Cooking Light Trip

[Mamasue]

After reading the thread on "Is there anyone out there who hasn't gotten their Jan/Feb", I have to ask.....How is the planning of trip with Cooking Light coming? Have we heard from Maelyn and Lisa on the particulars? Will it be in June and on a weekend? I have been saving up with hopes of going. Also I need to save some vacation time and, if needed, and submit the time as soon as possible to my employer. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

I am looking forward to this and excited about learning and seeing what really goes on behind the magazine. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[Wendy w]

Thanks for posting Mamasue. I was wondering that myself. A 3-4 day weekend in June would be perfect!

[Gina O]

I have been wondering about that one too! I have another trip that I need to plan, so was hoping to find out the date for this one and schedule around. Gina

[Mamasue]

Bringing this back to the surface! Maelynn....Lisa....are you there! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[LGBurns]

Thanks for bringing this up again, Mamasue!

I think the planning of this trip needs to come from our end first. It seemed like June was best for most people who posted. I know on the original post that got this idea started Emilycat and BethH had mentioned being willing to help plan. I think if we make the trip an Atlanta/Birmingham trip it would be great if Emily could help plan (although with all your new job offers and the possibility of moving, maybe that's out of the question, which I would totally understand).

Maybe what we need right now is a brainstorming session of all the areas that need planning so we can possibly divvy them up. For those who don't know what we're talking about, check out the following threads: http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/Forum1/HTML/002357.html http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/Forum1/HTML/002430.html http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/Forum1/HTML/003263.html

Well, the two threads that actually discuss the Atlanta/Birmingham idea have errors and can't be accessed. But here's the low-down. Hearing from the above threads that we were talking about arranging a group trip, CL offered to arrange a trip to see their facilities in Birmingham and suggested that we could possibly base-camp it in Atlanta and arrange for a trip to Birmingham from there.

Any ideas out there on the best way to get this thing rolling?

[kwormann]

I think the first thing is to find out which weekend, 3-4 day weekend is best for them.

any thoughts CL?

[Susann]

Just volunteering my services to help plan.

Dontchya just love summer vacation! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[kellysuea]

I live in the Atlanta Metro area and happy to help out however needed... Kelly

[luv2cook]

I belong to a Ragdoll cat board and we planned a trip to NJ in 1998. We had people come from as far as England to be with us. What we did was we had a person (in this case the website "owner" who happened to live in NJ) set up a suite in a hotel. That way we had a central meeting place and planned activities set up. By that time we all knew each other well enough and so we met there and we roomed 2 to a room. It was great fun! I am still friends with all these people. They're wonderful and to think I wouldn't have met them if it wasn't for the internet.

Anyway, not to bore ya'll to death, maybe something like that could be done by someone who lives in Atlanta. All the people that go can chip in for the "courtesy suite" as we called it or maybe CL can help with that and just go from there??? Just a thought.

[hhcowgirl]

Luv2cook: I am DESPERATELY looking for a ragdoll kitty, preferabely a young adult. You don't know of anyone who wants to sell theirs do you? Or do you know of a good breeder in my area (TN)? Thanks.

[emilycat]

Okay, excuse my ignorance, but what the heck is a ragdoll kitty?

And by the way, I would love to help out with the trip...provided I'm still hanging around here, of course http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

Emily

[Norma]

I have a Ragdoll cat also. What a sweetheart. How many of us have Ragdolls?

[LGBurns]

luv2cook: that sounds like a great idea. How did you arrange for the hotel rooms? Did you reserve a block of rooms and then have people arrange to order their rooms themselves?

I think Kim's right that we can't really do any serious planning until we know from CL what 3-4 day weekends in June would work for them.

Maybe we could start throwing around ideas about things like where to stay, things to do, etc. while we're waiting to hear from them. Also, have we agreed that we would stay in Atlanta and travel to Birmingham? (I think it's about 3 hours to Birmingham from Altanta).

[Maelynn Cheung]

Just wanted to let you know we're here. We'll be discussing the trip more this week. I'll let you know what we come up with. I was able to read all of the related posts before they all someone corrupted themselves! So, as it stands, I know the tally was in favor of June and May, in that order, right?

Right now, we were planning on having arrivals on Thursday afternoon/evening. Friday, possibly a tour of CL, a visit to our test kitchens where you all could partake in taste testing and see how our wonderful Test Kitchen staff tests and creates recipes along with a catered lunch. Then a dinner at one of Birmingham's nicest restaurants that evening. On Saturday, we were thinking of having a cooking class, more good food and then let you all explore Birmingham Saturday???

Any ideas, please let me know.

Again, I'll be posting later this week with more info. I'm excited to have you all here.

maelynn

[Wendy w]

Maelynn,

Thank you for your response! It sounds great so far!

[Laura B]

CL's plan sounds fabulous! I think Atlanta is out and we should just spend the weekend with CL. Or maybe some people can go to Atlanta before or after the Birmingham portion if they want to. Personally, I am not interested in going to Atlanta and I will not be able to get away for more than three or four days anyway. I am SO looking forward to this!

[Ohioan]

Maelynn, the all-CL weekend sounds great! I was just about to write off the trip regretfully because I didn't want to go to Atlanta just for the heck of it (no time or money for "vacations," but the CL visit is, ahem, "research" http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif), but now I'm back on board again. Wow. Can hardly wait.

Cheers,
Phoebe

[penroma]

There is my first post about the CL trip, but I would love to be included! It is fairly easy for me to take time off, so I am open to any date. This is such a great idea!

[LGBurns]

Well, I was looking forward to seeing Atlanta, but the way Maelynn described the weekend in Birmingham, I'm up for that too. Besides, the most important part of this trip for me is finally meeting all the wonderful people I get to chat with here on this wonderful board. Can't wait! My only reservation is that my first wedding anniversary is the May 29th so I would not be able to participate around that date. Somehow I don't think my husband would be happy with a trip to the CL kitchens for our first anniversary (no offense CL http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif).

[Tiger]

This trip sounds great! Where is the closest airport. Would we all met there? I don't know if I'm brave enough to drive to the CL location by myself. I hope they have a bus met us at the airport!!

[CrystalB]

This could be my mom's b'day gift trip- not to mention a great time for me too!! This sounds awesome!

[cryskie]

I'm new to the boards, but my DH and I would love to take part in this trip! (Or is this a girl thing? http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif) I'm guessing all the details will be shared on the boards?

Crystal

[JLS]

That sounds good to me. I have been to Atlanta, so the thoughts of visiting someplace new sounds exciting!

And, if anyone stops in Atlanta first, they can pick up Emilycat and our other Atlanta residents.

[BethH]

Wow--I love the CL idea....cooking classes and eating sounds like a perfect weekend to me! Count me in, depending on the exact date--I have finals late in June http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/mad.gif

[Natasha]

Sounds cool, Maelynn!

I would also love to learn a bit about cookinglight.com, since we all "met" online! It's a wonderful resource, as you already know - we tell you that every day! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[Mamasue]

Maelynn,

It sounds fab and I can't wait!. I like the fact that we will be staying in Birmingham and the schedule with CL sounds great to me. Would there be enough time to visit some kitchen/gourmet shops....if there is any in Birmingham? Let us know what the next step is after your meeting. Thanks again Maelynn. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Yea, I thought this was a girl thing....but I could be wrong...I know that DH will be staying home with the pets. Hehe http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[Natasha]

Mamasue,

I thought it was a girl thing too...will be in my case, at least, because my SO will be staying at home and working. I ll be sure to bring him back something nice, though, or at least a tacky T-shirt http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif Seriously, though, if a lot of you are bringing your spouse or boyfriend/girlfriend, I might try to convince him to come. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif


[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 01-23-2001).]

[BethH]

I bet that my sweet SO would go to humor me and then hang out by himself when I went and did CL stuff.

Let me know the protocol and I'll either leave him at home or try and convince him to come along.

[Maelynn Cheung]

I don't think this is a girl thing! Certainly our male fans of Cooking Light are more than welcome.

Our closest airport is the Birmingham Airport (airport code: BHM). Often airfares are a little cheaper into Atlanta, but not always. It just depends when you buy them.

I think we'll be reserving a block of rooms at the Radisson hotel, about a mile from here, to get you all our corporate rate. There are still a lot of things I need to figure out this week, but the date of the visit is the most important thing right now. I'm thinking June 7-10. That gives you a Saturday night stay which brings the airfares down.

Oh, and I've also thought about having a session where we can pick your brains a little. What you like, dislike, ideas, etc. about Cooking Light and CookingLight.com. We would love to use this as a chance to learn more about our readers. OK with you?

I'm very excited about this! Keep talking about it! I want your ideas and thoughts...

Maelynn

[Ohioan]

Maelynn, this is sounding better and better all the time. I've already marked down 7-10 June on my calendar. The "what do you readers think" session sounds like an in-person BB session! I can hardly wait.

Oh, and when you're planning the meals, don't forget we have a few vegetarians among us.

Cheers,
Phoebe

[slknight]

Yippee! I can't wait. It's on my calendar.

[kendra]

Wow, this sounds like fun. Do we have to keep checking out the bulletin board for more news of this, or are we ready to think about someone organizing an email distribution list? With all the people interested, it may be easier for one person to email everyone with final details than for everyone to keep checking back and posting their replies on this board. I'm also worried that I'll happen to miss the details if I'm away for the board for a few days. Kendra

[Maelynn Cheung]

I would never let you stay in a dump!!!

Actually, I was mistaken earlier when I said Radisson. It's actually Embassy Suites. It's a mile up the road. The normal rates without discount range from about 140 to 180 a night for 2 adults. There is a Ruth's Chris Steakhouse in the hotel. (One of my favorite eat-out places). I'm checking on discounts right now and will let you all now. We'll be reserving a block of rooms for you so you don't have to go searching for accommodations your selves.

If you want to get a sense of airfares, you can try www.travel.com (http://www.travel.com) and click on Airfares, then Uniglobe. Put in an arrival date, departure date and use the airport code for Birmingham (BHM) to get a general idea of cost.

Keep watching for more details...

[kellysuea]

Count me in!

[Maelynn Cheung]

OK. New rate update...

Our discounted rate for Embassy Suites could be $109 for standard King Suite which has a King bed and a Queen SofaBed and $119 for Standard Double Suite which has two double beds.

Here'e more info on the hotel: http://www.embassy-suites.com/HotelInfo/embassy/property.html?page=HOME&pid=BHMWC

Each room has microwave, wetbar, fridge, coffee, 2 color tvs, 2 phones, 2 vanity areas

Included with each night's stay is a complimentary full breakfast (not Continental, it's made-to-order), 2 hours of complimentary cocktails, complimentary shuttle service to and from airport, and anywhere within 5 miles of the hotel (which CL is only about a mile).They don't have a fitness center but will shuttle you to the local health club (SportsFirst) which you can use free of charge.

And there's an indoor pool.

I think I'm gonna stay there!

Anyway - the block of rooms has not yet been reserved, but as soon as it is and I get more details for you, I'll pass the info along!

Maelynn



[This message has been edited by Maelynn Cheung (edited 01-23-2001).]

[luv2cook]

Maelyn, fabulous! The Embassy sounds like a nice hotel with all amenities...count me in!

[luv2cook]

oh, BTW, when I said "dump" I meant a place - geez, any way I say it will give the wrong idea - I mean, for a group of people doing what we'd be doing, a nicer hotel would be the better choice - that of which it sounds like you found! There, that's better. I have to remember written word, written word...no voice inflection....sigh

[Laura B]

How soon will CL need to know exactly how many people are coming? I mean, I just want to be sure that I don't miss out on getting one of the reserved rooms, etc. This trip keeps evolving with all the people saying "me too, I want to go!" We should get some kind of tally and put a cap on it so that CL can plan appropriately. Don't you think?

[Laura]

I am bummed that I won't be able to attend. I would really like to meet you all and see CL. The upside is that I will be in Kauai, so I guess I only a little bummed! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

[Tiger]

I can't wait! My husband works for the airlines, so I can even fly for free!
Like Laura was saying, how many people will the trip be planned for? And how will we sign up?

[CHRIST1NE]

Maelynn, how hard would it be to coordinate another set of dates at the same time for those of us that cannot attend in June? (I have a mandatory work conference that weekend) Maybe something in August (I have a 2 week vacation http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif ) as an alternate.... just a thought as I would love to attend if possible.

[kwormann]

I am so excited! BTW, DH would also want to attend the cooking info, etc!

Kim

Thanks Maelynn for helping with this!

[Beth]

Well, my DH was planning on coming and also swinging over to Atlanta to get a BRaves game in. Wouldn't you know, the Braves will be in the middle of a 15 day road trip! Well, I still hope to come.

[luv2cook]

I told my DH about this trip and he wants to come and golf <hmm, how did I know that> The second words out of his mouth were when so he can schedule vacation...

[luv2cook]

Flight info. Houston: Leave Thurs the 7th of June, Continental Express depart 10:50 arrive 12:30 Leave 1:05 home at 3:00 for $204...that's not horrible.

[laden]

Count me in too! I can't wait. SO will not be coming with me. I'll be driving from Nashville.

[cryskie]

Well, I'm glad I asked about bringing my DH. He really wants to to the CL stuff, too. We've stayed in Embassy Suites before and LOVED it. And that sounds like a very good price for that hotel. I can't wait! I'm looking forward to meeting the people behind the usernames that I keep seeing!

Crystal

[Ralph]

Originally posted by Maelynn Cheung:
I don't think this is a girl thing! Certainly our male fans of Cooking Light are more than welcome.



Thank you, Maelynn!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm actually VERY interested - it's getting my wife interested that's the problem!! She has little desire to go to Atlanta, & even less desire to visit B'ham (even w/all the hospitality CL is providing)! Plus (& I haven't told her yet), the trip falls on her B'Day!

Any suggestions for convincing her?

[sushibones]

This trip sounds so awesome!! I am drooling over what fun it will be--BUT, my first grandchild is due June 4, and I don't think I can make plane reservations in the hope that the baby will be 2 weeks early. I was planning on spending some time with my daughter to help after the baby is born.

I would like to second Christine's suggestion for a second date; perhaps Ralph could join us. August would probably work for me; I know it's hot and humid, but my parents live in Houston and I grew up in Virginia, and I promise not to complain. I would really REALLY like to do this. If a second date this summer doesn't work, maybe CL might be willing to do it again next summer for another group. PLEASE?

Enough moaning. Sniff. Whimper. Sigh. OK, I'm done.

One of the Susans

[Pat]

I am in agreement that this is not just a girl trip. I know that I want my husband to attend with me. He is learning to cook and assist in the kitchen and I hope this will be an added incentive to continue his interest.

Also, I am more interested in staying in the the Birmingham area and doing as much at CL as possible. I have been to Atlanta several times and would prefer to make this a "food weekend."

June 7-10 sound fine at this time, but my husband's work schedule is not always set this far in advance. If he is not working, we plan to attend.

[luv2cook]

LGBurns, from what I remember about the rooms, some of us decided we would room together beforehand and one of us (the board leader) got some rooms under his name and people checked in and took the rooms off his name, if I remember correctly. If anyone is uncomfortable with that, get your own room and then if you meet someone and feel comfortable, room together.

HHcowgirl - I will e-mail you with e-mail addresses of two breeders that I have extensive knowledge about and know their reputations

Emilycat - a Ragdoll cat is a wonderful cat. They come in different colors and patterns and have a very laid back personality. They got their name from when you pick them up, the flop in your arms. If you are interested in learning more about them, visit www.ragdoll-cats.com. (http://www.ragdoll-cats.com.) They have all the info you need. If you so desire, visit the picture page and I *think* on page three is Catrina, my Raggie. If that's the wrong page, just look for Catrina...

[luv2cook]

Hey, how about for those of you who want to bring SO's and DH's, golfing together is always an option - my hubby has an 8 handicap or other activities for the men if they don't want to do the test kitchen stuff.

Comment two: Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or Birmingham? How much would we save renting a car and driving?

Comment three: We need to have someone appointed to check out hotels and prices. I personally don't want to stay in a dump but I don't want to pay $200 a night for a room either! But, on the other hand, I've never been to Atlanta or Birmingham and for all I know, the rooms could be as pricey as San Diego! We stayed at a Hilton in NJ. Another thing, if you room together, the way to handle the bill is one person pay one night, the other person pay the next night, etc. Kind of obvious but...

[Mamasue]

Maelynn....sounds awesome. The Standard Double would be the best. Let us know when to proceed with airfare reservations etc. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[iqueen]

I'm in! I will drive over from Atlanta. May be able to talk my SO into coming if there is golf involved. I like the idea of someone setting up a master e-mail list because I am unable to check the board much. I will try to check more often to see about the trip.

[CHRIST1NE]

I have to be away from the BB for a few days, but wanted to give you the week in July/August in case you are able to coordinate a second trip. July 28 - August 4.

[luv2cook]

iqueen: We plan on going. Your SO can play golf with my hubby and whoever else wants to play golf! My hubby always says the more the merrier. He has an 8 handicap.

[This message has been edited by luv2cook (edited 01-24-2001).]

[Joyce]

My husband is away right now, but I would love to go and will speak to him about it. Maelynn,if we come down on Wednesday to extend our vacation a little, would it be possible for you to get the lower hotel rate for us on that night also?

[Shirley Panek]

This sounds really exciting. I've been reading up on this, although I haven't piped up until now. If I can convince my hubby, I'd love to join in. It sounds like a great getaway!

Shirley

[Wendy w]

I am 90% certain that I will be there. My boyfriend has expressed interest in the trip. He does not golf and would love to attend the cooking classes and other festivities. I will try to pin him down on a definite answer (like soon) and if he chooses not to attend, I am interested in sharing a room with someone.

[MrsReber]

Sushibones, I share your pain! I am jealous reading all of these posts, but with a baby due on May 25th, I don't think I'll be taking any trips for a couple of months! We may just have to try again next year. I can't wait to hear how this trip goes, however. What a fabulous idea!

Another Susan

[This message has been edited by MrsReber (edited 01-24-2001).]

[Beth Y]

I am hoping to be able to go, no DH though, I am thinking of a "sneaking away" weekend for myself. I have been to Birmingham before, years ago though, and it was quite a large sophisticated town then and I have heard it has gotten better. My DH, who is in the biotech industry here in RTP, NC. told me that it is a really hot spot for biotech. Whoda thunkit??
Anyway, I was glad to hear that the hotel has breakfast and a "social hour". That will give us an easy place to congregate in the mornings and evenings. Otherwise, we will have to spend half our time deciding where to go eat and then finding everyone to tell them. With these ready-made gathering events (in addition to the ones planned by CL) it will be easier. Not to say we have to stay in the hotel all the time (hey, I want to hit the hotspots!), but it will give us an good place to gather before going out in the am and pm!

[LGBurns]

I have been away from the board for a few days. Wow! Maelynn you and CL are awesome! Thanks so much for all the planning, etc. I haven't read the whole thread yet, so I don't know if people have mentioned doubling up in rooms for those of us who may not be bringing along our spouses (although I haven't mentioned it to my husband, yet, so I don't know if I fit in that category myself). Even the weekend works great for me -- I'm so happy. I'm sorry that it isn't going to work for everyone (although from just glancing at the thread it seems to work for the majority of people). Anyone, really just wanted to say a big THANK YOU SO MUCH (and yes I am yelling -- with glee!) to Maelynn and CL for helping make this happen! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[LGBurns]

Now that I've read the thread (hey that rhymes) all the way through it seems like we may need to have some sort of e-mail system to organize this. Maelynn, if you need someone on our end to host that, I'm willing to do that just let me know. Also, we may be able to get discounted airfare with a particular airline so don't go making your reservations yet. I know for my brother's wedding he was able to arrange for discounted fair into the city where the wedding was from on American (I think it was something like 10% or 20% off). I looked into that for my wedding too and think I still have the info so I'll look into it and let you know what I find.

I'm brainstorming here so forgive me but I had another thought. Maybe instead of an e-mail thing we could have a website devoted to this that people could check into. There are some places on the web that support special event pages. I'll look into that too. Anyway, just wanted to put out the ideas while I was thinking of them.

Linda

[kentgirl]

Although I probably won't be able to make it, sometimes plans change. So I propose that CL add another forum. I personally would prefer this method of communication to a email distribution list.

Within that forum, we would have different topics, such as "Need Roomate", "Airline Tips--where to find cheap tickets", "Itinerary", etc. etc. This would keep it in a convenient place. Then as plans firm up and the June date approaches, then an email distribution list might make more sense.

[karen w]

I'm also new posting to this thread, but have been following it, and....boy O boy does it sound great!! Schedule permitting(mainly my DH's) I'd love to join the group if it's not too late!!!

[sushibones]

MrsReber--

At least we can console ourselves with the thought that we are missing the trip for a noble cause. Of course, you don't have much choice...come to think of it, I probably don't either.

It sure would be great if we had another shot at it, though. I've been so impressed with the way CL has jumped in and helped make this possible for everyone. How can you help but want a chance to meet all those great people like Maelynn and get to see how everything works at CL? Do you think buttering up (or should I say margarining up--olive oiling up?) the CL staff would make them look favorably on our request for another date? Am I being a little too obvious here?

Well, even if I can't make this trip, I still think this is a great idea, and that CL is wonderful for adopting us.

One of many Susans

[Pat]

I am glad to hear that other husbands will be along to keep my DH company at the CL events. Don't want him to be the only male there!

[Natasha]

Originally posted by kentgirl:
...So I propose that CL add another forum. I personally would prefer this method of communication to a email distribution list.

Within that forum, we would have different topics, such as "Need Roomate", "Airline Tips--where to find cheap tickets", "Itinerary", etc. etc. This would keep it in a convenient place. Then as plans firm up and the June date approaches, then an email distribution list might make more sense.

Kentgirl,

I like that idea. In the meantime (because we don t yet have a forum), does anyone think we should start a separate thread for hotel reservations and arrangements (i.e., what kind of room you would prefer, whether you would like to share a room or not)? I know it s early, but I have no idea how much space CL has been able to reserve for us in the hotel.

Just a thought. Cooking Light, thanks again for your hospitality.

[ElinorC]

My DH isn't particularly interested in the trip but I certainly am. Is anyone interested in sharing a room? I'm coming from Cleveland and don't know if anyone else from this area is coming or not! Anyone out there? It sounds fabulous and since transportation is provided from the airport to the hotel and to everywhere else it sounds easy to do even though I'll be by myself.

[Maelynn Cheung]

Oh, I'm blushing from all the wonderful comments!

I know we're all excited about this but we need to not make any definite plans, reservations, etc. for a couple more weeks. I know it's hard to resist but I really have to firm some things up here first.

At this point, I'm thinking about 40 rooms at the hotel. That's about 80 people. In the next 2 weeks, I will be setting up a Weekend With CL website that will most likely have the following:
1) A tentative registration form - this will help me get a better idea how many people will be attending, give or take a few. I'll also put all of the things that we will be doing (cooking class, tour of CL, taste testing) or could do (yoga class) and ask you all to tell me which ones you would most likely want to participate in.
2) I'll also ask which of you will most likely need roommates (though I don't think I could coordinate actually putting people together, it may provide you all with a full list to use for own purposes..????)
3) Information about the airport, hotel, reservations, rental cars, entertainment in Birmingham, etc.
4) A bulletin board just for the event

Any more ideas??? I'm really looking forward to meeting all of those that will be able to visit. As far as having two events this year... I'm just not sure at this point. Because this is our first Weekend With CL, we really will have to see how the first one goes before preparing a second.

Thanks for the enthusiasm!
Maelynn

[Mamasue]

Thanks Maelynn.....I can't wait and sitting back waiting very patiently http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif. Could you also tell us what to expect as far as weather would be like in Alabama at that time. Is it very hot and humid! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/frown.gif Is there a website about Birmingham that we can visit to get a general idea of the city? Thanks again..... http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by Mamasue (edited 01-25-2001).]

[Maelynn Cheung]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Mamasue:
Is there a website about Birmingham that we can visit to get a general idea of the city?

I'll be putting links about Birmingham on the website, along with a link (no pun intended) to golf info, weather, etc.

mc

[This message has been edited by Maelynn Cheung (edited 01-25-2001).]

[emilycat]

Oh, Mamasue!

When I read your post about the weather and the question about humidity, I thought, Oh, is she in for a treat! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

Seriously, living in the armpit of the South isn't always a bad thing http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/tongue.gif

[This message has been edited by emilycat (edited 01-25-2001).]

[Mamasue]

Oh Emily I can't wait to meet you! Each day as I read your responses you put a smile on my face http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif.

So your comment...the armpit of the south....does that mean I will certainly sweat! Woa is me! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

http://www.millan.net/anims/giffar/pink1.gif

Maelynn...looking forward to the website...thanks again

[This message has been edited by Mamasue (edited 01-25-2001).]

[Gina O]

Wow... I am away for a few days and look what happens. Best as I can tell, I will be there, not sure about my SO. I am sure he will want to come, but it will depend on his work schedule. He is not a golfer but easily entertained! Looking forward to making the reservations, Gina

[SusanD]

Can I just say how fun this trip sounds and how envious I am that I cannot make it? However I don't think it would be fair to leave my husband home with a newborn, and I think I would just be too sad to leave my family, even for a weekend. I'll just have to keep my fingers crossed that the trip is such a success that there's a part 2 someday!

[Nanci]

This sounds great -- I have marked my calendar. My SO will almost for sure join -- he likes to cook but loves Atlanta. I have never been so am looking forward to it and to meeting all the people who I only know via the board.

Nanci

[MrsReber]

SusanD, I echo your response. But I'm sure we wouldn't want to be away from the babies anyway!

[Lauren]

Hey, we've been reading this post up North in MA. Five us us from our CL dinner group are interested in attending, too! We don't want to miss the fun!

[KimberlyE]

Can someone tell me how far Birmingham is from Atlanta? It sounds really close...I have friends that live outside of Atlanta. Thanks

[LGBurns]

I checked on Yahoo! Maps and their driving directions say about 3 hours from the center of Atlanta to the center of Birmingham. However, there is a time change involved, so figure 2 hours going to Birmingham and 4 hours coming back (with 3 hours of actual driving time).

[Gail]

Ladies,

On the Questions about Cooking Light Trip Thread, someone else posed the same question.
SLH answered:

I live in Birmingham and travel often. It is about a 2 hour drive from Atlanta to Birmingham. You gain an hour going into Central time.

[emilycat]

I just wanted to weigh in on the driving time -- yahoo's directions and estimated driving times can be way off -- sometimes by as much as an hour. So I would go with what SLH suggested.

[maccmedia]

You can count on it being pretty hot and most likely humid in Birmingham in June. I lived there for 4 years and coming from MA it was hard to get used to. But it feels nice in June when it can still be cool here. Right about now it sounds great! Too much snow!

[luv2cook]

Just think of Birmingham in the South as a free facial! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif AND you'll get to see how well your hairspray works!

[Cindy]

Wow - I just read all these posts and it's so amazing how this has really developed into a plan! As I kept reading, the trip started to sound quite tempting...I'll have to give this some serious consideration and talk to DH (he does like golf). I haven't been to these boards for a while so I haven't been involved in the earlier stages, but would like to keep track of what's happening on this. Everyone sounds so friendly!

[Kristilyn1]

This is sounding better and better!

Can't wait to hear more details.

Kristi

[Wendy w]

This is exciting! I have been away from the bb for a few days and it is great the way things are coming together! Mamasue's bouncing happy ball says it all! BTW: Mamasue, we will have to toast this with a Sex on the beach when we all meet in Birmingham!

[luv2cook]

Wendy W, I love that drink! May I join?

[luv2cook]

Maelynnnnnnnnnnnn, where are you?????? I mean, I know you have nothing better to do than plan this trip for us... http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

On a serious note, I heard that airfare is going up very soon...

[Mamasue]

Did someone say.....Sex on the Beach!! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif Yummmmm....

[Lynn B]

Regarding airfare... one thing I have learned is that it flucuates DAILY! A round trip flight can be one price in the morning, another price that afternoon! And from day to day the price can vary by hundreds of dollars! My best advice for getting a good deal is call your favorite travel agent DAILY for prices, and when you find a good one -- book it then, cause it will probably be long gone by the next day! REALLY!!! Plus I have heard (haven't tried it personally, yet, though) that you can find GOOD prices on the Internet, also priceline.com could be a winner. Bottom line -- there's still plenty of time to get a great deal on the flight!

[Wendy w]

Yes, Mamasue, I said sex on the beach. Remember when this trip was in the fantasy stage and you asked if you could have one?

Luv2cook, would love to have you join us! I have never had that drink before and look forward to it.

Lynn, members of my family and I have had good luck with Priceline.com. Will mention more later have to work.

[Maelynn Cheung]

I've created a webpage with more information on the event. It's located at: http://www.cookinglight.com/clweekend