The Joy of Table Games

WHETHER it's Pinochle or dominos; whether it's Monopoly or Uno; table games can be a whole lot of fun - especially for families! Playing games offers parents the opportunity to spend leisure moments with their children in an enjoyable and inter-active manner. Kids will often be more than delighted for the chance to play games with their parents, grandparents, or siblings.

Table games can also be a great leisure activity for adults. A game night, where one couple invites another couple to their home to play cards, could be one of the highlights of the week for everyone involved. Or, several couples might choose to get together for a Texas 42 party where winners advance in round-robin tournament style play. In either case, adults can have a ball being together and enjoying a fun-filled time of recreation.

Even teenagers, who are now a part of the electronic age, may sometimes enjoy an exciting game around a card table! For years, many individuals have discovered that playing checkers or chess against an opponent can be a challenging - but still very enjoyable - leisure experience. And, some individuals like to play card games all by themselves.

When it comes to playing a table game, it's far more than just the game itself. It's the opportunity for fellowship! It's the visiting that can take place! It's the communication. It's the munchies! It's the laughter! It's just a good time!

Some would say that playing table games can be an educational exercise and that it helps keep the mind alert. Others would suggest that participation in table games go a long way in relieving stress. Whatever additional values there may be, for most of us, table games offer opportunities for friendly competition and just pure and simple fun.

The next time you hear someone say, "Let's play Skip-Bo," be sure to join in!

Porching: New Term for Leisure Activity

A NEW TERM has surfaced recently for a leisure activity of yesteryear that seems to be making a come-back. The activity is called porching. The meaning of this new word is simply enjoying the experience of sitting on the porch!

Years ago most houses included at least one porch: a front porch, a back porch, a side porch, or perhaps a wraparound porch. Couples, family members, and friends would gather on the porch, have a glass of iced tea, and visit. Even individuals would come alone to find a comfortable spot on the porch to read the paper, drink a cup of coffee, listen to the radio, or perhaps to just relax and take in the outdoor scenery. But then, times changed. Perhaps because of economic factors or just a change in style, builders began to construct houses without porches, and the activity of sitting on the porch was no longer possible in these new homes. Even people who lived in older homes with porches seemed to find other places - mostly inside - to spend their free time.

Now, the trend seems to be reversing again. In many places across the nation - in cities as well as in rural areas - houses once again are being built with porches, and people are once again finding pleasure in sitting on the porch.

Many professionals in the leisure services field would advocate an active lifestyle and activities which are more physically demanding than merely sitting on a porch! Even so, there is a time for everything! Most of us recognize the importance of getting the appropriate amount of daily exercise. However, a time for relaxation - either alone or with family members or friends - might be the perfect addition to our lists of enjoyable free-time experiences.

A new leisure activity - which is really something most of our grandparents enjoyed - is perhaps something worthy of consideration: porching!