JULY 4th LoT TIKI BEACH BASH

[Not Afraid]

Since few of us seemed to have many plans for the 4th, Heidi and I dreamed up a party!

Details are still sketchy - but I do know this......

Tiki-a-Go-Go Beach Party
Location - Probably Huntington
Time: 2:00-close (Fireworks at 9:00)

So, that's as far as we got............

I welcome ideas and suggestions. This will be a potluck to-do. But, we'll have a blast whatever we do.:cheers:

I'll be back with updates later.

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

Oh cool. I can't wait to try on my new bikini... Did I say that outloud?

[CoasterMatt]

I get to work the 4th this year, woohoo! :(

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Hmm. We will see....

[mistyisjafo]

That sounds fun, considering I still haven't planned anything. Although from the looks of the thread I started it sounds like a lot of people will be out of town. Either way I'm gonna try & make it.

[Motorboat Cruiser]

We will try to make it. Sounds like a lot of fun! :)

[Ghoulish Delight]

Hmm, we had no plans for the actual 4th. This might be an excellent idea.

[LSPoorEeyorick]

Although from the looks of the thread I started it sounds like a lot of people will be out of town.

Actually, a lot of those people aren't in this town to begin with! :D

In order to combat the rays, we'll probably need as many umbrellas as we can get our hands on. I have a small one, and I'm going to buy one more. I found this one (http://www.shadeusa.com/beach_umbrellas.htm#RIO%20SUNBLOCKER) on sale!

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

I may be out of town for the 4th. Still undecided. But I'll keep the beach party in mind. Thanks!

[Not Afraid]

I woke up excited about this! I haven't been to a Beach Party for YEARS - and they were a staple of my childhood/teen years.

It's going to be FUN!

[mousepod]

I will raise a non-alcoholic cocktail to you folks. My beach party is 2665 miles away that weekend (according to the geobytes city distance tool).

[Not Afraid]

We'll be raising the non-alcoholic colktail back at ya - alcohol is not allowed on the beach.

[Ghoulish Delight]

It is in San Diego.

[Not Afraid]

It is in San Diego.

Are we playing Clue?

[Ghoulish Delight]

Are we playing Clue?I was just noting that alcohol's allowed on the beach in San Diego (at least, at Mission Beach).

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

No beer on the 4th? I...I.......................

[Not Afraid]

Well, you can smuggle in what you want. It's not an issue for me. ;)

And, I'm NOT going to SD to have a party.

[TheatreTech]

Speaking of smuggling, along with alcohol, fireworks are also not allowed in Huntington Beach.

...well, legally :evil:

[Not Afraid]

I'm not sure fireworks are allowed - legally - too many places anymore. Especially on the beach. Awwwww, the good old days. ;)

[mistyisjafo]

I woke up excited about this! I haven't been to a Beach Party for YEARS - and they were a staple of my childhood/teen years.
It's going to be FUN!


Me too, it's been ages in fact. Considering that I used to set these up for evey Wednesday when I worked at the Park. Ahhhh, time well spent! I'm gonna do everything to go, so far no plans otherwise!

Speaking of smuggling, along with alcohol, fireworks are also not allowed in Huntington Beach.

Used to be you could drink on one side of Huntington & not the other but those days are long gone.

Remember no glass bottles or cans.

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

Looks like I'll be out of town. But I hope you guys have a swanky tiki time!

[MerryPrankster]

Don't forget your plastic cups and a sharpie pen. You can then make use of the inside of the cooler pouring maneuver. It hasn't failed me yet! http://www.loungeoftomorrow.com/LoT/images/smilies/evil.gif

[dsnylndmom]

Ohhhhhhhh a beach party how fun! I haven't been to a Beach Party in YEARS(um decades)We'll be celebrating the 4th here at our house. Pool stuff with the kids during the day and fireworks! yes they're legal here!! at night. I so can not wait

[Kevy Baby]

Damn... I gotta work. This definitely sounds like fun.

[Morrigoon]

This sounds great! I see no problem with a substance-free holiday, we're nutty enough ;)

[Prudence]

I haven't been to a beach party since....oh that's right. I've never been to a beach party.

(cue dramatic music and apply back of hand to forehead.)

[€uroMeinke]

Used to be you could drink on one side of Huntington & not the other but those days are long gone.

Remember no glass bottles or cans.

Yes I recall alcohol was allowed on the STATE beach (left side of the pier) but not allowed on the CITY beach (right side of the pier) - but it's been many a year since I've drank (legally) at a beach in California.

None-the-less, I'm up for some sandy fun.

[TheatreTech]

I haven't been to a beach party since....oh that's right. I've never been to a beach party.

(cue dramatic music and apply back of hand to forehead.)

I was supposed to go to a bonfire at the beach tonight with some friends, but it was canceled. Mostly because my friends are more appropriately described as a conglomerate of idiots who can't successfully plan anything. :rolleyes:

[Matterhorn Fan]

Shouldn't this tiki thing be held at the Poly? Think about it, there'd be some really great fireworks. . . .

Oh, and I can buy fireworks at the grocery store. Not that I will.

[FEJ]

I do have a couple other get togethers near my house to go to though, I might ride my bike to this shindig. I can probably stop by during the day and then get to Costa Mesa and watch stuff get blown up by my friends.


I just hosted a beach party for another group, so if you have any questions, I might be able to help. :) I would suggest getting there a lot earlier than 2pm though... HB Firepit Link (http://www.huntingtonbeachevents.com/firepit.html)

:cheers: :cheers:

[innerSpaceman]

Despite what the link says, pallets are the only way to go (nails removed, of course). Anyone got any?


And beach party sounds shagadelic, but um, are the organizers of this shindig going to get out there at dawn for our spot and our pit???

[BarTopDancer]

Yay beach party!

A few things:

Parking is going to be a nightmare so carpooling is highly recommended. My parents live in HB and have said that we can park cars in front of their house and carpool over. If anyone wants to meet up there and car pool over please IM me (not PM I'm not on the board much these days) and we'll see how many takers there are and how it will work out. I can take 4 or 6 depending on how much stuff I am bringing. If anyone from south county wants to carpool thats an option too. My yahoo IM name is hb_tigger_fan.

And the firering... Probably a good idea for people to get there around 8am. Not kidding. Umbrellas are good, anyone have a camping canopy to set up and/or a pop-up table?

[BarTopDancer]

http://members.cox.net/combustibletigger2/Puddin%20Pops.jpg

[MickeyLumbo]

alas, "we work while others play"...

it sure sounds like so much fun. i hope you all have a blast. sorry i can't be there to help Bornieo get the sand out of his bikini:evil:

[innerSpaceman]

Um, is this actually happening? 4th of July round the corner, you know.

[Not Afraid]

Of course it is!

[BarTopDancer]

When
Where
What do we need

[mistyisjafo]

Besides pudding pops what should we bring?? Who all is going? Maybe we need a roll call?? So far I'm planning to attend!

[BarTopDancer]

We don't need nuttin else besides puddin pops!!!!!!!

OK, really I have no idea what they have planned but I would think we need:

coolers
ice
food
wood
food
wood
ice
coolers
chairs
blankets (to sit on and for the food)
umbrellas
sunblock
some sort of camping table (for the food)
trash bags
stuff to hold down the blankets and trash bags
marshmellow sticks
pop up camping tarp
lighters
PUDDIN POPS!

[Morrigoon]

I wouldn't count on my being able to make it. If I can I will, but no promises.

[innerSpaceman]

So, um, yeah, a semi-reasonable-facsimile of a likely beach location would be good.

[BarTopDancer]

So, um, yeah, a semi-reasonable-facsimile of a likely beach location would be good.

Were you going to grace us with your presence? :p :cheers:

[mistyisjafo]

So, um, yeah, a semi-reasonable-facsimile of a likely beach location would be good.

You mean you want specifics?! Details smetails. :p

[LSPoorEeyorick]

Hey, gang. Sorry to have dropped my part of the ball. Part one, more bad mom news (as per usual, I guess) and part two, LoT was blocked by WebSense as "message board," so I have no access during my usual access time. Arrrr.

Anyway, I believe I've been designated firesitter. We'll be coming down from Hollywood, so hopefully I won't hit any ridiculous traffic that early. I have never been to Huntington Beach, so I need counseling as to where specifically we'll be. For that, I defer to Lisa and Marla, the native HBers.

More to come in the next day or so.

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

Someone needs to bring a guitar so we can have a sing-a-long.... ;)

[MickeyLumbo]

top three song requests:



Kumbaya
Tiki War Chant
We are the LoT

[AllyOops!]

top three song requests:



Kumbaya
Tiki War Chant
We are the LoT


No "Camptown Ladies?" :(

;) :p

[Not Afraid]

We will be somewhere in Huntington Beach. How's that for details?

No, what's going to happen is that we will get there early to stake out a spot then call in so a post can be made re: the exact location (street crossing, life guard tower, etc. ) Sadly, we won't know until that day. But we can hope for an approximate location in the next few days (I'm going to re-scope out my hometown beaches since it's been a while).

As far as what to bring........

Blanket or Towel and Chair or the Beach variety
Beach Umbrella if you are coming in the daytime and the sun hates you

Potluck somethings (can can include one or more of the following)

Hot Dogs
Buns
Pre-made salads
Chips
Chocolate
Grahm Crackers
Marshmallows
Drinks - Soda, water, individual servings
Ice
Wood
Plates
Condiments (mustard, onions, ketchup, relish)
Knives and Forks.

The CRV comes with a snall table in the back as well as a big container for ice and drinks
In addition, we've got 2 smallish coolers
I have a TON of wire hangers I'm bringing.

Now, if we want to get fancy and someone has a small BBQ, that opens up a while other world of possabilities.

Who's going to be there - I think......

Heidi
Tom
Chris
Lisa
Steve
Isaac
Greg
Jen
Marla
Mistyisjofa
Mr. Bikini Love Bug Mark
Eric
Matthew
Fej (maybe)

I'm working on Flubber.
Erica....Steven......you out there?

Kevy may come by after and Susan may come earlier (but she doesn't know this yet).
Mr. Atkins Advisor?????? You coming?

I feel like I'm missing someone or two or three?
Please feel free to populate my list. ;)

[blueerica]

Here's a novel thought.

HB is a freaking MADHOUSE on the 4th. I remember summers when you couldn't get through downtown and the surrounding areas. So, we need to determine:

1.) What time?

2.) At what time will parking at the beach lots become impossible? This is guaranteed to be a b!tch. People will be down there all day for the race, the parades, all that shiz. AND, if I remember correctly, the police turn into the gestapo on the 4th. (Traditionally, anyway). Does anyone else have more recent lowdown than I? I haven't paid attn to it in a few years, and don't live down there anymore, so I don't get a lot of the news on it.

3.) Who's gonna help camp out for the site and/or sites? I have a TON of bonfire wood right now, so Steve & I are planning to bring a truckload down. As this is a lot to carry, he and I are anticipating arriving early, not only to secure at least 1 pit, but to also have easier access to bringing the wood, as opposed to having to walk a few blocks carrying armfulls at a time. Because that would BLOW in a big way.

I'm figuring a lot of this site holding can be done in shifts, otherwise it's gonna be major boredom on the part of a kind few of us. Oh, and last question (but certainly not least):

4.) How many sites are we aiming for?

So -- I think those are the really big questions. Food & beverages can be managed in the town, if nothing else is planned, but we're screwed in a big way if there's no parking. I'm working a massive day, and these are my last moments online until around 7, so if someone can help me out with some of those questions, that would be fantastic.

I'll see if I have any time to look up the HB 4th festivities schedule. OR someone else can.

-E

[Morrigoon]

FYI: my chances of coming are increasing

[BarTopDancer]

For those of you who know HB (Erica) the areas that were being tossed around are: Bolsa Chica, Golden West (not dog beach) and Newland. All allow access without going near Main St. I've been throwing in my influence towards GW or Newland for the atmosphere.

The police still suck and a lot of residential neighborhoods are locked off to public parking. There is going to be lot parking (no pun) and really far away parking. Bring cash for parking. I think it's $8 for the day.

This is also why I said that anyone who wants to leave their cars at my parents house are more than welcome too. This will condense the cars. I'm bringing Eric and Matthew. I have room for two more (scrunched back seat) if I have any takers contact me by Sunday night. I highly suggest getting there early (before 11) to get parking (though somehow I don't think I'll be listening to my own advice).

I'm bringing:

A cooler + some ice (we'll need more)
A hamburger/hot dog flipper bakset, maybe two
blankets
maybe some chairs
smarshmellow sticks
s'mores stuff
sunscreen
foil
And probably some other stuff

For anyone who is interested, Costco has a pretty nice umbrella available for about $20.

[MickeyLumbo]

:( i really wish i could be there with you.

it sounds like aLoT (yes pun) of fun. have a wonderful Independence Day folks!


:cheers:

[BarTopDancer]

I can't get in to edit my post.

I think we only need one pit and the surrounding area around the pit. I don't think it would be very swanky for us to comendeer more than one pit on a day like the 4th.

Parking is going to be a bitch but I don't think it will run out or is anything to stress over. I also don't think the race or parade is anything to stress over either. Both happen early in the day.

[BarTopDancer]

Dupe.

[innerSpaceman]

Hmmm, my chances of coming are decreasing. I need something I can show up to at like 4:00 earliest, and HB is not sounding like that kind of thing. Isaac may still be in, though.

[BarTopDancer]

You can show up at/after 4. There will still be parking around. It's really not as bad as everyone thinks, when you show up earlier it's harder. And by 4 the day trippers are starting to leave the non Peir areas. The problem will be getting the fire ring which will be done really freekin early in the morning.

[Not Afraid]

I'm going to drive the area this afternoon to check out parking. Marla and I are agreed on the three main areas to look at. I will choose a place with a parking LoT, one with pits, one without a whole mess of campers and one that is farther away from the pier, the traffic and the downtown mess.

Arriving at 4 or later shouldn't be a problem, Steve.

Damn, I need a Cosco membership.

When I get back, I'll report on a spot. Huntington State Beach (Newland) has WiFi, so Chris and I could post from our PDAs any updates or location.

Meanwhile, think about what you're bringing. We're going to be limited to food that can be cooked over the fire unless a BBQ shows up. ;)

I've edited my list from last night and added a few things. Take a look and see what looks interesting to you.

Over and out until this afternoon.

[mistyisjafo]

I've had many beach parties in front of the oil refrinery aka The Twin Towers. Its way before the pier and has a parking lot. Plus a good reference point.

[Not Afraid]

OK. I'm gonna sticky this thread and tell you that we have a HOME!

Well, we have a potential home. I'm going to have to get there at 6 am to claim our home. I'm such a morning person.

Huntington State Beach
At PCH and Newland

Parking LoT Entrance is off of either Beach Blvd or Magnolia and costs $10
However, there is additional parking off of Newland.

We'll know what Life Guard Tower we are at and will post from there (assuming WiFi works) otherwise, I'll call for someone to post. :cheers:



Now....on to EATS!

[LSPoorEeyorick]

Eats!

We will be bringing a portable grill, so all who dig the taste of sandy, charred portabello mushrooms (or whatever grillable you're planning to bring) can take comfort.

Lisa and I decided it would be best if all possible attendees would post their list of supplies and their potential eatables so that we could 1) see what was missing and 2) prevent the arrival of sixteen bowls of three-bean salad and only sixteen bowls of three-bean salad. Because, ew.

Tom's and my supplies include:
one six-foot umbrella
one three-foot umbrella
two beach chairs
Sizeable beach blanket
Soft-sided rolling cooler (small)
hard-sided cooler (small)
small grill


Food-wise, I should be bringing:
small portion of grillable marinated portabello shrooms and buns
one vegan veggie salad (possibly with pasta, possibly not)
hummus and pita chips
some sort of holiday dessert that withstands heat
some sort of fruit-- probably cherries

Tag! You're it!

[Not Afraid]

Ouch! You tag hard! ;)

I am bringing these supplies:

One largish beach umbrella
2 largisg blankets
2 Stadium seats
2 Camp Chairs
Boom Box
CDs
1 small folding table from the CRV
Trash Bags
Hangers
Sunscreen
2 Lava Lamp Cintrolella thingies
1 Lighter
1 or maybe 2 coolers


Foodwise I'm bringing:

Roasted Veggies
Fuzzy Water in individual bottles
50 yellow napkins
28 small blue plates.

I will see what else I have hanging around as well. But, that's at least most of it.

[BarTopDancer]

I'm bringing


a large cooler
ice (one lg. bag)
water bottles (24)
one, maybe two burger flipper cages for hot dogs or burgers
a screen (one) to put over food
a beach blanket
towels
chairs (4 most likely)
my supply of plastic forks and spoons
small cooler
s'mores stuff (choc, graham crackers, smarshmellows)

[AllyOops!]

You can count us in in the late evening. AllyOfTheDolls, party of 2. Possibly 4. :)

[Kevy Baby]

FYI: my chances of coming are increasingDid you get a fresh set of Duracells?

[blueerica]

OK, good, Newland. I was afraid GW didn't have the firepits.

Like I said, I'm bringing the wood. ;)

[BarTopDancer]

Like I said, I'm bringing the wood. ;)

That really sounds like a personal problem to me. :p

[Not Afraid]

OK, Erica. We need to talk. I've got a couple of ideas to deal with the carrying of wood and other equipment.


So, Food-wsie........what's everyone bringing?

[BarTopDancer]

Lisa is bringing:
Roasted Veggies
Fuzzy Water in individual bottles

Heidi and Tom:
small portion of grillable marinated portabello shrooms and buns
one vegan veggie salad (possibly with pasta, possibly not)
hummus and pita chips
some sort of holiday dessert that withstands heat
some sort of fruit-- probably cherries

Marla
S'mores stuff
24 water bottles (arrowhead, non-fuzzy)
something else non-meat TBD

[Not Afraid]

The BIG and BASIC things we need are:

Hot Dogs (I had to edit because I had typed Hot Dongs)
Buns
Condiments
Plates
Knives & Forks
Chips & other munchies
Soda/other beverages
Cups

Choose your poision - er, food.

[Prudence]

Dammit! Because if you were servings hot dongs I was totally going to road trip down there!

[mistyisjafo]

Dang! Guess I have to go to the grocery store for once. All I have in my fridge is a supply of booze and I think some katchup.

I can bring Hot Dongs and additional Condomments. LOL!

[Morrigoon]

Okay, if I come (and that's the big variable, but it's lookin likely), I'll bring a package (16?) of chicken apple sausages, and I have a 2'X4' folding table I could haul out.

I have wooden skewers if anyone has use for them. They're not really long enough to hold over a fire pit, but great on the grill... I could pre-soak them in water or something if someone wants me to bring them?

Ooh, I could do a mustard onion! (cut onion stuffed with brown sugar and mustard then grilled till soft)

What's with the hangers?

[€uroMeinke]

In order to celebrate the great diversity of our nation, I think we should each bring something representative of our heritage - I will bring Brats and German Beer Hall Music

[Morrigoon]

Hey, are fireworks (sparklers, fountains, etc.) allowed on the beach or no? I know they're legal in Costa Mesa because there's a big Red Devil booth on the corner by my apartment complex, so I could bring some sparklers if they're allowed (which I doubt...)

[Motorboat Cruiser]

Well, it is with much sadness that I report that Matthew and I won't be able to make it. We are soooo bummed. We've been really looking to a swanky beach bash with y'all. Unfortunately, Matthew started a new job the week (retail) and the new guy always gets the worst hours, including holidays. :(


Hope you all have a most wonderful time. We'll miss you.

[Cadaverous Pallor]

What's with the hangers?They can be used as marshmallow sticks.

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

NO WIRE HANGERS!!!! ;)

I have a 4 seater and room for 3 other, so if anyone wants to carpool. LMK Might be cheeper splitting parking -etc.

[blueerica]

In order to celebrate the great diversity of our nation, I think we should each bring something representative of our heritage - I will bring Brats and German Beer Hall Music

I don't think sushi and a kimono will work for me...

What about my other heritages:

kilt and viking cap anyone?

[Matterhorn Fan]

I'll call Lisa's cell and lead you all in a round of "Oh Danny Boy."

But probably not.

[CrazyLegs]

I wish I could go but, me and the sand well my wheels dont go on the sand.I have not been to the beach since my injury I need to go one day even on the dock.And just wheel around.

[Not Afraid]

OK! Tomorrow, we're getting our act together so we can take it on the road at some unGODLY hour on Monday. We'll be at the beach all day, reading, napping, hanging out. I'll call in our location - or call me to find out.

It's an adventure!

[mistyisjafo]

Is this a lounge act?

[Not Afraid]

I'm sorry, but the performing poodles won't be allowed on this beach. ;)

ROAD CLOSURES (http://www.hb4thofjuly.com/RoadClosures.htm)

PCH- Beach Boulevard to Goldenwest Street – Closed between 7 and 10 PM
Huntington Street south of Atlanta – Closed between 7 and 10 PM
Main Street – 1st, 2nd and 3rd blocks - Closed all day until 10 PM


DIRECTIONS

The Easiest, most straightforward way to get there is to take the 405 to Beach Blvd. South. Take Beach the whole way down to the Beach. The entrance to the STATE BEACH is at the end of Beach Blvd. Newland is one city clock to the SOUTH (go left). There is a giant Power Plant on the corner of PCH and Newland. We're going to try and be as clos to that as we can get. I will post the Lifeguard Tower location once we're settled.

MAP (http://surfcityusa.com/maps/index.html)

http://surfcityusa.com/maps/maps.jpg

[BarTopDancer]

For your convinence

Roasted Veggies
Fuzzy Water in individual bottles
small portion of grillable marinated portabello shrooms and buns
one vegan veggie salad (possibly with pasta, possibly not)
hummus and pita chips
some sort of holiday dessert that withstands heat
some sort of fruit-- probably cherries
S'mores stuff
24 water bottles (arrowhead, non-fuzzy)
ketchup
some sort of sausage
watermelon


I can't bring ice. I have nowhere to store it. I am bringing a large cooler, a small cooler, a burger flipper, blanket, an decent yet unknown amount of plastic forks and spoons.

[Ghoulish Delight]

There is a giant Power Plant on the corner of PCH and Newland. We're going to try and be as clos to that as we can get. Excellent, so if the sun burn doesn't do enough damage, the EMF radiation will kick in :p

Here's our deal. We'll be spending tonight, tomorrow morning, and the good portion of the afternoon at my sister's in Sherman Oaks. We have no specific agenda, but I figure, unless my sis lobbies real hard, we'll stick around with them through lunch, then head down to the beach with you guys for dinner, maybe between 4 and 5ish. What kind of brat volume are you talking about, Chris? Should we perhaps fortify the skewerable meat supply?

[Ghoulish Delight]

Oh, and we can bring a few official mashmallow/hotdog roasting skewers that have a significantly lower slip factor than wire hangers.

[mistyisjafo]

Thanks Not Afraid! Be there in the afternoon sometime!!

[Not Afraid]

We got 8 brats, 12 hotlinks and 4 fru fru sausages.

What we don't have in our carbless household are buns (well, not the roasting kind anyways).

And, I like wire hangers. ;) Makes me feel young again.

[Morrigoon]

I've got kosher dills and polska kielbasa (I know, quite the study in irony). I'm going to try to get around to making deviled eggs, but given that it's 11pm already....

[Morrigoon]

Okay, so remind me.... approximately what are the times for this? Ugly-thirty in the morning till when? All day?

[Morrigoon]

Um... I forgot, I'm also bringing a table, and it looks like deviled eggs (as long as i don't screw them up too badly ;))

[BarTopDancer]

They are just south of the powerplanet right infront of the restrooms at lifeguard tower #10. The entrance is off of Magnolia.

[AllyOops!]

And, I like wire hangers. ;) Makes me feel young again.

Somewhere, Joan Crawford is crying. :(

:p ;)

I've got kosher dills and polska kielbasa (I know, quite the study in irony).

Perhaps I should bring bananas & Big Stick popscicles?

;) :p


I hope to see you all later this evening! Now, I need to figure out what to bring!

[Chernabog]

Sorry I couldn't be there today. Hope y'all have a wonderful 4th and it rocked to see some of you guys over the last few weeks!!! Please post some pictures!!!

[CrazyLegs]

Hope everyone had a good day happy 4th Hugs to you all.

[CoasterMatt]

I can see all sorts of pretty colors... but I think I need to lie down, now :D

Have a happy 4th everybody!

[Prudence]

Geeze! The board is dead today! You'd think y'all were off at the beach or something!

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Sorry we didn't end up at the beach! Just didn't happen for us....but we had a good, relaxing 4th anyway.

Hope you guys had fun!

[mistyisjafo]

Awesome meeting everyone that came today. I had a great time! Now I can't wait to see you all again.

BTW -
My Ash is still hot
&
Commodore I want some cheese chips!

[Kevy Baby]

Commodore I want some cheese chips!Thin Krisps

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

I had fun tonight! I'm glad I went!!

:snaps:

[blueerica]

Yeah, I'm changing my sig.

Also, learned a new lesson:

1 - don't mix SPFs. OUCH.

[mistyisjafo]

Thin Krisps


Yea yea, those too!

[Ghoulish Delight]

We got to do one of my favorite things on the 4th...drive down the 405 at abtou 9:30 PM. Almost constant fireworks going off all around you, sufficiently early so the drunks are still getting drunk and not yet on the road, and traffic is usually pretty light so taking your eyes off the road to gawk is only mostly dangerous instead of completely dangerous (CP drove).

[Not Afraid]

I came home, washed my feet, and was out like a light shortly thereafter. Waking up at 4 am has its benefits, but man was I tired.

We got to the Beach around 5:45. There was a line for the lot and there were already tents set up on the beach, so I hopped out of the car and walked the beach. I got one of the LAST firepits and sat there for about 1/2 hour - FREEZING - while Chris got into the lot.

We unloaded stuff, drank pots of coffee we had brought along and just enjoyed the morning. BlueErica and Tramspotter show up around 8 with more coffee and wood. We had thrown some stuff into the fire and it started burning from the fire the night before. We added more wood and had a Habanero Sausage Roast for breakfast. YUMMMMMM. Plus, in our tired state, we couldn't help making nasty entendres about sausages. So obvious they wern't even of the double variety. Bar Top Dancer showed up a bit later and the 5 of us just had a nice day lounging in the sun, listening to tunes care of DJ SWANK and enjoying the beach.

People started arriving in drips and dribbles throughout the day. Each person seems to bring some yummy to eat - like meat! YUMMMMM MEAT.

So, we cooked, laughed, and had a generally wonderful time. The wind picked up as the sun was setting and it got rather cold again. People started lighting their own fireworks and the world started exploding. Luckily, no people exploded - although we did see one guy running about with a lit Roman candle in his hands. Someone (I don't remember who) shouted at him later.....Try lighting it from your pants!

We had a great view of the HB Pier Fireworks - something that I've seen countless times in my life and never get tired of. After the FWs we packed up and left the beach, which closed at 10. We couldn't get our NEW, DAMN champ chairs to close. I swear, there were about 10 people trying to get them to fold up. We looked at the directions which siad "Folds Easily". Uhhh, NO! It was the LoT version of the Rubiks Cube. ;)

The only "bad" parts of the day/night were the stupid chairs, the wind, and the 20 minutes wait to get out of the parking lot. It makes me appreciate Mickey & Friends.

I'm sorry Crazy Legs, GD, CP, Eric/Matthew and Ally didn't make it. We missed you guys. I'm also glad Bornieo had the good sense to join us. ;) And it was GREAT meeting Mystyisjofa (Yeah, I got it wrong again, didn't I?). Welcome to the liver version of LoT!

Oh, and everyone who was there (except NM and BABS) got a little LoT present. Thanks Fej for the hard work and great design. The rest of you, we'll get you on the 17th.

I KNOW I'm missing a bunch of stuff. The funny stuff that was said, other highlights. too early for me yet. ;)

I'm up for another beach party at some point. Anyone want to plan it?

[Ghoulish Delight]

Sounds like a ton of fun. Turned out my sister's friend sort of flaked out on their tentative evening plans, so rather than leave her and her husband alone, we stuck around with them. Plus, we got kind of a late start to the day, and killed the afternoon in a movie theater, so by the time we would have had to leave for the beach, it felt like we'd spent no time at all with my sister. Definitely glad we hung around with them. There's no view of an real fireworks show from their house, but we had a supply of "safe and lame" fireworks that we wet off in the backyard, much to my sister's consternation. That, plus the above mentioned mobile display, plus abortive display at Dodger Stadium on Sunday, plus awesome as all get-out display at the Bowl on Saturday and I think CP and I more than fulfilled our patriotic duty to watch things blow up this weekend.

[Motorboat Cruiser]

Sounds like great fun was had by all. Sorry we missed it. By the time Matthew got off work, there wasn't really time to get anywhere.

So we had a boring night but at least we had a good dinner. Heard fireworks going off as we started to eat. I think this is the first time that I can remember that I didn't see fireworks on the 4th. Very strange.

[Not Afraid]

There's no view of an real fireworks show from their house, but we had a supply of "safe and lame" fireworks that we wet off in the backyard, much to my sister's consternation.

You're not supposed to PEE on them!

[Not Afraid]

Sounds like great fun was had by all. Sorry we missed it. By the time Matthew got off work, there wasn't really time to get anywhere.

So we had a boring night but at least we had a good dinner. Heard fireworks going off as we started to eat. I think this is the first time that I can remember that I didn't see fireworks on the 4th. Very strange.

I KNEW I forgot you on my list! I was thinking about you two ask we packed up. I really missed having you there.

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

I'm up for another beach party at some point. Anyone want to plan it?

Finally, some details about the day! Sounds like it was Beach Party Bingo fun despite the wind problem. I'm so glad it was a success and that you survived the day, early morning and all.

[€uroMeinke]

I offer you a few of the memories, thoughts, and learnings I took away from the 4th



Arriving at 6:00 AM before closed gates to see most of the fire pits already snatched up.
Wondering when the sun would finally show up, only to burn myself in unusual places despite the liberal and repeated application of sunscreen.
“Wiener” – can this word ever be overused in such a setting? The innuendo permeated the day, even the phallusies were funny
Discovering that the “sex secrets” that may “shock” or “freak” the readers of Cosmo, met a rather blasé response from the beach swankers – though, it was fun to figure out who were the excessively orgasmic women on the beach (one in fifty, we probably have one that posts here on the boards – statistically speaking anyway).
S’mores – a great sticky way to attach more sand to your already sunscreen & sand encrusted body
Furniture makes a good fire
It sure was funny watching the tent from a neighboring camp blow across the beach – that is until our own canopy took flight and impaled itself on a surf board
The distinct lack of Croissants
Fireworks and the “Angel of Death” effect of the accumulating smoke layer
Fireworks on the beach bringing back memories of Luminaria
Accidental reclining chairs – because you really just wanted to lie down anyway
Non-folding chairs – waiting to hear if Tramspotter took a torch to them yet
Wire hanger skews with fluer-de-lies handles – amazing no brandings or piercings took place – or did they?
Winds so relentless that plates became a liability – taking suicidal flight into the fire before they could be filled
A warning to all swankers - Caution Hot Ass

[Not Afraid]

What was that line about sex drive, chocolate and grahm crackers? I can't begin to recreate it or why it was so funny.

[Ghoulish Delight]

What exactly constitutes "excessively" orgasmic? Is there such a thing?

[€uroMeinke]

What exactly constitutes "excessively" orgasmic? Is there such a thing?

In the context of the 4th it defined a woman who experiences 100 orgasms a day.

[Motorboat Cruiser]

I KNEW I forgot you on my list! I was thinking about you two ask we packed up. I really missed having you there.

No worries! :)

We thought about all of you throughout the day and generated great scorn towards Matthew's company for scheduling him to work that day. :)

At least we have your trip reports so we can hear about what we missed. Sounds like a swanky adventure. Hopefully something will develop with the LoT Beach Bash, Part II.

[TheatreTech]

A warning to all swankers - Caution Hot Ass


Was that per chance written on your fire pit in charcoal?

[wendybeth]

We watched the fireworks from the top of this building:

http://www.musiccitypianos.com/Pics/outsidefront1.jpg


It's an old funeral home, with lots of ghosty stories and such. Pretty cool place, and a great view of the 'works.

[Not Afraid]

Was that per chance written on your fire pit in charcoal?

No, it was written in BIG RED LETTERS on the side of the pit. However, from the angle where we were sitting most of the time, I read as:

CAUTION HOT AS

And, what could anyone with a right mind do but complete the sentence?

[Gn2Dlnd]

HECK?

[mistyisjafo]

I had a Chocolate Croissant this morning from Starbucks. Never craved something so much in my life!

I still have plenty of Hot Dongs and Condomments for the next party!

[Matterhorn Fan]

We got to do one of my favorite things on the 4th...drive down the 405 at abtou 9:30 PM. Almost constant fireworks going off all around you, sufficiently early so the drunks are still getting drunk and not yet on the road, and traffic is usually pretty light so taking your eyes off the road to gawk is only mostly dangerous instead of completely dangerous (CP drove).
I experienced something remarkably similar last night. 15 MPH on the Interstate. Very, very strange.

[Not Afraid]

I had a Chocolate Croissant this morning from Starbucks. Never craved something so much in my life!



I know I just met you but.....I HATE YOU!;)

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Glad to hear everyone had fun. I'm sure the report tells less than half the true story, as usual. ;)

€'s thoughts raise more questions than answers, I think....which is usual as well.

[MickeyLumbo]

CP is wise, as usual.

no one mentioned that i was passed around like a cheap whore.

damn that is fun.

[AllyOops!]

I'm sorry Crazy Legs, GD, CP, Eric/Matthew and Ally didn't make it. We missed you guys. I'm also glad Bornieo had the good sense to join us. ;) And it was GREAT meeting Mystyisjofa (Yeah, I got it wrong again, didn't I?). Welcome to the liver version of LoT!

I missed you guys, too! I'm especially sad that I didn't get to meet mistyisjafo. :(

I got off to a very late start on the 4th. It's kinda tradition that every 4th of July, I spend it by making a date with Rod. Serling, that is. ;) Plus, my family was visiting, and I got super chatty with my stepmom, and time just flew by! We can talk until we go hoarse. :)

By the time I made it down to the OC, I hit awful traffic (rarely moving out of first gear :() and the festivities were already dying down. I watched various fireworks displays from various counties from the window of my car!

So, we went out for cocktails, and back home to watch more Twilight Zone before blissfully falling asleep. :) I have to admit, it was one of my very favorite 4th's! Seeing you all would have been the cherry on the sunday. The icing on the cake!

[mistyisjafo]

no one mentioned that i was passed around like a cheap whore.

You were cheap? I want my money back!

I missed you guys, too! I'm especially sad that I didn't get to meet mistyisjafo.

Awww thanks! :D Hopefully next time!