7 comments:
I agree that they are helpful in many ways. I have tried them, but I am not good at crossword puzzles. I can't do Wheel of Fortune either...but am pretty good at Jeopardy. Missing letters freak me out! I used to keep a jigsaw puzzle on the table, half worked and it was surprising how many people wanted to come help me put it together. That is kind of the same thing. In a way. : ) Good Post.
Poetikat, what a wonderful memory. Thanks for sharing! I notice you said your dad had a PEN in hand. Now that's a serious crossworder! LOL
Sizzie, it's funny you mentioned jigsaw puzzles, because that's another one of my obsessions (I, too, have been known to keep one on the dining room table), and I was considering doing the post today about them instead! Isn't it funny how different but the same we all are?! :-)
I love crossword puzzles, too, but never seem to have the time for them. Even my reading time has been cut since I've started ((blogging))!
I've so enjoyed getting to know you! I feel we are kindred spirits.
Happy New Year to you and yours.
Willow, your words made me smile! Who knew blogging would take such a time commitment?! And the feelings are mutual...I've so enjoyed myself at your blog; you speak to me! :-)
After reading your comments, I had to jump right in and agree..both that blogging (reading others and maintaining one) takes time, and that I like to visit yours. Peggy, your blog calms me to read, I can't explain quite how, but I like to visit. Thanks.
Did you notice how none of us had any cross words, but just friendly, kind ones? : )
LOL, Sizzie! It's true, now that you mention it. I love Bloggyworld!
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