Two things.

First thing is that today was International Tabletop Day. since we didn’t have anything planned for today, the Dork Club did our celebration yesterday with a nice game of Diplomacy.

Not shown: shattered friendships

Basically, Diplomacy is a game that kind of recreates the shifting alliances and fronts of Pre-World War 1 Europe. Players control one of seven powers as they maneuver armies and fleets to control important supply centers while also blocking the advances of everyone else. Backstabbing and plotting ensues, and boy did it ensue.

I chose to play England, and things got off to a rough start only because we didn’t know the rules. but we figured them out pretty quickly, and I set up shop in Scandinavia with every intention of invading Russia. However, I misread one of the rules so my Russian invasion was scrapped, especially when Russia came knocking in Sweden. Knowing I was outmatched, I asked France if I could have Belgium, just as somewhere where I could build up resources so I could better fight Russia. They didn’t answer, so in retaliation I sided with Russia and invaded France. I was kicked out soon after, but things turned around for me when I took Denmark and Portugal. Now I had enough stuff to challenge France, but the game ended due to time constraints before I could go any further.

That was just in my neck of the woods. On the other side of the world Russia (played by Professor Porter) got off to a great start, as did the Ottomans who turned out to be sneaky little jerks. Italy was the receiver of most of the punishment, losing most of their cities and being forced to disband their armies. Austria was in a pretty good position and probably played everyone at one point or another, although they had issues when the Ottomans came by looking for some territories to take. Germany… ceased to exist by the time we finished, in no small part due to Russia, Austria and England teaming up on them.

It was a good game. I’ll have to play it again sometime.

Second thing: TODAY WAS MY BIRTHDAY! Yay!!! I got a lot of nice things from my parents, my sister and my girlfriend, and I got to go out for dinner and shakes with my sister and her boyfriend. It was great, and it really made me happy. I think today has been one of the best days of my time here at Wabash. So for everyone that made this a great day, when they read this blog, thank you so much for making this a great day.

Wow, I’m already 19. I’m going to be even more of an adult in two years… Well, guess I’m on my way, or: