Well, apparently, I’m not the only one craving a little friendly tile-flipping competition!

After my recent ​post about Mahjong​, my inbox lit up like a Christmas tree with messages from so many of you saying, “Count me in!”, which makes me even more excited to get this Mahjong group started.

Have you heard of the ​Blue Zones​? (There’s a great Netflix documentary if you haven’t fallen down that rabbit hole yet.)

Researchers found that people who live the longest share a few key things in common: a mostly plant-based Mediterranean-style diet, regular movement (think walking, not weightlifting), and strong social connections.

I don’t know about you, but, I only want to live a long life if I’m mobile, healthy, and mentally sharp, otherwise, let’s just say I’m not signing up for the extended warranty.

That last one, social connection, really struck me.

So many of us live in our own little bubbles, especially as we get older.

Having a reason to get together, to laugh, learn, and maybe shout “Mahjong!” once in a while sounds like just the ticket for a long, happy life.

So… if you or anyone you know can tutor a group of highly motivated beginners (emphasis on motivated), please reach out (I’m looking at you, Lee Anne)!

I’m sure all of us eager students would happily pitch in for a tutoring fee. I’ll handle organizing the group, all we need is our fearless Mahjong mentor.

Farm Happenings

The first round of soaked ranunculus corms have officially sprouted and are now tucked into their cozy fall beds.

I’ve just started pre-sprouting our second round, with a third planned for January.

Translation: get ready for a ranunculus explosion this spring!

Pre-sprouted ranunculus ready to be planted.

As for the dahlias, their grand finale has come and gone.

Cleanup starts soon, and tomorrow I’ll share what I do with them over winter.

So far, we’ve been blessed with mild temps (knock on wood), but I know some of you have already faced those frosty mornings.

Stay tuned for my dahlia wintering secrets!