I am all for looking forward and I can prove that I embrace technology as a welcome tool.  Back in the early 1980’s, I shelled out approximately $3,000 to own my very own “compact” Compaq computer.  This “portable” machine weighed about 30 pounds, had a nine-inch screen, and I believe two floppy drives.  I lugged this baby to my office every day and I was so proud to show it off to clients and my fellow workers.  I have owned a computer ever day since then but, of course, upgrade every couple of years to a newer version.  I mean, technology continues its race and we have to keep up.

But, I guess because I use computers for work, I have never used my computers for gaming.  I’d rather read or play live games for leisure.  It just so happens that I spent the other night playing team checkers.  My nine year old niece, Arianna, and I played against my sister, Mary Pat, and my six year old niece, Katie.  Competitive beings that we are, each of us became engrossed in the challenge of anticipating the other’s moves, thinking several moves ahead.  The evening was immensely enjoyable, making me nostalgic for simpler times when we engaged with each other making our own entertainment.

Later, I was surprised to see an episode of Blue Bloods that ended with the family sitting together playing a game.  Perhaps I am not alone in remembering what fun can be had by putting down our devices and laughing with each other.