Rediscovering Play

That search unexpectedly led me to modern board games.

Having grown up enjoying computer games, I still loved the challenge of strategy, competition and solving problems. What I didn't realise was that there was an entire world of modern board games waiting to be discovered. Until then, my experience had been limited to classics like Monopoly during family holidays.

Curious, I searched online for a local gaming group and decided to give it a try. That one evening opened the door to a hobby that has become a significant part of my life. Today I play regularly, have built a collection of more than a hundred games, and, perhaps most importantly, have met many wonderful people and lifelong friends around the table.

Learning to Slow Down

Somewhere along the way, I realised I needed another reason to step away from my desk. That reason arrived on four paws.

I chose a Border Collie called Kiki, named after a much-loved family dog, Cookie, who had been part of our lives years earlier. Kiki was the first dog who was entirely my responsibility, and from the moment she came home, life changed.

If you've ever met a Border Collie, you'll know they don't really understand the concept of "that's enough exercise."

Throwing a ball for half an hour simply wasn't going to cut it. She would happily keep going long after my arm had given up. Before long, I realised I needed to find ways to keep up with her rather than the other way around.

LOG ENTRY 05

Beyond the Screen

After years behind a desk, I found myself searching for balance. That search introduced me to board games, lifelong friendships and a Border Collie called Kiki.