Connecting the pieces with puzzles

I'm not an expert at puzzles. Sometimes the dog eats a piece. Or four pieces. But -- I have noticed how much easier it is to have a conversation over a simple activity. Pieces slide into place, moments of pleasant silence and conversation slide into their place as well. It can be easier to share my heart and my feelings over a joint focal point -- a meal, a fire, a puzzle. And the joy of completing a task, in a world where many of my goals are open ended, is a helpful bit of dopamine. Wilson doesn't always share my enthusiasm of puzzles, but he's a great supporter and celebrator of my ideas.