P is for Puzzles
What's your name?
Elizabeth T, aka P is For Puzzles
Where are you based?
Torrance, CA
Tell us about what your ordinary day looks like.
During the work day, I am a Sales Manager at a popular cat treat company. This is very convenient for my [puzzle] friends, as most of them have cats and get to try new products. Puzzles and cats go hand-in-hand! I usually do at least one puzzle every night, sometimes more if I am training for a speed puzzling competition.
How did you get into the world of puzzling?
My love for jigsaw puzzles began in childhood. Even from a young age, I enjoyed the problem-solving aspect and the satisfaction of completing a puzzle. It was also a great activity for me as an ‘only child.’
What makes you keep puzzling & how often do you puzzle?
I learned about speed puzzling competitions in 2024, which is when I started puzzling much more frequently. I always say that the community of puzzlers has been such a gift in my life. I love the camaraderie, teamwork, and friendships. It filled a part of my life that I didn’t know was missing! I now complete at least one puzzle every day, and I may do 3-4 in a day if I am training for a competition.
What is your favorite type of puzzle?
I love happy, artsy illustrations, like most of the Soonness collection. I usually do 500s while training, and I like doing 1000-piece puzzles leisurely with my parents or friends. I love puzzles with sortable patterns and collages.
During puzzling sessions, do you listen to anything or puzzle in silence?
When I am speed puzzling, I listen to sped-up pop songs to keep my energy and pace up. When I’m leisurely puzzling, I don’t usually play music but may listen to a tv show if it’s on.
If you were to describe what puzzling means to you, what would it be?
Puzzling is a gift in my life! It is so many things: friendship, working toward goals, and meditation.
Tell us about your other interests & joys.
I love trying new foods—my puzzle teammates and I always try a new restaurant when we meet to practice. I also play tennis, hike, and enjoy crossword puzzles.
Do you have anything you want to share?
Find what brings you joy and make time for it! Also, shout out to Orange County Speed Puzzlers, which has brought me SO much joy!
