I seriously contemplated getting one of those "ocean sounds" CDs to help me sleep for a while.

I've started picking up a tiny bit of Japanese from one of our physicists. I've picked up a tiny bit of several other languages as well, though most of it is not fit for polite company.

I wish you could.

Yes, make sure you're well stocked with whipped cream. Chocolate sauce is another good one, though it's a bit messier.