Lauren Lindsley

Hi! I’m Lauren Lindsley, and one of my favorite pastimes is doing jigsaw puzzles. Starting at a young age, my family would get a puzzle whenever we would get together, and I always enjoyed how we could appreciate each other’s presence, even when we were so focused on finding the right pieces that we weren’t talking. My great-grandfather, in particular, would remind me each time we worked on a puzzle about the importance of keeping my brain sharp.

As I’ve gotten older, puzzles have continued to be something I enjoy, whether it's by myself or with my mom. Although my great-grandfather is not with us anymore, and the rest of my family doesn't meet as frequently, I continue to spend some of my free afternoons on my living room floor, putting each small piece in its correct place. Especially when it's rainy or cold outside, turning on music and devoting my brain power to the puzzle feels much more rewarding than if I had spent that time scrolling my phone in bed.

I have received and completed countless puzzles, but I think the reason I truly enjoy them is the memories of my family and I working together. Puzzles have become more than just something I do in my free time. They remind me of the simple moments I shared with my family. Even though I may not remember every puzzle I’ve completed, I’ll always remember the people I completed them with.