'Twas the Morning of Nationals

It's finally here - Nationals weekend.

Across the country, puzzlers are flying in, driving in, and rolling up to Georgetown, Ontario, with lucky socks, sorting trays, and personal goals. Whether it's your first time or your third, this weekend promises connection, competition, and joy - from Puzzle Chess tonight hosted by my dear friend Lizabeth, to the crowning of our individual, pairs, and teams champions throughout the weekend.

To kick things off, here's a little poetic preview of the weekend ahead - a tribute to the moments, magic, and community that make Canadian Nationals so unforgettable.

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'Twas the morning of Nationals, and all through the hall,

The puzzlers were prepping, for thrills big and small;

Their tables were waiting, each puzzle a mystery,

With hopes that today would go down in history.

They came from each province, both seasoned and new,

With puzzle-piece earrings and schedules in view;

Their t-shirts were printed with care and with pride,

As hugs, snacks, and strategies flowed far and wide.

It started with puzzle chess, fast-paced and tight,

Two puzzlers, one border, and clocks set to fight;

Each move was a gamble, each click full of flair,

As tension and laughter rang through the air.

The solo event brought in quite a crowd,

With stillness so thick, each heartbeat was loud;

Then - "Three, two, one, PUZZLE!" - the room came alive,

With box tops and bags flying, hands in overdrive.

They flipped all the pieces, edge sorting with skill,

Their hands moved like lightning, propelled by the thrill;

The judges leaned in as the finish drew near,

With one final click, the room burst into cheer!

Then pairs and teams took their spots in the light,

New puzzles unveiled - oh, what a sight!

Each image imagined by Canadian hands,

Sparked sudden whispers and last-minute plans.

With trays flying sideways and socks deemed as lucky,

They puzzled with speed that was frantic and plucky.

Then suddenly - gasp! - a piece hit the deck,

And someone called out the familiar: "FLOOR CHECK!"

Supporters stood strong through each twist in the day,

Jig-nificant others were there all the way.

And guiding it all with a confident sway,

Were the kind volunteers and the CJPA.

As the champions stood with their medals held high,

Pride filled the room, with a few teary eyes;

But the real golden prize, as the weekend had shown,

Was a puzzling community that we all call home.