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This weekend I went down to visit my friends in Stockton and to play a few rounds of Mah-Jongg with Popo, the almost-99 year old woman I've written about previously.It is such an interesting experience playing a very complicated game from another culture with a woman who speaks no English and me speaking no Chinese. But we get along rather well. Grace translates for the most part (limited by her own basic understanding of the game). And then we seem to find a rhythm between Popo's pointing and facial expressions in response to our hovering and shifting hands (kinda like her saying "warmer, warmer, colder, cold" or "no, don't touch that tile, leave that alone!" ...you get the idea).Well, I found a wonderful book at World Market that explained the history, game pieces, and rules IN ENGLISH, which I purchased and brought with me. I used it primarily as a key to read the tiles. The game pieces are like dominoes, but the strategy is closer to the card game Gin Rummy. I'm hoping to read a little more and next time actually be able to enjoy the fast pace and competition of the game. But regardless of my comprehension and strategy (or lack thereof), it was a fun afternoon and a great visit. I hear you can even play this online, if you're interested. However you might be exposed to it, I am certain it cannot compare with my experience. Thanks Popo!
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