Wow! thank you for this informative response. I'll definately give these suggestions to our DM and see what she thinks. On the topic of maps, One of my friends suggested buying re-usable maps such as this one they sell on Etsy.

He said that it's a laminated surface so you can write over it and wipe it off after. That way it saves us the trouble of making our own maps and what not. What do you think? Is this a good option?

I think our DM really wanted to get everyone together in person to do the game, but i completely understand where you're coming from. If we can get people into their roles and into the game they might be more inclined to show up in person and play the game together.