As noted last week, this week’s session of the Dungeons & Dragons game I am running for middle-school-age students at the public library had to start with resetting expectations for player behavior at the table. I solicited players’ opinions and understandings, made my position on the matter clear, and reminded those at the table that participation is both entirely voluntary and predicated on helping to make things a good experience for everyone at the table, both in-character and our of character. It went reasonably well; the prospect of being removed from the table had something of a sobering effect on all in attendance, myself included.

There was another event worth noting, and more important to me: the session coincided with Ms. 8’s twelfth birthday. I was, as might be expected, pleased to be there for it (and not in the hospital with her, as happened on her first birthday). My wife had made arrangements for a number of nice things to happen for our girl, and it was gratifying to see them occur. Of particular note was the addition to her gaming setup; she received dice and a dice mat for use in my game and, it may be hoped, in others. The delivery of cupcakes (complete with dragons and fire) on a fancy stand was another highlight; that the cupcakes themselves were tasty was an added bonus.

I do look forward to the continuing program. There is a waitlist for it, now, and some discussion about mentoring others to run their own games. I welcome the opportunity, and I hope that I will be equal to it.

For occasions festive and otherwise, I am happy to write for you!

Or you can send your support along directly!