The Puzzle Republic
What's your name?
Jessica Cheney
Where are you based?
Los Angeles, USA
Tell us about what your ordinary day looks like.
Depending on the day of the week I am either working on my iPad creating new illustrations, taking online courses to sharpen my graphic design skills or managing The Puzzle Republic website, online shop and social media accounts. Oh and it goes without saying that I will regularly take a break from all of that to work on a puzzle!
How did you get into the world of puzzling?
My husband's parents live in Colorado and every time we would go visit them my mother-in-law always had a puzzle out for us to dabble with throughout our stay. I started getting hooked from that and doing it at home on my own. Then I quickly became even more reliant on it because I noticed a real difference in my mental health. I used to own a corporate event planning company and with that came a lot of stress and pressure. Puzzles were and still are my sanctuary.
What makes you keep puzzling & how often do you puzzle?
I think the reason I enjoy puzzling so much is because it allows me to keep my brain and hands busy in a mindless way that feels almost like meditation. I love the fact that it starts out as organized chaos with a box full of pieces then slowly, but surely I'm able to sort through it all, piece things together and see the bigger picture at the end. It's definitely gratifying to complete a puzzle, but I try not to dwell over them for too long because I have to make room for the next one!
What is your favorite type of puzzles?
I typically do between 500-1000 pieces (unless I want a lil snack size 300 piecer). I'm obsessed with all things color. The more vibrant the better! I am a big fan of cutaway puzzles too where your POV is the interior of a building. There's something nostalgic about that dollhouse style that makes them super satisfying.
During puzzling sessions, do you listen to anything or puzzle in silence?
I either put on the TV in the background or as of late have been listening to audiobooks. AND as if doing 2 things at once wasn't enough, I've stepped up my multi-tasking by using my walking pad while I puzzle. I have a counter height table so it can easily fit underneath and sometimes I get so wrapped up in wanting to finish the puzzle that I will have walked 5+ miles without even realizing it. Working my brain & body all at once!
If you were to describe what puzzling means to you, what would it be?
Peace in the Pieces.
Tell us about your other interests & joys.
My husband & I love escape rooms, pickleball and traveling. We have 2 cats: Pico de Gato & CleoCatra. I also enjoy reading, wine & cheese (definitely not in that order).
Do you have anything you want to share?
Check out my online shop at thepuzzlerepublic.com/shop for a puzzle lovers paradise! We've got tons of fun & playful puzzle themed products like clothing, mugs, gift wrap & more. Basically everything BUT puzzles :)
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