deciphering the days

Hubby and I will be travelling soon on our first substantial international trip together (the Bahamas for a three day vacation aren't exactly the same). We are going to Japan for a couple of weeks and a lot's on my mind as we prep for our rapidly approaching departure. First, since this is my first trip to another country, everyone seems to have something to say about it. And, not surprisingly if you know me at all, I do not appreciate most of the comments. Particularly the ones like, 'This is your first time experiencing another culture?!? Oh it will be so good for you!' Like, okay Linda, maybe I haven't been all over the world like you have, but I'm not some sort of egocentric, narcissistic, baboon who is clueless about the rest of the world. I have lived within many different cultures, and have spent years in a culture where I was, without doubt, the minority. For that matter, as a high school teacher, half my job is trying to connect with students who ar...

My father played D&D growing up. He loves to watch Lord of the Rings and never passes on a exciting and adventurous narrative. My older brother too. He reads fantasy and science fiction books constantly. He really wants to write his own novel one day. There are many stories floating around in his mind that he longs to put on paper. Not surprisingly, my husband falls into this category as well. We have a Star Wars pillow on the couch. Once (or twice) a month, we have a group of bards and rogues and elves and healers at our house eager to vanquish the demonic woes. Additionally, there is D&D night at his friend's house, not to mention the two (or is it three?) live streams that he assists. Even board games that encourage role playing and storytelling are some of his favorites. Plus, video games with detailed character development and plot lines - we have a shelf full! Not me though. I don't read very much fiction, fantasy, or sci-fi. I have never played a first pers...