Lashpair Grand USA & Canada Tour 2009
 

Yes, we're coming to YOU !!!! :D :D :D :D

Waikiki for a week,
Vancouver for a week,
Then a couple of quick stays at Spokane & Suisun City
Then aboard a Campervan RV for SWANK CAMP 2009 YOSAMITE
Then to Hearst Castle in the RV
Then to Anaheim for a couple of weeks
Then home !!

Lashpair Swank Camp will be April 13-17
We'll be touring Hearst Castle 17th & 18th April
Our 14 day DLR Hopper tickets are from 19th April to 2nd May so that's when we'll be in LA
We're hoping for a big weekend meet at DLR on 24 / 25 / 26 April


Yay !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:cheers: :cheers: :cheers:

Geeze, I can keep a secret better than you. :D


(We get firsties on the Lashpair!!!! Yeah!)

YAY!!!

YAY


Hmm Yosemite.....seems irrisistible....


The only possible problem is Coachella, which will probably be last week of April.....we'll work something out.

:cheers: YAY LASHPAIR COMING BACK YAY :cheers:

Yay!

Sounds like Camp Swank 2009 planning is already underway! ;)

I take it Japan is postponed?

Der... nevermind. Just saw the other thread.

That's going to be a chilly Swank Camp.

All the more reason for all of us to stay in the Lashes' RV. ;)

Our 2-seater RV? - it's a converted push-bike... :p ;)

What other thread? What happened to the Japan trip that I can't afford???


Oi, ok I'll go look for the "other thread."



I'll be back.

I like to call it "Bracing"

Yes, you may be quite cold in Yosemite, Vancouver and Washington in April but it is beautiful at that time of year. I love spring.

Now, if you really loved us, you'd come out to Palm Springs. :evil:

Yay!!

Now only if the Boys' school would give me their calendar.....

He hates to miss school. That boy!

So...where in the valley/outside the valley, do you intend to stay?

I am off to see what I can find about lodging....if we can go, we would be staying in a room, no way around that.

What about everyone else? Oh, and I just found out that the number that you call on the website, it isn't in CA. It used to be. So, I have all of these damn calls to UT. Who the heck is in Utah? Well.....dah!

And, it is cold but it is beautiful. Some of the trails will be limited but it is awesome.

Have I already said 'Yay!'? :D

Um, you can't do Yosemite in April. Everything good is off-limits at that time of year.


Sigh and Bah.




What happened to Japan???

Sure you can do Yosmite in April. You just can't do the full hikes. To beginners, first timers, this may be the perfect way to 'meet' Yosemite.

And, what can be lovely are the falls. We just went, but on Mothers' Day and the falls were so freakin' awesome! Hopefully the snow will have melted by then, but, if not, the snow is itself beautiful.

The Lashes' can come back again.....:D

Yay!!! :snap: I will try to make down south in April.

Will the RV be cruising through Portland?

Let's see... what state is that in again ?? ;)

...I'll have to check our road maps. I'm bringing a GPS this time.

Hopefully next April the weather will be nicer in WA then it was this year. We are now calling June, Junuary due to the cold and clouds. It has been miserable this year.

Well, the straight line would be through Portland, but if you're looking for more interesting routes I'd head east from Vancouver (on 3), cross into the United States at the border with Idaho (using 21 to connect to US 95), head south through Idaho on 95, cutting over to Spokane then taking 95 south the rest of the way.

The only problem being this puts you on the east side of Yosemite and the roads may not be open enough yet to get over to Yosemite, but there are other routes around.

I've done most of that drive and it is far superior just taking 90 out to Spokane and then 5 down to California. Plus, on the east from Vancouver part you'll go through a little town where they filmed the first Rambo movie and during the summer the local theater plays it every weekend.

Since I can't commit to camping or DLR, I would love to take a tour of Hearst with you!!!

Yay ! We love "The Ranch" :D

We've done the I90- I5 route to SoCal and it wasn't too bad. (We did make a pit stop in Portland, which is a cool city if you want to check it out, LashPair.) Grant's Pass is fun, except when the weather sucks. Hopefully, this year will be the exception and next will be closer to weather norms, which is your typical spring showers/sunshine thing. One thing- Spokane is not like Seattle, except this past week, which has seen copious amounts of rain hit the area. It has four distinct seasons and spring is (usually) springlike. This was just a weird year. It even snowed this morning!:eek:


I'm already plotting potential places to show the Lashes- I'll make up a list with links or pics and send them your way, Bear and Stoat. We have another LoT'er in nearby Couer D'Alene ,Idaho, so that will definitely be on the PNW Swanking list. (It's a very hip resort town about 1/2 an hour from here).

Waikiki? For a week?

Errr, perhaps you should ask the natives about Waikiki.....

So do I. The only tour I haven't been on is the night tour. I am hoping to get Boy on the garden tour. I think he would enjoy that. He did really well on tour 1.

Ok- I am planning for this!!! Yeah- I get to see you again!!!!:snap:

The only problem with the driving route suggested is that it would take them very far out of the way from their next stop after Spokane! I didn't think to ask if they were flying or driving from Spokane, not that it matters because for the LP I'd drive to SFO in a nanosecond (or any other airport in the bay area they choose to descend upon)!

Lashpair, are you planning on spending any time in SF Bay Area? If not, I will have to make the Hearst Castle Tour with you! It's been eons for me and it's on my list of California spots I want to revisit, soon.

Wow! We rated a LashPair visit!

Towards the end of this year's Swank Camp, talk inevitably turned to next year's Swank Camp. There was talk of a Morro Bay area swank camp with a side swanking to San Simeon (Hearst Castle). Perhaps that could coincide with the Lashpair visit?

Most votes were for Big Sur as the 2009 Swank Camp location ... perhaps that (and even, yes, a side swanking to San Simeon) could be coordinated with an April Lashpair visit.




What I'm not sure can be coordinated with an April timeframe or a SwankCamp anytime is, le sigh, Yosemite.

In fact, we pretty much came to the conclusion that, popular as it is, a large group thing is pretty much unlikely in Yosemite. Oh, perhaps campsites would be more easily available that early in the season ... since nothing but the most sedentary and touristy sightseeing is available.

I have no problems making a Lodge Swanking with the LashPair in April at Yosemite ... but actually making it the 2009 Swank Camp is something I have more than a few issues with.




And I want to go to Japan, dammit!

Yeah, I don't think the Lashsemite thing will work as Swank Camp. But, if we're ever going to have a group of people in Yosemite at the same time, this is how it's going to happen. A date has been set. If you can make it, go. If you can't, you'll be missed. I'm certainly considering it.

They got their ass handed to them in WWII and have been rather pacifist ever since.

You've got some non-water folks in your camping group. I would think a water location like Big Sur would be a automatic no go.

I'm thinking this might be a good time to check out the lodging situation in Yosemite. It certainly would be very nice to have warm fireplaces and hot showers in mid-April.

We'd consider lodge swanking! (A must with CPAP.)

http://jrabold.net/bigsur/roadpt0950.htm

This is a camp ground we checked out on our last trip down Hwy 1. It was pretty nice, some locations out right by the water, others set inside the grove areas.

Eh, Yosemite sedentary? It depends upon what you decide to do with yourself. Touristy? Well, if you are a tourist. :D

We spend our time riding bikes, doing whatever hikes are available, and walking. The trails that are closed, eh, I guess if you go a lot, that doesn't really matter. I know the Lashes' will love what they see, they won't over do it, and, they will see everything.

What I have done, over the years, is to set goals for myself, this trip maybe not do this trail but next time, I will. Some hikes need training for.

Does anyone know if the San Simeon state park has camping? I never really looked at anything so close to the Hearst Castle, we have a couple of hotels we frequent that are nice and not too expensive. It is usually pretty cold when we are there and the rooms with a hot shower and DVD player, nice.

iSm, I hope you think about it in a more 'yes' way, you have a nice knowledge of the park that would benefit the group, especially first timers.

I was checking out the rates, the best right now, in Curry Village. I have been playing with the dates, seeing what is available, so far, already, limited. If the dates are for certain, I wouldn't mind making a reservation. But, I guess I need to check with the school schedule. And, when is Easter next year? That could have some effect. But, being during the week, I think that will help.

How come? It is not as if we are sleeping on a boat.

A) Big Sur was a leading candidate because it's got ocean and mountain adventures, and a groovy town to boot. I'm mostly interested in the moutain stuff, and so Big Sur is not deterring me at all. The coast there is absolutely gorgeous, and I look forward to enjoying it more intimately ... but it doesn't mean I'll be going in the ocean (though I might).


B) Lodging in Yosemite in April. Hmm, though I deeply regret there will be little to do at that time of year, the most reasonable and quite comfy lodging is at the Yosemite Lodge near the base of Death Falls. And, of course, the most swanky lodging is at the Ahwanee. Maybe we should rent a bungalow there???



This whole thing is very upsetting to me. I was looking forward to Japan very much. And, as most of you know, I have long been anticipating a LoT excursion and/or Lashpair visit to Yosemite. To have that happen at a time of year where none of my favorite things to do and see in Yosemite will be possible is a crushing disappointment.


I'm happy to have the Lashpair visit. Ecstatic, in fact. But maybe I'll join them in Vancouver (always wanted to go back there), tour San Simeon with them, and hang with them when they're in So Cal. The Yosemite thing in April just breaks my heart.

BTW: I am still routing for Chino Hills State Park for Camp Swank 2009

Really Kevy Baby? I've been around there but never thought about it.

That is something I thought of, iSm. Renting varied accomodations. To enjoy different experiences.

The Lodge was about $212 {can't remember if that is with breakfast} and the Awahnee was about $400 or so. Curry Village was about $140.

Actually, I think those prices are with breakfast.

Do the bungalows/cottages have fireplaces? The lodge has that lounge and Curry Village has that place {I forget what it is called} where I think there is a fireplace.

Would anyone else be bringing bikes? I don't enjoy them but the Hubster loves night rides.

It was a joke. Since we tend to always pick really cool swanky spots, I was amused by the anti-swank blahness of something very close. CHSP is actually not bad, but it is definitely not swanky.

Oh, okay. I was gonna say. I thought perhaps you knew something no one else did....

well, I am sure you do but that is another thread entirely...

Well, I am up for any of the mentioned trips for the 2008 Camp Swank. I am also up for a Hearst Castle Swanking. Anything to see youse guys and the lashpair!

While I am disapointed no Japan, it will make it easier for me to save for Pordenone in 2010 for my birthday gift to me!

I would suggest bikes very strongly. There's little else to do in April. The ice-skating rink is closed. All the best hikes are closed (though I think the Mist Trail is open to the base of Vernal Fall ... pleasant, but a horrible tease for the better parts of the hike that would otherwise lie ahead). The waterfalls are a wonder to behold, but the fun activity ... boulder exploration at their base ... is impossible because they are just too forceful that early.

Um, they don't allow rafting on the Merced that early ... and of course swimming in the Merced in April is for the Alex's of the world only.


Yep, biking is the only fun way to enjoy the Valley that time of year. There are some pleasant walks in areas of the Valley floor, too.


But it's such a waste of my favorite National Park.


That's not to say fun wouldn't be had. I'm confident anyone going would have a grand old time ... and I might be joining you. But, really, I've been trying to get the LoT gang and the Lashpair to go to Yosemite for ages, and the timing, frankly, could hardly be worse.


Oh well, it's a long ways from now. I'll likely get over my disappointment. Or, hopefully, plans will change yet again.


For all I know, we'll find ourselves in Budapest.

I think iSm should post again about how disappointed he is, and about how Yosemite sucks that time of year. So far, I read it only, what, 10 times, and I think it needs to be posted again, and again, and again. It will only make this board a better place, won't it?

I've had an excess (and my fill) of bummer news in the last half-day or so, so I would not like to keep reading about how things are imperfect! All things are imperfect. Let's look at the bright side.

How fun it will be to have the Lashpair visiting, no matter the circumstances.

Exactly!

The options are:

A) The absolute pinnacle of perfection
B) The Suck

I had a great time at Yosemite in March (for a day trip). No, couldn't do most of the stuff I'd do there in early summer but did stuff I couldn't do there during the summer. I'm sure there'll be plenty of fun to be had to fill three days.

Plus, the water flowing through the Merced really isn't any colder in April than it is in June. So swim anyway.

One thing that will be really cool:

The cool guys with the accents will be Lash & Stoat!! I love meeting the wonderful people who visit, to hear their stories, and to see the look in their eyes and on their faces at the awe of what they are seeing.

Small world~met a couple who were also trying to get a nice shot of Half Dome from Glacier point at sunset. They also ride the bike trail we do {here}and live right here close in Coronado.

People watching, animal watching, scenery, it is all good!

Alex, you may be right about the water....it is all snow melt, right? So, brrrr anyway you look at it?

What about Teh Suck?

Steve,

If you don't like Yosemite in April, then don't go. But complaining about it every time those two words are uttered in a sentence isn't going to change it. LashPair is going to have a nice, long trip with many opportunities for us to see them. This isn't a "We're coming to the USA to see Yosemite, come and see us there or don't see us at all" trip.

Did he give an opinion about Yosemite? I must have missed it.

Hahah, I knew Alex would encourage swimming in the Merced in April.


Ok, enough of my complaining about April in Yosemite. I love the Lashpair and am glad to be able to see them less expensively than visiting Japan. I am heartbroken about not visiting Japan, though. But my wallet is overjoyed!


Who's up for a Vancouver swanking? It's glorious up there!

A San Simeon/Hearst Castle swanking? We've talked about it for ages! April, baby!!

Oooh, all the fun events we can plan for So Cal if the Pair is planning to stay in "Anaheim" for two weeks. W00t!

I still want to make a trip to see the Lashes on their home turf. I think that would be fabulous. I could also visit my friends Colin and Peter in Perth.
:)

Say that ten times fast

That that that that that that that that that that.

I'm excited to see the Lashes here in the US of A - but I'm still considering a jaunt to Tokyo either later this year or early next.

Reasonable airfare here.

Heh. Those are less expensive than three of the four round-trip tickets (CA-->Michigan) that I just purchased yesterday. I'm still reeling from the sudden bank account weight loss.

Call me curmudgeonly ... but "cheap flights" scares me.


I mean, I know there can't be too many stops between L.A. and Tokyo, but .... you get what you pay for, and that's an immutable fact of life. So how crappy is my flight going to be when it's cheaper than a flight to Michigan??



I've also always wanted to see Austrailia ... and there'd be less of a language issue than with Japan. So I'm Up for a Down Under visit anytime!

iSm is a curmudgeon.

Hey, you asked...

Both the Yosemite and Hearst Castle swanking sound great! I'm in! (And if Bill doesn't want to go, I'll go without him!)

One of the best flights I ever had was a non stop flight to Paris that cost less than a flight to Chicago.

Generally I'd drop in on any Yosemite goings on, but since this will be mid-week I might not be able to (that is very near major work activity and taking time off then might not be well advised).

Naww, the Lashpair are west coast whores.

For those considering joining:

We're arriving Yosamite 13 April (whichever lodge you choose, make sure we can park our wheels outside :) )
17th April we drive to San Simeon, park in the San Simeon Creek Campgrounds, and do the Night Tour of Hearst.

That night, we repair to the RV for cocktails, then the following morning we do Tour 3 of Hearst.

Hawaii and Vancouver we will be with Greg's Mother for the duration........

...and in order to "share the goodness" as it were, we were wondering if anyone in the LA / DLR area could accommodate us from 23-26 April ? (we have all accommodation nailed down except for then)

Oh, and for Yosemite you could always grab an RV and join us...

I say we throw a coup and take over the entire valley in the name of Swankdom.

Would one of these be a necessary something for the next Camp Swank?

Seems silly, and appealing at the same time.

We were looking at renting a beach house in Newport on our next vacation- could be around the time you're looking for lodging, LashPair. If so, you're welcome to crash there! (Although I seriously doubt you'll have difficulty finding SoCal lodging). Most of them sleep 9 or more, and we'd only have around five people. Of course, that means you'd have to put up with us twice in one month..... The Yosemite Swanking sounds intriguing as well, so maybe we'll skip the beach and do that instead. I'll have to scope out lodging, etc, and run the idea past everyone.

You can stay with us. We have a guestroom!

I see you've got everything planned to the minute.

When were you going to tell us Japan was off ... when we were somewhere over the Phillipines??

;)

In the interest of accuracy and the prevention of upped-hopes, I move that this trip be renamed the "Lashpair Grand Pacific States Tour 2009."

I'm wondering what the actual post count of this thread will be once the Lashpair are on the plane heading to the US?

I reckon MF and Moonliner and all the other East Coasters come join us for the 2009 Yosemite Chill-out !! (or at least a meet at DL.) That way MF could ride... The Matterhorn with me. It's always been a dream of mine.

I'm guessing close to the Sooooooo thread. :D

Sold !! to the gentlemen with the fur coat. :snap: :D

OMG, there'll be more bears there than the Country Jamboree.










Hint: The gentleman in the fur coat is not wearing a coat. ;)

Here - I'll help. ;)

Suck, suck, suck, suckity, suck, suck, suckness, suck, suck, suck, sucktacular, suck, suck, suck, suck, sucky, suck, suck, suck, suckage, suck, suck, suck, suck, suck, sucktastic, suck, suck, suck, suck, suck me, suck, suck, suck, suck, suck, suck, suuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuck...

If I were a guy, that totally would have gotten me off a few times just now. ;)

Ken and I were already discussing this morning how to adjust our tent for colder weather, or buying a winter-weight one, so we'll be good to go, no matter what. :) We're perfectly fine with the Lashpair making that decision, because they're the ones traveling 6,500+ miles just to be with us, and we always have a good time with everyone here, no matter where we go. It really is the people that matter most.

I totally agree (even though Japan was an awfully good idea)!

Siyonara, Japan. :(



I dunno about tents for an April Yosemite. Lodging seems the better way to go. About the only place I can see the Lashes being able to park their RV is Curry Village. There are cabins there that are charming, and canvas tent cabins that are cheap. Alas, the RV won't be able to park overnight at Curry Village ... and probably not at all anyplace else.

Perhaps the Lashes should reserve a campsite for their RV.

Actually, it's you LoT who have the accents. We sound perfectly normal.

Guest room's ready and waiting, Y'all !!

Renting a cabin in Yosemite seems like a good idea - especially as the RV company just told us they don't have a van for the time we want it for, I think we might go with a car and just stay in a Yosemite lodge with folks ! How does that sound ? Do they have lodges for 20?

Woof !

Oh - it's a jewish mink, then ? ;) They'er so fun to run through barefoot !

Ooooh! Tent cabins at Curry Village sound awesome. :D

I hate them. Others adore them.


Unless I win the lottery, it's the Yosemite Lodge for me (assuming I go ... and of course I will. My grumbling should be over by February at the latest.)


Lashes, tell us when these dates are set in stone. Not nipponese stone, but real stoney stone. It may be the off season, but Yosemite lodging reservations have to be made early.

OMG! Yosemite is just UGLY in APRIL!!!! Hideous, I tell you!


Lashpair, let us know what you are doing and we will try and make our plans mesh with yours. I know lots about lodging in Yosemite Valley - both in the valley, outside the valley and outside the park. Feel free to pick my brain for information. I've been going to Yosemite regularly for about 35 years now and know the area pretty well. Maybe a Skype call is in order. Also, remember we have a travel agent on this board who would be happy to help you out, I'm sure.

Lashbear, I am sorry to hear your RV didn't pan out but iSm is right, I really don't think that there is anywhere you can park an RV in the park. Maybe even with a reserved spot. I faintly recall reading this somewhere.

I don't like the canvas tents, either.

LOL But the 'lodge' is just what they call it, it isn't built like your typical lodge. Sort of {to me} like a 'motor lodge'? The biggest rooms are the family rooms but they are very hard to get. They only have 4 of them and they hold about 6 but you could reasonably put down sleeping bags....I'm just saying.

This is really quite exciting!! Do check out the lodging that is available. So far, the least expensive rooms w/a bath are the Curry Village cabins. They are hard to get, too, though.

If the RV is out for Yosemite, is it also out for San Simeon? If so, the sands by the sea motel http://www.sandsmotel.com/ is reasonable. Right next door is the BW Cavalier is nice but a bit more pricey. But, they have nice rooms with fireplaces.....

Do you have AAA?

Question for you Lashbear....

How is 6 weeks in Canada/USA cheaper than 1 week in Japan...??

Just curious....???

I believe they were planning 6 weeks in Japan, but we were discussing just one of the weeks when they would be in Tokyo.


Another note re: planning. Easter 2009 is April 12.

RVs can park (with reserved spot) at all of the Pines campgrounds. (Though if you don't have one that is a moot point.)

The Merced the end of March; it is brown {the foliage} because of the snowmelt, I guess.


The falls....


The road into the park...it had snowed the night before.

The Lash's have narrowly escaped a terrible fate: Easter dinner with the extended Anderson clan. Actually, I try like anything to get out of it as well, especially since I always get stuck cooking it. We may have to leave on vacation that day- if we do go to Yosemite, we might just drive it.

I suggest we rent a cabin (or 2) inside the Park about 8 miles from the Valley.

Agh!! The horror!!! Is brown even a color found in nature?!?! :eek:

Would those be the ones that are at about the turn off to Glacier Point? I was looking for some last time, I've always seen them on-line.

http://yosemite.com/tripplan/DispAccommodation.asp?rn=1

http://yosemite.com/tripplan/DispAcc...ion.asp?rn=134

http://yosemite.com/tripplan/DispAcc...ion.asp?rn=152

Cabins! w00t. That would be a blast.

I know, I know, I just thought they should be forewarned. :p

This is a few weeks later....

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s...8/101_0032.jpg


http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s.../101_0129b.jpg

Is that from this year? Because here is my picture of it from March 15 of this year. March/April is definitely a time of year when the condition can change a lot from year to year.



All fun though.

If there is cabin renting I call dibs on a porch for sleeping.

And the Bear Creek Cabins in the first link have a roundtrip bus service into Yosemite. And, we'd have enough people to take over all the rooms and suites in the entire main cabin... ;)

And, here are rates for the Yosemite lodging: Click here. (This was based on 4 people sharing the room.)

There are closer locations than Bear Creek.

God knows we'll be needing those in a cabin.

Awesome find!!! :snap:

I especially like this one.

The first pictures were from our trip March 30-April 2. I was searching for some photos I have that look quite similar to yours!! I have them all over the place and couldn't figure out how to post them. That happened the first night we were there. Right atop the falls and around them, {the upper Yosemite falls} was snow/ice. It was awesome. And, slowly the river ice melted, I have shots of that too....somewhere.

The second set of pictures are from May 12th or so, Mothers' Day weekend. It most definitely was a different place than just those few weeks prior. I love that, how things can change up.

The cabins look awesome, plenty of room.

When will you boys know when they dates are for sure?

Personally, I am going to be thinking about the feasibility of making a trip to Yosemite during the dates that the LashPair are planning to be there. IF I feel I can make that commitment and have the money to put it where my mouth is, then I will be very interested in what plans they Lashpair decided to embark on and plan on being ready to jump on board at a moment's notice if things come to that point.

My dad's birthday is April 15th. I think he turns an "even number" next year.

My concern about the dates, also, have to do with scheduling. We usually take a trip about that time, usually a bit earlier. It depends upon work/school.

BTD, an even number? Are you going to spill? ;0)

oooh, and, Passover is the 11th.

The Lashes clearly should have consulted with me before making their revised travel plans. Being somewhere else on the West Coast at that time will be nearly criminal. ;)

Dates for Yosemite are:
Check in 13th April
Check out 17th April.

Which is neither Passover, nor Easter. :p

However, my Hair looks Tragic in April, if it's any consolation. ;)

Yes, but where will you be on the 11th??


Not in L.A., as plans stand now, I would imagine.




But plans can change.


And they should.









Oh, they should.

Back off, you. They belong to us that day!!!!

What SHE said!!!!!!

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080612/...ress_nature_dc

Saw this today....I think this is why we go so often and plan for our next trip when we are heading home.

Eh, the holidays. I only worry because of availability. The holidays themselves, sorry, my family comes or they stay. It is up to them. But availability and costs, that is the issue for me.

As opposed to his daughter, who is quite odd all the time.

Just keep us posted. You are here the second week the boy is on spring break, then a week of school.

I know he will want to see you. We might have to do Hearst Castle.

I'm not calling on the Lashes to change plans ... though of course, I didn't call on them to change plans from Japan. Plans just change, and so ...


... i'm just sayin' ... next year's iSm Passover is set to be the party of the century* that a huge contingent of SoCal (and perhaps other) Swankers will be likely be attending.

Frankly, I hadn't thought of the timing in relation to a Japan trip. That would have caused quite a serious conflict for me ... and Passover might have had to be cancelled. With Japan off, it's back on ... and it just so happens the LashPair will be on the West Coast at the time.


I'm inviting them ... and whether they choose to attend is at their option.











* all plans subject to change without notice.

So.....who would be able to make a commitment for a cabin rental in Yosemite for 2/13-17 in the next week? It would also mean needing a 50% deposit for your share right away. That amount would be somewhere between $100 and $200.

We'd love to commit, but can't fork over money until later this summer, due to some deferred payment issues with a couple of my clients.

February or April?

Either way, I'm not able to. But that date might cause some confusion.

Is this a cabin where we all could stay in the same place?


Because otherwise, I'd rather opt for staying in the Valley.

Actually, God wouldn't mind if you postponed it for a week or so.... especially if you could enjoy it with friends who've never experienced this kind of thing before..... Just Sayin' (because of Greg's Girls, our Christmases were always the week after.. God never minded.)

Oh, and the cabin is 5 miles from the valley, and sleeps 10, I believe. (11 if we stick Alex on the porch)

OK, here's the deal.

We can get a cabin that sleeps 10 (2b w/k; 1b w/q, 1 den q couch, loft with full size double futon). For 10 people, it would be $550 a night (base price is $350 for 2 an $25 pp after that).

There are also 2 other cabins nearby (within walking distance) that are owned by a different owner. Each of these cabins sleep 4 (they are 1 b each).

Sooooooo, to make a reservation, we need to figure out how many people are going to be a part of this. Because, if we don't have 10 (or even 8) people, we don't need such a big cabin and shouldn't commit to one (unless someone has lots of money and wants to rent a mansion at $350 night for 4 days.)


Now, I'm not saying that you NEED to stay at the cabin. You may choose to stay somewhere else and make your own arrangements. But, if we have enough people to fill up cabin spots at this point, then we need to jump on it pretty soon.

I'd like to be part of this, it would save me oodles of $$ in camping gear! ;-)
At least I could be bare minimum, anyway.

BTW, I found many other varieties of gourmet marshmallows (besides plush puffs) and I am thinking, what the hell, might as well try making my own! Got a year to practice and flavor experiment. That said, since Lash did not gift me with a packet of vegemite last year, this will not be among flavor options for smores.

Count Susan and I as people who would be willing to lay down the cash towards the 10-person scenario.

I'd be willing to fork over dough for a non-tented cabin-type situational comedy.

Yes, but will you provide the laugh track?

Would it be fine if some of us slept elsewhere and then joined you all at the cabin for food, fun, and showers?

Ugh. With Coachella right on its heels, I don't know that we can commit to this...

What are the dates for next year?

I've got NAB right after the campout.

The dates aren't official, but it's a good bet that it'll be the last weekend in April.

Wow, April's gonna be a busy month. :eek:

Yes, April is a crazy month. Unfortunantely, we're probably going to have to move fairly quickly on a Yosemite plan. The nice thing about it is that it will be tremendously cheaper than staying at the Lodge or, god forbid, the Awahnee. I'm looking at another place that sleeps 16 and is $625 a night. That's $39 pp, per night. Where is the HELL can you stay any place for that price that isn't a red light district?

We might be able to front the money for that, but not for a couple weeks.

What most of these place are requiring to book is a 50% deposit.

We need a LoT Credit Card.

Well, according to the California Business Portal, "Lounge of Tomorrow, Inc." is still unused ;)

I see, we get to the USA so very rarely, and yet some commie pinko music fest is more important than us.

I get it. *snif*

It's OK. Don't worry about us. We'll get by at Yosemite without you. *scuffles feet in the dust*

[Lashbear hangs his head to his chest as a single solitary tear hesitatingly runs down his cheek]





Oh, this isn't a guilt trip or anything. Really. :evil: ;)

Pffft, you forget, we're Jewish. You've gotta come up with some pretty powerful guilt to get my attention. :p

Thanks. Now my keyboard is covered in soda. :p

For a moment I took that as a challenge and had thought of my entry.

But then I realized that no good could come. Either it would fail and I'd just look stupid or it would succeed and I'd look like an ass.

See, I do learn from my mistakes. Once I told Lani I could make her cry in five words. She didn't believe me. I did. There was no thrill of victory.

And because of that, I don't think I can "move" Passover. It's my family's as well as mine, and I don't get the option to have it on not-Passover (in which case, it would not be Passover ... despite what anyone may do with not-Christmas).


So sorry. But the invitation stands. We're talking a trip 10 months from now. Can't a little tweaking be done to the itinerary???

OK, I'm going to do a little tease dance here.


Take a look at this cabin and picture a bunch of swanky people inhabiting it.

If I can get a mere 12 people confirmed, it will only cost a mere $44 per person per night - and it hold 16 people, so we can add some late comers and it will be even cheaper!!!!


Plus....these dates follow closely on the tails of my Birthday, and I would LOVE to celebrate my birthday at Yosemite National Park with my dear friends.

What say you?

Hopefully you can gain 12 folks right away, and then there will still be room to add us into the remaining 4 in a couple weeks. :snap:

Now that's the way I like to camp!

The other alternative is also a good one, but has a maximum of 10 people - and it is just as expensive for 10 as the other is for 12.

However, if we can't get enough people, we'll have to go with a smaler cabin and there might not be room to add people on.

I'm hoping we can swing the cool one.

I'm verifying with Tom - though we never know about work availability this far in advance (and if I'm correct, this is for mid-week, right?)

Yes, it is mid-week. April 13 - 17 - 4 nights, M-Th.

Should I make this it's own thread with a poll?

Mmm, I'm not sure I could do that many days (especially because it's not overlapping a weekend at all - most of my vacations are 1 or 2 days added to a weekend here and there.) But since our out-of-country bears have picked and their time is limited, we'll see what we can do! (Also, only one of the Jetsetters can go and if Aud wants to I don't want to prevent her; we can't typically vacation at the same time for more than one day.)

We're going to have to say an emphatic YES to that one !!

Count Susan and I in.

I'd love too. There's just no way I can commit to midweek during April a year in advance.

I would so love to join everyone in a big swanky cabin!

However, an entire week off from work is no joke (in the US, that is). What kind of bums me out is that this would mean that no one would be up for tent swank camp, which is what this last trip got me all excited about. To me the cabin thing is very much like the Beat Retreat, not tent camping. Again, not a bad thing.

Also - Coachella is really soon afterwards, and we'd need to take a couple days off of work for that. We've got a week and half in Scotland/London this September, and at least one day off for Columbus Day weekend, if not two.

I feel like if I miss anything I'll cry a bucket of tears. But this is just too much for my fragile vacation time.

*mulling over data*

I started a poll thread with the cost breakdown. I'm NOT a money person, so your financial types need to take a look at these numbers and see what you think is feasible.

Alex, you made me spray my screen with water!


I'd bet Lani hasn't dared you to do that anymore. Let alone it sounds like you learned from that experience.


I'm so jealous that everyone else got to meet/see you at camp. I want to meet you someday, you intirgue me.

Be careful what you wish for - you may end up regretting it.

In person I'm just a lump.

And that theory was so vividly disproven at Swank Camp ... so don't even go there.

So, in looking at the intial results in the Lodging Poll ... which I admit are hardly conclusive ... it nonetheless occurs to me that Monday thru Friday in the Sierras will naturally be harder for the majority of working stiff people than the usual swankcampish or other swanking event which usually encompasses a weekend.

Yeah, yeah, this is the LashPair's deal. Who says it's written in stone? We're talking 10 months from now.


Boys, can some changes be made to your itinerary :confused:

Now, Y'all need to understand that the Stoat is away in Forster at the moment, and he has to get the time to read all these posts and the 100 or so PM's and then discuss stuff with me, so we're looking at another 24 hours (or so) before we make any changes to our concrete statue of Yosamite BUT......

...One of the proposals I have put to him involves extending our Spokane / Suisun stays by a day or two, then doing Yosemite on the Thursday, Friday, Sat, Sun (the 16th-19th April). This might make it easier for folks to join us.

It would mean, however, that we would have to cancel the Hearst Castle tours. We shall see - Maybe those thinking Hearst can join us for the Winchester house instead ?!?

We're mixing another batch of Concrete. Watch this space.

This is your vacation and you need to do whatever you need to do. I know Chris and I will try our best to see as much of you as possible. The leg work is done for cabin rentals. We just need to know dates and number of people to move on it. Let us know your thoughts when Stoat catches up with all of this.

Just out of curiosity, Lash- what's 'Suisun'?

Gee, WB, I thought that was some Spokane thing I didn't know about.

Lashpair might be visiting someone here?
It's in Nor Cal, east of San Francisco.

5 miles from the only west coast Jelly Belly factory....and my hometown :D

Lol- clicking that link took me to a LoT posting page.

As opposed to all the Spokane things you do know about?;)

Suisun looks pretty, MS!

Thanks, we're 45 minutes from the city without the hassle...it's a nice little area to live.

Thanks for the link, Deebs! That sure is a pretty place! I love the community activities they have listed!

Huh, I guess I assumed that was on the Marin peninsula. But I know that factory can't be far from Vacaville.

Hearst is a day trip for me. On a weekend I have a 50/50 chance of not having Boy (yeah!). As much as I would like to see the Winchester House again, that is not feasable for me.

I will keep watching for changes and adjust accordingly. :)

The Latest Info - a Recap.
 

Here's the plans so far:

So, to recap,

We’re spending the first two weeks doing the “two guys and their MIL tour” of Hawaii and Vancouver.

Then we’re getting all cosy in Spokane with WET.

Then we’re relaxing with a nice Brandy and a sassy Ms

Then… *phew* we’re going to the WinchesterMansion Sunday the 14th of April. Please join in if you wish - maybe an option for those who can't make Yosemite?

Mon 13th April we check into the Scenic Wonders Cabin: http://www.scenicwonders.com/virtual/virtualtours_scenicwonders.html#

Here are the Cabin-ettes:

Teresa and Ken
Greg and Rob
John and Bill
Chris and Lisa
Kevin and Susan
Jesse and Heather
Donna
Wendy and Eric and Tori

That's 16 and that fills up that cabin.

There is another cabin nearby as mentioned by Lisa – it’s the Little Scenic Cabin which can take any overflow bookings from people yet to confirm interest:
http://www.scenicwonders.com/virtual/virtualtours_littlescenic.html

THEN on Fri 17th April we’re driving to HearstCastle and doing the Evening Tour.
Saturday the 18th April we’re doing Tour 3 then driving back to LA.

We then do Disneyland and all the LA goodness until we depart on Sat 2nd May

Then we collapse.

Yes, we may get some Huckleberry jam when in WA. :D

OMG !!! Waikiki's really close to Homolulu !!!! :eek:

Looks like lunch is found for at least a day ! :D

Cindy if you're thinking of the outlet store over in Vacaville, we laugh about that all the time, they are about 15 miles 'give or take' from the factory driving down I 80 and that's where I go to shop unless I'm playing tourguide for friends or family. If you look on the map, the factory is listed as being in Fairfield, CA.


For those of you who might want to join us at the Winchester mini swank....on Easter Sunday, April 12 (I think Lash was just having eye strain trying to read all the posts and PM's last night) for now the time is 'fluid' translation, we're going to get up....I'm going to feed the boys the required BACON then we'll watch Miss B do her Easter activities then head up to San Jose. We'll narrow the time line down as it gets closer. There are actually 2 tours of the Mansion, one of the interior then one that covers the grounds and the basement which is very cool. I can tell you that it will be early afternoon since we have plans to deep fry a turkey later that day and I'm about 90 minutes from the parking lot of the mansion.


For anyone interested, here is the website for Miss Sarahs home:

http://www.winchestermysteryhouse.com/story.html

Quite right - it is the 12th (14th was typo :rolleyes: ) .... assuming they're running tours that day ?!?

They indeed do run tours on Easter Sunday, the only day of the year that they close is Christmas so we're golden on that aspect. I happen to know a former guide that actually applied ON Easter after having gone on a tour just a few days earlier in the week, but I did call and confirm that the only day they close is on Christmas to ensure they hadn't had a policy change.

Dearest All,

Well, I finally got to the bottom of the thread (well as it stands now), and have a feel for "The Room".

Some of you are worried that we'll be disappointed:

Well don't be - I could play cards and chess for three days in pouring rain during a zebra stampede and a one-legged ass kicking competition and still be the happiest Stoat on Earth, because I'm with people that lift my spirits. Have you ever seen how I light up just to play in a one foot square of snow? And a fireplace OMG !!!. And there could be things on sticks and all !!! ...and I don't care if the river water is taupe, sienna or tartan. Bring it on !!!

Some of you are worried about the dates:

Well, you have to understand that we can't please all the people all the time - we could slide dates up, down and sideways forever and still not please everyone. But you must understand, it's not personal...the only other choice is to not come at all, so no-one sees anyone...and as I'm a cup-half-full guy, here's looking at you kid!

Some of you are worried about the cost:

Hell yeah...but it'll be way cheaper than you having to fly to Japan, and it sure as hell will be more comfy than a tent in the snow for what...a few days wages? I'm sooooooo in. Divide and conquer, I say. If you're really strapped for the cash, plant some vegetable seeds now and take the produce to market. Or you can do what I do: sell your body - I did...for a whole day, and got a cup of Gloria Jean's with the proceeds.

Some of you are worried you won't see us:

That's why we are staying around Anaheim for a while (and I'm really sorry we couldn't get to Florida and San Diego this time - both places and people rock !) Having said this, please don't wear the Stoat out - at the age of 49, lumps start dropping off if I stay out too long too often.

Some of you aren't worried:

Good.

Some of you are worried that you aren't worried enough:

Bad.

So there...for those going to Yosemite (not Yosamite, Bear !!!) please help Ms. Afraid (smooch) with her booking by donating generously.

For those not going, I really hope to catch up with you if things allow.

And if it's any consolation, SusieAnne Krellingshaw will not be coming as she has been grounded for 2 years after her "Wireless Electricity" project (see StoatArt Thread) caused the spontaneous combustion of 10 grannies when their walking frames hit the invisible beam.

Love and hugs,

The Stoat XXX. Can't wait.

Addendum:

Fvck me - 184 posts ???

Dear Ms. Pallor,

Firstly - smooch.

Secondly - Is a Coachella a:

a) type of soda-pop?
b) side-car for a pumpkin-styled coach?
c) blunt instrument used in native circumcisions?
d) game-play move used in baseball?
e) any of the above when stoned?

Love and hugs,

The Stoat XXX.

It's official, I'm totally in love with you, Stoat.

I can be a maybe on this, but I think I will be heading to Yosemite.

Awww...Ms. Snowflake !!!

:blush:

I object. You leave on my birthday and that is just to much saddness for one's birthday. You must stay forever (or take me with you so I can go visit friends in Australia)

Gotta love that Stoat 'tude.


I can't do a whole week off thing ... but a couple of long weekends in a row might be possible .... um, ten months from now when I have no idea what my situation will be.


So ... and without studying the dates too intensely, I'm leaning towards spending a day or two in Yosemite (I'll find my own digs if necessary) and - is it the following(?) - weekend plus any necessary adjacent weekday to do San Simeon. Or has that been replaced with the Winchester WhatsUp House? I'm so confused.

The LP will be in the bay area for the 11th, 12th and on the 13th they travel to Yosemite, on Friday they travel to the Castle with the night tour, then on Saturday they do the day tour then depart for LA. The Winchester tour will be on Easter Sunday, before they arrive at the cabin.

okay, somehow we will run into you two.

Hearst might be closer for us. I think that Winchester is too far.
I take that back.. they are both ages away. Whatever... we'll work it out.

We are in the DLR area for nearly two weeks... :D

There ya go.
I am sure I can talk the child into that!

OMG !!!

Bear...Bear !!!

We could have a christmas tree with C7 light bulbs on it by the fire!!!

I know the significance of that will be lost on you lovely cross-ponders, so I'll elaborate:

Because of Australia's british heritage, we celebrate Christmas listening to lyrics like "Dashing through the snow" and "I'm dreaming of a white Christmas" whilst enduring 40 Celsius (heat wave) temperatures. Dingos piss on each other to keep cool. Kangaroos stuff their heads in each other's pouches to keep cool. Koalas chew gum (leaves) to act cool.

So could someone please bring a small christmas tree and a string of C7's of assorted colours - if not, I'll pack ours (we got 467 C7 bulbs when we were last in Texas).

"Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow..."

Love and hugs,

The Stoat XXX.

You are so adorable. SMOOCH!

Coachella - goes down smooth on a summer day, full of get-up-and-go!

All this year's models have this as an option
Um......yeah no joke there
"He could. go. all. the. waaaayyyyy......NO! Denied by the centerfielder's UNBELIEVABLE Coachella maneuver. Definitely a golden glove nominee, eh Bob?"
Duuuude. That's what I was thinking! Trip out!!



In answer - a Coachella is one of the only things on earth that could actually interfere with a LashPair trip. :(

But seeing you there is just to logical!

Skip it. Or bring them with.

As cool as Winchester is, if you have to choose between Winchester and Hearst; take Hearst. In a heartbeat. Don't lose the chance to accommodate others: this is YOUR vacation.

Great attitude! As I mentioned above, this is YOUR vacation. Everyone else needs to plan around that.

Since you didn't get a straight answer: Coachella is a three-day music festival with (mostly) new and emerging bands (with a couple of big names thrown in to push ticket sales). I understand it is a GREAT event (if you don't mind standing out in 40 degree Celsius weather).

Not to deny the Bay Area peeps, Kevy is correct, Hearst over Winchester anyday. But I know you've wanted to do Winchester and we did not do it last year.

Looks like I need to book my vacation with the firm very soon (as soon as I pass my 90 days)

Months away, I confess, I am already giddy with excitement, not only spending time with the LashPair, but finally meeting WenchyBeth & Co., MS, Deebs (I hope sooner rather than later) the LibraryVixen (ditto, sooner rather than later) and seeing some other swankers it's been too long.

not to mention, Yosemite, a trip with the pros so I can experience it in real style. And one with a cabin, so no need for uber expensive camping gear, yet (unless there is another Camp Swank happening, too).

Oh, I'd love to see the Bears at Coachella!!! The gang that goes already rocks so add these two and Bamm!!

It looks like things have been straightened out....all looks great!!!

I like that the Yosemite visit leads into the Hearst Castle visit....more doable. Miss just a couple of weekdays and then you have the weekend.

Now, I doubt everyone would do this, but, we were short on time and we wanted to be in the valley first thing in the a.m. and have the whole day. We left San Diego late in the afternoon, drove powered by highly caffienated coffee beverages, made it all of the way to the Chukchansi casino, bet a bit, then went back and slept in the car for a few hours. This abled us to get to Yosemite for the full days we wanted. Just an idea for those who are short on time. It is doable.

And, I wonder what Gilroy will be like {um, I am confusing myself, it won't be time for their festivals, right?}? Is that the way to go from Yosemite, past Gilroy? Do Bears like garlic?

Those prices are awesome for that big cabin, but, if anyone wants to book with the DNC, they only require one nights stay as a deposit. Then, you can either pay upon arrival or make payments, I've done this.

I keep checking for the family room....not yet.....

The neat thing, that the boys were never in a position to have to choose Winchester vs Hearst.....there were back up plans being put together should they decide to shift the yosemite portion of their trip. Thankfully things worked out well and those who can be there will, those who can't will live viacriously and the bottom line is that this is the boys vacation that they are graciously sharing with all of us....I can't wait for 'my turn' :D

Gilroy would be a detour in the wrong direction from here to Yosemite...it's just beyond San Jose.

LOL Good thing I am just the co-pilot. :D

I just thought of something as I was checking the availability of lodging at Yosemite....

There are still rooms available pretty much everywhere {limited but still some}. The prices are better at Curry Village. But. Last year I booked the cabin as that is all that there was and shortly before our trip, there were rockslides. They then offered us a cabin without a bath. I had to take it but I was luckily able to find a room at the Lodge.

Just something to think about. Might be less expensive to get a cabin but might be better just to stay at the lodge, I've never {myself} heard of any problems like that.

If there were time for me to take them to Monterey then we could swing by Gilroy...alas so many wonderful places and so little time....

Didn't they already do Hearst? If not, a must. If so (even though I want to join them this time), a pass is possible.

CORRECTION:

Our group of 16 is taking the ENTIRE Scenic compound - Scenic Wonders and Little Scenic. I will ask about another cabin that is close by that may be rented for additional people.

If we only end up with a couple more than 16, I might suggest that we don't get another cabin. There will be inevitable drop-outs between now and then.

Okay, that is where we were headed when we went through Gilroy!!! Then onto San Simeon.

The time we went through Gilroy it was hot and humid and we were following behind a garlic truck!!!!

GAG ME!!! Now, I love garlic, but this was smothering. We had to stop in town for gas and a potty break and I almost passed out.

You can never have too much garlic MW. ymmv, obviously :D

OK!!! We are reserved!!!!

What I did was reserve right now for 10 people because it is easier to add on and charge for the additional 6 people 30 days out. The only wanted one night's deposit up front and the balance will be charged on March 14.

SOOOOOO, the originl 16......your deposit is 1/6 of $527.25 which comes out to $32.95 per person

$32.95!!!! such a deal for paradise!!!!


Mark your calendars because the balance will be due on March 14, 2009.

As for an additional cabin.....

Strawberry Creek is right next door.

The other nearby properties are Yosemite Summit (next door to Strawberry Creek) and Yosemite Pines - across the street.

Kathy is the person I talked to and her number is 888-967-3648.

I'm gonna book something in the Valley for Monday and Tuesday, that can be cancelled pretty much last minute. So if anything opens at Big or Little Scenic, I might be interested.

But really, as I can only envision spending a day or two, I don't want to cramp anyone's finances by taking a vacated Scenic spot if that's going to be a problem.

It's gonna have to be the 4 days commitment or nothing.

I meant that if there are drop-outs and no other takers.

Pfft, or I can just pay for the 4 days and not stay for them. Hehehe, 4 days at the cabin would be about the same as 2 days at the Lodge.


Again, this is if there are drop-outs closer to the date due to circumstances unforseen 9/10's of a year in advance. Let's see what's up next February or March.

That is so f'in true. And, to me, that is off season since Easter will have passed but they don't see it that way.

But, hey, as one person, perhaps someone may want to split the four days with you?

We are two and I saw there weren't too many bedrooms so, even though price was right and the cabin fantastic, I figure we should get our own lodging.

I should definitely be around for the anaheim portion of the programming. Won't know about my availability for anything else until closer to the time, unfortunately.

Unfortunately, April isn't a time when I can travel, so you'll have to ride the Matterhorn without me.

You'll just have to come back to the States another time. ;)

Well, failing the Yosemite swanking, at least you have 2 weeks of the LashPair in Anaheim.

As much as I would love to be in on the Yosemite trip, Hearst is all I can commit to for now. As wierd as this is going to sound, I feel better traveling alone to places I am totally familiar with. The central coast (San Simeon to Oceano) is one of those places.

I will see about getting a hotel room in San Simeon, so that I don't have to put out the Boys by staying with them.

You can never get enough Hearst !! Last time, we did tours 1 & 2 - this time we're doing 3 & Nighttime. yay.

You are just Awesome, did I ever mention that? :snap:

Why would a couple need their own room?? Oh. That. :blush:

:(


Oh, Yeah ! Like we're ever gonna do that... :p

...The USA has a magnetic quality about it. I call it the "LoT Phenomenon"

If you're in the area with time to kill, April is a great time for viewing the elephant seal rookery a half dozen miles north of there at Piedras Blancas.

:D

Lash pair;
I enlightened my offspring tongiht of your impending adventure, and asked if he might be talked into a trip to the park to see you while you are there for a week.
"Hell YES! I'll go, cant I just for a week too? But hell yeah I want to see Greg and Rob, why did you even ask?!?!?"

<silly mom> :rolleyes:

So, guys, what did you think about that place near Hearst?

What place near Hearst? Did I miss something?

I missed it too!! That is the only portion of the intenerary I can commit to. I haven't made ressies anywhere, so if I can find something close to everyone else, that would be great.

Yeah, what place near Hearst? Cause I want to book something there as well.


I'm gonna be a bonafide LashPair California Stalker!!

We've rented a beach bungalow in Cambria for 2 nights.

How fun!!! If you don't mind pming me the addy I can see what hotels are nearby.

I'm wondering if we can't fit the three remaining tours we haven't see into the agenda?

Evening tour (Tour 5) on Fri nite 17th,
Tour 3 & 4 on Saturday 18th.

God. I'm going to have about 12 hours of video footage, if the last tours were anything to go by.....

Something tells me I am going to need to buy a 4Gb card for my camera, between Hearst and Yosemite. Maybe more than one!:)

Hehehe reminds me about the time the Bus full of Japanese tourists was hijacked by crooks...

...luckily, there are over 15,000 photos of the offenders for police to identify.

LOL Too funny!!

Here are a couple of links, may have been posted before, maybe not.

Just for browsing, nothing in particular.

http://www.yosemite.org/vryos/

http://www.yosemitefun.com/lodging.htm

http://www.yosemitepark.com/

http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/camping.htm

http://virtualguidebooks.com/Central...semite_FS.html

http://cbs5.com/video/?id=31691@kpix.dayport.com

ISM, basically any lodging on/near Moonstone beach will work.

Soooo... Are the LashPair getting married when they get here? ;)

If I can get him drunk enough......

I think you have to be fairly sober in CA.

Nevada on the other hand....

Speak not until you do the deed yourselves. And, we want a BIG wedding.

Not until I can talk Bill into it.

I want Glitter, a Castle and a Pumpkin-Style-Coach !!! :p

The bad thing about gay marriage being legal in CA - now everyone expects the couples to get married. SOOOOOOO not a good thing.

So, this is probably a lame question, but what is Hearst Castle all about?

As I understand it, Stoat is a big fan of great architecture....that's why we're heading up to the Winchester Mystery House while the LP are in the bay area. They did a couple of the tours last visit and are looking foward to doing the tours they missed last time...

No, I mean, I'm completely unfamiliar with Hearst Castle.

http://www.hearstcastle.com/

Here is the link to the site.

I am sure someone else will be able to explain better than I the history of the Castle.

And, I am hoping that someone can tell me the name of the Ranch that was turned into a military base...years ago it said you could stay there. I would like to know if you can still stay there.

Darn it but I lost the site..........

Oh, um, yes, the story is really magnificent about Randolph Hearst. A publishing magnet? {is that the word?} The castle, wow, you really need to google it or something, it is too much to just put in a post. He built the castle and brought all of the finest things, made it a playground for he and his friends.

Yeah. I caught myself falling into this. I asked the mom of one of Nick's good friends if she and her partner were going to get married. Luckily, I know both of them well enough that it didn't come across as any sort of judgement. She took it the way I meant it and said that they were indeed looking into it. I realized my mistake and "vowed" not to ever ask that question, or make that assumption, again.

Well, on the flip side I'd just like to say that nearly every hetero couple gets badgered about that, so I would think it would be very cool (and then get just as annoying) for same sex couples to finally be bugged about it as well. They have a choice now and I couldn't be happier.:)

Oh, and I got our portion of the deposit off in the mail today, NA. Thanks again for everything- it's nice to have something like this to look forward to!

Ever seen Citizen Kane?

thank you, too lazy to figure it out last night...but that is it, thanks!!!

Well, tracilicious, have you googled? :D

Um, yeah, I have.

Hey - I read the book by Marion Davies entitled "The Times We Had". It's quite a good read, and includes a prelude by Orson Welles.

Not that it's revealed in the book, but I had no idea that Rosebud was a nickname. OMG - no wonder Hearst went ape $hit when the movie was released. Great film though - a total classic.

Love and hugs,

The Stoat XXX.

You know, provided there are no major reversals in November, I just thought of something else the Lashes could do while they're in California ;)

(No pressure, kids! Heheh)

And, ya know, I'm a licensed and deputized practioner of the nuptual arts.

And, then if they do, we can start hounding them about when they're going to have babies. :evil:

(Goodness knows Ken and I don't get that one enough... :rolleyes: )

Wait, people went ahead with plans for Hearst for that weekend? Aww, I expressed interest in that super-early in the thread and figured the group would be making plans for that a little later. Shoot. Maybe Tom and I can get some accommodations nearby.

Could someone do some research on that? I'd like to nab somewhere in the area, either a share with some other Swankers, or a common hotel-like situation for that weekend.

I can do a little research later, maybe tomorrow.

I googled pre-asking, but didn't find the Hearst site incredibly helpful. So I went with the lazy route and asked here. ;)

Any of the Cambria hotels on Moonstone beach will be a good choice. There are quite a few to choose from. If anyone would like me to scout out a specific hotel I would be happy to do so. I plan on heading in that direction (just for the day) within the next couple of weeks.

http://www.cambriachamber.org/motels-beach.php

http://www.sandsmotel.com/

I've mentioned this place before. It has really good prices, it is right next door to a very nice BW Cavalier hotel. The BW has firerings but it is a bit more expensive than the Sands.

The Sands has nice rooms, the restaurant next door is pretty nice, too, and, a nice place to watch the sunset and we always go for a little run along the beach when visiting.

These are the most close to the Castle.

Check the website for the rates but call and see if you can get better, too. The BW sometimes says nothing is available because they want you to book two nights. I always call directly and just get one.

tracilicious~I wish I could pull the info out of my head....it keeps looping but just can't think of the names, dates, etc. But, it is fascinating.

Yes, by all means, spend your day scouting hotels, and tell us which in your opinion is the swankiest.

:)

I need to get one of those sWizzle stIKI things running. How?

Make a wish. And clap your heels together three times.

Too late - I've found it ! Bwah hah hah hah. Bum, now I have to go to work. Oh well, there'll be a wiki in another day, folks.... Then you'll know when the best time to catch me cleaning my shoes is. :p

Well this is something to look forward to in 2009

Ummm...I may have to fight with The Boy about this. He will think because we are at the coast we will need to go to the beach. Silly Boy.

Actually, if I tell him who I am looking for, he will be happy to help.

I was being facetious. Enjoy your day. Scouting hotels doesn't sound like all that much fun, especially for the Boy. But if you happen to, we'd love to learn what you think.

Yes, Rosebud was reputedly Hearst's nickname for someone else's whatsyermothergot. :evil:

My favorite place is located near the hotels, on Moonstone Beach Dr (Moonstone Landing). I am just not sure when we will be going.

Scouting hotels? Don't they use Tents ?

Not the gay ones...

I am thinking that if they are going to be in any proximity to me and my sensitive nose, I would prefer that they had access to showers.

:eek:

I think you mean "Magnate", but hell lets kick "magnet" around anyways:

I hear he was bi-polar, but that Marion Davies was still drawn to him. Far from being poles apart, there was an attraction. Others say that he was a magnet for $hit.

Either way, Hearst Castle has to be experience to be believed. The orange blossoms in spring are heavenly, and the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean (aka The Big Wet Patch) and surrounding mountain peaks are awesome. I can't wait.

Love and hugs,

The Stoat XXX.

Thanks, Stoat! Yeah, I shouldn't post without making sure what I'm posting. Words float around my mind, not always in the proper form!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Randolph_Hearst

This wiki entry gives a lot of info about Hearst, but, there really is so much history there. But, this is something.

I didn't click on the links, just read the main article. Maybe there is more within the article....

There are also a plethora of books on Hearst.

Stoat's previously mentioned Davies book, The Times We Had was based on tapes of interviews Davies gave in her home, much of it while in her cups. If you want to read an excellent, and I do mean excellent bio of Davies, Fred Lawrence Guiles' 1972 volume is one to read.

<begin derail rant>
As much as I enjoy Citizen Kane (which started this derail) Davies was ill served by the film and the lore of the film. Welles later stated that Susan Alexander was not based on Davies, but that is not how Davies has been remembered generally. Pity, she was a fine comedienne and a decent dramatic actress. Happily, those opinions seem to be changing with a few films being shown in regular rotation and a good documentary, too. <end derail rant> :blush:

I didn't know that tents had a sexual orientation.

The ones often found in my pants very much do.

Sounds.... Alarming.

LOL! Trivia question I was presented with:

What do you do with Vegemite?

• Get a prescription to clear it up

• Use it to oil door hinges, squeaky wheels etc

• Eat it

• Add it to coffee or tea

Add to s'mores?

For real ?? Hehehehehehehehehehehehehehehehehehehehe

Don't tempt me...

...I'm already considering Cheesymite Scrolls for Yosemite...

Hmmm, maybe I'll luck out and snag a campsite in the Valley during the Yosemite retreat ... and we could have a weenie roast and bizarre Aussie smores night there one night.


I could afford camping for a few nights! I would host the Aussie weenie roast in return for an invitation to Japan Night at the cabin!!

Ooooo.... Those were sooooo good! :D

Maybe if we sweet talk Disneyphile again she'll.......

I just realised, we have at least 3 new things to see this trip:

• Nemo Subs scary needle mouth fish ride
• Toy Story whosy limp wrist after pulling popper mania
• Tom-Sawyers-piratey-island-scare-the-stoat-with-the-pop-up-skull-thingy.

Did they put anything else in while we've been away ??

I wouldn't know about that, Lashdear. But, I wonder about the Whoopi Goldberg movie....it was taken over by the Hollywood Screams {or something like that} and I haven't been back in a while.

I wanted to post this link:

http://www.yosemite.org/vryos/

I am posting it Thursday morning about 6:30. The images are amazing.

Lisa, what does your brother have to say about conditions up in Oakhurst?

Looks great ! We should go to this Yosemite place... let's start planning ;)

We need another thread!!!!!

Current conditions? I talked to him yesterday and it's been beautiful. He loves living there and I love visiting him.

....never forget the smell that emerged from her oven. :p

Sooo, the Mariposa near Yosemite area is on fire. Big Sur is on fire. Let's not plan on going anywhere else, ok?

What'll we do if Swank Cabin burns down? :eek:

All converge at your house!

It's a long drive into Yosemite Valley from my house.

So they aren't being affected by the smoke? I see the live cam photos and wonder what is happening to the visitors to the park.....