Hurriedly loading their vehicle, Roy and Hannetjie Goodyer’s bushveld holiday was cut short, following the announcement of the 2020 national Covid-19 lockdown.
As vehicles snaked along the dusty road, leading from Dikhololo Resort Hotel, in Brits, the couple were overcome with feelings of uncertainty about the virus, as well as how the stringent regulations will affect their lives.
“Stopping at the first available filling station I filled up the car and popped into the convenience store,” said Roy, a 79-year-old Rynpark 2 resident.
“While waiting in line, my eyes fell on a word search book. Considering that we were facing 21 days of isolation, I bought it.”
Now, more than four and a half years later, the retired electrician has completed over 5 500 puzzles and nearly a 120 000 words.
Armed with his ruler and a pen, Roy admits that he never saw himself as a puzzle enthusiast.
“After completing the first book I was hooked. I spent countless afternoons hunting for the often illusive words,” he said, with a chuckle.
“The newfound hobby definitely helped in passing the days during the hard lockdown period but I have noticed other benefits. My memory is sharp as a tack and my spelling has also improved greatly.”
Looking through his collection of puzzle books, it is evident that Roy enjoyed a long and fruitful career in a trade which required delicate workmanship.
“Before I start a new book, I inscribe the date in the cover and upon completion I do the same. That way I can see how long it has taken me to complete,” he said.
“Each book contains, on average 130 puzzles. I also prefer completing it using a ruler to ensure that the letters remain legible. I may only be doing it for fun but I like my books being neat.”
Roy encourages everyone needing a diversion from everyday life to consider this hobby as a means to destress.
“It is great fun and causes no harm to anyone or anything, except if your books start taking up space,” he said laughing.
“Thankfully this hobby is giving my wife plenty of quiet time which I suppose makes up for everything else.”
Meticulously stowing his books away, Roy said that he would love to see his local community newspaper publish more word searches.
Do you have a unique and unusual hobby? Share it with our readers! Email jani@caxton.co.za.
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