Ever since I was little I've loved playing games of any kind. Besides the fun that comes along with playing games, my favorite part is the quality time you get with friends and family, which we have all (hopefully) had more of while in quarantine.

Also, as much as possible I've been trying to incorporate new habits and hobbies that don't involve looking at a screen. I spend way too much time on my phone as it is so making game night a daily activity has really helped me to get off my digital devices and be more present at home. 

Since a lot of us may continue to travel less and have more time with loved ones, or more down time in general, I'm giving a shout out to my favorite games -- hopefully you will enjoy them too!  

1. SCRABBLE

A classic! I grew up playing Scrabble with my Grams and we still play together every time I visit so this game holds a special place in my heard. Awhile back my husband and I stopped counting points to make it more lighthearted and I've gotta say, it's way more fun in my opinion. I found this cute version of the game that doubles as a stylish bookshelf piece. Oh! And if you really want to go all in, I highly recommend picking up a Scrabble approved dictionary. 

2. BACKGAMMON

Great two player game. I learned how to play this from a friend earlier this year and have been hooked ever since! It's a great board game to pack up and take on your picnic (which is what my husband and I usually do, see picture below!) or bring along to the beach. The pieces are heavy enough that they won't fly away, unlike card games. If you are just learning how to play, I highly recommend checking out YouTube videos to help explain the game. 

I'm wearing the All Seeing Eye Necklace in the picture above, my favorite piece to layer up with the Linked Choker these days. ✨

3. MONOPOLY DEAL

Hands down this is my favorite game right now. You can play with 2 - 5 players and it involves some strategy, not just luck! Unlike the traditional Monopoly board game this card game doesn't take hours to play. My husband and I will play at least a few times every day. When we take it on our picnics we use the backgammon board to place our cards in so they won't blow away if a strong gust of wind comes along. It may take a minute to learn the rules but once you do, I think you'll love it.

4. CATAN

This board game is a bit more involved and it's best played with 3 - 4 players but they have extensions for the game so that you can play up to 6 people. It is another addicting game and I play it any chance I get. Don't give up if you're overwhelmed by all the rules the first time you give it a go.

5. UNO

A classic family fun card game. With the simple rules involved you can play this with younger kids and adults alike. I will say that since my husband and I learned how to play Monopoly Deal, Uno has taken a backseat but it's a good one to keep in your game cabinet. 

6. YAHTZEE

I grew up on this game! As well as the two other board games below, and it's a dose of good old fun. This super cute version pictured above doubles as a stylish bookshelf piece so you really can't go wrong by adding it into your games.

7. CHUTES AND LADDERS

Another childhood favorite. I like to play this game with cousins or the younger kiddos in the fam. Found the same cute 'book' version it which makes for easy organizing. Win-win!

8. CANDY LAND

Pretty similar to Chutes and Ladders, this game is another board game that will never go out of style. Great if you have littles in the house that need some entertaining activity but isn't crazy with complex rules. 

9. PUZZLES

Lastly, I have to put a spotlight on the relaxing pastime of puzzles. For a while puzzles were almost as valuable as toilet paper. Most puzzle shortages have been restocked so no need to worry. As you may or may not know I have a thing for stars, which you can see from the Starburst and Little Dipper Collection, so the below puzzle of Vincent Van Gogh's Starry Night is on my wish list.