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Remember when you were a child and you and your family and friends played games? Baby boomer kids managed to enjoy some fun without today's electronics or complicated computers. We had board games such as Monopoly, Sorry, Clue, checkers, Scrabble and a host of others.
Then came Twister which presented a physical challenge that could get a bit embarrassing, but Twister always ended in laughter as participants wound up in a pile of bodies on the living room floor.
For some of us, card games were the norm. There were an endless number of card games that required some thought and skill. Others were simply the luck of the draw yet fun to play.
My mom was a regular bridge player in her later years and lamented that her daughters didn't follow her lead in that card game. Some of the other card games we passed on to our own children and then grandchildren.
However, during those busy regular working years, I found I had less and less time for games. I didn't realize how much I missed playing them until I retired and found the time to indulge in some long lost childhood pastimes.
Sitting down at a table of family and friends for a newfound board game or card playing was eye-opening. It awakened senses I felt dulled a long time ago. Playing a game of gin rummy makes me think about numbers and suites and nothing other than having a good time.
I have heard that seniors who regularly play board games or cards are rewarded with better mental sharpness and overall containment. Even losing has its benefits if you keep in mind it's all for fun.
Last year I had the good fortune of playing cards with some other retired ladies. We met once a week at Wheeling Park's White Palace. The first time I played there I was amazed at how many other tables were filled with adults enjoying various card games.
Everyone who played there also bought lunches and snacks from the very friendly workers at the food counter. It was such a fun time and very gracious of the park to allow folks to play cards in a safe, comfortable and friendly atmosphere in return for their patronage.
Unfortunately, the card players had to say goodbye to their weekly games at the park as the White Palace is undergoing a redesign and refurbishing.
I want to thank the folks at Wheeling Park for opening their doors to those card players for as long as they did. It was a game changer for many.
Heather Ziegler can be reached via email at hziegler@theintelligencer.net.