Meet Adela.

Hi, I’m Adela Baker. I wear many titles in this life, but my favorite will always be Mom.

I first fell in love with Mahjong during a season when I was finding my way through postpartum. What began as a simple outlet quickly became something I truly loved—and, if I’m being truthful, maybe a little bit of an obsession. Four sets of tiles later, a little dream began to take root: What if I could share the joy of Mahjong with the people right here in my own small-town community?

For a while, it was simply that—a little dream tucked away in my heart.

Then, I was given the opportunity to voluntarily teach two Mahjong classes right here in my hometown of Glenwood. Around those tables sat familiar faces and new ones, all gathered together to learn, laugh, and enjoy this game I had grown to love so much. And somewhere between the shuffling of tiles and the conversations across the table, I watched something beautiful happen—neighbors became friends, one tile at a time.

That little dream began to feel like something more.

So, here in the small town that raised me, I stepped outside of my comfort zone and followed where I felt the Lord leading me. I continue to pray over this little dream every day, asking that He guide it, use it, and always remain at the center of it.

And with a grateful heart, Small Town Mahj was born.

My prayer is that this will always be about more than the game. That every table feels a little like home. That strangers become neighbors, neighbors become friends, and everyone who pulls up a chair knows there’s a place for them.

I’m forever thankful to my Lord and Savior for planting this little dream in my heart and giving me the courage to follow it.