I signed on for pingbot because I have a fat head and I wanted to know when people put my stories on rec lists or whatever. I guess if you get into metafandom-type discussions it might bring people together... but more likely would lead to strife.

When we go to the US we take food (nori, furikake, barley tea, etc.). When we come back we bring *coughs* large-size jeans that fit me, large-size bras that fit me, books in English, DVDs.... I used to bring back American candy, but I don't see the point anymore. Our local mall has imported food. (Protip! Pack a few lightweight duffel bags on top of the stuff in your suitcase when you go, so that you can use them to haul MORE STUFF when you come home! *devlish grin*)