Meet Danielle

WHEN DID YOU learn to play mahjong? 

I first started playing in January 2024. A friend invited to learn, and I said sure, why not. I had NO clue what Mahjong was, but I like games so I figured it was worth a shot. The first night I won, twice thanks to Becky helping me. Despite winning I was 100% confused so I went home and started reading the rules and playing online.

Did you plan to teach mahjong?

Absolutely NOT. I had no plan, but more and more people starting asking me to teach them. For a few months, I was bringing a new person ever week to play, but we never got to play because the whole evening became teaching so my friend asked me to stop bringing new people. Fitness clients at SPARK45 kept asking so I decided to offer a class and see what happens. I offered my first class in Spring of 2025, and have been taking 3-4 sessions a year now. I considered myself an accidental mahjong instructor.

WHEN, AND WHY DID YOU BECOME mahjong teacher? 

Mostly, I want more people to play. I also discovered it takes several sessions so you have to offer a series. I then added the Carp Mahjong Session to help people learn more and become better players.  

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE part of the game? 

I LOVE to pivot, and continue to be amazed at how at times I start in one section of the card, and end up someplace else. It keeps my brain active. I sometimes don’t know what hand I am going for, then three tiles later it is crystal clear.

WHAT IS ONE FUN RANDOM FACT ABOUT YOU? 

I am an AirForce Brat.  Home is where I am.  So Carpinteria is HOME.  I have lived in Newport News, VA, England, Champaign IL, Chicago,IL, O’Fallon, IL, Carterville IL, and now Carpinteria.  

HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN CARPINTERIA & HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR FREE TIME? 

Since Dec. 1, 2019.

WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE BLACK DOG? 

Let me think :-P.  Just kidding.  Otis is the pup that has changed my life, and allowed me to see how much I could love another living thing.  He brings me so much joy and happiness.  I don’t care what color he is as I was supposed to get a blonde girl, and fell in love with a sweet little black boy.