My life is multifaceted, and I am glad about it. I lead a colorful life. My problem with so much colorfulness is there are not enough hours in the day to be all things to all people, and that includes time for myself. Just like in classic and modern board games, such as the Game of Life and others, finding balance and enjoyment is key. The iconic cover of the Game of Life box, with its vibrant and engaging imagery, draws players in and highlights the game’s appeal. Every woman has to have a little time for herself. Right?

THE GAME BEGINS

There’s something magical about gathering the whole family around the game board for a round of the Game of Life. This classic board game has been a staple in homes for generations, inviting kids and adults alike to spin the wheel, make big decisions, and see where life’s winding path will take them. The rules are simple, but the journey is anything but predictable—just like real life.

When it’s your turn, spin the wheel and move your car forward by the indicated number of spaces. From the very first turn, players are faced with choices: will you jump straight into a career, or take the college route and hope it pays off in the end? Each space on the board—whether it’s a career space, a house space, or one of those infamous red spaces—brings new opportunities and challenges. When a player lands on a space, it triggers specific actions or events, such as drawing cards, paying money, or collecting salaries. The goal? To finish the game with the most money, but also to enjoy the ride, learn a little about money management, and maybe even pick up a few life lessons along the way.

What makes the Game of Life so special is how it mirrors the ups and downs we all experience. The board is filled with twists and turns, just like the real world, and every spin is a reminder that life is full of surprises. Whether you’re buying your first house, landing your dream job, or simply trying to follow the instructions and keep your finances in check, the game is a fun, interactive way to teach kids—and remind ourselves—about the importance of making smart choices.

So, as you set up the board and get ready to play, remember: it’s not just about who ends up with the most money. It’s about the laughter, the lessons, and the memories you create with your family along the way.

IN MY GAME OF LIFE, FRIDAY IS GIRLFRIEND DAY

Each Friday, I MAKE time to enjoy being a girlfriend. Not long ago, I decided to join a group of women who meet for lunch, cards, and togetherness each Friday. I have known these women for years! I enjoy their company, and I appreciate the card game, and the friendship adds to this game of life.

My focus is on enjoying time with friends and having fun, which is what truly makes these Fridays special.

THE REST OF THE DAYS ARE ‘MISTRESS DAYS’

The other days of the week, I am involved, primarily, in being ‘mistress to my husband,’ ‘mistress of my home ‘ and ‘mistress to HoneyGood.com.’ And, then there are the children and the Grands and travel, and my beloved pet, America, that I adore. In the Game of Life, players can also adopt pets, which adds another fun element to the game.

SETTING UP THE GAME: MY PIECES, MY RULES

Before the adventure begins, each player selects a colorful car and places it at the starting space on the game board, ready to embark on their unique journey. With the career deck shuffled and the life tiles stacked, everyone receives a career card—sometimes requiring a degree, sometimes not—setting the stage for the twists and turns ahead. A little starter money is handed out, just enough to get you rolling, but not enough to avoid the occasional need for a bank loan when life throws a curveball.

The beauty of the Game of Life is in its details: the action cards that can change your fate in an instant, the life tiles that hold secret rewards, and the ever-present option to borrow from the bank if you find yourself in a pinch. The board features various spaces, including career spaces—designated spots where players interact with career cards or make career-related decisions that influence their career status and income. Each car on the board represents a different path, and every space you land on is a new chapter—sometimes a windfall, sometimes a challenge.

As the game unfolds, you’ll find yourself making choices that echo real life: Do you take a risk, or play it safe? Do you invest in your future, or enjoy the moment? With every spin, you’re reminded that life is a series of decisions, and the rules—while helpful—can only guide you so far. The rest is up to you.

So, with all the pieces in place and the board set, it’s time to play. Whether you’re drawing action cards, collecting life tiles, or navigating the path ahead, remember: in the Game of Life, it’s your journey, your rules, and your story to tell.

STARTING THE GAME: FIRST MOVES AND EARLY LESSONS

Every journey on the Game of Life board begins with a simple but meaningful ritual: each player selects a colorful car, places it at the starting space, and gets ready for the adventure ahead. The excitement builds as everyone spins the wheel, hoping to land the highest number and claim the coveted spot as the first player. That first turn is more than just a move—it’s the moment you decide your initial path: will you jump straight into a career, or invest in college for the promise of a brighter future?

Drawing from the career deck and salary cards, you quickly realize that every choice has its consequences. Some careers require a degree, while others let you get started right away. The decision you make at the beginning can shape your entire game, influencing your earning potential and the opportunities that come your way. Sometimes, you might even need to take out a bank loan to cover the cost of college or get your life rolling—a reminder that, in both the game and real life, a little risk can sometimes lead to great rewards.

Florence Scovel Shinn, whose words have inspired so many, reminds us that the subconscious mind is a powerful force in shaping our destiny. As you play, it’s not just about the money you collect or the spaces you land on—it’s about the focus and intention you bring to each decision. Positive words and thoughts can set the tone for your journey, helping you navigate the twists and turns of the board with confidence and grace.

From the very beginning, the Game of Life teaches us that success isn’t just about luck or strategy—it’s about making choices that align with our goals, trusting our instincts, and embracing the adventure. So, as you take your first turn, remember: every move is a chance to learn, grow, and set the stage for the life you want to create.

CAREER, EDUCATION, AND THE PATHS I CHOSE

As the game board unfolds before you, one of the first big decisions is whether to jump straight into a career or take the college path. The career space is where dreams take shape—will you be a doctor, an artist, or maybe a teacher? Each career card you draw from the career deck comes with its own salary and, sometimes, a degree required to unlock its potential. The newest version of the game even offers updated career options and a more realistic education system, reflecting the ever-changing world we live in. Different editions of the Game of Life introduce unique themes, components, and career choices, so the experience can vary significantly depending on which edition you play.

But the Game of Life isn’t just about work. The family path beckons, inviting you to get married, add people pegs to your car, and maybe even welcome children along the way. Balancing career ambitions with family responsibilities is a challenge many of us know all too well, and the game captures this beautifully. Every space you land on—whether it’s a promotion, a pay cut, or a new addition to the family—shapes your journey and your story.

Florence Scovel Shinn’s wisdom reminds us that success isn’t just about the job we hold or the money we make, but about the choices we make and the mindset we bring to each new opportunity. With every turn, the game board becomes a canvas for our hopes, our dreams, and our resilience. Whether you’re following the family path, taking a risky road, or forging your own way, remember: every version of the game, like every chapter of life, offers new lessons and new chances to grow. The Game of Life and Florence Scovel Shinn’s book have been widely reviewed by readers around the world, with many praising their positive influence and ongoing relevance.

So, as you spin the wheel and move your car from space to space, embrace the adventure. Let the wisdom of the past and the promise of the future guide you, and know that every choice—big or small—brings you closer to the success that’s right for you.

 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT IN MY GAME

One of the most fascinating—and sometimes nerve-wracking—parts of the Game of Life is playing with the bank. Just like in the real world, the game board is filled with spaces that test your ability to manage money, make wise investments, and sometimes, take a leap of faith. Whether you’re landing on a career space and choosing your first job, or stopping at a house space to decide if it’s time to buy your dream home, every decision shapes your journey toward success.

From the very first spin, you’re handed a salary card from the career deck, and suddenly, you’re in charge of your own financial destiny. Will you take the college path, invest in your education, and hope for a higher salary? Or will you jump straight into a career, eager to start earning right away? Each choice comes with its own risks and rewards, and sometimes, the only way forward is to take out a bank loan—just like in life, when unexpected expenses or opportunities come knocking.

The game board is sprinkled with red spaces and action cards that can change your fortunes in an instant. Maybe you’ll land on a space that lets you adopt a pet, add a new member to your family, or even draw a life tile that brings a surprise windfall. But beware: every new house, every child, and every pet comes with its own set of expenses. Managing your money wisely—balancing what you spend, what you save, and when to take a risk—is the key to coming out ahead when the final tally is done.

Older versions of the Game of Life let you dabble in stocks and real estate, while the newest version introduces playful twists like the secret door to success and the option to take out bank loans for those big, life-changing moments. No matter which edition you’re playing, the lesson is the same: money wins may be the goal, but how you get there—and the choices you make along the way—matter just as much.

Florence Scovel Shinn, whose words have guided so many, reminds us that the subconscious mind is a powerful ally in achieving our goals. She believed that our thoughts and intentions shape our reality, and nowhere is that more evident than when you’re strategizing your next move on the game board. Even Jesus offered wisdom on the subject, reminding us that true wealth is about more than just the numbers in the bank.

As you play, you’ll find helpful examples of financial management at every turn. Maybe you’ll decide to pay off your bank loans early, or perhaps you’ll take the risky road, hoping for a big payoff. Each version of the game offers new opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun—whether you’re playing with friends, family, or even just reflecting on your own journey.

At the end of the game, as you count your money, add up your life tiles, and see who comes out on top, remember: the real victory isn’t just about having the most money. It’s about the lessons learned, the laughter shared, and the memories made along the way. The Game of Life is a playful, powerful reminder that financial management is a journey—one best enjoyed with a little strategy, a lot of heart, and the whole family by your side.

OVERCOMING CHALLENGES: WHEN THE GAME GETS TOUGH

As you steer your car along the winding game board, the Game of Life throws plenty of curveballs your way. Red spaces pop up when you least expect them, demanding you pay fines, take detours, or face unexpected expenses. These moments mirror the real-life challenges we all encounter—those times when plans change, and we have to adapt on the fly.

When a player lands on a space that requires payment, the decision becomes real: do you dip into your savings, or take out a bank loan to cover the cost? Sometimes, the risky road tempts you with the promise of big rewards, but it can also lead to setbacks that test your resolve. Action cards add another layer of unpredictability, offering both obstacles and opportunities to turn the tide in your favor.

The beauty of the Game of Life is that it’s not just about who ends up with the most money. It’s about how you handle the bumps along the way. Smart decisions, a willingness to take calculated risks, and the ability to stay focused under pressure are what separate the winners from the rest. Whether you’re paying for college, navigating a tricky space, or deciding whether to take a chance on a new opportunity, every choice shapes your journey.

Success in the game—and in life—comes from resilience, adaptability, and a positive mindset. By learning to overcome challenges, manage your resources, and make wise decisions, you set yourself up for a fulfilling and rewarding adventure, no matter where the road leads.

NAVIGATING THE BOARD: CHOICES, DETOURS, AND DISCOVERIES

The Game of Life board is a vibrant tapestry of possibilities, each space representing a new chapter in your story. As you guide your car from one space to the next, you’re faced with choices that echo the real world: will you stop at a career space to pursue a new job, or land on a house space and invest in your dream home? The family path beckons with the promise of marriage and children, while the pursuit of career success offers its own rewards.

Every turn brings a fresh decision—do you focus on building your family, or chase after the most money? The board is dotted with surprises, from opportunities to buy stocks or take out insurance, to unexpected detours that force you to rethink your strategy. Sometimes, you’ll need to pay for retirement or deal with the consequences of a risky choice, just as in life.

What makes the Game of Life so much fun is the way it encourages you to explore, adapt, and discover new possibilities. Whether you’re adding people pegs to your car, collecting life tiles, or navigating the twists and turns of the path, every move is a chance to learn something new about yourself and the world around you.

By embracing the journey and making thoughtful choices, you can achieve your goals and finish the game with a sense of accomplishment—no matter how much money you have at the end. After all, it’s the experiences, the laughter, and the memories you create along the way that truly make the game worth playing.

I HAVE DECIDED TO THE GAME OF LIFE, A WEE BIT

Over the past decade, I have slowly, because of HoneyGood.com, dropped out of daily interaction with groups. Like a newborn baby, each year this community of ours has grown, adding more and more responsibilities to my role as the ‘Mistress’ of HoneyGood.com; my little hobby turned business.

Therefore, each year my interactions with group friendships have diminished. I no longer have as much time to play golf or play cards or join book and movie clubs. Aside from my weekly group, I see close friends for an occasional lunch date and a variety of friends, as couples, during the evening, going to movies, concerts and afterward dinner.

THE FRIDAY CARD GAME AND WHAT I LEARNED

The first time I played cards in the Friday ‘group’ it is hard to explain what came over me; I’d describe it as a shockwave of surprise and a warm feeling as I listened to the ladies banter back and forth. I knew all of the women, of course, because we all belonged to the same country club, a huge group! Over the years, women get to know one another.

Looking back, I found my experience with the group to be very helpful for my personal growth and understanding.

SPIRITUAL INFLUENCES: THE UNSEEN HANDS IN MY GAME

Have you ever noticed how the Game of Life, that classic board game we’ve all played with our kids or grandkids, is more than just a race to see who ends up with the most money? As I sit around the game board with my family, drawing career cards from the career deck, choosing between the family path or the risky road, I can’t help but see echoes of the deeper, spiritual journey we’re all on.

Florence Scovel Shinn, whose wisdom has guided so many, believed that life is shaped not just by our actions, but by our thoughts and words—the power of the subconscious mind. Spiritual leaders like Jesus are often cited for their teachings on the power of the word and positive thinking, showing how speaking the right word can transform our lives. When I play the Game of Life, I see her teachings come alive in every spin of the wheel and every decision made. Each space on the board, whether it’s a career space, a house space, or one of those unpredictable red spaces, is a reminder that life is full of choices and surprises. Sometimes, you land on a space that brings you joy—a new house, a promotion, or a life tile that adds to your story. Other times, you might find yourself taking out bank loans or facing a setback, just as we do in real life.

Her book has been widely reviewed by readers from around the world, with many highlighting its profound spiritual influence and practical wisdom in recent testimonials.

The career cards and salary cards we draw are more than just a way to keep score; they’re a playful reflection of the paths we choose and the degrees required to reach certain goals. In older versions of the game, you could buy insurance or invest in stocks, trying to secure your future—just as we do with our own plans and dreams. But as Florence Scovel Shinn reminds us, true security comes from within, from nurturing a positive mindset and trusting in the unseen hands that guide us. The word is central to many spiritual traditions and teachings, emphasizing how our spoken word can influence our reality and spiritual outcomes.

In the newest version of the game, there’s even a “secret door” to success—a playful nod to the idea that sometimes, the greatest opportunities come when we least expect them, if only we’re open to seeing them. The rules and instructions may change from edition to edition, but the heart of the game remains the same: it’s about navigating life’s twists and turns with courage, curiosity, and a sense of fun.

Playing the Game of Life with friends and family is a beautiful reminder that we’re all on this journey together. Whether we’re collecting life tiles, paying off bank loans, or simply enjoying the ride in our little plastic cars, every moment is a chance to learn, grow, and connect. The game board becomes a mirror for our own lives, reflecting the importance of community, resilience, and the choices we make along the way.

So the next time you gather your whole family around the table for a game night, remember the words of Florence Scovel Shinn: “The game of life is a game of consciousness.” Sometimes, a single page from her books can offer a life-changing insight or lesson. Let’s play with intention, speak words of encouragement, and trust that, no matter which path we take—be it the family path, the risky road, or a detour through Countryside Acres—there’s wisdom to be found in every space we land on. After all, in both the game and in life, it’s not just about who has the most money at the end, but about how we play, who we become, and the love and laughter we share along the way.

WHAT CAME OVER ME?

I had forgotten the lovely networking and interaction among the group that made our club ‘a whole.’ Where had I been? I had missed out on years of bonding with groups of girlfriends that I once had in droves before I began writing! And, I missed it. Not the golf, not the cards, not the movie or book clubs so much. I missed being a constant part of ‘girly’ togetherness where moods are lifted, and gabfests occur.

As I moved away from group activities and focused more on writing, my world shifted. The connections and shared experiences that once filled my days changed, and I found myself navigating a new world of solitude and self-reflection.

“No man is an Island. No man stands, alone.” I do not want to be an Island. On the other hand, I have to be my own person, dance to my own drummer, because that is who I am. So, I want my business, and I want to belong. It is difficult, at best, to be all things to all people… including one’s self.

When a woman takes a different path, as I have, not doing what the other women do, she is often forgotten because she does not have the time to be part of groups. In all honesty, she is sometimes admired and respected for her path and other times resented. I think she is praised when she makes a point of bonding with the group.

A WILD CARD IN THE GAME OF LIFE

Half of me has never been much of a conformist. I like that, just fine. My home reflects my individuality. The way I dress reflects my personal preferences. My new found career  — started in my sixties — depicts my need to live outside the box, to be challenged, curious and excited to wake up each day.

The other half of me is a conformist who knows that group friendships in a woman’s life, to include my own, are very meaningful and powerful. Each relationship we nurture makes life a little more vibrant.

Don’t get me wrong, I have a treasure chest of wonderful friends. My friends are not in one group. They are all over. For example, I have friends from work, neighbors, old classmates, and even friends I met while traveling—these examples show just how varied my friendships are. I wish, at times, I could pool them all together into one group and have a party. OMG, this group would be so eclectic, so exciting and colorful. Maybe I will do just that! And add one more item to my agenda. I am smiling!

RETIREMENT AND WINNING: WHAT DOES VICTORY LOOK LIKE?

As the final spaces on the game board come into view, the excitement builds—who will retire with the most money, and what will victory look like? In the Game of Life, the journey ends at one of two destinations: the luxurious Millionaire Estates or the peaceful Countryside Acres. But reaching the end is only part of the story. The real suspense comes when the life tiles are revealed, each one holding a secret that could tip the scales and decide the winner.

Before the final tally, players may need to sell their houses or other assets to maximize their total wealth. Winning the game isn’t just about collecting the highest number of dollars; it’s about how you played, the choices you made, and the memories you created along the way. The rules are clear: pay off your bank loans, count your money, and add up the value of your life tiles. But the lessons linger long after the board is packed away. Playing the Game of Life with family and friends is a reminder that success is about more than just money—it’s about the laughter, the teamwork, and the stories you share.

Whether you end up at Millionaire Estates or Countryside Acres, what matters most is the journey. The game board, with all its twists and turns, is a reflection of life itself: unpredictable, challenging, and full of surprises. So, as you play, remember to savor every moment, celebrate every victory, and cherish the time spent with those you love. In the end, that’s the true meaning of success—in the Game of Life, and in life itself.

FLORENCE SCOVEL’S IMPACT: WISDOM FROM THE ORIGINAL GAME MASTER

Florence Scovel Shinn’s timeless wisdom has left an indelible mark on the way we approach both the Game of Life and life itself. Her classic book, “The Game of Life and How to Play It,” is a treasure trove of insights about the power of positive thinking, the importance of words, and the role of the subconscious mind in shaping our destiny. These principles are woven into the very fabric of the Game of Life board, reminding players that success is as much about mindset as it is about strategy.

As you play, you’ll find echoes of Florence Scovel’s teachings in every decision you make. The “secret door” to success isn’t just a playful feature in the newest version of the game—it’s a nod to her belief that opportunities often appear when we focus our thoughts and words on what we truly desire. Each challenge on the board is an invitation to apply her wisdom: stay positive, keep your focus, and trust that the right path will reveal itself.

For readers and players alike, Florence Scovel Shinn’s legacy is a reminder that the real game is played within. By nurturing a positive mindset, speaking words of encouragement, and believing in the power of the subconscious mind, we can overcome obstacles and achieve our goals—both on the board and in the world beyond.

So, as you spin the wheel and move your car from space to space, let Florence Scovel’s words guide you. Success isn’t just about reaching the end with the most money; it’s about learning, growing, and playing the game with heart, wisdom, and joy.

A WOMAN’S GOT TO DO WHAT A WOMAN’S GOT TO DO… MAKE HER OWN CHOICES!

As women, we often try to have it all, balancing family, friends, career, and personal development. At the beginning of my journey, I didn’t realize how important female bonding would be in shaping my experiences and choices. There is so much on our plates that it is easy to neglect specific pieces of the pie. For me, I realized that in my ‘razzle and dazzle’ lifestyle I have been neglecting the sparkle that female bonding adds to the game of life. It may be tough to have it all, but I’m up for the challenge!

I am grateful that I have the opportunity to nurture the parts of me that shine when I surround myself with women whose friendships help fill my soul.

Are you looking for female friendship? Come join my private Facebook group, Celebrate Life. Online sisterhood awaits!

Do you stay connected to female friends? What do you do to make the time for all the relationships that fulfill you? 

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