JIGSAW PUZZLE
My wife and I love jigsaw puzzles. It's one of those activities that challenges the brain while at the same time providing an opportunity to talk, laugh, and share a sense of accomplishment when we finish. We have our own strategy when we solve jigsaws. First we empty all of the pieces on the table and turn them all over right-side up. Then we start searching for the straight-edged pieces that make up the outside border of the puzzle. Once the border is complete, we start sorting out pieces based on similar colors, patterns, or hues; or if they appear to belong together to form some outstanding feature in the picture - a person, farmhouse, or a bridge for instance. We both work on separate sections initially (she accuses me of taking the easy parts), but then work together toward the end to finish the sky, or sea, or some other featureless expanse. Sometimes a piece of the puzzle will be particularly elusive. We will search and search, and just not see it. Even though