Illinois Get together 2003

[stellar]

Who's in? So far it seems that the Champaign area would suit everyone best. I checked the map for everyones location and for most of the people interested it would be the mid-way point. I feel its fair to give everyone equal driving distance, as much as possible.

HOWEVER, its still open for discussion so if you feel other wise feel free to speak up.

So... first order of bussiness:

Who's in?
Where do we get together?
When?
AND what would everyone like to do for fun when we get together?

Can't wait! :D

[attorneymom]

Just wanted to say I hope you have a great time!!!!

[stellar]

Thankyou! You're so sweet :heartpump:

[stellar]

Heres a link to some Champaign recreaction information. Champaign visitors (http://www.cucvb.org/)

[stellar]

Heres some approx. driving times for those interested:

Chicago area to Champaign- 139 miles/2hrs

Louisville Kentucky border area to Champaign- 241 miles/4hrs

Jamestown Ohio to Champaign- 267 miles/4hrs

Corydon Indiana to Champaign- 262 miles/4hrs

Rockford area or Northern Illinois to Champaign- 200 miles/3hrs

:D

[losealot]

Champaign sounds fine to me. I'm looking at the recreation site now..... I can't wait. As for when for me I could do any weekend in May except the 10th. ALso i could do first weekend in june. I am up for doing anything while we are there. i love the outdoors, theaters, nightclubs, and anything else! lol :) :spider_red: :blabla: :D

[stellar]

It still an open discussion but I'm thinking maybe the first weekend of May? Just an Idea :D

Lose- I'm with you, up for anything. I saw they have a botanical garden, COOL! I like everything too though.

[stellar]

I found what we can do while in Champaign/Urbana, check it out:

Event Name: Duck Race
From 05-03-2003 to 05-03-2003
Event Fees: No Fees Listed

Event Location:
Address: Broadway Avenue & Park Street
Urbana , 61801
Description: The annual Great C-U Duck Race. Buy your rubber duck and watch it race thousands of others at Crystal Lake Park. Proceeds from the duck race benefit the Don Moyers Boys and Girls Club. Outstanding prizes to the duck race winners. Carnival atmosphere.

Contact Phone: 217-367-1544
Contact E-Mail:

LOL :D

[lassie]

Hi girls! Champaign sounds good to me. Also, the 1st weekend in May sounds good. Duck raceing huh, wonder how many kids we will have to knock out of the way?? I am excited and up for anything even if it involves a DUCK!!

[stellar]

I promise I won't drag anyone to the rubber ducky race, LOL :D

A few others have expessed a lot of interest and want to be kept posted. so I guess lets get to planning and then share the plan. :D

My husband even suggested driving to champaign to pick a hotel in person. I worry about picking one online, don't want to end up in a boring area. :D

[losealot]

okay are we going to meet on a friday night and stay until sun. morning?? If so, i can't first weekend because my daughter has her very first dance recital (she's 3) May 2nd and i am going to be helping and i will probably be way tired that night to drive. I could meet up with you sat. morning i suppose if we have it that weekend.

I'd really lilke to be in on the whole weekend but if the first weekend works for everyone else then i'm in. I am really excited. can't wait. if we got a suite then we could maybe have 3 - 4 per room and that would be 6 - 8 people per suite. maybe we would only have to get two suites or 4 rooms. then we could get nice hotel and split the cost! :D

[stellar]

Lose- I was thinking we could all leave our homes early Saturday and have all day and night then return home the following day whenever, morning, afternoon, evening.

Looks like we are doing the planning so far. I wish the others would get here! where ya all at? :D

[stellar]

New idea for sanity's sake. Lets give the thread till Friday to see who joins. Come friday who ever is here will be in on the planning and everyone else will be notified of the plan and can decide if they're in or not. If it ends up just being a small handful of us that will still be fun. :D

[stacygirlvo]

Hey guys! Champaign would be fine (good lord would i have to go to my college alma mater for a visit too!? yikes! - EIU..hour or so from Champaign! don't think i'm ready for that!)

You guys go ahead and plan whenever/whatever - my plan was to maybe be in illinois in may sometime - but that's not definite...so you guys book it & if i'm in town I'LL BE THERE!! ;)

[Justice4all]

I'm up for it. Not familiar with that area, so I guess whatever you guys want to do is fine with me...I'm not into strip clubs/bars. Will go dancing, drinking etc.

[stellar]

strip clubs? :eek: Not my kind of place either. However I will go dancing for a drink or whatever like Justice said! :D

[losealot]

oh my :eek: you won't see me in any strip clubs. Although i am not a heavy drinker i enjoy my share of strawberry daiquri's and such. i am up for dancing and drinking and such as you all said but wowwee no nakedness. my hubby would be like "hey now i am going if you are going there!!" lol I told him i am going to meet my phriends in champaign for a weekend outing. he was like "whatever". I think he thinks i'm joking! well he'll see when i get in the car and say see ya sunday!! hehe :p I can't wait!!! I am so excited. Hey stellar, is there any comedy clubs there that you know of. THat would be a great place to go. I hope more of you guys respond! WHere are you all?! :)

[stellar]

OK, this is more work than I thought! I have many questions.

1. Whats the budget for hotels? How many will share a room? I have found several options and need imput. I guess just put what you are willing to pay for yourself and if you'll share.

2. Is the first Saturday of May exceptable?

3. What time will we meet up?

I was thinking of going in on suites at a nice hotel thats in the middle of everything. :D

[lassie]

Hey gals, wish I was more help with the planning. I do not know alot about champaign, but I do know I am up for anything. What ever we do I am sure it will be fun!! All I need to know is I have somewhere to go yoooohhooooo!!!! I`m willing to share expenses and anyone going through Effingham, maybe ride together. Haven`t heard from Heartland, she`s close, so maybe we can ride together, I will drive, not a prob. So plan away and just tell me the day!!!! :D

[JoRae]

Rae,
Thanks for posting the driving distances and how far away all the cities are...It helped me alot to make up my mind as if I wanted to come or not, and I havta say...... I"M IN! ! !
If the get together is the first weekend in May , then I won't be there until saturday morning tho. My mom has chemo treatment that friday but I could leave early sat morning and be there by noon.
It's close enuff to me that I could make the drive that morning and then leave late sunday afternoon. I'd be home soon enough to tuck in the littles ones that night.
Keep me posted on what city will be be meeting at but sounds like you have a good and fair thing going about Champaigne. Sounds like a blast no matter what we do. And I'm up for splitting the cost of a room and having roomies.....I don't snore, at least I don't think ! :confused:
If I do, just smack me on the head..... :blabla:

[Daniegurl]

Hey girls,
Champaign is fine with me...I'm there at least 1 weekend a month anyway visiting friends at U of I...
Stacy, haven't talked to you in a while!! You disappeared for a while and so did I...How you been doin?? I'll go with you to Eastern hehehe to see your pics in the theater building (are they still there?) :D

I don't know what there is to do in Champaign cause I spend most of my time there on the campus...but I'm sure there's stuff to do. I'm excited!!

If anyone wants to drive with me, I'm more than willing to take my car down there...

-Danie

P.S. I am UNDERAGE!!! Am I still invited?? I can hang out with some of my friends down there if you guys decide to go to the bars and such...I don't want to cramp anyones style! ;)

[losealot]

daniegirl - can't you get into bars and such at age 19 in champaign? i know you could as of two years ago. Anyways i will definitely share rooms. I don't have cooties (I don't think) hehe just kidding. I am willing to pay like 50 - 70 dollars for my share. or more if we have higher rate room. I agree i would like to have a nice hotel!! wouldn't it be cool if we could have a room that has hot tub in it?! anyways, i'm up for anything. stellar i will help in any way i'm just not that good at planning. pm if you wanna talk. it's nice out today so i'm heading outdoors! bye :D

[Justice4all]

I can share a room too. Not to keen on playing footsie though. :p

Stellar,
The first week of May sounds good.

[Keew]

I'm checking on airfare.

If that duck race is on, I'm so there!! :cool:

[stellar]

KEEW! LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL

You're too funny! :D

[stellar]

Ok, most recent idea... most hotels don't have check-in till 3 pm, gotta clean the rooms I guess :rolleyes: (jk, I like a clean room)

Most of the time you can get into room a little sooner. I was thinking since we're all driving we could meet up in Champaign at lunch time on Saturday at a restaurant, get to know eachother over lunch then check-in to our hotel and go from there. Of course anyone is welcome to arrive whenever they like.

Atleast its a start!

I will share too, no cooties, no snoring etc...

Im working on it, gomma go pick up some information this weekends and talk to friends that have been to Champaign a lot. :D

I'm SO EXCITED! :D

[JoRae]

:spider_red: I'm gettin excited, I missed Nashville so I'm so ready for this one.... Watch out, I have all this built up energy in me, who knows what will happen.... (just leave me where I lay) :blabla:

Ok, so who all is in on the planning?? and who is on the list so far..... Can't wait til meet everyone...
And Stellar, that sounds like a good ideal, everyone meet up Satuday for lunch, check in to hotel and then take it from there..... Gosh, I love ya already.... :heart: (Love the name toooo) ;)

[stacygirlvo]

don't forget when you're picking places to hang...it's a drunken college town!! (at least it was 10 years ago!) ;)

[stellar]

STACY!!! I could use your knowledge! HELP! Whats a nice hotel close to stuff? I've found some online that look promising but I'm not sure if you can trust whats online, know what I mean?

Come on! It hasn't changed that much. It hasn't been very long. :D

ok, so far I think I'm doing the planning but if anyone else would care to help, Please do! Anyone want to help me look through hotels? Just go to expedia or orbitz or type in Champaign illinois hotels and search. I figure the whole point is to meet there and hang out so having strict plans about what to do while there (places to go etc...) isn't that important. We'll figure it out, its adventurous! :D

[stellar]

JoRae- Watch out for me! I haven't left home for a whole night without kids in almost 3 years! :D

:heart:

[Daniegurl]

Haha, yes, it's a drunken college town, and yes you can get into some bars at 19...I just figured you guys wouldn't be going to those bars since all college students hang out there. I guess we'll see what happens...

-Danie

[losealot]

oh to be a drunken college gal again! Nah, I'll take my small town and two beautiful girls anyday. BUT I also haven't been away from my girls except one night ever!!! It'll be hard but i think i will enjoy it knowing daddy is getting to do mommy one night!! wait i just read that again, that sounds naughty!! :D

Meeting up for lunch sounds good. Stellar i will start looking at hotels also. I don't want you to think i'm dropping this all on you. :gulp: Well, okay, I am! Just kidding. I have been scouring champaign recreation page to see what kinda stuff they have to offer. Hey, I'm just excited about going out to eat and not having to stop to cut up food, take girls to potty, dig out the baby wipes to wipe faces, and tell them to be quiet! If i start cutting up you alls food just slap me!! :) I am sooooo excited!!!
Darla

[JoRae]

Ok, I talked to hubby last night and he gave me permission to join you all (yea, right, like I really asked him if I could come, NOT)

Anyhow, I want to join you all really bad but I'm not sure so sure if I can handle driving 6 hours just to stay over night. If it was a two or three day thing then it would be worth it. There's just no way that I can leave on friday, I take my mom to chemo that friday. Hubby and I looked at the atlas and figured for me to go it would take me about 6 hrs to get there. Not so much much worried about the milage, just the driving time to get there. I don't want to get there and have to turn around and come right abck home with out time with you all.

I'm not giving up yet tho, I'm still in untill the fat lady sings....and I'm not about to start singing yet!
:eek:

[Justice4all]

Jo Rae,
Maybe you can find someone to share the driving with?
Hope you come.

[stellar]

Hi! I'm really into this.

I would be willing to meet earlier if anyone wants to like Saturday morning for breakfast, hang out (theres outlet malls, LOL) then meet up with the others at lunch etc... I can stay till Sunday evening too if anyone wants to.

JoRae, I re-checked the maps and according to them your driving time is around 4 hours. Maybe I'm missing something?
I checked Corydon Indiana to Champaign. Is that correct? :confused: Let me know, I really thought I made the driving times as equal as possible.

Now I am wondering if people are uncomfortable with being in a college town. If so there may be a town close by Champaign that would be a milder enviornment.

We have a month to sort through it so I'm not worried if some things are still a little up in the air.

Losealot- I don't mind getting the planning going. I'm sure we'll figure it all out, have a good time and end up doing it again in the future. I'm like you, being home with little ones and all... we could all meet up in the middle of a field somewhere and I'd be happy just cause I wasn't lugging around a diaper bag and tending to children. Not that I don't love them but mommy needs a little time once in a while and mommies who get breaks are happier mommies! :heartpump:

[Justice4all]

Stellar,
is there anything you want me to look up or be in charge of finding? I want to help, but don't know where to start. :confused:

[stellar]

Thanx Justice! You're so sweet.

I think I just want to know what everyone else wants. I guess most people are pretty flexable right?

I guess if you want you could look at hotels in the champaign area too... Champaign, Urbana, Danville on the web and between Me, losealot and you we could pick one.

I want to know if everyones willing to share, wants suites, wants a hotel with all the extras like pool, restaurant, bar etc...

On the edge of town or in the thick of it

whats everyones budget, could everyone afford going in 1/2 or 1/3 on a 130 dollar room

I think the hotel is the only issue in my mind. If we can pick one, feel comfortable with it etc...

Thanx again and feel free to look up anything you think might be helpful. I'm also going to stop into barnes and nobles for an Illinois tourism guide, funny thing is I got one in the mail a few weeks ago and thre it out cause I thought I wouldn't need it. :rolleyes:

:heartpump:

[JoRae]

Rae, Let me re-check with my Dad.... He's a truck driver and has been to champaign many times over, instead of asking hubby what he thought about how long it would take me to get there, I should have just asked my dad.... :confused: Hubby means well, but he's not has expierenced as my dear daddy.
Rae, you didn't do anything wrong, I'm just nervous about driving somewhere I've never been to before.
I'll get back to you tonight after I talk to my dad....

:gulp:

[stellar]

Jorae- My husband has the opposite problem, everythings always CLOSER than it is. He swears St. Louis is just 1 hour away, yeah right! If you drive 120 on the highway maybe, LOL :D

This is gonna be fun girls, I just know it! :heart:

[JoRae]

Ok, Girls
I'm still working on things but it just doesn't seem possbile....I re-checked and re-checked the atlas and it's telling me still that the way I would have to come is 6 hrs driving time. I really want to meet you guys but driving that far and that much on the road time just isn't worth one nights stay. I'm sorry. I'm sure this isn't the last get together that will be planned in the coming months.
I hope you all have a good time together as I'm sure you will. I'll be thinking about you all, :miss_u:
be careful no matter where or what you all do.... :heartpump:

[stellar]

Jorae,
I understand if you can't make it. I checked at expedia maps, msn maps and yahoo maps and they all came back at about 4 hours. The route they suggested went up to Indianopolis then west to champaign.

If you can't make this one, maybe next time :(

Thanx for trying though! :heartpump:

[stellar]

Jorae, heres the directions I found (no pressure, LOL) its from msn maps. I couldn't post the map, wish I could.

Start: Corydon, Indiana, United States
End: Champaign, Illinois, United States
Total Distance: 262.9 Miles
Estimated Total Time: 4 hours, 38 minutes

[losealot]

maybe we could pick a town a little closer that way for JoRae. i'm not to picky. i would drive a little ****her if needed. i just want as many people to come as possible! :)

Stellar could we do a poll to vote on towns. maybe suggest 5 towns or something?

I'm really really excited about this. i told my aerobics instructor about this and my phrends online. she thought it sounded great. She said it is what i need - other people going thru same thing as i am.

anyhoo, that's about it for now! :D

[stellar]

I can't find any towns of a decent enough size and population closer to Indiana than Champaign/Urbana. So... for now I'm looking in that area for places to stay till someone says otherwise.

I'd really love for you to come Jorae. Do you have any suggested cities in Illinois that are closer to you? Let us know! :heartpump:

Heres some hotels I like :D

marriot (http://www.marriott.com/dpp/PropertyPage.asp?MarshaCode=CMPCY)

Hawthorn suites (http://www.hawthorn.com/index.asp?go=reservations/locationdetail.asp%3FFacId%3D2705)

drury (http://www.druryhotels.com/properties/champaign.cfm)

Holliday Inn (http://www.sixcontinentshotels.com/h/d/HI/hd/cmiub)

[ April 04, 2003, 12:40 PM: Message edited by: stellar ]

[stellar]

Heres some info on some of the features the Hotels I think would work for us have to offer.

Marriot

Onsite restaurant
cocktail lounge
free coffee in lobby and room
the basics (tv,phone,cableportetc..)
Indoor pool
whirlpool
exercise room
free parking
close to attractions and landmarks

nearby restaurants include:
alexanders steak house
chili's grill and bar
Lonestar steak house
Courtyard cafe

Rates and rooms available,
King suite= 1 kingsize bed, 1 sofa bed
$120 a night, $10 fee for each additional in-room guest. Maximum adults per suite- 4

Non-Suite room available,
2 queen size beds
$90 a night, maximum occupancy- 4

Hawthorn Suites

dataports
coffee maker
micro
fridge
hairdryers
basics (t.v.phone etc..)
free parking
indoor pool and hot tub
close to college, university etc...

Nearby restaurants:
T.G.I. Fridays
The ribeye
Biaggi's
Kennedy's

Rates and rooms available:
Double bed Suite- 2 DBL beds, 1 queensize sleeper sofa. $109 per night, $10 additional adult fee, maxium 5 adults per room.

Drury Inn

dataports
exercise room
in room coffee
indoor/outdoor pool and whirlpool
basics

nearby restaurants:
Chevy's
Chili's
Lonestar
Red Lobster
Steak n shake

Rooms and rates available:
Suite- 2 DBL beds $105 per night, $10 additional guest fee, maximum adults per room-4

Holiday Inn

cocktail lounge
restaurant
free parking
dataport
internet access
in room coffee maker
hairdryer
in room movies
basics (phone, tv,etc...)
open air Atrium (tropical atmosphere) including: indoor pool, whirlpool and sauna. Atrium Lounge/bar and restaurant.
room service available
close to everything
complimentary parking

Rooms and rates available:
Family size rooms available and possibly suites.
Room- 2 DBL beds $95- $120 plus $10 for each additional adult,X-tra roll-away bed available, maximum adults per room-4

For more info click the links in my previous post, links include some photos. :D

[ April 04, 2003, 03:23 PM: Message edited by: stellar ]

[stellar]

Just a thought, the Holiday inn resort is just off highway 74 (convinient) it also has a restaurant and bar/lounge open daily all day. If we stay there then we could meet there at the bar or restaurant, have lunch then ckeck-in.

Sounds easy, huh? :D

[stellar]

Hawthorn suites has suites available that sleep up to 5, theres no bar or restaurant on the premises but restaurants near by, across the street etc...

I checked with Holiday inn and there we could get large rooms with 2 beds that include some ammenities like fridge and micro with a small seating area.

I NEED HELP! LOL :D

I'd be willing to book one large room or suite for a few of us but then someone else would have to lead up a group of others to go in on a room or book individual rooms.

Whos with me? Losealot, heartland, Lassie wanna share or break into groups of 2 and leave a 3rd opening for another guest in each room?

The Holiday Inn rooms go fast so advanced booking is our best option. :D

[losealot]

stellar include me in the rooming together. Holiday Inn or Hawthorn sounds great to me. Go ahead and reserve us a room. Let me know my half so i can figure out how much $ to bring. I promise i won't back out. i'm too excited!!! :)

[losealot]

stellar, you have a pm! :)

[Denise Marie]

I have to double check with hubby but I'm sure I'm going. I haven't had a night out without hubby in a few years and never overnight. I'll miss seeing my one year old daughter but I could also use the break. I would also like to share a room but if it doesn't end up that way that's also fine. I also don't mind going to bars that allow nineteen and older in in stead of 21+. I'll definitely let you know tomorrow after talking to hubby. This'll be so much fun!

[stellar]

This is so awesome! I'm excited! Thanx Lose!

Denise, I hope you can come, the more the merrier! You deserve a break! Us mommies need breaks once in a while. I'll miss my 3 too but I'll come home a happier and better mommy.

Can't wait! :heartpump:

[stellar]

Losealot- I tried to PM you back but it says I'm on your ignore list :eek:

I'll have to get back to you in the morning.
Do you live in Effingham? I could swing over there and pick you up. Let me know! :D

[JoRae]

Stellar,

Thanks for trying to get me there but I don't see it happening. Hubby's truck broke down last night , not sure what is wrong with it, he says that it got hot on the way home from work so it could be something simple or sumthing more than just a broken hose.
Don't change plans on my account, stick to your plans and have a great time.... You all deserve it.... :heart: I'll be thinking of you, have one for me.... ;)

[stellar]

Jorae- Sorry to hear about your husbands truck. Maybe you can make it next time! Take care :heartpump:

[heartland]

Hi Stellar! I got your message :)
I don't think I'm gonna be able to make it. The weekend is the only time i get to spend with my hubby and i wouldn't wanna leave. (cept this weekend...he's not home :( )

If he's not gonna make it home that weekend...I'll probably come. I just don't know his plans (he doesn't either) untill a few days before. So you guys go ahead and plan without me................and i will see what happens. I may just POP in for a few hours....Ya never know about me. Champaign isn't that far. Matter of fact my cousin and I are going shopping there next week :)
It sounds like a lot of fun...........we will just have to wait and see :)
Thanks for trying to include me .........it means alot :heart:

[stellar]

alright then. It looks like the interest went out with a bang.

So, who's in? Me, Losealot, Denise?

I PMed a few others this morning and I'm waiting for their replies. It is a month away so I should be more patient. I'm just a big planner type and like to have everything planned out ASAP. I need to relax :D

[lassie]

I`m there!! I am willing to share with as many people as we can in a room. Let me know when, where, how much. I`m still working on Hearland to come, but it all depends on her hubby for now. I am soooooo excited :D

[stellar]

AWESOME Lassie, that makes 4 so far, wooo-hooo, things are looking up. I don't care how many we pack in a room, its just one night. I'll try to find out if the have roll-away beds and all.

I've been working on Heart too, shes probably sick of me by now, LOL :D

Heart, once you find out let us know and if you can come for lunch and hang out till dinner, COOL! It would be great to meet you :heartpump:

[lassie]

Just wanted to add::: I did meet Heartland and she is a very sweet person... She has the cutest little baby face, and a great personality!! I do hope she come, cause atleast I will know someone. I don`t post much, its not that I am quite, I just like to read I guess. It does look like I will be the oldie of the bunch!! But hopefully after Heartland and I met ,,,she ,,,might say I am still a goodie!! I am really looking forward to meeting everyone, I have lived in Illinois for 10 years and still only know about 30 people in the whole state. So I do plan on having a good time... Hope all you young guys can keep up!! I have NO doubts!! Come on Heartland, he will be there when you get back! ;)

[losealot]

omg Stellar, I'm sorry!! I was trying to add all you Illinois gals to my buddy list and i must have clicked twice or something!! :thinking: I was a little tired yesterday! Sorry, i'm going to go change that. Can't have us not communicating! :D
i hope more people come!!! although, four or five will be fine. They say no more than 4 people to room but hey what they don't know won't hurt 'em!! lol we can scrunch together!! hey i'll just sleep all night in the sauna or hot tub!! :eek:

[stellar]

Losealot- I was going to call you this weekend but its just been too busy here. Don't worry about the ignore thing, LOL, I did that once by accident. So I figured thats what happened.

I'm excited! I have a digital camera too so we can take pictures together.

IT'll be fun to meet you 3 and any others that join in.

Today I have to go to my in-laws for my daughters family birthday party but I'll be back in full swing and planning tomorrow (Monday).

:heartpump:

[stellar]

Hey phriends! Just checking to say Hey!

Lassie- I don't care how old or young you are as long as you're over 18! LOL :D I hope you can make it. The dat efor the get together is May 3rd.
I noticed your birthday isn't in your profile and now you have me wondering how old you are but believe me IT DOESN'T MATTER!

I'm 28 but part of me is stuck at age 7, another part at age 17 and yet another part at age 22, then theres a part of me from who knows where thats atleast 80 ;)

:heart:

[missus]

Stellar, count me and my daughter in for May 3. What is the tele # of the motel/hotel? Missus

BE BELSSED

[stellar]

OMG! Missus, you serious? I'd SO LOVE TO MEET YOU!!!
The number for the hotel is: (217)-328-7900

Heres the website too:
Holiday Inn Champaign/Urbana (http://www.sixcontinentshotels.com/h/d/HI/hd/cmiub)

:heartpump: Be Blessed!

[losealot]

This is so great!!! I'm excited!! all the way from oklahoma!! wow - are you flying or driving? This is so great. Now if stacygrl comes it'll be all the way from new york to oklahoma. !!!! i'm excited, i'm excited!!! :) :blabla: :spider_red: :gulp: :D

[stellar]

I'm SO excited too! Now we have to decide on a time to meet or find out what our room numbers are or something! I'd like to get to the hotel at brunch or lunch. I'm going to get my cell phone fixed. I still have my cell service but my phone went Kapute so I'll see about getting a new one this weekend, then I can give you all my number and I'll play central command post and everyone can check-in with me :D

[stellar]

Hello?

[losealot]

I'm up for meeting at lunch like 12:00 noon? Who all has reserved a room? We can probably fit 5 people in one room don't ya think? Don't forget to bring your swimsuit!!! I cannot wait to meet you all! I have scanned some pics and will post them soon as i figure out how!! :)

[stellar]

:eek: swimsuit? I haven't owned one of those in years! I'll bring something but not a swim suit, LOL or can I wear shorts over it? :D

[Keew]

Um, is the duck race still on? :D :D :D

[Mommyof3]

I would love to come. I looked at the hotel site and thought hey its 2 miles from an Amtrak station that would be a good idea to take the train, but May 3rd is not a good day. My daughter starts T ball and guess whos coaching?? Yep yours truly MOM! Plus I dont want to leave My hubby alone it will be the one yr anniversary for his dads death and I think he is going to have a hard time with it.

Have fun!

Amy

[losealot]

Keew if you will come I WILL DO THE DUCK RACE!!! :D Are you serious about coming????? It would be awesome to have you there all the way from Mass. I'd even knock a few kids outta the way at the duck race!! hehe...they'd probably throw me in with the ducks!! :eek:

[Keew]

Wait, your willing to duck race, toss aside a few brats and then get thrown out? :thinking:

SIGN ME UP!! LOL :blabla:

[stellar]

LOL KEEW! Stop being a tease! ;)

If you'll come I'll jump in the river and throw out everyones ducks so yours will win, LOL :D

Losealot- did you get my email? AND HOW are ya? :D

[losealot]

Stellar, I'm doing great!! REally busy right now with spring cleaning, aerobics, easter shopping, and egg hunts. Haven't hardly had a chance to get on except for a few minutes earlier today.

Gotta tell you guys - too funny - My aunt and a good friend of mine both said that "you are going to meet up with a bunch of women that you do not know and share a room with them?!!" "what if for some reason you are being lured there and this isn't some get together but something else"
IS THAT NOT TOO FUNNY!! Do any of you guys get that from anyone in "real world"?? At least my husband doesn't think that! We'll have to turn down the lights, light a bunch of candles and sit in a circle and take some pictures!!! :p What would they think of our duck race??? hehe I don't care what anyone says, i'll be there!!! it'll be here before we know it. stellar, i'll try to email you back tommorow night!! I have the pictures scanned and on disk but for some reason cannot upload them. Where else can i have pics online at besides msn photos and yahoo photos? anyways, off to bed, gotta get up at 7:30 in am and it's almost 1:00! yikes!! Goodnight fellow cult members :rolleyes: (JUST KIDDING!!!)

[stellar]

Thats hilarious, My husband asked one night if I was sure these were women I was meeting up with, LOL :rolleyes: Its not like we're meeting out in the woods or a corn field somewhere. It is public! LOL :D

So what am I in charge of bringing? The sacrificial Goat, ouji board, cauldron and what else? I can't remember. :blabla:

Thats just too funny! :D

[missus]

Hi All. Stellar, will be down your way this weekend (Easter with relatives in Ft Wayne, Ind). Did I see correctly, Keew is coming all the way from New York? Great. I'll be making reservations for me and daughter. See you soon. Missus

BE BLESSED

[lassie]

Hi ladies, it`s a busy time of year and sorry not been around much. I am still looking forward to the get together and sure I know where the motel is. Oh lord!! a bathing suit, well this will be a tough one , but I am sure with us all together we will all manage :) I feel we can all do it together!! I am looking forward to meeting you all, this will be fun. Oh yeah, just so all know I am 45, mother of twins a boy and girl , they are 28, and a girl who is 25. 3 grandbabies and I adore all of them. I like to think of myself as a young grandma!! Looking forward to meeting you all, see you all soon!!

[stellar]

Awesome! I guess we'll get a final role call after Easter. So far the FOR sures are Myself, Losealot, Lassie, Missus and her daughter and I think I'm forgetting someone. This will be FUN!!!! Woo-Hoo!

I NEED this get together, you ladies are all moms and you know what I mean I'm sure. Sometimes you just need a break :heartpump:

[lassie]

Come on girls ,, anyone else want to come,,,ONE COME ALL,, well if this is it ,,, I guess we can all share one room.. If anyone else want`s to join, that will be great,,, But for all mommy`s that need a good ole get away,,, come on join us!! Let loose ,, you will be taken care of...,,Fill the bottles and leave the breast pumps at home,,, it will be OK~~ Looking forward to a good time!!! Lord knows,,my breast pump has been empty for awhile!! :D :D

[losealot]

Hey girls!! How was your Easter? Great here. Weather wasn't very good but other than that, good! Let's find some things out about each other. I'll go first:

I recently dyed my hair by myself when i normally go to salon. I did it on a whim and it turned out orange and white!!! I went to store at 4:30 in the morning when hubby got home to buy more color!! I have since fixed it but needs colored again.

My life centers around my family. I have two little girls, Jenna 3 1/2 and Grace, 2!!

I started aerobics almost 2 months ago and I absolutely love it!! I would go even if i wasn't trying to lose weight. It's great.

I would like to run a marathon one of these days!!

I have never been to Disney World and i cannot wait till girls are old enough to go!!!

My husband works evenings/nights and I get very lonely in evening so spend alot of time on computer once girls are in bed.

My best feature on my body is probably my butt. My worst is my belly!! my little girl calls it belly jelly!!! whaaaaaaaaaa :(

I can't wait to meet everyone and hope there's lots more activity on this post!!

OKAY, now your turn :)

[stellar]

Good Idea Losealot.

I'm 28, married with 3 kids. Nate is 9, Ashlyn is 5 and Jr is 2.
Hubby works the usual 7-5 gig. Hes a network engineer for the state government. He also plays guitar in a band.
I do the usual stuff, take care of the house and errends.
Right now we're househunting for a larger family home. We're not in a rush but this place is getting pretty cramped, so hopefully by the end of Fall we'll have a new home.

Hmm, the best part of my body. Thats a tough one. I like my stomac, I lose weight there first and have good curves but since the C-section the lower half of it is :eek: (extra skin)

I think I like my hair. I know I should cut it but I feel too attached to it. I usually get about 8-10 inches taken off a year. I like to do something different once in a while with it. over the winter I colored it back to my natural color (dark brown with reddish tones) It was lightened several shades over the years and I was sick of touching it up. I think I'm getting the urge to put some highlights in it.

Easter was fun! The kids had a blast.

I'm looking forward to the 3rd, I think we're really going to have fun and feel good getting a break from the norm.

:D

[missus]

Hi Stellar and all!! Wanted to know if there's any shopping malls near the hotel? What else is happening on the get-together? Missus

BE BLESSED

[missus]

Ok Illinois folks. Nobody posted yesterday (except me). Get your butts up in here. Missus

BE BLESSED

[stellar]

My Butts here! Missus I think there is a mall and such near by or just a short drive away. Theres also an outlet mall but its about 15 miles I think. I bet theres some good bargains there.

So far... we don't really have a plan. The hotel has so many things to offer that we figure we'll just wing it and hangout. If you have any suggestions feel free to share.

I think we should meet up around lunch or so at the hotel. My cell phone is broken but I'm taking it to get it fixed or a new one this weekend. I'll give everyone my number once I get that sorted out and that way no one will get lost.

I'll check back to see whats up later :D

Be Blessed :heartpump:

[losealot]

Missus - yes, there is a mall in champaign. It's a pretty nice mall - alot of stores. The outlet mall stellar was talking about is awesome. I've only been there once but would love to go back!!!

Are you flying in missus? Is it just us 3? where's everyone else?????

[missus]

Hi Losealot. I think everyone else did fly away.(smile! :) . Looking forward to it girlie. Have a great day. Missus

BE BLESSED

[stellar]

I'm pretty sure Lassie is coming, isn't she? I'll PM her tomorrow. I'm looking forward to it, we'll have fun no matter what!!! :D

[lassie]

Hey guys, sorry I haven`t been around much, BOY this time of year is a killer for me, everyone want`s something for their landscaping!! Anywho, yep I do still plan on comeing. I will be checking in this week to get your cell # Rae, and to find out when everyone is meeting. The only part that scares me is the bathing suit wearing :o , May have to have a drink or 2 to get motivated for that,,,but I will! So see ya soon , and I will check in this week, I will make time! I have not even talked to Hearland since we got together, boy I bet she thinks alot of me!! But I will do that also this week, and she if she can come. Take care, and see ya soon.. I am bringing my camera, but I promise no bathing suit shots!! ;)

[losealot]

One of my good friends had very high recomendations for the hotel we are staying at. She said it is VERY nice. I myself am bringing a bathing suit although i am very self conscious because of my jelly belly but hey if yall don't care I don't care!! :o I am really excited. Lassie and missus i wanna hear a little about you guys. Missus how old is your daughter that is coming? Bring more bring more!!! The more the merrier!!! :D Let's set a time to meet there and how about we make up nametags or something so we can spot each other. Stellar, you think we should post once more in main forum for other people who have forgotten or want to come? Well, heading to bed early this evening! Good night!!

Oh yeah, i will bring my digital camera so we can take pics to post online sunday!! :)

[stellar]

I'm bringing my digital and regular camera too.
I think we should do one last shout on the main page.
I tried to get my cell phone fixed and the sprint store relocated ???? SO I am calling them tomorrow to find the new location and see if theres some sort of warrentee for my broken phone etc... etc... I'll get it sorted out soon. I hate paying my bill every month when the phone doesn't even work, How dumb is that?

Bathing suits :eek: I don't own one. I haven't owned one for many years. I tried a few on at JC penny and freaked out, didn't buy one and left.
I'll pick up a one piece but I'm wearing shorts over it. I haven't even wore shorts in over 3 years. I had a car accident almost 2 1/2 years ago and have scars that I hide from the world. They've faded well though but I'm still uncomfortable about them. I basically had glass fragments imbedded all over my lower body. oh well, its no big deal, maybe its time I got over it. :D

I'm REALLY EXCITED! Me? Get away? WOW! I haven't had an excuse to be away from my kids overnight since my 1 night honeymoon! yes we had kids before we got married.

I can't wait! I'll be back tomorrow to blab more :D

[losealot]

Stellar, girl you are so pretty so don't you even worry!! go out and buy yourself a bathing suit. If you are self conscious wear a tshirt or shorts but hey once your in water whether hot tub or pool nobody can see. they make the swimsuits with shorts attached at penneys and they are so cute. i think they are very stylish. I seen them in the big catalog they put out. I will have my cell phone if you need to call me. 1-812-890-2720. I can't wait to meet you all!!! I'm getting really excited!! :D

[ April 28, 2003, 12:37 AM: Message edited by: losealot ]

[stellar]

AWWWW Losealot, Thanx! I'll pick one up but wear shorts with it. My thunderthighs are out of control, LOL!

What do you do about the upper body? I put on a swimsuit and my boobs popped out under my arm pits :eek:

I carry all my weight in my limbs (thighs and upper arms). I feel like swimsuits just exaggerate that.

I'm excited anyway and ready for an adventure away from home. :D

[stellar]

Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaassssssss Uppppppp!

OMG, we made an offer on a house tonight!!! I need this get away bad! I need some time to relax!

I can't wait!!! Cell phone still not on, been to busy but tomorrow's a new day. I've just been crazy busy! :D

[lassie]

Hey guys, just wondering if there is a need for dress clothes? I really do not like to dress up, so didn`t plan on bringing any. I like jean shorts and tee-shirts. Just curious, so I will know what to bring, so girls, give me some feed back please........Looking forward to this,, I am bringing a bottle of rum, hope no one cares!!!

[stellar]

Lassie, no you aren't! RUM??? LOL ;) Can I have some? I'm a careful drinker so NO WORRIES. I only drink socially and never get out of hand. Should I bring anything? Wine? Beer?

I'm watching the Champaign local news right now. Baskin robins was passing out free icecream today! After the comercial they're going to give a local weekend weather report.

Dress clothes? My closet consists mostly of worn out mom clothes, casual decent clothes and 'nice' clothes but not dress clothes so don't worry about it. Come as YOU, as you are!

Who wants to meet me in the Holidome lobby or bar and at what time? I'd like to get there around lunch, like noonish, maybe earlier if anyones game.

My cell phone was caput, my service was still on and I was paying for it but my phone itself was broken. I bought a new one and activated it today. I'll PM each of you my Cell number.

I'm Excited! :D

[stellar]

Just had to add- sunny skies on saturday, partially sunny Sunday with light showers in the late evening. Looks like a good weekend!

[losealot]

Stellar and everyone else - Yes, I will meet you for lunch. How about between 11:00 and 12:00. I will leave at 9:00 and it is a 2 hour drive so I should be there at 11:00 or a little after. How about let's meet in holidome bar or whatever it is so we can sit down and have a soda (or whatever!! :) while we wait for everyone. Then we can check in together. I am not bringing dress clothes. Probably capri's, nice shirt, and jean shorts. Nothing fancy at all. I can't wait to meet you all. I am soooooooo excited!!! :D

[stellar]

Sounds like a plan!!! I'll be there between 11&12. I'll post friday night what I'm wearing (colorwise) so I can be recognized. Please dothe same everyone if you can, I am terrible at remembering faces.

YIPPEEE a get away! :D

[PrettySedity]

is anyone from Chicago? I'm new so i won't be attending this event. but i say the next one should be in the city..Chicago

plus i need a Chicago buddy anyway!!!

[lassie]

Hey girls, is everyone excited?? And person from chicago who is new, we don`t care if you are new , you are still welcomed,,,so,,come on!! I wrote down your cell# Rae, so if I get lost or something, this is my cell 217-653-7183, in case I am not there by 11:30, call me cause I am lost lol!! I will be wearing a tee-shirt and cut off jean shorts. I will meet you all in the bar by 11:30, I will just walk in and say ANYONE WAITING FOR LASSIE?? Looking forward to meeting you all,,,and yes I am bringin RUM cause it`s cheaper to drink in room than at bar. Actually I think I will bring a cooler with coke and beer, if anyone else want`s something diffrent, bring it on!! See you guys soon, I don`t get out much so look out girls, grandma is ready for a good time! :D ;)

[stellar]

Hey There Lassie! It was good talking with you. I'll write your cell down and all. Anyone want me to bring anything?

I'm excited! This will be FUN! I could tell by talking to lassie on the phone that shes going to be a lot of FUN!

Can't wait to meet you all :D

[losealot]

Stellar and anyone who read my post - i deleted it because i sat my hubby down and we had long talk. He apologized and said he wanted me to go and i told him too late i already told you all i couldn't go and he said "so what, they'll understand, get on there and tell them you'll be there!" I think he cooled off and had time to think. I really do need this time away. I WILL BE THERE!!!! Rachel, thanks for caring enough to not just say, ok fine. I can't wait till tommorow. I will meet you all at the bar with a tag that says "losealot, Darla" I don't know what i'm wearing yet will post later tonight. I have short reddish blonde hair. Write my cell down - 812-890-2204. i'll write yours and lassie's down also. See you tommorow!

[ May 02, 2003, 01:51 PM: Message edited by: losealot ]

[stellar]

What the h*ll? Come on now Darla! Couples fight. He'll cool off, right? This is important. Can you compromise and tell him you'll stay home a few weekends after? We've been planning this for SO long. I thought for sure you'd be there.
I hope you can still make it :(

More importantly I hope you straighten things out on the homefront. :heartpump:

[lassie]

Glad you all kissed and made up Losealot, I would hate for you to miss out on a get away. You had Rae and I worried!! One thing I forgot to mention is I smoke, I don`t know if ya are going to kick me in the closet or just tell me to get a smoking room?? Thought I would tell you all I forgot before. I will not have a name tag, but I will wear a white baseball cap, I will be the one with the long pony tail sticking out of it :D should be easy to spot. If ya think of anything else ya want me to bring, post it, see ya tommorrow. All be careful driving!!

[losealot]

Lassie - I don't smoke but no problem with you smoking. I gave my brother in laws cell phone instead of my husbands which i'm using tommorow!! Someone called?? my brother in law was like "What the H**l??? too funny!! this is the cell phone # 812-890-2204. Talk to you later! Bye :D

[stellar]

HA HA HA HA! That was me this morning Darla. Before I found your other number. Oh well, how funny!

I'm SO GLAD you can make it! This will be fun.

Lassie- No prob on the smoking. I was a fulltime smoker for many years. I quit over and over and over and over. UHG! I will admit I am an occasional smoker but only no-nicotine cigs. Actually they have just a smidge. I guess I'm still addicted in a way. Kind of like an alcoholic drinking non-alcoholic beer or something. CRAZY I KNOW! Its just the toughest thing to give up on earth to me. If I get really stressed I have one, if I am nervous I have one, if I'm drinking I have a million :eek: otherwise I'm smokeless. :rolleyes:

I have to finish putting the laundry away (yes I actually put it away,LOL) bathe jr and slather itch cream on him (allergies), run to the store for easy quick meals to leave for my husband to feed the kids so I know they won't be living on pringles and pepsi. Grab some snacks for the road. Pack my bag, organize my maps and wait for tomorrow.

YIPPEEEEEEEEEEE! I get to drive somewhere I have never been! :D

Woo-Hoo

[losealot]

omg omg omg i am so excited. My little girl's dance recital went FABULOUS!! My hubby and i made up and will make up some more tonight (naughty naughty naughty). I will be wearing jean shorts with brown belt and coral color shirt and sandals. See you all at lunch!! Bye! :D :p :) :cool: :blabla: :spider_red:

[stellar]

On my way... wearing black capris, black slip-on sandals, black tank with a reddish toned button down blouse over it.

:D

see you all soon!