I've put in some calls to both the Beat and the Desert Star to see what is available.

Does that mean there is once again a phone for the Beat?

There was at least a valid voice mail.

Well, keep us posted!

Has there been any further progression on this front? I was just noticing that we're only about two months away and probably need to start solidifying plans.

I'm happy to help with finding/booking a place, but we need to figure out what we want to do.

The Beat is still out of service, apparently. The I've tried to contact the alternate hotel a few times via phone and email. I even got an email response from them saying "I'm sorry we haven't gotten back to you....we'll call you this afternoon" but they never called. Maybe someone else can have better luck. I having trouble finding time in my life to coordinate this - or much of anything else -- at the moment, so I haven't had time to hound them any more.

I like the idea we kicked around at dinner the other evening of changing things up and going mountains instead of desert. Rent out a private lodge with several rooms. I think the change of scenery would be a refreshing reminder that recreating the specifics of the past is neither feasible nor desirable and that the only important constant is US, not locale.

Big Bear or Arrowhead seem like good candidates. I vote Arrowhead simply because I've never been while I've been to Big Bear several times.

Also, Idylwild is a possability. Or, maybe Ojai? It's got a real artist vibe. I've got the weekend off and if we go somewhere or not, I'm going to enjoy not working.

Lavender Inn in Ojai. They are connected with the culinary institute. How fun would it be to have a group cooking class?

Ojai Retreat Center has 12 rooms.

I really must stop. Planning is a great form of creativity for me, but time is a problem.

Cant. stop.

Ojai Film Festival Date: 10/4/2007 - 10/7/2007 Time: Phone: 805-640-1947 or 805-649-4000 www.ojaifilmfestival.com Four day International Film Festival. Screenings of independent narrative, documentary and animated films. Youth film festival, panel discussions, seminars and various special events. Location: various locations

EDIT - AGAIN!

I've got a few hours this afternoon since my marketing meeting was cancelled. If I can get a miracle accomplished then, I'll try my best. However, after that, I'm back to crazy-land again.

Oh, I'd be SO in for that.

The whole Ojai thing is looking mighty attractive...