Making Time for Friends

July 11, 2026

Tonight was our third game night together over the past several months, and I hope it's a tradition that continues. We used to gather with friends when our kids were little, and I think life got too busy during their teen years to keep it going. It's been fun to start up again. 

February gathering at the Winfreys: Kara & Ryan Thompson, Debbie Carlston, Natalia Winfrey, Dave C., Mike W., me and Brian

Our little group is made up of the Relief Society presidency and our spouses. It's one of those combinations where everyone just clicks. (We were a little surprised by that, to be honest. The ladies are friends— but not besties, and we didn't know it would work so well with our husbands.) 

Conversation is easy, laughter comes naturally, and nobody has to work hard to keep things going. We all happen to be about the same age, enjoy playing games, and have a lot of shared experiences, which makes getting together simple and fun.

We've played all sorts of games: Taboo, Compatability, The Newlywed Game, The Sock Game, Wavelink, Clairvoyance and more.

Everyone brings snacks to share (although one time we made it a dinner night), and we probably eat too much. Between the friendly competition, the stories, and the laughter, the evenings are a lot of fun--it's good for my soul.

I'm grateful for these couples. They make ordinary evenings memorable and remind me that it is important to make time for relationships. Here's to many more game nights