Sometimes it’s OK to play games

Dear Amy: “Sue” and I met on a singles site shortly before the pandemic. We live in different parts of the country, so between that and the travel restrictions, we have not met in person yet.

We communicate about twice a week via videoconference and have had a good time getting to know each other better. It has worked well for us.

The problem as I see it is that I am afraid of this style of communication getting stale.

How do we keep things interesting so as not to get bored until it is finally OK to make the trip to see each other and spend time with one another.

Zoom sex is NOT an option. — R

Dear R: It is surprisingly fun to play games via videoconferencing. Do a little research, and depending on your areas of interest, you could play a trivia game, collaborate on a crossword, play “Words with Friends,” or “Heads Up,” a fun word association game available on the Houseparty app.

Also — remember that there are many ways to communicate other than videoconferencing. If you’re the type (I am), you could mix things up by sending your new friend an old-fashioned letter. (Delayed gratification, perhaps, but so romantic!)

Dear Amy: “Blessed Dad” has a 20-something cousin living with them during the pandemic. He is wondering why she doesn’t say “grace” with the family. He could open a conversation by asking if it makes her uncomfortable?

Ask if she’d like to have a turn offering grace or thanks at mealtime?

Being open to a new way of doing things might mean everyone in the family could take occasional turns at offering a blessing. — Faithful Reader in Toledo!

Dear Faithful: I like this idea.