Noise cancelling headphone are my only option for public travel. As long as I can somewhat block it out - I have a chance.

Or maybe you can't block it out. I've always been crazy about sounds (especially repetitive ones), but I learned about Selective Sound Sensitivity Syndrome and felt a little bit better I wasn't alone.

You are not alone. Best advice is to try and eat in a already noisy area - food court / restaurant where background noise helps diffuse. Or, take the annoyance out on your utensils - bending forks, yes?

If not for feature, then maybe as an extended series on SyFy or HBO. I shudder to think what the Disney Channel would do to Tortall.

Does anyone know if Tamora Pierce has optioned her work? Seriously Hollywood - if Katniss and Co. make it big, keep the strong young female protagonist thing going with Alanna!

I have to add additional support for Tamora Pierce, it's a must read for any young woman.

As an expat, just getting a turkey (and an oven that would be able to cook it) can be a challenge, which is why I order almost everything from a hotel. Day of, I pick up the turkey and then Hubs and I cook smaller side dishes and deserts for a mix of home cooking and a no fail (no stress) main course.

Pets are resilient and there are a lot of good companies out there that will help make the process easier (especially regarding international importation). Our two made it from ATL to Dubai, and very recently Dubai to Doha. If you can and it won't stress your pet out, I would suggest taking them to the vet the day…

I only occasionally bust the gesture out. Although, it's mostly because I have good memories of doing the awkward turtle who now lives far away. :)

Has anyone mentioned awkward turtle? You can mark awkward moments with a specific gesture.

Me! I got one at 25, and just got my second one inserted last year. (Mirena both times). No issues whatsoever, and no period for 6 years!!! I did have to ask 4 different gynos before I found one who would do it.

When traveling with any number of people (even if just Hubs and me) I use a 'pick 3' method. Each person chooses 3 things they really want to do in a new city / country. As long as we take care of those - no disappointments and every extra is a bonus. Also, a cool way to do something you might not do / try.

St. Patrick's Day is my birthday - it's kind of a legendary day to be born. Everyone helps me celebrate every year! :D

I thought I was alone... Food sounds drive me absolutely crazy!!!!

Hi five! I also have a 'streak' of not puking for over a decade and am damn sure pregnancy isn't going to mess with with that.

@Minabee: "Seize the day!!" :)

Living in Dubai is a great jumping off point - in 2010 I went to Lebanon, South Africa, Holland, and Turkey. For work this year I hope to go to Afghanistan and Australia. For personal travel I want to get to Sri Lanka, the Maldives and maybe back to Africa.

Just want to continue to shout my love for Mirena - period free for 6 years!

@andromache liebes the Deutsch: You are not alone - my drumline days were my fiercest.

@jespree: You are not alone! I call my Hubs a buffer and remind him it was somewhere in our vows to take the middle seat. :)