As someone whose father didn’t give a shit about his daughter, please tell your brother he is a kick ass dude and give him a hug from this internet stranger.

My experience has been the same and I’ve been on the internet since the mid-90s. I have always avoided voice chats unless with friends or trusted guildies and avoid things that will identify me as a woman because people can get so toxic. This happens in real life too, especially in gaming spaces. I’ve been laughed at when I said I taught my male partner how to play MTG until he confirmed it. I used to hear I’m “not a real woman” because I’ve been playing video games since I was a kid, it’s a lot better now, but it’s still there.

The womensstuff space is a huge breath of fresh air and I love having a space to speak about topics with fellow women. Quite a number of men have commented there and are very polite when they are corrected.

Field hockey

I already know the rules since I played as a kid. There is no physical contact, so it’s safer than some other sports, unless you get hit with the ball or a stick to the shins.

I collect earrings as souvenirs when I travel. I try to get something from a local small artist or at craft fairs, something that reminds me of the place. They are practical and good conversation starters too.

My favorite pair is from Alaska. They aren’t too long, but they are a piece of mother of pearl and Alaskan jade that dangle from a post. I bought them at a native education center from a lady who had a booth and was making earrings while she sat there. It was a really fun trip.