Tiles

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Another beautiful set of Mahjong tiles...one for me and one for my daughter for her birthday. She was determined not to buy Mahjong accessories, but somehow she has started collecting tiles and sets and has jumped into the Mahjong hype with both feet. I’m thrilled that she loves it so much, though I have to admit I’m a little surprised. She’s normally not much of a gamer, but I think the solo aspects of Mahjong suit her perfectly. As long as she can focus on building her own hand, she’s happy.

I had found this limited edition set before it sold out and managed to snag two of them. I suppose now that she loves Mahjong so much, I’ll have to start doubling up on all my great finds!

Jess met me for lunch to celebrate her birthday together. We went to the waterfront at Blu on the Water, which had just recently reopened for the season. We almost sat outside, but the air was still a little too chilly, so we opted for an inside table overlooking the harbor. We’re so lucky here in Rhode Island to have so many beautiful spots with such scenic views.

I had shifted a meeting for our lunch date, because my girl will always be my first priority. My burrata beet salad was delicious, but her giant side of onion rings might have been the real hit for both of us. It’s not often that she and I get to sneak away for a midweek lunch, so it felt like such a special treat for both of us. 

Then, go figure, I was able to meet up with her and her family again for dinner at a new restaurant in town, Jacks Place. It's getting great reviews and it was easy to see why, the burgers looked delicious and the vibe was cool.  I was still stuffed from lunch, but I ordered an appetizer anyway. After a few bites, my teenage grandsons devoured every bit I didn’t eat, you can always count on teenagers for that! Good luck to her and my son-in-law trying to keep those big boys fed. I honestly don’t know how anyone keeps up with teenage appetites. And my stepdaughter, with her three little boys who will somehow be teenagers in about three minutes, better start preparing now because those future grocery bills are going to be outrageous.

I felt so lucky to see my girl twice on her special day, because I’ll always celebrate her, birthday or not. And honestly, how is it even possible that she’s old enough for all this? I’m still pretty sure I’m supposed to be the one turning 43, not her.

Days like this remind me how quickly the years pass and how important it is to make time for the people we love most. A simple lunch, a family dinner, and a shared love of Mahjong.... cheers to me and my girl. 

“There is no role in life more essential than that of motherhood.” ~ Elder M. Russell Ballard