Coloring Books, Puzzles and Games

By the end of August, the days become cooler and shorter, and the never-ending humidity of summer has lifted. Days and nights will soon become the same length in time. We spend more time in solitude, and we have plenty of time for indoor activities. It is a time of learning and growing.

My favorite seasons

Spring and fall have become my favorite seasons. It is mainly due to temperatures that are more tolerable than summer and winter, with their excesses in humidity, heat and cold.

New seasons are a time of renewal and in the fall, my renewed thoughts turn to books, pencils, new shoes, and wooly sweaters. Reminiscent of my childhood days of returning to school in September, I cannot help myself. I must get involved with books. I am not sure if I will ever be finished learning.

Learning then

All my adult life, fall would bring back memories of school. It would call me and force me to sign up for continuing education courses because fall time is about purchasing, reading, and learning from books. I could not resist signing up for courses and did at least 2 every year. I would learn anything because just learning was a pleasure and I could never get enough of it.

Learning now

Now, I do most of my learning online. It is convenient especially since schools have been closed for over a year, but mostly because I have no desire anymore to schlep from class to class. There is something missing in online vs in-person learning though, and I think the main missing factor is the book itself. Learning from PowerPoints is okay, but there is no new book smell, or the ability to highlight text.

Holding a book

As much as I enjoy the convivence of online learning, there is something to be said about physically holding a book. I also enjoy reading the newspaper and doing the crossword, or opening a new book and putting my name on the inside of the front cover.

Coloring books

I also like adult coloring books. Not necessarily adult content but something a little harder than kids coloring books. Paradise is closing the computer and spreading out my book and my crayons on top of my desk. I have never quite gotten over the joy of having a new box of crayons or sharpened pencil crayons.

Playing games

Board games and card games are also a great pass time for the fall season. Remember when we were kids and we played games at the dining room table when it was raining out? We tend to spend lots of time playing games on our phones, but that takes away the social context of game playing. Board games are great to play with the grandchildren or caregivers or spouse. Turning off the television and start socializing with others.

How will you fill your time this fall season? Taking a break from the worry of COPD and turning to coloring books, puzzles and games is a great idea!

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Editor’s Note: We are extremely saddened to say that on January 7th, 2024, Barbara Moore passed away. Barbara’s advocacy efforts and writing continue to reach many. She will be deeply missed.