Apocalyptic Valentine

Shirt from Woot!

So for those of you who had no idea (somehow), I have an amazingly awesome boyfriend. Because of having kids, and jobs, and real adult lives, we aren't able to see each other on today's day of love, but we are still able to do nice things for each other like we always do.

With that being said, I sent him this lovely e-card assuring him that he's safe during the zombie apocalypse (for now). I just wanted him to know that I cared.

Seriously, I'm not sure what to make of Valentine's Day. I like to think that my guy and I take pretty darn good care of each other every day, and I certainly have no lack of signs from him that he thinks of me and thinks I'm pretty darn spifferiffic. However, I did not receive a zombie-themed love note from him declaring his future eating habits. Perhaps, something like this might have sufficed. It has a cute little message attached, doesn't it?

Romantically Apocalyptic

But regardless, I don't need these things to know he cares, and I don't know why at least ten times today people wanted to challenge me on this notion. It's common for people to talk about celebrating Christmas every day, but what about the great Valentine's? Is it really just a mass consumerist scam to make us all go crazy and buy gifts for no reason but because today of all days we are supposed to? Ergo, does that mean I can't expect these awesome things any other day?

Me no likey.

Seriously, everyone. I adore my boyfriend. He adores me. We don't get to see each other today and it sucks. But it does not mean it's broken, or it's not as good as I think, or anything else. I think it's awesome.

And hell, who else would appreciate my awesome Valentine's card choices?

I'd wish you a happy Valentine's Day but I rebel. I wish you each instead a happy love-everyday-day. And if you haven't found yours yet, I hope you find it soon.

After all, everyone needs to have a last snack for the apocalypse.

Braaaaiiiinnn Food: How important is Valentine's Day to you?

Prepping for the Future

From the Doomsday
Preppers website

I learned today that 61% of Americans - that's more than half of the population - believe that they need to be prepared for some sort of doomsday scenario within the next 20 years.

Enter Doomsday Preppers.

Unfortunately, my lack of cable has kept me from being able to see this show, but I am delighted that it even exists! These people don't only horde supplies, but according to the show website, they even train their children to shoot guns and build like Macguyver. It has to be incredible to see, and I encourage you all to watch it on my behalf.

However, this makes me start to question my own readiness for the future. I think I have a gallon of spring water, that was really meant for my daughter's fish bowl, but of course can be used in a pinch. I have some canned food in my pantry, but nothing really that awesome. And, that's about it. I have a wooden sword for protection, and a whole lot of imagination. I'm not even sure I have rope!

So the next question is, do I need to prepare? Where would I keep all the stuff if I did? I live in an apartment, which probably isn't that safe anyway.

I suddenly feel like I have a bit to think about. But in the meantime, I'm definitely going to watch the pros, and most likely laugh at them.

Braaaaaiiiiinnn Food: Do you prepare for the future in any way?

When Opportunity Attacks

Self explanatory

So after literal years of abstinence, I began roleplaying again with some friends. I was never super experienced to begin with so I still play like a noob, and I'm ok with that. Some things I remember well, others it's like I'm playing for the first time ever. In all actuality, this is the first time I've played a Pathfinder campaign, so I guess that's true in many regards.

At any rate it was a fun - and educational - experience.

One thing that I can never quite comprehend (and this was true from my old D&D days as well) was the entire concept of "attack of opportunity." I mean, humor me here. Assume we live in a world where humans, elves, halflings, orcs, dwarves and the like live together and for no real reason often choose to set out for adventure and conquest. All that aside, let's try to rationalize the attack of opportunity.

For those of you unfamiliar, it goes something like this.A bad guy (in last night's instance it was a giant firebeetle) engages me in battle. He attacks with his pincers, a little stabby stabby, and his turn is over so we are left standing directly side by side. My turn comes around and like any wise halfling (especially one who uses a bow), I think it might be a good idea to move from the monster. I mean, halflings aren't necessarily the bravest of things, and this beetle is four times my size.

This is what happens when
you try to run!

Well here's the deal. If I am standing next to a monster and then run away, that monster gets an attack of opportunity against me, where he can freely attack the crap out of me and often kill me. No bueno. However, if I only move one itty bitty step away, he does not get the attack and I am free to stand and finish my turn without him getting a free attack.

Great. So let's go back to visualizing this as a real battle. Let's assume, yes, ok, you get an attack on me for catching your attention as I run off. Fine. Beat me up as I run with my little bitty legs as far as I can muster. But if I'm only side-stepping you, what about that motion makes you not want to attack me anymore. Aren't I easier prey than ever when I'm standing right there?!? Wouldn't you see me scoot right over there and reach out your arm and go bam! right in the kisser?

But for some reason, you don't.

This makes no sense to me. None at all. Either attack me because I try to run away, or leave me alone. But this silly little glitch of a rule - while I admit is super advantageous for me - is the dumbest thing I've run across thus far.

So if opportunity strikes, just attack me. Make it easier for us all to understand.

Braaaaaiiiiinnnn Food: What rules for tabletops drive you absolutely batty?