My Newest Obsession: More Than Just a Game!

My Newest Obsession: More Than Just a Game!

I have always loved games! Growing up, my extended family got together multiple times a week, and game nights were a staple of our gatherings. Whether it was card games, bingo, Pictionary, or even impromptu foot races in the street, competition and laughter filled our weekends.

As life has moved on, and my boys have moved off to college, our once-frequent game nights are now rare—only happening during vacations when we pull out puzzles and board games to relive those cherished moments. But recently, I discovered a new passion that has reignited my love for games: Mahjong!

How It Started

Back in November, a neighbor posted in our GroupMe chat asking if anyone played Mahjong. I had heard of it before but never played. A quick Google search revealed that this was a rummy-like game, played with tiles instead of cards, and had deep historical roots, some tracing back to China. I remembered seeing those beautiful, hand-painted tiles in gift shops before, mistakenly assuming they were a form of Chinese dominoes that I wouldn’t understand since I don’t read Chinese.

Excited by the idea of learning something new, I immediately responded that I was interested. To my surprise, about 20 other ladies chimed in, saying they also wanted to learn! A few experienced players even mentioned they’d love to play if more of us picked it up. That was all the encouragement we needed! One of my neighbors arranged for instructors from the Dallas Mahjong Club to come teach us in January. You might have even seen them on Good Morning America last year!

Hooked from the Start

That first lesson lasted three hours, and I was completely hooked! Mahjongg was challenging, strategic, and, best of all, social. I didn’t need to read Chinese—I just had to learn the different tiles, their functions, the rules, and how to read the official 2024 Mah Jongg card.

From that moment on, I was determined to improve my skills and play as often as possible. I spent weeks searching for my first Mahjongg set, admiring the intricate designs and craftsmanship. My husband, recognizing my growing passion (or should I say obsession?), surprised me with a beautiful set for Valentine’s Day. And because I never want to miss an opportunity to play, I even bought a second set to keep on hand—just in case! See my pics below as I played with the two set-ups I now have. They’re beautiful!

Mahjong: More Than Just a Game

Now, I play every night—either against bots on my phone, Siamese-style with my husband, or, my favorite way, with a group of girlfriends. There’s something truly special about Mahjongg nights. We unplug from our phones, step away from daily responsibilities, and come together for friendly competition, strategy, and laughter. I always leave game nights feeling mentally refreshed and socially fulfilled.

I’m so passionate about Mahjongg that I now ask every woman I meet if she plays. Why? Because this game is about community and connection. It’s a chance to challenge our minds while building friendships.

Join Me in 2025!

I’m so excited about Mahjongg that I’m incorporating it into our Just Her ladies’ events in 2025! If you already play—or want to learn—I’d love to have you join us. Let me know by filling out my Mahjong form HERE, and I’ll add you to my list for our first Just Her Ladies’ Night.

Trust me—you’ll be hooked too!

Jessica