When I was inventorying Finspan this week—you know, checking all the pieces were there, cleaning bits if needed—I realized that if you turn the player boards over and line them up, they make a gorgeous world map, above. I think it’s temperature based? The watercolor is so appropriate for the theme, and it reminded me yet again how much of our planet is water. I had to look it up because I couldn’t remember exactly—it’s 71%. And our bodies are about 60% water. Wild! Why we as a species don’t protect it with everything we have, I don’t understand.

The biodiversity in our water system is magnificent, from blue whales to tiny water-bugs. We make paintings and board games and aquariums and movies and poetry about water. So many of our daily metaphors are about the flow of water or seafaring. Y’all, a tall glass of water on a hot day? Nothing better—change my mind.

I’m not sure where I’m going with this, except to say that appreciating the little things turns out to be kind of a big thing. Paying attention to our own hydration is a microcosm of the world’s water supply. Maybe looking at one of those paintings or playing one of those games helps us pay attention to something bigger than ourselves.

Friends, keep warm, keep heart, and keep playing.

Alice C., board game librarian

P.S. We’ve got another board game swap this Saturday! See below for details!

Play Finspan!

It’s Wingspan, but fish! Finspan has players discovering fish in different levels of the ocean, growing schools of young, and sometimes eating smaller fish to get points. It takes the engine-building mechanics of Wingspan and shifts them slightly to create a new take. Some would say it’s a bit easier than Wingspan, perhaps a lower barrier for entry.

Try our Marvin Gardens cocktail!

Mixologist Matt combined Amsterdam gin, elderflower liqueur, lime juice, and ginger beer with a garnish of rosemary for a sharp, clean cocktail. It’s our version of a mule, intoxicating and refreshing in equal measure. Try one next time you’re here over a game of Finspan.