Puzzling Paula
What's your name?
Paula Stanley
Where are you based?
Brisbane, Australia
Tell us about what your ordinary day looks like.
I work full-time as a Project Officer, so my weekdays are busy but when I work from home I squeeze in some puzzle breaks. Outside of work, I’m a single mum, to a 18 and 12 year old. Thankfully having older children means I get a bit more downtime and that means settling in with a puzzle, a drink and some true crime playing in the background. Puzzling has become one of my favourite ways to switch off from the stresses of everyday life.
How did you get into the world of puzzling?
A 1000 piece Where’s Wally puzzle that my son got for Christmas. One day I saw it unopened at home and thought I might try and do it. It was actually so tricky with all the characters looking the exact same all over it but I actually really enjoyed it! I thought puzzles were only landscape photos or ugly flowers in vases but then I discovered the world of puzzling and the variety of artwork and puzzles that were available and I became addicted.
What makes you keep puzzling & how often do you puzzle?
I love the feeling when you get a piece in the right spot! That keeps me going too long some nights. I also have a puzzling station set up on my dining room table where I constantly have a puzzle going. I puzzle every day, multiple times a day. I love that I can sit down for 20 minutes or lose a few hours completely absorbed in it. It’s more often the latter!
What is your favorite type of puzzle?
1000 pieces, velvety feel, ribbon cut, with pinks & pretty colours a must. I love cute, colourful illustrations with lots of little details to discover.
During puzzling sessions, do you listen to anything or puzzle in silence?
I listen to true crime! I can puzzle in silence but generally I like to do two things at once so I puzzle and watch or listen to true crime on YouTube.
If you were to describe what puzzling means to you, what would it be?
Self-care, relaxing, distracting, focusing, thinking time, fun, challenging, achievable and satisfying.
Tell us about your other interests & joys.
Camping. I love going out and exploring what’s around me in South East Queensland and as far as a I can drive. I have a hot pink swag and it’s so easy to pitch and be set for a long weekend of fun. Sometimes I take a small puzzle with me too.
Do you have anything you want to share?
I love sharing the puzzles I complete on Instagram. I share my reviews of different brands and my love of different artwork. I also share my speed puzzling journey. I love the wholesome puzzling community and connecting with everyone in it! You can find me on Instagram at @puzzling_paula
