I learned chess from my dad: cliché or not, it's true. I also learned from a book on chess by the English player Harry Golombek. I like open games and love the Ruy Lopez.

Re: timeouts - I will eventually claim a win, but not at the first opportunity. I'll generally give a couple of days' grace. And if you've your vacation setting on, or if you message me to let me know you're not available for a while, you're safe.