Truth be told, this post almost didn’t happen! With the holiday hassle – gifts, December birthdays in my family, greetings, school winter concerts, and all – I was tempted to table it for the new year (the content is relevant for anytime spent with family.)  Though an attractive option (hey, it was a late night after a long day), the holidays mean so much to me that I couldn’t imagine not sharing my musings and helpful ideas with you, my most loyal fans. So here goes!

I admit it! I love gifts! I love giving and receiving them (c’mon you know you do too!) 🙂  It’s truly reminiscent of my childhood when the Christmas holiday meant getting the much coveted pair of shoes, clothes, treats (best European cookies and chocolates ever), and an abundance of the most delicious cuisine that was only reserved for special occasions. Unlike today when shopping all the time is common place, the Christmas holiday was the one time that we got what we truly desired for the year so you can only imagine how special and exciting it was!

Most memorable of all, though, was all the time spent with family (yes, even the drama – who’s family doesn’t have it?)  I can still hear the laughter in the kitchen with my sisters, mom, aunts, cousins and grandmas while we prepared the food for the Christmas holiday dinner and the commotion from the kids as they run in and out of the kitchen!

The highlight of the day was watching sports together followed by game time a little after our holiday dinner – nothing fancy since digital games were not ubiquitous (oh oh, just dated myself) – mostly cards (poker) and board games (monopoly) and an interactive tennis game that we played through the TV (Pong.)

Still today, I miss the competitiveness and trash talking that went around, especially with my brothers and wouldn’t trade those memories for anything!  To help me, and maybe you relive those fond memories…

Here are 5 cool and fun family games that you can play with your family during the holidays:

1. Just Dance 2014 

Hey, what better way to work off all that holiday dinner. One of my favorite games! Great game for girls, boys, and adults! Even your toddler will get into it! Click on the image to get more product details. 

2. Spot It 

Ideal game for girls and boys 7 -12 years old. Click on the image to get more product details. 

3. Quirkle 

Good for anyone 6 years old an up! http://amzn.to/1ewJSQI. Click on the image to get more product details.

4. Apples to Apples 

Great for anyone 12 years old and up! Click on the image to get more product details. 

5. Blokus 

Awesome game for anyone 5 years old and up! Click on the link to get more product details.

I hope you enjoy these cool kids and adult games and any others that you might be playing with your family this holiday season.

Any games that you would like to share with us?  Please do.  We would love to to hear about them!

Happy Holidays & Playing!

gapmuse