Post here if you can't go to Birmingham in June

[kentgirl]

As someone who probably can't attend the CL trip in June as proposed by Maelynn, I'd like to start another thread to hear from those of you in the same boat. I'm hoping that Maelynn will read this thread and propose a second trip. If that isn't possible, we could fall back on our previous plans and plan a trip ourselves.

So post here if:
1 - You'd like to go to Birmingham on another date.
and/or
2 - You'd like to participate in a different CL trip, but in another location.

Tell if you're for #1, #2 or both.

[hhcowgirl]

I hope this doesn't offend anyone, but I think Maelynn is being so generous and thoughtful in planning the one trip so far, and I really feel like asking for two is truly excessive. I also hope that she/CL in general does not feel as though we do not appreciate their efforts because they realy are being so nice to invite us to their "home," so to speak. I really think a second trip is pushing the envelope. Maelynn, if you are reading, thanks so much for your thoughtful planning.

[kentgirl]

I agree with you hhcowgirl. But please tell me where in my note I express any ingratitude to Maelynn? Of course, I think they're being very generous. But the reality is that many people can't go in June. I said I was "hoping" Maelynn would propose a second trip. I suppose that might be construed as presumptuous, and if I overstepped by bounds I extend my most humble apologies to Maelynn. But I went on to say that if that wasn't possible, we could plan another trip. What's wrong with that? Planning a trip of any sort requires a lot of planning. And I don't see any reason why those of us who can't go to Birmingham in June plan an alternative trip, whether it be in Birmingham or elsewhere.

[hhcowgirl]

Kentgirl:
My post was not directed at you at all, sorry of I inadevertently phrased it that way. It was really in response to all of the posts on the other thread that requested a second trip, some of which seemed ungrateful and, if you will, whiny. Maybe I should have posted my response on the other thread--sorry to render you the recipient of my constructive criticism.

[Laura B]

I have to agree that my first reaction when I read the posts on the other thread asking for a second trip by CL was disbelief. Imposing on CL when they have not yet offered a second trip is out of line, IMHO. Remember, THEY are the ones who graciosuly offered this trip. There were people throwing the idea around of going to BHM and stopping by for a tour of CL. But that got maybe three votes. It was not until CL offered to host us that everything started rolling in that direction. Thank you so much, CL, for planning this and please do not feel obligated to put yourselves out again for those who cannot make the first trip. If you want to , that would just be wonderful. But if not, I think everyone will understand.

And, of course, people from the BB who want to plan another trip of any kind have the ultimate freedom to do so. I just think it is rude to make CL feel bad that some of us cannot make the dates they have arranged.

[lanie]

Just stepping in here - I do not think Kentgirl was in the least being unappreciative. We come from various parts of North America, I for one, live in Toronto and to go to Birmingham in the US is quite a stretch and I might add $$$$$. I think no one at CL would be offended at a request for a 2nd 'trip' - the magazine, sold in Canada and this site is obviously in use by many Canadians - I do not think it unreasonable to request a 2nd 'trip'perhaps a little more centrally located. I too, think it would be fantastic to meet all of you whom I feel I am in daily contact with albiet not always commenting - but certainly aware of everything going on in all of your lives.

[LGBurns]

I just wanted to add that asking in no way creates an obligation. If CL wants to host a second trip, they will. If they can't they won't. I don't think kentgirl, or anyone else asking, is out of line. I find in general in our society people have trouble saying "no" so they think it's wrong to put people in the position of saying "no." (I'm not saying this is true for the people who posted here, just a general observation on our society). Can't get anything without asking first.

[sushibones]

kentgirl etal--

Since I was one of the whiny people who seconded the idea of a second trip, I'll throw my own opinion in here. I am not in the least unappreciative of the effort CL has made--just terribly disappointed that I won't be able to make it. I had hoped that my messages regarding a second trip would be viewed more as my version of "big puppy dog eyes"--not truly expected to be effective, but worth a shot and possible worth a small smile. I, like kentgirl, live in the Pacific Northwest, and originally voted for the Oregon coast. When CL started offering delectable add-ons, the whole idea, even given the distance and cost, became irresistable.

It was just like all the reviews posted for the Jan/Feb issue--those of us who hadn't gotten our issue were just desperately jealous of those who had not only gotten the magazine, but actually got to try the recipes, while all we could do was just imagine how wonderful it would be when we finally got our issue. So we all complained on the board about how terrible it was we didn't have our copy yet. Nothing more than venting our frustration about something we couldn't do anything about--but CL did respond to our concerns and let us know what the problem was. CL did not, however, offer to send another issue to everyone who complained on the bb.

And kentgirl, to specifically answer your question:

#1--Yes, I would love to go to Birmingham on another date, with or without specific accommodations made by CL. Yes, I would love to tour CL.

#2--Yes, I would be interested in another group of CL bb junkies in another location--such as the Oregon coast, or at least somewhere on this side of the US, or even Western Canada. I'm sure we would have a wonderful time if all we did was meet each other and talk about ourselves and cooking. Think slumber party!

And thanks to whoever had this idea to begin with, and everyone who said WOW and kept the ball rolling, and especially to CL for really giving the whole idea the momentum it needed to really happen.

One of many Susans, but one of the few bb members that lives in the western half of the US

[kentgirl]

sushibones, I think it would be fun to get together on the West coast. Although I'm really hoping my situation will change, I really can't plan on going to Birmingham in in June. The cost is just too prohibitive. However, Oregon coast or Canada sounds wonderful! Ever been to Whistler? It's a great place, winter or summer.

Like you, I was very jealous of the others that could make the trip. It just sounded so darn fun, and I couldn't be a part of it. My only motiviation in starting this topic was to explore the possibilty of a second trip. I was surprised when it was interpreted the wrong way. And like LGBurns says, it just doesn't hurt to ask.

A second trip in Birmingham would be nice, but a second trip on the West Coast would be even better!

[sushibones]

kentgirl--

Despite the fact I've lived in Idaho for more almost 14 years, I have never been to the Oregon coast. We have made it to Mt Ranier and to Seattle, but that's it. My daughter--the one who did not plan her life well enough to have her 1st baby in some other month than June--loves the Oregon coast, so it is one of those places I would love to see. Let's keep thinking how we might get together with another group.

Susan

[BethH]

sushibones,
How close are you to Ketchum, ID? My cousin lives there and we come out to visit from time to time and love it! I'm taking dear SO out there for the first time this summer and he can't wait!

ps...my apologies for being off subject, I just never knew you were from ID and I love it there!

[lanie]

You know gals - if you came 'across the border' it would cost you just about half of everything - think about it!

I too am, I suppose jealous - I would dearly love to meet all of you - actually sushibones - a slumber party sounds GREAT!

Vancouver is amazing!

Elaine http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[donleyk]

Although I haven't replied regarding the CL trip, I have read the threads with interest. Being somewhat new to the BB I am still trying to get a feel for it. In reading thru these, I didn't notice any whining. I think CL would appreciate the enthusiasm for (wishing for) more planned trips. Just MHO. Thanks.

[sushibones]

BethH--

Lewiston is in the bottom part of the panhandle. We're about 6 hours by car from Boise. I love living in Idaho. So much beautiful and varied scenery, friendly people, and a small town atmosphere.

lanie--

Vancouver is also one of those places I would like to see. I would certainly be open to a visit to Canada.

Susan

[MrsReber]

I didn't notice anybody whining- perhaps a little pleading http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif...

In any case, I can't make the trip either- or any other trip this year. Hope I didn't seem whiny! I will live vicariously through those who are going. It sounds like an awesome trip. I think the rest of us who can't go are bummed about it, is all. I think it'd be great to meet our BB friends in person and to meet some of the great folks at CL who work so hard to provide us with great, healthy recipes. What I wouldn't give to work in the test kitchen! I'd probably weigh in at 500 pounds, though. Who knows, maybe CL will propose another trip for next year- especially if this one goes well. If not, there's nothing stopping us from putting together our own trip and visiting CL. In any event, I don't think anyone is being ungrateful. Maybe a little jealous, but not ungrateful. It's nice to know that CL has an interest in its readers and that they want to meet us and hear what we have to say. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif