Kelly is a lifelong puzzler that now shares her puzzling adventures with others on her Instagram and Facebook accounts. Her eye-catching photos, candid reviews, and bubbly personality have grabbed the attention of over 3,000 followers. Kelly has worked some of the hardest jigsaw puzzles including puzzles with over 9,000 pieces and another that had no picture. She is an absolute legend in the puzzle community—and is a big BetterCo. fan!

How did you get into puzzling?

I always liked to puzzle as a kid. But there was this moment that I distinctly remember when I was about 8 years old. I found a very old 1,000 piece puzzle in my parent's closet and wondered if I could do it. I thought 1,000 seemed like so many pieces and I was nervous but excited to try it. Once I started it, I couldn't stop. I loved every moment. When I finished it, I felt so satisfied that I wanted more. My parents went out and got me a few more 1,000 and 2,000 piece puzzles and from that moment on, I was hooked.

Do you puzzle with your kids now?

I absolutely puzzle with my kids. My 4-year-old is very excited about puzzles. I feel it’s been a great bonding experience that we have.

You like to take on challenging puzzles. What advice would you give to a beginner wanting to put together a more difficult puzzle?

I'd say, first of all, that you can do it. I would ask where they are doing the puzzle and make sure it has decent lighting. I would recommend sorting pieces ahead of time and flipping them all up. I would suggest that they have a game plan and where they would like to start on the puzzle. Perhaps start with the easier sections or sections with the most distinct colors. Look closely at the shape of the pieces. For example BetterCo. has some challenging puzzles, but their pieces are uniquely cut and can really help move forward.

Mostly I would just be comforting and tell them that it is a process, and there is no timeline to complete it. Puzzling is not a race. It is meant to both challenge you and to give you enjoyment.

How do you balance work and puzzling?

I try to save a little time at the end of the day for puzzling. It isn’t always easy when the demands of my job are heavy. But I also know that having time for myself is important. I also do most of my puzzling on the weekends.

How do you choose the next puzzle to work on?

Whatever is calling my name or the one I am most excited about. If I was sent a puzzle to review, that takes priority.

What has been your favorite BetterCo. puzzle you've done?

I have done three BetterCo. puzzles so far, and one more that I am looking forward to. It is hard to pick my favorite because I like them for different reasons. I have to go with the Gradient puzzle. Gradients tend to be my favorite puzzles and this one I was able to do in under 3 hours!

Follow Kelly on Instagram @MintyFizz_Puzzles