Tag Archives: play

Playtime, Now With Fewer Bruises

Posted on January 2, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Play doesn’t disappear as we get older — it just gets quieter, more intentional, and a lot easier on the knees. At 59, playtime looks less like recess and more like curiosity, laughter, and moments enjoyed purely for their own sake. Continue reading →

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Quiet Joy and Teal-Colored Noise

Posted on December 20, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

Fun looks different these days. Sometimes it’s quiet—coffee, music, stillness. And sometimes it’s loud—students, a stadium, and the Jaguars dismantling the Jets. Last Sunday reminded me that both kinds of joy matter, and teaching has a way of keeping me connected to each of them. Continue reading →

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Jacksonville’s Fun Cousins and the Search for a Hometown Favorite

Posted on November 17, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

I don’t think I’ve officially discovered my favorite place in Jacksonville yet. There are plenty of spots I enjoy, but when I really want something memorable, I usually end up taking a short drive to one of our neighboring cities with stronger personality and built-in fun. I’m still hopeful that Jacksonville’s best “go-to” place just hasn’t opened its doors yet. Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Saturday, November 15, 2025 – Lessons From Mom: Take Time to Play

Posted on November 15, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

This is the 20th of 25 special reflections based on lessons I learned from my mother. These will run from my birthday on October 27 until her birthday on November 20. Read Philippians 4:1-9 Rejoice in the Lord always; again … Continue reading →

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The Joy We Forget: Being a Kid at Heart

Posted on October 29, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

Watching my grand-nephews, grand-nieces, and especially Sully reminds me what pure joy looks like—play without self-consciousness, laughter without restraint. Somewhere along the way, we trade that freedom for composure, and maybe it’s time we remembered how to play again. Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Friday, November 15, 2024 – Lessons From Mom: Take Time to Play

Posted on November 15, 2024 by Douglas Blaine

This is the 20th of 25 special reflections based on lessons I learned from my mother. These will run from my birthday on October 27 until her birthday on November 20. Read Philippians 4:1-9 Rejoice in the Lord always; again … Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Monday, November 15, 2021 – Lessons From Mom: Take Time to Play

Posted on November 15, 2021 by Douglas Blaine

This is the 20th of 25 special reflections based on lessons I learned from my mother. These will run from my birthday on October 27 until her birthday on November 20. Read Philippians 4:1-9 Rejoice in the Lord always; again … Continue reading →

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