u/CroakTheGoblin

I’m used to playing D&D at a table that’s really silly and playful. I’ve been playing with a new group for about the last 5 months, and while we definitely still laugh and have fun, most of the group is much more serious than I’m used to. They like thinking through strategy, knowing the rules, and making really deliberate choices. We also don’t really drink during sessions, which is another difference from what I’m used to.

I’m realizing I’m having a harder time adjusting to this play style than I expected. I tend to make decisions based on what seems fun or funny in the moment, whereas they’re often thinking several steps ahead.

For those of you who are more strategic/tactical players, do you have any tips for someone trying to develop that skill? Are there things you consciously think about during combat or character decisions that helped you get better?

I don’t want to lose the goofy/playful part of how I enjoy D&D...I just want to get better at meeting this group where they are and contributing more strategically.

I (40F) keep finding myself in the same scenario: a guy comes up while I’m with my friends, says something along the lines of “you’re really gorgeous” or compliments something specific about my appearance, and scurries off before I have any opportunity to respond. Then maybe when he or I leave the bar, he’ll say bye (but again, there’s no real lingering to it).

What is the appropriate response to these drive-by compliments? Do I assume they’re just being complimentary with no interest in anything more? Should I make more of an effort to go find them and start a conversation?

When I was debating whether or not to get the protection plan I checked with my insurance (Allstate) and credit card (citi) about if their protection plans covered Turo. Both said no. Once you add in the protection plan it's basically the same cost as getting a traditional rental car.

Looking for the best nontraditional fries in Eugene/Springfield.

I'm hoping for either really fun french fries (loaded, weird seasonings, amazing sauces, etc.) or something that's not even a potato but gets fried and dipped in something delicious.

One of my favorites was the beet fries at Liberty Bar in San Antonio. I've also had bomb avocado fries in Tulsa and Napa, so that's the kind of thing I'm hoping to find.

What restaurants have fun fried things?

Uhhhhh....I got followed and pulled over in my Turo rental because the owner of the vehicle has a suspended license. Don't think I'll be renting one of these again.

What's the deal with Cowfish? A couple months ago someone took me there and commented on how it's always kind of dead. Tonight I was out downtown with a friend visiting from the Midwest (I also moved here a few months ago), and of all the bars we stopped at, Cowfish was by far the emptiest. It even had a DJ and free pool tonight.

I'm genuinely curious...what's the local lore? Does the place have a reputation or history I'm missing, or have I just managed to go on the quietest nights?

Trying to take a fancy lady out to hear some local poets. What do we got for options around here? Thanks!

Both credit unions have similar reviews online. What's been your experience with them? Anything tip the scales for you in picking one over the other?

I have a vintage stained glass in a frame that I stupidly cracked on a previous cross country move. Are there places around here to get it repaired?

Also have a couple of paintings that haven't been cleaned/retouched in a few decades if anyone has advice on where to get that done.

I have unpacked and have more moving boxes. Let me know if you want them. I can deliver to South Eugene. Thanks!