Words: 75 (16×15)
Average Length: 5.33
Here’s a straightforward, somewhat international (Japan, Ireland, India, Russia, Italy, Iceland, Oman, England) themeless. The seed, however – 52 Across – comes from America, where every 800 number leads to automated hell.
Words: 28
Average Length: 4.79
Laugh about it, cry about it, construct a crossword about it: the incoming imperialist-in-chief has threatened to wrest a certain large North Atlantic island from a long-time ally. Let the fun and games begin.
Words: 18
Average Length: 5.00
I’ve always loved the print that’s referenced in 8 Across. I used the artist’s name as the seed, and then crossed it with the subject of the artwork and a long-time Japanese emperor. Best solved with a warm glass of sake.
Words: 70
Average Length: 5.40
Here’s a mostly gentle themeless built around an adage, a request/order, and an item of kitchen storage that I’d never heard until recently and don’t have room for in any event.
Words: 78
Average Length: 4.64
I wish you all a New Year filled with 38 Across. I thank all 6.1 thousand of you who have solved my puzzles in the past year. You come from 55 different countries and generated nearly 15 thousand views. I hope you’ll be back for more in 2025!
If you ever have any questions or suggestions, or if you might be interested in co-constructing, shoot me an email at jeffspuzzles@gmail.com. Thanks, and all the best for 2025!
Chappy Chanukah
Words: 42
Average Length: 4.86
Merry Christmas!
Words: 40
Average Length: 5.05
For the first time I can remember, Chanukah begins this year on Christmas Day. I figured I’d commemorate the occasion with a puzzle for each holiday. Whatever holiday you do (or don’t) celebrate – Chanukah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Festivus, whatever – I wish you all the best this holiday season!
Words: 70
Average Length: 5.63
16 Down wasn’t one of the seeds, but I’ve wanted to work it into a puzzle ever since I found out it was a thing that I had. I’d always thought “mind’s eye” was just an expression; I never realized that 96-99% of people, if told to “picture an apple in your mind’s eye,” would more or less see an apple. Not me. It’s hard to believe I made it 66 years or so without knowing I was missing out on this!
I’m flying home today after a wonderful 3-week cruise through the South Pacific. If you’d like to read about it and see some photos, please check out my travel blog, Puffinlesstravel.com.
Also, I just compiled a list of my favorite books that I read in 2024. If you’re interested, the list is here. I love getting recommendations, so feel free to share your favorites in the comments or via email at Jeffspuzzles@gmail.com.
Thanks!
Words: 28 (9×9)
Average Length: 4.79
Here’s the second puzzle inspired by my playlist of songs that lift my spirits. As in the first in this series, songs on the playlist are marked with an asterisk. Once again, email me at JeffsPuzzles@gmail.com if you’d like me to send you the complete playlist. I’m also curious what songs other people rely on to put them in a good mood – you can include your list in comments on the puzzle or just send me an email. Thanks!
Jeff's Puzzles