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• 

  Any Interest?

  In February, Play Book Tag will actually be two years old. I can't believe it.
  
  I was wondering if anyone would have any interest in a face-to-face get together for Play Book Tag members?
  
  If that idea intrigues you, could you please brainstorm below:
  
  - Where would be a good place to meet?
  - What would you like to take place there? We could simply pick someplace fun to go and arrange some group activities, and then you could enjoy the rest of the time on your own? Or we could attempt to make things more organized and structured with an itinerary with speakers?
  - What would be an affordable price range for a weekend?
  
  Any other thoughts, reactions, ideas?
  
  I've never organized anything like this before, so I'm thinking start small and simple IF the interest is there . . .which it may not be (and that's okay).

  againstthetide started this discussion 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  Nicole R 

  I would totally be interested in a little get together! Having said that, I am also a student which means I live on a very restricted budget. If the get together was somewhere close to where I live (say within train distance) then I would make a solid attempt to work it out. Here are some of my thoughts:

  - Places to meet: New York is always fun with lots of things to do; I 'm in love with Boston; Washington D.C. would also probably be do-able for me. Realistically, anywhere from DC up to Maine that is easily accessible by public transportation would be a consideration for me.

  - I vote for less structure and more fun! If we do an overnight thing then perhaps we can all meet up at a fun restaurant for early dinner the first night to talk about...books!....and then maybe some suggestions on things to do the next day (I have a feeling that we'll break up into smaller groups but no one will be alone!). Then, we could get back together again on the second day to chat and hang out a bit more. It also could be fun to try and incorporate a f2f book club into the weekend....maybe offer up three different reading selections that we'll discuss over dinner - you can read one or all three!

  - I would be on a tight budget but am totally not opposed to youth hostels and peanut butter and crackers for the weekend! lol I've done it several times. For me, I could probably swing a couple hundred dollars for the weekend.

  As I said, my budget is a little restrictive so make plans that work well for everyone else and then I'll do my best to attend :)

  Great idea, Anita! I can't believe PBT will be 2! (I hope it's not the terrible twos...)

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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  • 

    againstthetide 

    Thank you so much for the suggestions and great ideas, Nicole!! I love all your thoughts :).

    We'll see how much interest we have. I'd say if we have 8-10 PBTers who want to give it a try, we should attempt it.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  Regina L 

  I would be interested as well. I would volunteer to help organize if you needed it. I've planned events for about 10 years and was once a travel agent (back in my early 20's). I think it would be good to find out who is seriously interested and see where they are from to determine the location. For people that are on a budget there are often cost effective ways of traveling. Even though I'm inTexas I wouldn't be opposed to the DC area. Southwest flies into Baltimore and it is an easy inexpensive trek in on Amtrak. Alos love Boston. Not a big fan of NYC. But a short trip (and if I can fit in a Broadway show) makes it doable.

  I also vote for less structure the first go around. Great idea. Let me know if I can help.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    againstthetide 

    Thanks, Regina!!! Your help would be wonderful if we get to that point . . .

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • Regina L removed this reply 2 months ago.

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  sandy 

  Sounds like fun, but since I am not real great with directions and feel kinda scared of new places, I will wait to see where it will be before committing to being there. I do better now days than I used to so I might be able to make it happen.** I have butterflies in my stomach just thinking about it.** Any of the afore mentioned places are a far cry from where I live but maybe driveable, we'll see how it goes. ( I am in the mountains of NC)

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    againstthetide 

    We will take good care of you, Sandy!!! If you can get there, we'll take care of it from there.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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  Faith 

  I think this would be fun but the location would be key for me as I don't know what my living situation will be next year. Traveling overnight may not be an option for me... but I'll keep the option open if I can.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    againstthetide 

    I don't know mine either, Faith! Where are you now?

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Faith 

    Im in Southern New Jersey.. and I imagine I will still be in the NJ when the date comes but whether I'll be single or married and living arrangements if single will be another question all together. It's a day by day process and this determine on how far I'll be able to travel and if I could do an overnight (it all sounds so complicated.. lol, and I guess it really is)

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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  Jen M 

  Sounds like a lot of fun but I'm saving for a big trip to Atlanta next September and I would not be likely to travel to another event next year, especially not cross country. But it's something I could plan for next time if it becomes a tradition!

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Jen M 

    But if they ever do the Authors at Sea cruise again, wouldn't that be a fun way to meet up?

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    againstthetide 

    I'd love to try a get together this year or next. If it goes well, I'm thinking maybe it could be an every other year type thing. We seem to have a lot of members who are loyal to the group . . .but getting together face to face isn't the easiest thing to implement.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    LibraryCin 

    *gasp* A cruise!!!! I'd be so in for that! :-D

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    JudithAnn 

    How about a NY to Amsterdam cruise? I'll join you on the way back!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Regina L 

    Oh...I'd be for that!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    punxsygal 

    I'd like it, too.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    LibraryCin 

    Any cruise works for me! :-D Transatlantic would be fun (but a lot of sea days in a row). Would be nice to get more time in Amsterdam. Last year's cruise started and ended there for me, but I went straight from the airport to pier and back again, so I didn't really get to see any of it. :-(

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Kentucky Reader 

    I'd do that cruise. Seriously.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    rowanthea 

    I'm surrounded by water in Louisiana but get very seasick just looking at water.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    kairilily 

    No water for me either...

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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  serenity (edited)

  I'm interested in meeting all of you! My budget is also pretty restrictive, but I think most places can be worked out. I'll put in my vote for the meet to happen in my beautiful city of Chicago. There is a ton of great stuff to do at all times of the year here. Not to mention the food choices are excellent!

  and we are a Southwest Airlines hub

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    againstthetide 

    Chicago is actually a very good idea if we have people coming from all corners of the States. It's one of the more central . . .we'll just have to see where everyone is coming from.

    If people can give me a rough idea of their budget

    i.e. restrictive vs. flexible

    That will help because we'll try to cater toward people with the tighter budgets as much as we can - - obviously more people would be more fun!

    I'm fairly flexible on budget so anywhere in the continental US would work for me.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Regina L 

    Chicago really is a good idea. We would have to make it later in the year though to account for weather wouldn't we? I know January is bruttle. April/May/June would be really nice.

    My budget is pretty flexible.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Colleen S 

    Chicago would be terrific as I'm in South Bend and could take the train over. My budget is somewhat limited so if it's anywhere other than Chicago or Indy I'm probably out. My hubby and I are planning a trip to Chicago next spring/summer for our anniversary. Although, if it's like last years anniversary stay-cation we'll be doing it in May instead of March....

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    sandy (edited)

    I am somewhere between flexible and tight. Mostly I could work out a budget, or ask for an early birthday present of MONEY.....lol. Oh scratch the early birthday money, he is taking me to New Orleans.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Mary B 

    Well I think everyone knows how I feel about Chicago!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Susan T 

    IIRC, the Printers Row Lit Fest happens around June in Chicago...

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Mary B 

    Further bonus to Chi-town-
    There will be a spring stage production of Neverwhere, adapted from the Neil Gaiman book. I know there's more than one Gaiman fan around here.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    literaryvampiress 

    Oh to visit home again would be fun! And I totally agree with the food choices. I am a total food snob after growing up there. I'm currently in Milwaukee so it wouldn't be so tough.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Nicole R 

    I do love the city of Chicago...it's in my top 3

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Not Rory Gilmore 

    Chicago would be great for me. I'm only three hours away and on a very tight budget so that would be a train ride away for me and my boyfriend lives just outside of Chicago so I'd have a free place to stay.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Not Rory Gilmore 

    Chicago has a Second City theatre and I'm always wanting to go back and see another improv. show performed Second City so that's something we, or some of us, could do if it was in Chicago.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Raspberrymocha55 

    That would be a good idea! Whoo-hoo! It's only a 250 mile drive for me. That just might be doable if it is in the summer months! How about one of those 2 hr. boat trip/dinners right off Navy Pier?

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Mary B 

    I've never done one of those....

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    cpauley929 

    Looks like Chicago (at first glance) would be cheaper than Vegas. Of course I didn't look into packages or anything, just flights. It's actually pretty cheap to fly to Chi-town. It's been so long since I've been there. It was my first big city, and for that reason will always be really special.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Kentucky Reader 

    Vegas package deals are cheap, and include flight, room, some meals and more. I don't gamble because of poverty-phobia, but we've done Vegas packages just as a cheap way to get to the west. I would love to do Chicago during nice weather, not February.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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  rowanthea (edited)

  I would say New Orleans but Mardi Gras will be going on at that time. The weather will be great at that time of the year.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    againstthetide 

    I'm not sure on time of year yet even though I mentioned our anniversary as February.

    So if everyone could also chime in on best times of the year for them . . .I'm definitely thinking warmer would be better if we do a northeastern or Chicago location.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    sandy 

    I would love New Orleans and we are planning a trip there in March for my birthday(on/around the 15th) That would be fabulous....Great to meet everyone and stilll be within my budget because I will be there anyway...

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    cpauley929 

    New Orleans would be awesome. There are some great deals on hotels there in the French Quarter, and of course, given my restrictive budget, and NOLA's relative closeness to me, that would be awesome. Plus, I just LOVE that city!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    kolibri 

    Sandy, is your birthday the 15th of March? Mine is!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    sandy 

    yes it is the 15th of March

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    cpauley929 

    Beware the Ides of March! (I'm sure you've never heard that before). In college, we would have a toga party for the Ides of March. Red velvet Caesar cake an all. Those were the days, and we were such nerds.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    sandy 

    ah yes, the Ides of March.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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  annapi 

  I would love to, but as with others, budget would be a factor. I live in Southern California. Las Vegas would be the most logical outside of Los Angeles or San Diego.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    againstthetide 

    Thanks, Annapi! Vegas would be a lot of fun . . .lol . . .and the nice thing is once you are there, it is very inexpensive.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Barbara M 

    Las Vegas would be quite far for me but I know there are some amazing deals to go there, supported by the gambling I guess. We went there on a package that was pretty affordable.

    I also like the idea of NOLA, I've never been there. NOLA would be closer since I'm located in Florida. My DH and I have a motohome and might be able to get a place in the vacinity and then commute in for a day or overnight at a hotel.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Auntie Nanuuq . 

    This (So. Cal/NV/AZ) works for me....even Pismo Beach? There is a great place that has conference space as well...Oxford Suites!

    I know East Coast is still gonna be cold brrrr .....

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    LibraryCin 

    I like the Vegas idea. There are always deals.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Nicole R 

    I don't know if my PBT friends are prepared to see me cut loose in Vegas! lol

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    annapi 

    You should all see the show Zumanity.... it's the "sexy" Cirque du Soleil and it's a lot of fun - and delicious!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    ghost of a rose 

    I've been wanting to see that.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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  againstthetide 

  Thanks for some initial feedback. This is great, and keep the ideas coming. I definitely "get" the budget concerns, and potentially we can reduce costs by getting a little bit outside a metro area in more of a budget hotel and rooming together in pairs (for those who want to).

  One thought is that we might be able to match our time up to that huge author event in Washington D.C. I'm not sure what the entrance fees are for that, but that may be an option. I will look into that.

  At any rate, please keep the ideas coming and try to indicate your location so we can map out those who are interested and try to make it as cost effective and convenient as humanly possible.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Cora R 

    The National Book Festival on the Mall in DC is free and they have a website with information about the 2009 event. http://www.loc.gov/bookfest/

    I live in MD in the DC suburb. I may be able to make it if it is drivable and if I have some arrangements for the kids here at home.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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  DeeAnn J 

  I'd love to meet you all, but am on a restricted budget. It's expensive to get anywhere from Wyoming. I sure hope a lot of you can get together,

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    JudithAnn 

    But you have a big farm where people could put up their tents? ;-)

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    DeeAnn J 

    Well -- it's a 50,000 acre ranch my husband manages. We can't camp in the pastures, but in our yard is a beautiful pond that people can camp by. We'd love to have everybody here but we'd all have to make our own fun as there is nothing artsy to do. But we could see bald eagles, antelope, deer,coyotes, raccoons, rattle snakes, snowy egrets, blue heron, pelicans, meadow larks, badgers, prairie dogs, an occasional elk, and we even saw a bear one day this fall. We have a dinosaur migratory path with distinct allosaur footprints, teepee rings, and the Wilcox train robbery featured in the movie Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid happened near our house. Medicine Bow, the town in the book The Virginian is about 13 miles from our house. Tom Horn(remember the movie with Steve McQueen) roamed a lot of this land around us. We have beaver building a dam right now and really making a mess of things. And for you city people -- we can see the stars at night. They look close enough to touch and very bright. We do not take any of this for granted. We don't make much money but the only way we would leave here is if we have to. Living out away from people isn't for everyone, but it sure suits us.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    WonderBunny 

    DeeAnn, can I come visit you sometime? That sounds awesome! :)

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    DeeAnn J 

    yes! I would love that. Oh -- and the picture I have on here is of a swift fox. I'll let you look them up on the internet if you are interested in learning more about them. They are the cutest little buggers.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Nicole R 

    Wow, DeeAnn! It sounds like you live in a very beautiful place! I can imagine that managing 50,000 acres away from everything can be a bit challenging and definitely not for everyone but I'm glad that you and your husband enjoy it :) I love getting away from the cities to see the stars...I went to Montana a couple of years ago and swear I have never seen stars like that in my life - it was absolutely beautiful.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Kentucky Reader 

    I could go for that! I think with books and book lights, everybody would be a bunch of happy campers.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    annapi 

    I'm game as long as the bathrooms aren't outhouses....

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Sara W 

    That sounds incredible.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    rowanthea 

    This would work for me too......

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    cpauley929 

    LOVE camping. I have a tent that could house horses as well as people, so I'm already prepared.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    JudithAnn 

    Sounds wonderful, DeeAnn! You're lucky to live in such a beautiful place! But... how far away is the book store or library? Only joking!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    LibraryCin 

    It does sound beautiful. Nicole, a story about the stars. I grew up in a small town, but after having lived in a city for a few years, one time when I went home to visit my parents, they picked me up at a bus depot at the nearest city, we drove home, and when I got out of the car, I exclaimed: "Wow! There are so many stars out tonight!". Mom looked at me like I was nuts. "The stars look like that every night. You've been living in the city too long." I do miss the stars...

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    DeeAnn J 

    Where in Montana did you go? I"m from Helena, and that's where most of my family lives. I miss the mountains, rivers and lakes.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    DeeAnn J 

    book store is an hour away, 2 very small libraries half an hour away.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    DeeAnn J (edited)

    If you bring horses you could even help move cattle. We could have our own "City Slickers" movie. <grin> I have 3 bathrooms in the house, but you're welcome to go behind any sagebrush you want to.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    WonderBunny 

    Check, bring books next time I want to camp in the snowy range to leave them with DeeAnn.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Nicole R 

    One of my closest friends and I went to Abasorkee, MT when we were 15 to visit her extended family - probably closest to Butte even though that is over 3 hours from there. She now lives in Belt, MT which is just outside Great Falls.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  punxsygal 

  I'd be interested. I somewhat flexible as to where--would prefer some economizing on the budget--moderate hotels. I live in a Milwaukee suburb so Chicago is just a drive for me. Actually, Milwaukee is quite a nice city--just not in the winter. Economy of travel (air) expenses and hotels--Florida and Las Vegas might be the best options as there are usually plenty of "deals" to these places. And I would be willing to share a room. PBT pajama party!

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    cpauley929 

    Would really love to see Vegas, and I think it would be a decent place budget wise.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Barbara M 

    Sharing rooms is great fun! I've done that for cross-stitch festivals and even professional events when I met my roommate after I arrived!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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  Sara W (edited)

  If it's close I might be able to swing it, but I doubt it. Finances are really tight right now. That's why I use the library so much.

  And I'd have to bring the baby because he'll still be nursing.

  But I'm in Pittsburgh, NYC and DC are both about 5 hours from here, so doable.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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  serenity 

  If we wanted to wait until Fall, we could meet at the National Book Festival in Washington. It was held in September this year. Or maybe we could do something separately for that

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    againstthetide 

    I find this very appealing - - the idea of dovetailing a PBT event with another book-related event. That way you get to meet PBT friends AND enjoy a whole weekend full of book stuff.

    Here's a smaller, but still looking good event in Chicago.

    http://www.chicagotribune.com/about/events/printersrow/chi-printers-row-lit-fest-faq,0,530501.htmlpage

    I think what we will do is after I have everyone's initial reaction, maybe Regina and I will try to make things more specific and tangible in terms of place, price, etc. - - and then see if we still have enough interest to actually execute it!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Susan T 

    Oh, you beat me to it, Anita! (I posted the Printers Row suggestion above in the Chicago thread. I hadn't read down this far, yet.)

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    serenity 

    the Printers Row Book fest is awesome. And HUGE. and free. A great time is had by all. Neil Gaiman spoke at the fest this year, so they get a lot of really high quality authors participating

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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  Marnie 

  I live in sort of right in the middle of D.C. and Baltimore. If it was in D.C. I could absolutely be involved as it would be about a 20 minute drive. I could probably go about as north as New York and then within that time frame in the surrounding area. My budget is fairly tight...3 kids in high school...however I could work it out since I'm sure there would be plenty of time. D.C. of course to me is WONDERFUL and I never tire of it growing up here, obviously lots and lots and lots to do in the whole area. Of course Baltimore is right there as well so the options are limitless.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    againstthetide 

    Marnie,

    I may need to touch base with you offline soon. There's a 50/50 chance that I'll be moving to Baltimore this year . . .I'd love to tap into your knowledge base . . .

    Thanks for your input on getting together for PBT.

    Anita

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Marnie 

    Absolutely Anita I'd be happy to help with anything that I could :)

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Cora R 

    Marnie, have you ever been to The Book Thing in Baltimore (http://bookthing.org/index.html). I am about one hour from Baltimore and have wanted to go, but I haven't made it yet.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Marnie 

    No, I have not Cora sad to say I have not heard of it before. However I will definitely look it up now. I live about 15 minutes from Baltimore now in AA county....however I grew up and lived in Montgomery county for 33 years.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Susan T 

    It's such a small world, ladies. San Francisco is the most recent stop on my world tour, but I spent my childhood in Randallstown, Maryland near Baltimore, and my teen years in Gaithersberg, MD. After I left home (and during a period I came back for a few months), my folks were in Bethesda for 11 years, and now they're in Rockville, MD. I return home frequently. In fact, I'll be back Nov. 21 - Dec. 1. Yay!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Marnie 

    I lived and worked in Gaithersburg in my early 20's but I grew up in Damascus/Clarksburg which is about 5 minutes up 270. Currently I'm in Pasadena, MD outside of Baltimore. I miss Montgomery County greatly, however the expense of living there.....................astronomical these days. I just love here in general though, I'm a HUGE history fanatic and of course everything around here is steeped in it. It's a whole different perception growing up here, our news is basically the national news. The first time I really watched news from anywhere else I was shocked, lol.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Cora R 

    Small world, I live in Damascus. I grew up in NJ, and I know what you mean about the local news Marnie, it was weird being used to local and national news being different and then coming to the DC area and having it all run together.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Marnie 

    Haha Cora, when you first said you were about an hour from Baltimore I thought wouldn't it be weird is she lives close to where I used to. My dad is still in Damascus......I'm going to have to take a drive soon, I'm feeling the need to be on home soil! :)

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    punxsygal 

    I lived in Baltimore when I was in 1st and 2nd grade--then moved to California. Back to MD for high school in Silver Spring.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Susan T 

    Punxsygal,

    My mom went to Montgomery Blair High School in Silver Spring. And my cousins went to another school there. I can't remember the name off the top of my head, but I'd know it if you said it.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    punxsygal 

    I went to Springbrook. Blair was a rival school.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Susan T 

    That was it... Springbrook. My cousins are in their very late 30s to mid to late 40s. If they may have overlapped with you, we can play the "do you know" game. :-)

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  Jaede 

  I would really be interested depending on the where and the when. During the school year is almost impossible for me, but I might be able to shift some things around and get someone to cover my classes for a Friday, for instance. By budget is pretty restricted right now, but I could possibly manage to do some extra budgeting for a special trip by some extra strict planning.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    againstthetide 

    Where would you be coming from, Jaede??

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    Jaede 

    I'd be coming from Ohio. So, Chicago isn't too bad of a trip for me. Las Vegas wouldn't be that bad for me either, to be honest. You can get pretty good deals on flights from here to there.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  cpauley929 

  I would love to meet more of my PBT friends! Cindy and I got along wonderfully (at least I'm speaking for myself).

  I have a pretty restrictive budget, especially now since I just got back from a rather long vacation. NYC is a little too pricey for me to fly too, but I can usually find good deals for DC, or anywhere Southwest flies. I would second votes for Vegas, New Orleans, or DC. Ultimately, it will depend on when, where, and what my situation is at the time, but I'm definitely interested. I look forward to more discussion about it. This is a very exciting prospect.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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    LibraryCin 

    I loved doing the cruise with you, Candice! We had sooo much fun, and I, too, think we got along really really well!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  Mary B 

  I would hope to make it! Obviously it would depend on time, place, etc. Obviously Chicago would be awesome! If you guys came here I would have to draw everyone individualized maps of where all the best bookstores are (pack light!). But New York would also likely be good for me. I try to make it out every year or so since I have so many peeps out there, and we could hang out at the Strand, the largest bookstore in the world (I hear). I'm not sure if Jet Blue is still offering the cheapest flights ever as long as you're going to NY but that would be awesome.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  show 1 reply

  • 

    cpauley929 

    I was in NYC for a week and never made it to The Strand *smacks forehead* I would go back just for that.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  Jen M 

  http://www.latimes.com/extras/festivalofbooks/

  Looks like most folks are east coast, but in case there is any interest in coming west...late April sees the LA Times Festival of Books at UCLA.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  show 4 replies

  • 

    annapi 

    LOL but then would we see each other? I imagine everyone would vanish in the halls and grounds of UCLA! I know I probably would as I do just about every year at the FOB!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Jen M 

    It could be like Halloween...we could all venture out into the wilds, and then regroup to trade for our favorite candies...er...books.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Auntie Nanuuq . 

    LOL! I'd forgotten about this...good idea!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    JudithG 

    Love that book Festival. There's always the possibility of regional meetings for those who can't travel. My finances would handle a trip, and I have those nice long summer vacations, but I do have parenting issues.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  Ladyslott (edited)

  Well since I live 1/2 hour outside of NYC I'd vote for there. I can easily do either DC or Boston, driving or flying in on the shuttle. Chicago is fine but I won't go in the winter. Florida works too, because I am in the midst of buying a home down there and my daughter is in school down there so I spend a lot of time there. I'm going to Vegas this February or March so I don't know that I'd like to go again. California is great but that may not be doable for a lot of people.

  If we do go to NY we will most definitely go to The Strand it is the world's biggest book store and they have great bargains. Plus they will ship your books. I actually did an online book group F2F meet up a few years ago with 4 people in my group, one who was here from Japan. We took her to The Strand where she spent a couple of hundred dollars on books and had them shipped home. ANytime I am in the city and downtown, I head to The Strand.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  rowanthea (edited)

  Maybe we could get together by regions.....Southeast, southwest, southcentral, northeast, northwest.....etc

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  show 2 replies

  • 

    Not Rory Gilmore 

    This may end up being a very good idea for those of on tight schedules, restritive budgets, transporation issues, etc. It would still be fun even if we can't see everyone.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    rowanthea 

    I agree.....tight budget here and kids in school

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  Susan T 

  I, too, would be very interested in meeting up IRL. I'm dirt poor, but who am I kidding? I travel constantly, so I'm somewhat flexible re: budget. I think that regardless of where you decide to meet, winter should be ruled out. There's just too much potential for travel difficulties for those traveling from cold climates. BTW, without volunteering her, I will mention that Coyote Music is a travel industry professional. I am a former travel agent, and a current meeting and event planner, so I would be happy to help, if needed.

  I live in San Francisco, so pretty much anywhere on the West Coast works for me. Incidentally, if they ever hold it again, for the past few years there has been a very cool Book Group Expo in San Jose: http://www.bookgroupexpo.com/.

  Also, I am a frequent visitor and have strong ties to DC, NY, & Boston. Those are all good locations in my book. I would LOVE an excuse to finally get me home to DC for the National Book Festival in September.

  I've also been actively looking for an excuse to return to Chicago, Las Vegas, New Orleans, and Seattle. Maybe Miami or Key West. So, I'd be happy to met up in those locations, too. I'm easy. I'm sure I could find you some sort of literary event you could coincide a gathering with in pretty much any city.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  show 10 replies

  • 

    Barbara M 

    I absolutely agree about ruling out winter travel. I used to live in MA and now live in FL. I don't travel in winter!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Kentucky Reader 

    But I want to come visit you in winter.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    annapi 

    Second that about winter - I HATE the cold, having grown up in a tropical country.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    sandy 

    I also would probably not travel north in the winter. South would be an option though and just hope there was not a big snow storm after I leave making me have to travel back in it....lol

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Kentucky Reader 

    I hate cold so much AnnaPi that I've always thought I was meant for someplace tropical and the stork dropped me off in the wrong place.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Nayla M 

    Oooh, I read the word cold and couldn't resist commenting. I love cold weather, I can't wait for winter break so I could go travel somewhere with below zero kinda weather. A snow storm would be preferable, but if there aren't any, I won't complain as long as it's cooold.

    Would love to have met you all, but kind of impossible for me (different continent altogether). But hey, if you want some where warm, come to the UAE (then I can def meet y'all lol)
    - we have two seasons: hot, and hotter. Our supposedly fall/winter weather is pretty bearable and refreshing actually, but no snow (or rain) storms.

    Have fun!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Not Rory Gilmore 

    Kentucky Reader, me too! I've lived in IL my whole life and have always loathed winter, snow, and being cold. If I never saw snow again, I would not be disappointed. I don't care that I get sun poisioning if I'm in the sun for more than 5 minutes, I was meant to live somewhere warm, not somewhere cold. So what if the sun hates me, I'd be happier with sun burns and poisoning than in the cold.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Kentucky Reader 

    Nayla, I wish we could trade places for a bit. It sounds like Kentucky winters may be too hot for you though, even during the occasional ice storm.

    NRG, I really feel for you that you get sun poisoning so easily. That sounds awful. The sun loves me as much as I love it. As a child, I would get very dark in the summer just by playing, but my olive skin and dark hair really set me apart from all of the blond and red-haired kids around me. All the more reason I think I was dropped in the wrong place.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Susan T 

    Ladies, I HATE the cold.

    After six winters in Boston I snapped. I bought a one-way plane ticket to San Diego, sight unseen. I'd never been west of the Mississippi. I had no job and no place to live. I just went. I stayed in San Diego for six winters to thaw out.

    Now I'm in San Francisco. It's a compromise. I wish I could find a really hot city with the culture, intellect, and sophistication of a Boston or San Francisco. In my experience, good weather breeds, instead, a bitchin' beach volleyball scene. LOL.

    (No offense intended to residents of any climate. I just make obnoxious statements like thsi occasionally.)

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Barbara M 

    Well, maybe not beach volleyball but it sure does draw us outside to enjoy what the weather has to offer. Since I am originally from the colder north (Massachusetts) I can say that indoor pursuits were the norm except in the (very brief) summer. I certainly did more museums, crafts, etc when i was there. That's where I went to school
    too so I was indoors alot! The worst was that my husband really suffered from sunlight deprevation during the winter and the rainy between seasons! Warmer weather is about fun, we don't have time for sophistication!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  kairilily 

  I would love to meet up, but I don't know what my financial situation will be like next year. We found out in July that my husband will be losing his job sometime after the first of the year. I live in upstate SC, so if the location is close enough, I might be able to work it out.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  show 2 replies

  • 

    sandy 

    Sc is not that far from where I am. What city are you near/in.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    kairilily 

    I'm just south of Charlotte, NC in the Lancaster area. Where are you?

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  LibraryCin 

  I would LOVE to do this, too, but being realistic... As with most others, it would depend on the where and when and cost.

  For me, of the places already suggested, probably the cheapest (and therefore most likely) would be Vegas. Though, I do like going to places I've never been before (been to Vegas once) and New Orleans sounds really tempting (though I have no idea of the cost to fly there). I am in Western Canada, so probably somewhere on the West Coast could be do-able, too. Certainly, Seattle would work for me, as I have family there, too.

  Since Candice and I were just roommates for 10 nights (plus one in NYC) on our cruise and got along soooo well, I certainly have no problems rooming with someone else.

  Time of year: spring/summer is always easiest for me with work.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  Kentucky Reader 

  As I read everybody's posts, I would think one idea was perfect and then another totally different one would be perfect, and then another and another, so obviously I'm flexible.

  I do think we should definitely do something book related though. That's only fitting. Maybe we could start a discussion just for everyone to post any info they have on book-related events -- festivals, cruises, whatever. That could be a good way to narrow down location(s).

  Speaking of location, I'm pretty flexible on that too. I'm in Kentucky, in case you haven't guessed, and I'd really, really like to go someplace warm in February. In fact, I will have something momentous personally to celebrate in February and I have been thinking of ways to reward myself then. Getting together some friends for a trip to somewhere warm keeps popping to the top of my list, so when I first saw your post about doing something in February, Anita, I thought "Aha! That's what I'll do." But really, I'm flexible on when also. Flexibility is a huge perk of being retired.

  I like the suggestion of regional meetings as well as one big get together. That way there could be a get together in the actual anniversary month of February and others throughout the anniversary year. Some of us may even be able to attend more than one meeting.

  That authors cruise sure sounds good.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  show 1 reply

  • 

    sandy 

    I also like the idea of regional get togethers. I think it would be fun to meet other PBT members. My friend and I go to the Nicholas Sparks book signing in Greenville SC every year. This year it was in September. That was a lot of fun.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  WonderBunny 

  I'm interested but also on a student budget and since I am still in school, I found traveling far from home just doesn't work so well for me. I could do somewhere close (like Vegas or SF or Seattle) but I don't think I could do anything farther then that and the east coast is out for me completely. Just getting there from Salt Lake City takes a day and considering I would only be there for one or two nights with only half days to travel it just isn't very reasonable for me.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  againstthetide 

  I'm going to set up an official poll where (based on all these wonderful suggestions) I will ask you to identify where you would be willing to go. For the first time, we'll probably go with the location that has the most willing participants, but I'm thinking if we decide it should be a repeat activity, we will rotate the location around so that more people can partake.

  If we find this type of thing is popular, I can totally see trying a regional approach.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  show 3 replies

  • 

    rowanthea 

    cool

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Auntie Nanuuq . 

    works for me......

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Regina L 

    I think that is a good idea.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  JudithAnn 

  As I live in the Netherlands, getting together by region might work for me: somewhere (anywhere even?) in NW Europe, I would probably be able to make. But there aren't many of us. Two, three?

  The American options so far don't appeal to me, besides the distance (although it's apparently cheaper to fly from Amsterdam to San Fransisco than from NY to SF!! But these are rumors.) I just don't like big cities, they scare me totally. Anyway, visiting America is something I want to do (again) sometime, but it's very unlikely this would be next year.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  show 7 replies

  • 

    JudithG 

    And I would love to travel anywhere in Northern Europe, but I think it will have to wait until my last child is out of high school. Maybe it will be my retirement gift to me.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Regina L 

    Oh Judith...I love your country! It has been about ten years since I've been but I had a wonderful time.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    LibraryCin 

    I'm hoping to do another cruise at some point that will bring me back to your general area. :-) Scandinavia, Baltic...

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Kentucky Reader 

    I haven't made it across the ocean at all, but I think it's about time I did. A regional PBT meeting is as good an excuse as any.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Auntie Nanuuq . 

    Oh Heck...I say let's all go visit you!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Auntie Nanuuq . 

    A cruise would be lovely too, even more attractive of an idea!

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    DeeAnn J 

    I would love a cruise. One of my fantasies.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• Auntie Nanuuq . removed this reply 2 months ago.

• 

  Not Rory Gilmore 

  I'm interested, but it would depend on the location. I have a restrictive budget so it would all depend on where and when. I live in IL so anywhere in IL is doable, as well as some parts of WI, IN, and MI. I won't rule out other parts, it just depends on how much I would have to spend on gas or train travel, as well as a hotel cost. So don't worry about me, I'd rather work things out around other people and if I can go, great. If not, maybe another time.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  Brad B 

  I vote for NYC. I'm on a very restricted budget, so I kinda think that's my one shot. The regional idea looks like the best idea. A meeting of some members in NYC, one in Chicago, one on the west coast, then one or two in Europe and any other place as the need arises. I would love to see everyone make it to some kind of get together without spending a bundle.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  show 1 reply

  • 

    Kentucky Reader 

    I agree with you on the regional idea, Brad.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  Susan T 

  If I may offer a dissenting opinion...

  I would suggest the idea of regional meetups be IN ADDITION to a bigger meetup--not instead of one. My attitude is that I'd rather travel farther afield to have the pleasure of meeting PBTers from all over, than to travel a shorter distance (still a likely flight involved) to meet just a few West Coast PBTers (lovely though I'm sure they are). I guess, for me, it's a matter of bang for my buck. I'm willing to spend more for a more inclusive gathering.

  I post this, not to suggest that my opinion is in any way more valid. Merely to highlight a differing opinion.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  show 3 replies

  • 

    cpauley929 

    I'm with you on that. I would rather meet more people, and pay a bit more. Thus, Las Vegas is looking better and better. Who knew it could be so cheap to stay there for a few days.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    serenity 

    i love Vegas! I've wanted to see the Cirque production of 'O' for ages

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Regina L 

    OH! O is Awesome.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  Diane P 

  I think this idea of getting together is terrific! Like most everyone else money is an issue. I have two kids getting ready to start college. We currently live in Virginia. Although I grew up in St. Louis, most of my years (20's to mid-40's) I lived in and around the D. C. area. We lived in Annapolis for about ten of those years. Anything along the Eastern seaboard would work for me.

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  Tenia F 

  Ok may I suggest WARM southern florida? There's no snow, it's warm and we could do Disney or the keys

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  show 9 replies

  • 

    Nicole R 

    Oh lord, please no Disney! I can't handle places like that...

    The Keys I could definitely do and would totally like to gather a group of PBT SCUBA divers to head out for some adventure ;)

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Tenia F 

    Yeah I'd have to wave at you from the boat I can't swim that well

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    rowanthea 

    The Keys are one of the only areas in Florida I've yet to visit but want to......

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    cpauley929 

    OMG, I LOVE Disney. Especially about this time of year. It's not cold, it's almost deserted, and it's a great escape with soooo much to do. Much more than just the parks.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Tenia F 

    I want to spend time in Epcot.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Nicole R 

    I know that Disney is supposedly the "happiest place on Earth" and I know so many people who go yearly but I am the person who despises going to touristy locations for vacation. I love going some place a little more natural, staying off the beaten path, and immersing myself in the local culture. If I happen to participate in touristy activities they most likely revolve around historical or cultural themes (monuments, museums, etc).

    I'm sure that if we decided to meet at Disney I can find something to occupy myself during the day and then meet up with everyone at night :)

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Ladyslott 

    I've been to Disney too many times to count and am so glad that my kids don't want to go anymore!!

    The Keys works for me , it's beautiful there. I'd love to go to South Beach though- you can party hearty there :)

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    cpauley929 

    Normally I'm exactly like you Nicole (just ask Cindy how I spent all my shore days on the cruise). Tourist stuff doesn't do it for me, but Disney is definitely an exception in my book. I love walking around the hotels and checking out the restaurants as much as anything.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Nicole R 

    Maybe my dislike of Disney also stems from the fact that large talking mice scare the bejesus out of me! lol Seriously, who thought that a large rodent would be a good theme for a children's amusement park?!? ;)

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

• 

  againstthetide 

  Could everyone please take moment to answer this short survey? It will help me take this idea to a "straw man" plan, and then we will probably ask for your reaction to a choice of very specific dates/places/prices.

  
  

  http://www.surveymethods.com/EndUser.aspx?EFCBA7B4EAA9BABF

  posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  show 7 replies

  • 

    sharmee 

    done! that was easy

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    cpauley929 

    Did it.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    ghost of a rose 

    Done.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    JudithAnn 

    Not done.

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Ladyslott 

    Done

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    Jaede 

    done

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

  • 

    punxsygal 

    done

    posted 2 months ago. ( reply )

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