Skyjo: A Tabletop Tales Review

Cal walked in while I was uploading some pictures for this blog post and said, “Whatcha doing, Mom?” I told her I was getting ready to share yet another game. As she looked over my shoulder, she incredulously asked, “You mean, you haven’t posted about Skyjo yet?!” We all really, really like this one!

Whenever I’ve got a game night to attend, I often lead with this game. It’s easy to walk a person through a practice round without having to explain a ton of rules. I also love that up to 8 people can play, and the rounds are fairly short.

I can think of two other games that are comparable to Skyjo: Grandpa Beck’s Gnoming Around and Play Nine. If you already own either of those, I don’t think you need to buy this too. The mechanics of all 3 games are similar. I just happened to get introduced to Skyjo first; I fully own my bias.

I’m trying my hardest to come up with some kind of “negative” about the game so that I’m being transparent about the pros and the cons… but I’m kind of at a loss! It’s solid!


Number of Players: 2-8

Age: 8+

Playing Time: 30ish minutes

Object: Get the lowest score as quickly as possible by flipping, exchanging, and revealing cards.

Rules Rundown: Here’s a link to an unofficial copy of the rules – or follow along below for a quick run-through of how to play.

First, deal out 12 cards to each person. Every player will make a facedown 4×3 grid. Before play begins, flip up any 2 cards. Place the draw pile in the middle of the table. The person who has the highest point total showing will go first.

On each turn, draw a card from the draw pile or from the discard pile. After looking at that card, decide if you would like to keep it or not. If you want to add it to your grid, you must exchange it with one of your current cards. It doesn’t matter if the card is hidden or not. (Obviously, you are taking a risk if you decide to replace one of your hidden cards, but sometimes the risk pays off!) You can also decide to discard the card you chose, but if you do so, you’ll automatically flip up one of your hidden cards.

There is one special feature. If you happen to place 3 identical cards in the same column, they cancel out! Discard those 3 cards, eliminating the column and bringing your total score down.

The round is basically over when someone has flipped over all of his cards. (Any players who did not get to finish the current round are allowed to take one final turn.) Turn over any remaining hidden cards, tally up your points, and write them on the score card. *Important! If the player who went out does not have the lowest score, he must double his score. Yikes!

I hope you enjoy Skyjo as much as I do!

Ang’s Rating: 8/10

Donuts: A Tabletop Tales Review

A simple one on the blog today: Donuts! This cutely designed game is honestly just a glorified version of tic-tac-toe. Since it comes in at a cheaper price point than other games, I’m here for it!

I’ll be honest. This isn’t the first game I’d choose if I’ve got friends coming over for a game night, but it does serve a fantastic purpose: filling up time. If you’ve got kids in your life who have ever uttered the words “I’m bored,” then Donuts might be a great option. I recently took it with me to a restaurant and played with a kiddo while we waited for our food to arrive. I love that it’s so easy to learn!


Number of Players: 2

Age: 7+

Playing Time: 5-10 minutes per round

Object: Get five donuts of your color in a row!

Rules Rundown: Here’s a link to a 3-minute video explaining the rules – or follow along below for a brief overview.

First, you’ll divide the double-sided donuts evenly. Fifteen go to each player. Choose chocolate or vanilla. The first player places a donut anywhere on the board. Player 2 must now put a donut in the row that was indicated by player 1’s donut.

From there, continue taking turns, placing donuts in the indicated row. If a row is completely filled so that a player cannot place a donut, the player may put his or her donut anywhere on the board!

There is one other small component that can change up the game at a moment’s notice. If you are able to insert a donut in between two of your opponent’s donuts, then you can flip over those two donuts that are bookending your donut, enhancing your chances of winning!

That’s it! This is a little more strategic than your normal tic-tac-toe game but still easy enough for kids to jump in.

I do not think is an absolute “must” to add to your game collection, but I do think it would make a great little stocking stuffer or Easter basket addition.

Ang’s Rating: 6.5/10
Cal’s Rating: 7.5/10

February ’25 in Pictures

February definitely gave us continued “sweather weather” here. Dominican temps are much more agreeable to my thinned-out blood, but I have to admit – it’s been pretty cozy starting my work days curled up in a warm blanket with a hot cup o’ joe close by. Check out these 28 pictures from the Freedom team – and from our chilly month in Indiana!

See you at the end of March!

Calico: A Tabletop Tales Review

Guys. I’ve only played this game a handful of times since buying it, but I could very easily make this one an obsession. Calico is perfectly themed for cold weather gameplay. Who can resist a cozy evening of fun with adorable kitten tiles, colorful quilts, and real-life friends?!

In the grand scheme of board game choices, Calico is on the lighter side, but it’s still both challenging and fun. The rulebook is laid out in an understandable way, and there’s a beginner version that you can play through until you feel comfortable with normal gameplay.


Number of Players: 1-4

Age: 10+

Playing Time: 30-45 minutes

Object: Lay tiles to complete patterns and earn points by sewing the best quilt.

Rules Rundown: Here’s a link to the rules – or you can get a general idea of the gameplay for the beginner version below.

Place Millie, Tibbit, and Coconut (3 of the cat scoring tiles) at the top of the table – along with their matching mini cat tokens. Randomly place 2 black and white pattern tiles under each cat tile. (These are the patterns that each cat “likes” for this game.)

All patch tiles can be placed in the bag, and button tokens can be placed in the middle of the table.

Each player receives an empty quilt board. Pick out the 3 designated design goals and place them in their correct locations on the quilt board. Everyone works toward completing the same designs on his own board in the beginner version.

Draw 2 patch tiles from the bag and place them next to your quilt. Each turn, you will lay one of your tiles anywhere on the board, attempting to strategically place it somewhere that will help you complete your design goals. You’ll end your turn by drawing a new tile from the “market” (aka, the bag).

That’s the gist of it! There are some other components (you can receive additional points – in the forms of buttons and kittens – for connecting colors/patterns of specific quantities), but the basic gameplay truly is a simple process: draw a tile, place a tile, and replenish your tile.

To be completely transparent, Scott isn’t a huge fan of the theme. (I mean, what almost 40-year-old man wouldn’t think that trying to attract cats to a quilt is his idea of a good time?! Heh.) At its core, its just another drafting game, so the hubby is willing to overlook the crazy kitties for my sake. My older two kids can handle gameplay without help, but my 9-year-old loses interest if we’re playing at the 4-player max.

There is also a single-player version of the game that I’ve tested out. I give it a thumbs up! For me, this game has been solid add to my collection.

Ang’s Rating: 9/10

January ’25 in Pictures

These monthly photo dumps may look a little different since we’ve relocated, but hopefully the mix of ministry pictures and family happenings can still give you a good idea of what’s going on – both with the Mitcheners and with our favorite ministry in the DR. Enjoy these 31 January shots!

See you at the end of February!

Blessed are those who mourn…

We all go through seasons of mourning. I suppose you could say I’m in one of those seasons now. The different ways I’m grieving aren’t super connected to each other, but I’ve been lamenting several “deaths” in recent months.


1.) One year ago today, we received the unexpected phone call that Scott’s wonderful dad had passed away. It’s still so strange to think that the hugs, laughter, and memory-making for us as a family of 11 ended very suddenly 365 days ago.

I don’t like that Ted is gone – or that the family trips he loved to plan will no longer take place in the same way. I don’t like that he wasn’t at the church’s annual chili cook-off last week – or that there’s this giant Ted-shaped hole in the handbells choir where he used to fit.

I could pose the question, “What good has come from losing Ted?” At first glance, it certainly seems like there isn’t a good answer…


2.) I’ve been mourning in other ways as well. I’m also grieving the “loss” of a ministry I love.

After Ted died, we felt like the Lord was calling us to move back to the States to be closer to family. There have certainly been adjustments for us as we settle in to new rhythms. The kiddos are getting used to going to a new school and church. Life has been busy. However, I find that in the quiet moments, my mind can sometimes wander. I’ve realized that I am mourning the life that was mine for the past 12 years.

Ironically, the simplicity of everyday living is gone – even though I now have every modern appliance and convenience at my fingertips.

The friends who worked alongside me and experienced some very real, shared hardships are thousands of miles away.

The little sea of brown faces that I’ve come to love so dearly are just found in pictures now.

Again, I could pose the question, “Why, God? How is it good that I was removed from this precious place? Wasn’t I doing my best to serve you?”

A cursory look at my circumstances doesn’t seem to warrant such loss…


3.) Perhaps this sounds strange, but I’m also mourning the decline of our nation. To me, it’s fairly evident that the principles upon which this amazing country was founded are no longer prioritized.

Many of our Founding Fathers chose freedom, liberty, honor, integrity, and sacrifice as their guides. Some even chose Jesus. If I think too much on the current state of our nation, I literally want to bring out the sackcloth and ashes.

Sadly, I believe that this blessed land needs to experience some true hardship before a humble turn back to God will ever happen.


This is where that beautiful little Beatitude in Matthew 5:4 comes into play. Yes, I’ve been experiencing the loss that comes along with these “deaths.” But if I really think about it, I must admit that God has been so good in the midst of pain and sadness.

1.) For example, I’ve found comfort in knowing that Ted’s faith has been made sight. Because we can’t physically see him anymore, it’s hard to imagine just how happy he must be, spending the rest of eternity in the presence of the Savior.

In addition, Ted’s testimony lives on in others! The way that Ted was “salt” and “light” to those around him made a difference. In particular, I think about his grandkids. What a spiritual heritage they have because their grandpa was willing to daily live out his faith. And when I think back to Ted’s funeral, I’m still so encouraged by all the people who came – both to support our family and to honor a man who lived a good life. The stories others shared of how he touched them meant the world to me.


2.) While the ministry of Freedom has not ended, our leaving the DR has made me feel as if I’m personally experiencing another death of sorts. Yet, even as I go through this hard change, Jesus’ promise of His presence has proven itself true for me!

I’m so happy that Freedom’s work continues on. To know that the boys and girls I’ve loved for over a decade are still being poured into by others is such a comfort. This ministry never was and never will be “mine.” Jesus simply allowed me be a small part of it for awhile. What a gift!

But God’s goodness doesn’t stop there. Now I have the privilege of serving with Freedom in a different capacity, 2,000 miles away. I’ve been able to continue working behind the scenes in a way that will hopefully serve to tell Freedom’s story of God’s provision.

On top of that, I’m grateful that we’re settling in to this next chapter here in Indiana! Our kids are making sweet friends and experiencing things they weren’t able to while living in a foreign country. I’m truly excited for these new opportunities that they’ll have to make Jesus famous right here.


3.) As for my nation, I’ve lived long enough to understand that God truly does know best. There is no assurance that “my people” will return to Him in my lifetime. Hundreds of thousands of Israelites never experienced the land that was promised to them. Hundreds of thousands more watched their nation turn to idolatry and sin time after time. The thought that America is walking that same path saddens me, but the promise that rang out across that mountainside long ago still holds true today: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

I am comforted to know that someday – even if I must wait til my Savior’s return – things will ultimately be set right. Everyone will bow before God and acknowledge Him as King. I am so looking forward to that day! Until that day, may I do my part to offer His Good News to those who need it.


Jesus said that the good life belongs to those who mourn. What a strange statement. But it’s true – life is good because the Creator of the universe has promised to comfort and uplift.

And He’s been doing just that.

Shifting Stones: A Tabletop Tales Review

If you play games often, then perhaps you’re “moody” like me. Sometimes I want a game that is complex and deep; the challenge is the draw. Other times, I just want a light and easy game; spending time with others is the priority.

Shifting Stones definitely fits into that latter category. While it’s technically a competitive game (there is one winner), it doesn’t feel tense. When it’s not your turn, there is plenty of time to talk and laugh with others.

This abstract pattern game is super easy to learn, and I fell in love with its design as soon as I opened the box. The tiles are durable and interesting, and the rules are concise and well-written.

While the box states that you can play up to 5 players, I’d recommend sticking to 2 or 3 people for best results. (There are rules included for a single-player version. It isn’t too shabby – if you’re in to that sort of thing.) My biggest complaint for a game with 5 people is that the wait time between turns feels a bit long. Of course, people want to strategize and think through their moves, but the board will change by the time it gets back around to you. It feels like there’s no point in strategizing until the player directly before you is moving tiles.

I’ve included some of the specifics of the game below.


Number of Players: 1-5

Age: 8+

Playing Time: 20ish minutes per round

Object: Form patterns within a 9-tile grid to score the most points.

Rules Rundown: Here’s a link to a digital copy of the rules.

Set up the board by randomly placing the 9 double-sided tiles in a 3×3 grid. Pass out 4 pattern cards to each player. On your turn, you can perform any number of the following actions using your 4 cards:

  • Flip a tile (by “paying” with one of your pattern cards)
  • Move a tile (by “paying” with one of your pattern cards)
  • Score points for completed patterns

If you want, you can skip your turn in order to draw 2 additional cards, bringing your hand up to 6 cards. However, you cannot skip twice in a row.

When you’re finished with your actions, draw your hand back up to 4 cards so you’re ready for your next turn.

Rating: 7.5/10

Overall, I think it’s a great addition to your game collection – especially for the price!

June ’24 in Pictures

Wow, what a hot June. Crazy that this is “the end of the road.” In just 10 days, we touch down on midwest soil for good. We got to say lots of goodbyes and finish most of our packing this month. God is good!

See you in the States!

Pit: A Tabletop Tales Review

I’ve been called an old soul on occasion, and I’m not even mad about it. From books to music to movies, I will pick “classic” over “modern” 9 times out of 10. Apparently, enjoying really old games is wrapped up in my old soul vibe. Today’s featured game is Pit, and it’s probably the “oldest” game we own. It was first published 120 years ago!

I remember playing Pit often as a kid. I’ll always have a soft spot for the 1973 edition my family owned, complete with its mustard-colored artwork and bright orange bell. I imagine I drove my parents batty dinging that bell every chance I’d get.

Scott and I have tried to be intentional this year about making Thursday game nights a priority for the fam. While I wouldn’t characterize my children as old souls, they do enjoy a good game of Pit. To up the ante last Thursday, I offered them an added incentive: whipped cream! Whoever won each round got a shot of whipped cream straight from the can. Yes, I bribe my children with sweets and junk food.

Back to the game. Pit is a set-collection game that relies heavily on your ability to negotiate in a chaotic, real-time environment. Think Wall Street. In my opinion, the more people that play, the better the game. Generally, I enjoy peace and quiet, but tranquility is not the name of this game. If you’ve got young kids you put to bed early, I’d advise choosing something else to play, because this.gets.loud.

You can check out some more Pit details below. Prepare to embrace the chaos, and enjoy some time with your friends and family!


Number of Players: 3-8

Age: 7+

Playing Time: 30-60 minutes

Object: Be the first person to “corner the market”: collect all 9 cards of the commodity of your choosing.

Rules Rundown: Here’s a link to a digital copy of the rules.

Deal out the deck to the players. Use only the number of commodities as there are players. (If 4 people play, choose 4 commodities. If 7 people play, use all 7 commodities.) Players’ hands will not be even if you choose to play with the “Bull” card and the “Bear” card. After organizing your cards, decide which commodity you will attempt to collect. (You can change your mind at any point during play and choose to go for a different commodity.)

When the dealer strikes the bell, the exchange is open. Players can simultaneously begin trading anywhere between 1 and 4 commodities – just make sure that all cards in that trade are of the same commodity. Once you have all 9 cards, you ring the bell, and you’ve won! Easy peasy!

Count up your points. If you collected all 9 oats cards, for example, you’ve gained 60 points; if you win with wheat, you’ve gained 100 points. The first player to 500 wins the game.

The Bull and Bear are special cards that add a bit of extra fun to the madness. The Bull acts as a Wild of sorts. If you have 8 cards of one commodity plus the Bull, you can still corner the market (i.e., a “Bull corner”). If you have all 9 cards of a commodity plus the Bull, you can call a “Double Bull corner” and double the score of the commodity collected.

The Bear is never helpful. Get rid of that thing as quickly as possible! However, if you have the Bear OR the Bull in hand when someone else calls “Corner,” you must subtract 20 points from your score.

Ratings:
Ang – 7/10
Noah – 7/10
Leyton – 8/10
Caleigh – 10/10

Spy Alley: A Tabletop Tales Review

In recent years, I’ve had this low-key desire to someday become a spy. (Hah! I think I’ve read too many WWII novels or something.) When I stop to think about it, I suppose the spy life isn’t truly for me. But taking on another identity sounds so adventurous and exciting, doesn’t it?

Today’s review is all about Spy Alley! This simple deduction game gives me the opportunity to try out my bluffing skills on my kids at a low-stakes level; no government agencies are counting on me to deliver an important package to a dead drop under the cover of darkness.

My mother-in-law bought us this game for Christmas years ago. I had never heard of it and was a little skeptical that we would get much play time out of it, but it has truly been a light, fun addition to our game collection! These last two weeks, the boys have brought it out multiple times, and they’ve even taught some friends how to play.

Spy Alley definitely has Monopoly vibes. Thankfully, it is MUCH shorter than a typical Monopoly game, and you get the added fun of bluffing/trying to deduce the identities of the other players. This doesn’t have super high ratings on BGG (5.7 avg), but it has most certainly become a Mitchener family fave.

For me, there is one “con” in this game. It’s entirely possible to get eliminated fairly early if someone makes a lucky guess about your identity. If the rest of the game goes long, any eliminated players must obviously wait to start another round. My kids have generally found that it’s worth the wait!


Number of Players: 2-6

Age: 8+

Playing Time: 30ish minutes

Object: Take on a secret identity, collect the necessary items for your country, and make it to your embassy before you are discovered by the other players.

Rules Rundown: Here’s a link to a digital copy of the official rules.

Deal a secret identity card out to each player. Pass out scorecards and $10 times the number of players. Simply roll the die and move your character the correct number of spaces. You can buy any item you land on (or win a free gift) in order to collect the password, disguise, code book, and key for your country. Each time you pass go, you collect $15.

The point of the game is to buy “extra” items to throw opponents off your scent. For example, if you are Russian, you may want to buy German and American items as well, placing them on your scorecard in order to keep your identity hidden.

At any point, instead of taking your turn, you can try to guess an opponent’s identity. If you guess correctly, your opponent is out of the game, and you collect all of his or her money, cards, and scorecard items. In addition, you have an important decision to make: will you take on your opponent’s identity to try to throw everyone off, or will you stick with your original identity?

If you try to guess an opponent’s identity and you guess incorrectly, unfortunately you are out of the game. There is one exception to this immediate elimination. If you land on the Spy Eliminator Space, you receive a “free guess” on any player who is also in Spy Alley. If you guess wrong, there is no penalty!

Ratings:
Scott – 8/10
Ang – 8/10
Noah – 10/10
Leyton – 8/10