Inspired by a little-known picture book from the pen of Bethany Tudor, this is a diary, of sorts, where I document some of my thoughts, activities, and ideas as I explore the challenges met by the characters in the story: hard work, the care and nurture of others, housekeeping skills, life changes, charity, community, and cooperation, among others. Like Samuel and Samantha, the ducks in the tale, I struggle and succeed, cope and celebrate, work and play, handling the tasks that come my way. I invite you to join me on my journey.

Saturday, November 18, 2006

Games Galore!

Those of you who have played, and enjoyed, Apples to Apples from Out of the Box Publishing, may not realize how many other games Out of the Box manufactures and distributes. Here are just a few, in case you are shopping for Christmas gifts this weekend:

Blink® is a fast-paced card game where two players compete to match the shape, count, or color of cards. The first person to play all of their cards wins. Winner of the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award, the Dr. Toy Best Vacation Children’s Product Award, and a Top Pick of the American Specialty Toy Retailers Association.

Qwitch®, or “Quick Switch,” is another game whose object is to run out of cards. Players must eliminate their cards in sequence; but pay attention, letters and numbers can switch at any time. Winner of the Seal of Approval from the National Parenting Center, winner of the Dr. Toy Best Vacation Children’s Product Award, and a Top 100 Toy from Games Magazine.

Squint® uses shapes to build pictures that players must identify. Successfully building or correctly identifying pictures garners points. The player with the most points wins the game. An iParenting Media Award Winner, a Major Fun Award Winner, and a Top New Product from the National School Supply and Equipment Association.

For reviews of these and other games, as well as game recommendations, check out BoardGameRatings.com from the Wasatch Game Company. Happy shopping!

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