Always go for the gold!
By 
So I’m not the world champion. At least not of Saboteur the card game by Frederic Moyersoen. But I came relatively close!
It’s been a fun trip so far with friends! We stayed with Gord and David in London, who both make excellent coffee, despite their warnings. Wine was consumed, dogs were petted, foxes were spotted. What else could you ask for? Perhaps a little warmer weather, because that was one hell of a cold snap! But otherwise it was great, as usual, catching up and spending time.
Miranda going for a walk on the Thames
Unpictured is us freezing in a pub with Mike and Helene for lunch and Mike showing me the slide the BrewDog! He took photos, because he says (as does the internet) without them it didn’t happen – but it did happen. Period. Needless to say, fun times were had by all and it became time to move onto my next journey.. But not before being recognized as the current U.S. National Champion of Saboteur!
Related, I’m not just here in Europe to visit friends, in fact the main reason that brought me here is gold! Yes, that bright yellow formation often found in deep underground caves. Particularly, gold dug up by dwarfs in the aforementioned game, Saboteur by Frederic Moyersoen.
And while I did find some gold, I didn’t find nearly enough. I will simply remain the 2024 U.S. National Champion of Saboteur and (hopefully) that’s enough for everyone reading 🙂
After checking in at the hotel I had the immediate desire to go check out Stuttgart Mitte as that would be my only chance to do so. I inquired any sites to see, things to do and places to ask – do you have a map? “Google is map.” was all I got in return and so off I went.
The experience started with a random encounter with the Stuttgart Christmas Market. I stumbled upon a series of huts, crowds of Germans, smoking, eating sausage, drinking Glühwein, and single Mama Mia. It was a glorious experience to behold.
Upon my return, I met Frederic, the genius behind the game that brought me here. Got some things signs, played a round with him (he won), and went to bed dreaming of gold for the day lay day to come.
The play day came and went in a flurry of digging and distrust! And Christof’s friend was crowned this year’s champion, and won the plaque and 2 ounces of gold! it was a great day. The toy festival was filled with toys, Lego, and trains, unsurprisingly.
Given that I did not win, I’m choosing to take the small victories.
One of the best things to come from the day was meeting Frederic and his wife. We talked, and joked, and shared experiences. it was great to hear that yes, it’s possible to make a living in the gaming industry, and yes, you can do so even if your partner is not into games, and yes, we can all laugh about conspiracy theorists.
What an amazing experience that I won’t soon forget! And hopefully my stories have left an impression on you as well.
Until next time and remember, always go for the gold!
