I Swear You Will Be Fine

Dear Josh,

We have a new hobby.

Catan was one of the few games we would play together. Sometimes Monopoly Deal, but mostly Catan. You liked the game, but sometimes didn’t have the energy to play or last the whole game. After Jess went to London, you and I would sometimes play online with the online characters. You always had a lot to say about them!

After you passed, we have played Catan a few times. I think Jess finds it hard. We even played recently with your friends.

Well, Mahjong is now our favourite game. Your cousin S has been in Singapore. We are grateful he visits us yearly! The last 3 evenings have been Shalini, Aunty J, Cousin S and me around the little square table, initially figuring out the game, but now actually playing. Even Ammamma sits next to Cousin S trying to learn (and also give him tips!). This evening ritual has brightened my days considerably! Even when it’s tough at work, I am ok because there is mahjong in the evening!

Shalini and I talk a lot about whether it is something you would have liked. We both agreed you would have liked the strategy, and even the fast pace of it. You would have probably beaten all of us eventually. We also agreed you may not have liked the “noise” when we randomise the tiles!

Anyway, as I’m sure you’ve seen, Shalini is the one to beat. She is a pro. So don’t try to help her too much, ok? 

I wish you had gotten the chance to try this with us. Part of me says you wouldn’t have wanted to. But I will never know. Another one to park in the bucket of what you should have experienced.

Love Mum