An arcade game our particular family has spent a good number of hours playing — together, co-operatively.

It’s not a difficult game, as some shots take some skill, and you need other players to help remove some of the protector fish that surround the really big prize winners in order to get a brief but clear shot at said prize fish. It can be high octane, adrenaline fueled fun, or you can just sort of take pot shots and take it easy. I like when we all fire at different things and then occasionally come together to take down a killer whale, or a great white, or take a single pot shot at the central treasure chest to win the largest prize available. The graphics aren’t crazy, there’s no story, no cut scenes, and yet we will gather around and play it for a really, really long time. Tonnes of fun. Great if you get competitive and want to compare scores. There are no boosts, no power ups, no siding your harpoon aim, it’s a very level playing field. Like I said, love it!

Last night we went to go see Toy Story 5 in Markham. It was very of the times in regards to technology stealing our kids sense of play, imagination, and ability to be present with one another in the physical world. While it didn’t feel as strong as other previous films, it was perfectly fine. I’d give it a seven or a seven point five out of ten. It probably could have been 10 minutes shorter, but it wasn’t bloated by any means. I was just starting to feel a little restless, and some of the youngest in our group didn’t last the entire run time sitting down. Three of the nine of us had to get up and move around, those being the 4, 7 & 9 year old. With bathroom breaks and a need to just move about.

My kids are currently on a dragon hand puppet kick, which is great. Colouring, drawing, and three dimensional structure building. Glue sticks, scissors and paper and markers. They’re off the tablets and VR so I’m thrilled about it. They’ve made three or four each, and look to keep on going. Crafting is a great way to spend the summer break. I am all for it. Maybe some of it can go into the Markham Fair this fall.

Have a wondrous Wednesday. Ciao Bella!