Thoughts: RPG, kids, friendship group

[trystinn]

Gary is off at convention, so we've missed a week of questing. Typically, we've figured out a few ideas to make the game better, starting with the overly complicated Character Generator. We're in the process of knocking out an Quick Guide which we'll present to Gary while holding out our hands for our new miniatures.

We invited another couple to join us, thinking the more the merrier. These are foster parents of three active young boys and we figured they could use a night of adult interaction. Almost immediately, they began demanding all sorts of conditions: gaming had to be held at their home, change the night, etc. At this point, we quietly back away slowly and got out of dodge.

Gaming with a housefull of children is not gaming. We can't wage war on monsters while watching our language, yelling over Guitar Hero and hoping that their attention can be pulled away from their child long enough to roll. Having seen how these two run their household and the constant disruptions they consider normal from the kids, we couldn't compromise.

Every so often I start to think I'm really way too strict. Then, after a Chris and Sherry consultation, I realize that our friendship group is fairly disciplined. Kids have figured out when its appropriate to ask questions, that interruption is not permitted and that when you whine the answer is always no. Backing each other has provided a very strong united front and the kids have adapted gracefully. They are learning the subtleties of body language, conversation lulls, respect and compromise. Not too shabby for gaming geeklings.

Comments

[tryst-inn.livejournal.com]

We were prepared to make a few concessions, but the demands were outrageous. I'd previously had a run in with the gal who called me demanding I do tarot for her troubled pregnancy, then put me on hold for ten minutes while I stood there looking numbly at the Death and Tower cards. I hung up and next time I saw her, I sat her down and gave her Occult Manners 101.

Self Discipline would be such a treasure in this world. We're working hard to get Laura up to speed on that. So far, I think she's making adequate process for someone with her background. But then, as you know, I'm quite the critic so my standards are very high.

[wild-heart.livejournal.com]

Umm . . . WHAT?? Called you for a favor then put you on hold?

I just don't get people who expect others to endlessly do for them, without any clue as to why there has to be reciprocity.

Laura is blessed to have you in her life.