The CrazyC & da Man meet Seattle..

[crazycanuck]

Hey!

We paid for our plane tickets today :) or should that be :eek:with the cost...

Anywho, we're planning on visiting Seattle and want to know if we could arrange a lunch or dinner with some of you kids..

We're still throwing around dates but I want to suggest may 6th but before I do that, i'll need to know a bit more info-What's the drive from Van-Seattle, seattle-van like? Is it relatively easy & safe?

There's another date we could choose as well, May 19th..

Either way it'll be cool to catch up with some of you nutty folks..

C

[mimitabby]

it's VERY easy and safe. it's slow. that's the downside.

we can't wait to meet you.
there will be a queue.


depending on when you leave, it can take a long time. I am thinking 4 hours is on the good side.

[KnottedYet]

Whooooo-HOOOOOOO! :D

[Running Mommy]

MAN! Thats no fair!
Don't you want to come see the southwest???!!!! :D

[Eden]

You could take the train - though I hear at this point in time one way its a bus.... the train goes up from Seattle to Vancouver, but only comes back as far as Everett???? (they sell a ticket all the way to Seattle, but they put you on an Amtrack bus....) The fare is pretty cheap though.

[Wahine]

I've done Amtrak from Portland to Vancouver and we had to get on a bus at King Station downtown Seattle and then on the bus all the way up to Vancouver. On the way back we just did the reverse. Last time was in Nov 07. Maybe it's changed since then? Definitely a good fare though.

I'll find a way to hook up with you in Seattle CC. It'll be fun.:D:D

[Grog]

The drive is so easy you could sleep at the wheel!!! Just kidding. It's an easy drive. Lots of traffic sometimes, but you can leave at smart times. The longest wait is usually at the border.

The train is a GREAT option and pretty cheap, and takes much much less time at the border crossing. The only problem is that it runs only once a day. At the other times posted on the Amtrak web site, you have to take a bus (it's clear on the web site), which isn't bad but longer at the border. (It seems that customs officer think anyone on the bus has to be an illegal immigrant or smuggler sometimes...) I think the time from Vancouver is in the early morning, and from Seattle it leaves at 6 p.m. towards Vancouver. In May that means you'll have a nice sunset, weather permitting.

Looking forward to seeing you around!

[Starfish]

I usually plan a 3 hour drive from Seattle to Vancouver, but that is if there is no rush hour timing on either end...or the obvious border delay times like Sunday/Friday evenings, etc. And, of course, that is being very familiar with the drive.

[crazycanuck]

I think we'll just drive to Seattle from Van and skip the train/bus thing. Most likely we'll pick a Monday to venture over.

Grog-We'll be in Van for a few days as well & will post a TE van get together ven time nears. Mtn biking Whistler is a definite :D

[salsabike]

CC, we'll be SO happy to meet you guys!! Can't wait.

[Xrayted]

Yea!! :D

[Quillfred]

EEEEeeeeeHHaaaaa!!!!

I can't wait!!!

(I'm thinking if I get a really big shovel, I could tunnel a trail to Australia.)

A Delighted Quillfred

[crazycanuck]

Hey! Where in the world have you been dear??

NIce to see ya back here!!!

Would anyone travel up to Van to have a TE gals party?

[KnottedYet]

Me! I would! (gotta get my new passport pdq, eh?)

[salsabike]

Hell, yeah. But it would have to be on a weekend for those of us who work and can't take time off (school jobs where you don't get to pick your vacation days).

[crazycanuck]

Sunday the 19th of May is when we were planning on being back in Van by..

[MM_QFC!]

Hey! Where in the world have you been dear??

NIce to see ya back here!!!

Would anyone travel up to Van to have a TE gals party?



Maybe we could meet in between and have an option to ride too? There are some great roads in/around Birch Bay, Blaine, etc...

[mimitabby]

depending on when it is.. i might be up for taking a train up there.

[Quillfred]

Hey! Where in the world have you been dear??

NIce to see ya back here!!!

Would anyone travel up to Van to have a TE gals party?

In a word, YES!!!

Meanwhile I'll practice Bohemian Rhapsody for some mean karaoke competitions....oh mamamia let me go Oo O o

[crazycanuck]

Quill-karaoke :eek::o :o :o

I don't have a map handy but what's halfway? What about Bellingham?

Need to go and find a map..

Throw me some thoughts..

[KnottedYet]

B'ham is pretty much halfway.

And the Chrysalis Inn is a very niiiiiiice place to stay... http://www.thechrysalisinn.com/ and right on the bike path, too.

[salsabike]

Oh, what a nice idea.

[crazycanuck]

Ok, Bellingham sounds good to me. I just checked out msn maps n directions & it's only 2hrs drive.

I'll keep you updated & speak to the man.

In terms of dates, the only one that would suit everyone would be the 18th of may..

It's possible..

[kelownagirl]

Is that the long weekend? Bellingham? Hmmm...

[shootingstar]

Whenever you get around to returning to Canada, CC...
Land of the Canadian national comedy series: "Little Mosque on the Prairies".

Yes, I was in the Arctic,.. Iqualuit, Nunavut. Huskies ..and town in Jan. at around 11:30 am, land of the midnight sun. Not quite Calgary (or was it Edmonton), that you're from?

[crazycanuck]

Oh Sheep kappooops...don't tell me it's a long weekend :eek:...I have no clue about the holidays anymore up there..:(

Pooo..umm...

urugh..


SHooting star-cool!!! i'm from edmonton

[KnottedYet]

There are cheaper places to stay in Bellingham, cheaper than the Chrysalis. (but the decent ones are close enough in price to the smallest Chrysalis rooms to almost make it worth the switch) There is also camping at Larrabee State Park, which is bike riding distance from the Chrysalis (much of it along the Interurban bike trail). May wouldn't be bad for camping, and Larrabee is gorgeous.

Edit: Poopy! Just called the Chrysalis, they don't have "normal" rooms open that weekend due to hosting a large corporate group. All they have left are the suites (very nice) for $299 and up a night. I stayed in one of those, they really are very nice and could potentially hold 2 couples or 3 singles (a fold out couch and a fold out window seat in the bedroom). They have a jacuzzi tub in a bay window overlooking the water. Separate "living" room and bed room and bath room. Gas fireplace.

Anyway, what a bummer. The little rooms are sweet. Would have been perfect. There are other hotels in town, but none as nice as Chrysalis or as perfectly located on the bike path.

Oh, and Monday the 19th is Victoria Day.

[kelownagirl]

Just checked. Monday, May 19. Victoria Day. Yup it;s the May long weekend. The states has one the following weekend I think .

[crazycanuck]

Ah, it's the Victoria day long weekend..KG? T?

Hey Salsa, can you throw a sickie on the 20th..:rolleyes::p

Who'd be up to having a TE funky meet in Bellingham? Is it easier than Seattle?

I believe my aunt n uncle who are near seattle won't be home for us to see them so bellingham might just work.

[mimitabby]

Bellingham would certainly be easier for me. IT's a nice little town too!

[crazycanuck]

Pls tell me if we schedule this for May 18th in Bellingham which one of you crazy chickies would we meet?

Is there good shopping in Bellingham? Nice views?

I'll need to figure out logistics as we'd be returning from most likely Calgary with a rental car..

[Starfish]

I'm afraid I won't be able to make it. But, I always enjoy Bellingham. Water views, etc. Small town. Not cosmopolitan in the least. Don't know about the shopping.

[MM_QFC!]

If it's on the weekend and 5/18 is a Sunday, I think - then, I'm a solid maybe...we have a few months to firm it up.

Yes, Bellingham, especially the older, historic section, a bit south of downtown B'ham (which is Fairhaven) is on the water, heck it's got the ferry terminal to Alaska there...plenty of places to meet whether it's inside or outside too. There's a shopping mall just north of Bellingham called Bellis Fair...but the premier outlet mall is further south on I-5.

[crazycanuck]

I heard back from my aunt n uncle in Seattle and it's good news! :) They'll be home and have mentioned May 18th or 19th would suit!

So, forget bellingham..Seattle it is! :D

[mimitabby]

oh good! (although Bellingham would have been a cool adventure)

[salsabike]

The 18th or 19th would work fine for me. And if you really needed the 20th, if I had several weeks' notice, I could switch a work day, I think.

LaConnor would have been nice, too. But now we get to show you around Seattle, which is fun.

[crazycanuck]

Ok, how about we make it a monday night dinner?

Also, i''m a bit confused..My aunt n uncle actually live in Silverdale not on bainbridge island. I'm wandering around maps and am wondering if anyone can help me with the best directions..

:o I'm lost..

Should i start a new thread?

[MM_QFC!]

Ok, how about we make it a monday night dinner?

Also, i''m a bit confused..My aunt n uncle actually live in Silverdale not on bainbridge island. I'm wandering around maps and am wondering if anyone can help me with the best directions..

:o I'm lost..

Should i start a new thread?

No, I'd keep it in this thread, in that others have already responded here and will probably be looking for updates/finalized plans here.
So, you're thinking Monday night instead of the weekend?

Below is a link to the Google maps location for Silverdale, WA; so you can see its location in relation to Vancouver and Seattle. It's west of Seattle, via either the Seattle>Bainbridge Island or the Edmonds>Kingston ferry...and if you're coming south on I-5 from BC, you'd reach the Edmonds ferry first and hook up with state route 3 south to Silverdale...you can zoom in/out on the map and it should make more sense...

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=silverdale,+wa&ie=UTF8&ll=48.301467,-121.168213&spn=2.101071,5.064697&z=8

[crazycanuck]

Hey MM..I'll check that link out..thanks :)

Yep, Monday night but we'd probably be in Seattle on sunday visiting my Aunt n uncle. Also, most of the holiday traffic from canuckland will have settled down?

[MM_QFC!]

Yep, probably, as it's Victoria Day up north, right?
Also, X and Kit are in Portland, OR...about same distance/driving time from Seattle area, as Vancouver - 2.5ish hours, but no border crossing necessary!

[crazycanuck]

Ok..listen up or should that be read up..:rolleyes:

CrazyC & CrazyI will be there on the 18th of May and venture off early on the 20th..Dinner on the 19th sounds coolio.

Dinner suggestions? Someone's abode?

We'll be venturing from Calgary and then venturing up to Van..

[kelownagirl]

What day(s) are you going to be the Kelowna area? Do you have/need accomodations?

[Wahine]

May 19th in Seattle. I'll check it out and try to block it off. It'll be tough because it's a school night. But I'll try to make it work.

[crazycanuck]

Kg-About the 8th in Vernon/Kelowna. We have accommodation :)

Wahine-are you studying again?

[shootingstar]

Gee, at the furious amount of visiting and travelling, canuck, Vancouver will buzz by you like a fly.

HOnest by now, I've lost track when you are arriving..back into Canuckland.

[crazycanuck]

Shootingstar..the whole trip will buzz by too quickly!

We arrive in Canuckland on the 5th of May.

[KnottedYet]

Monday May 19 in Seattle - I'll be off work in time for a late dinner. Where are you guys staying? (may I suggest someplace outside of Seattle proper? How about the Harbor Inn in Edmonds? Cheaper than Seattle, nicer, on a bike route, and a 2 blocks from the ferry dock and beach.) (and restaurants within walking distance where we can all meet. Thai, seafood, Mexican, faux-new-age, pub food, etc.)

[crazycanuck]

I've no clue where we're staying yet. The 18th we'll be @ my aunt n uncle's place but on the 19th, dunno.

We want to mozy out of Seattle mid morning of the 20th so is the place you mention ok for that?

Also, does anyone have the 19th off and want to hang out with us kids? We'd love a tour guide!

[crazycanuck]

Yo Yo..Time is nearing for the crazy ones to meet you kids!

We're def going to be there on the 19th & 20th.

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

[Xrayted]

I wouldn't be able to make it up there for dinner if I work that day because it's 3 hrs from here to Seattle, even if we don't encounter much traffic. I will see what I can do about getting the 19th and 20th off. It would be rough to try to drive home that night and then go to work the next morning. :eek: Kit has already made her mind up to miss her Tues classes. (no Monday classes this term) We absolutely want to be there. :D Can't wait to meet you in person. :cool:

[Wahine]

X - you should consider taking the train up and back. It's not that expensive, you won't have to worry about traffic and you could sleep on the train on the way back.

I'm still trying to figure out if I can make it happen.

[crazycanuck]

Yo X..why not join us for a tour of SEattle on the 19th?. I'm sure Kit can find some sort of cool coffee shop & other "different" shops :cool:

[sgtiger]

Yay, CC's trip to the PNW is getting closer!<enthusiastically jumping-up and down and clapping> Hopefully we'll still be here; but if not, I'd be up to driving to Seattle from the Portland area.

[mimitabby]

CC, remember, I am 15 minutes from Seatac airport. We can help you.

[crazycanuck]

Thanks Mimi for the offer! We've decided to drive to Seattle after all. It's only 11hrs which is easy peasy!

[mimitabby]

only 11 hours is easy?!??! you are made of tougher stuff than I!

[Xrayted]

I asked off for the 19th and 20th. It usually takes them a while and a few followup emails and a knock directly on their door before we hear decisions on days off, so I will keep bugging until I know if I got it.

CC - are you planning any riding in Seattle or is this just a sightseeing tour? We don't know much in Seattle but we are willing to bum along and see what we uncover. :D

Wahine - we may just drive up anyway and camp out somewhere overnight.

[crazycanuck]

Mimi-we drove 3500km in 2 1/2 days in 06 to visit friends in Melbourne. (we took our time on the way back :)) Driving from Calgary to Seattle will be rather easy..except for the freakin border crossing :rolleyes:

X-Dunno if we're going to bike in Seattle..I think we'd be more than happy to see what we can uncover :eek: :rolleyes: Knowin you two...:eek::D :rolleyes: :p

[salsabike]

I might be able to get that day too...

[MM_QFC!]

I should be able to meet up with y'all for dinner...

[KnottedYet]

The border crossing really isn't that bad.

If you're worried about it, consider taking the Sumas/Huntington crossing instead. (but honestly, by the time you diverted to Huntingdon, you've used up the time it would take to wait for the crossing in Blaine)

I've got 19th and 20th May off, but since it's my b-day I might be spending part of it with my family.

[crazycanuck]

Knot-i'm a wee bit paranoid about our passports not being machine readable. I phoned the NZ passport office in Sydney & they can't tell me as it depends on each one..I'll have to call them tomorrow

I'd hate to annoy a customs officer!

[crazycanuck]

HEWWWppp...

My aunt & uncle have to attend a full military funeral back in DC & won't be able to catch up with us..

My question is..can someone recommend a nice place to stay? I'd do a web search but would like to go by word of mouth..

[jesvetmed]

What city is it that you will be in when you need a place to stay?

[crazycanuck]

Seattle..somewhere central to all the seattle ladies..

[kat_h]

I no one has floor space for you then maybe a double room at the http://www.greentortoise.net/

[Kitsune06]

CC -have you decided what's up yet? Are you completely switching days or are you just able to hang out with us longer?

[shootingstar]

Hey! Where in the world have you been dear??

NIce to see ya back here!!!

Would anyone travel up to Van to have a TE gals party?

Well, if things change for a get-together, let me know. In fact, you and hubby will be passing near where I work...I work about 20 kms. just north of the Canada-U.S. border...near the Golden Ears Regional Park in Langely. Yes, we do have Americans that commute everyday to our workplace.

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

But I live downtown. LONG commute..since it's not by car.

[crazycanuck]

Ok..*sigh* updated info.

Bellingham sounds much easier in terms of driving back to Vancouver. It's towards the end of our trip & the less driving time(from Calgary) before we get on plane for a gazonking long time :eek: Gives us time to pack, shop :D etc in Van. (i want to thwack ian..he wants to visit SEattle but can't make up his freakin mind..he does however want to drive through Montana to Bellingham from Calgary..ARHHHH)

So, the 19th is the best bet & it's possible we could be there by the evening of the 18th depending on traffic from Calgary. We'll probably head off sometime on the 20th..

If you're up for Bellingham..let me know. If you're up for Vancouver, let me know.

Starfish-how far is your work from Maple Ridge?

So..yes it's bellingham..

[shootingstar]

Ok..*sigh* updated info.

Bellingham sounds much easier in terms of driving back to Vancouver. It's towards the end of our trip & the less driving time(from Calgary) before we get on plane for a gazonking long time :eek: Gives us time to pack, shop :D etc in Van. (i want to thwack ian..he wants to visit SEattle but can't make up his freakin mind..he does however want to drive through Montana to Bellingham from Calgary..ARHHHH)

So, the 19th is the best bet & it's possible we could be there by the evening of the 18th depending on traffic from Calgary. We'll probably head off sometime on the 20th..

If you're up for Bellingham..let me know. If you're up for Vancouver, let me know.

Starfish-how far is your work from Maple Ridge?

So..yes it's bellingham..

Is it Starfish in the ocean or star in the sky that you are asking?
Let's put it this way I am across the Fraser River from Maple Ridge. It's the same Fraser River where 1+ million salmon swim in near us, from the Pacific. We are constructing a bridge.....and it will have signed bike paths. And the bike routes will hook up the Trans Canada trail..as you may know, a trail that has different parts of completed routes across Canada.

Whatever you do, make your visit to Vancouver enjoyable though it might be short(?).

[Popoki_Nui]

CC: are you coming to Victoria?

[Starfish]

Starfish-how far is your work from Maple Ridge?


I think you mean to be asking ShootingStar?

I don't know where Maple Ridge is...and I am hours from Bellingham.

[MM_QFC!]

Ok..*sigh* updated info.

Bellingham sounds much easier in terms of driving back to Vancouver. It's towards the end of our trip & the less driving time(from Calgary) before we get on plane for a gazonking long time :eek: Gives us time to pack, shop :D etc in Van. (i want to thwack ian..he wants to visit SEattle but can't make up his freakin mind..he does however want to drive through Montana to Bellingham from Calgary..ARHHHH)

So, the 19th is the best bet & it's possible we could be there by the evening of the 18th depending on traffic from Calgary. We'll probably head off sometime on the 20th..

If you're up for Bellingham..let me know. If you're up for Vancouver, let me know.

Starfish-how far is your work from Maple Ridge?

So..yes it's bellingham..

Hi CC,
I can sure understand your situation and agree that Bellingham is a better option for you; however, it won't work for me to meet up, as it's about a 1.5-2 hour drive for me, after a full Monday's work schedule, plus anticipating traffic delays, so it just isn't practical for me to plan on driving up there.
I hope that you have safe and fun travels and don't exhaust yourselves driving every which way!
Mary

[Grog]

I'm up for a ride anywhere on the 20th. The 19th and 21st is my sweetie's graduation (yes, two days...) so I ain't going nowhere then!

But I can ride in Vancouver or even in Bellingham on those days. We could also arrange a ride around Fort Langley to Abbotsford, along (or crossing) the 49th parallel (US/Canada border). There are nice rides to be had around there. I assume there is some good riding to do in Maple Ridge, too, I was there yesterday but in a car, some nice roads around... and we can wave goodbye to Shootingstar along the way!

[shootingstar]

I cannot disclose my exact work location. But this is part our project, in Maple Ridge. lst photo. 2nd photo...the start of the bridge and highway approaches from north, south, etc.

Yes, it is pretty in various areas in Maple Ridge. Fort langley too.

I noticed a few gals cycling into our workplace..without their helmets. But they are on work visas..directly from Europe.

[Xrayted]

Where's Bellingham?

[MM_QFC!]

Where's Bellingham?

Hi X,
It's about a 20-30 min from Canadian border crossing at Blaine, WA...about 90 miles north of Seattle...
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=bellingham,+wa&safe=on&ie=UTF8&ll=48.770672,-122.471466&spn=0.231706,0.457993&t=h&z=11

[Xrayted]

wow. So I have no idea... what's in Bellingham?

[crazycanuck]

Umm i thought that's the place that Mimi suggested a while back..Man is it the right place name?? :o

X-i have no clue either about what's in Bellingham..:o

Popoki-no :( but then again plans may change when we get up north..

Grog & van ladies...if we do a ride we'll need to rent 2 bikes..

I'll have a peek @ the calendar this weekend and do a bit more thinking on this...

[mimitabby]

Bellingham is a nice little city with fun shops and stuff.
It's midway between Seattle and the Canadian Border.
NONE of us live anywhere near it though.
There is a great italian restaurant there.

[Grog]

Grog & van ladies...if we do a ride we'll need to rent 2 bikes..


Easy. Reckless Cycles has acceptable road bikes.

But we can also just drink beer!!

[crazycanuck]

Grog..Ian will like that idea..beer..I'll just be the designated thinker...

Hmmm..i guess i'll have to discuss with Ian travelling to Seattle if we want to meet you kids.. Waaaaaaaa..I wanna meet you guys..*sniff* *sniff* Honk..snork..

I'll keep you guys updated.....*sigh* this is rather depressing :(

[Popoki_Nui]

Popoki-no :( but then again plans may change when we get up north..


Whoops. :o My mistake, sorry. I somehow had it in my head you were coming to Victoria for a day. I gotta pay better attention. :rolleyes:

[MM_QFC!]

Grog..Ian will like that idea..beer..I'll just be the designated thinker...

Hmmm..i guess i'll have to discuss with Ian travelling to Seattle if we want to meet you kids.. Waaaaaaaa..I wanna meet you guys..*sniff* *sniff* Honk..snork..

I'll keep you guys updated.....*sigh* this is rather depressing :(


Don't be depressed; there's only so much you can cram into your trip and hopefully, you'll have a relaxed, fun time w/o driving and driving all over.

I agree w/Mimi - Bellingham (and Fairhaven, the historical district and port for the Alaska Marine Hwy system aka ferry) is cute and has plenty to see and do; it's just too far to drive on a work/weeknight...as my morning starts @5!
Mary

[Grog]

Grog..Ian will like that idea..beer..I'll just be the designated thinker...

Where exactly are you guys going to be staying?

[crazycanuck]

MM-i hear ya..

Grog-to be honest, i have no clue where in downtown van my aunt lives :o Somewhere nice i believe... Reminds me i need to get her address...might help if we want to drive there from the airport! :rolleyes:

We're still throwing ideas around on what to do between the 18th & 21st..many ideas have come up..spend a few days down @ waterton or jasper or drive into montana the list is endless..

aaaarrgggggg

[shootingstar]

As mentioned before somewhere in the mists of forum chatter, I live in downtown Van.

After living in Ontario for over 40 yrs., also visiting Calgary several times and other parts of Alberta (Edmonton, Rockies, Waterton national park area, etc.) and also through Bellingham several times.....it is safe to say..... downtown Vancouver area has some beautiful vistas and things to do.

We live at the foot of the famed Seawall bike path... really it kills me to see hundreds of bikes in our building's communal bike locker...not used often. There are enough routes and scenery to inspire enough people to bike and jog in our area.
http://www3.telus.net/public/hjbecker/JeansVisions/image018.htm There are other near-photos here...of your native country...CC.

And yes (for 1 of the slides), we did bike touring in the Canadian Maritime provinces for 3 wks.

I can appreciate your problem in trip planning CC. Must be like Australia...big country, little time to see all the things you wish.

[crazycanuck]

Right...don't give up on us not going to Seattle quite yet. Ian had a look at the distance from Calgary & it's not that far in his mind..

So, there might be light @ the end of the tunnel...

[crazycanuck]

we're in business...We are def driving to Seattle.

We're driving down into the US(montana) from Calgary & over to seattle. I believe we pass through Coeur D'alene & a few other places.

So,well see you Seattleites on the 19th :D

[bikerHen]

Okay! I'm right next door to Coeur d'Alene! And on the way to Seattle. So you have to at least stop, have a cup of coffee and say Hi! :D bikerHen

[crazycanuck]

Yo PNW ladies,

I am beginning to wonder where in Seattle to have dinner or whatever with you guys. We fly out next thursday night & won't be online much during our trip so i;'d like to organize something before we venture off.

I'm working on accommodation now & will keep yar updated.

Bikerhen-can you pm me about where exactly you are & how far it is off the hghway?

Tanks kids!

[mimitabby]

um, I thought the brewery?

[salsabike]

CC, what kind of food would you guys like to have? Seafood? Ray's at Shilshole is on the water and has good seafood. Brewery's food is pretty good if beer is on your mind...there are lots of good restaurants around so give us some idea of what kinds of food you might like to have.

[crazycanuck]

If the brewery suits everyone's pallates then let's head there..

[crazycanuck]

Just another couple of questions..

Is the Brewery a long bike ride from the city centre? We'll be wandering round Seattle for most of the day & can *gasp* drive if need be. Does anyone work in the city centre & want a hitch to the brewery?

If anyone can help me out that would be great!

[Xrayted]

HEY CC!!! Where are ye??? Having a good time, I hope. :D

[mimitabby]

Just another couple of questions..

Is the Brewery a long bike ride from the city centre? We'll be wandering round Seattle for most of the day & can *gasp* drive if need be. Does anyone work in the city centre & want a hitch to the brewery?

If anyone can help me out that would be great!

I never saw this. It's about 14 miles (ABOUT) from city center.
Boy, I could sure meet you downtown!

[crazycanuck]

Yo Yo kids!

Mimi-we're more than happy to give you a hitch to the brewery :)

NOw..are we sure we want to go to the brewery?? How many of you actually work in town?? Is town better?

Let's discuss this kids!!!

[salsabike]

CC, either place will work for me. I care more about what you'd like to do for dinner. If you're heavily into the brewery part of Redhook and care about being there to drink their ale, or whatever, that's fine with me. Their food is good enough. If you want to have a "Seattle" sort of waterfront/seafood/water view, good-seafood-dinner, then downtown or waterfront would be better. Either's okay, honest. And I will bring MM_QFC if she can't yet bring herself.

[KnottedYet]

I'm a little behind at the moment. Are we talking May 19th? Or May 18th? Or some other day entirely?

I work downtown Seattle. Getting to Redhook on a weeknight could be a bit challenging for me time-wise.

[Xrayted]

It's Monday the 19th, right? I've taken Mon and Tues off and we will be coming up to Seattle maybe on Sunday to hang out and do a little cruising of our own.
Looking to stay at a state park. It looks like there are a couple of them in the area for us campers. :D

[salsabike]

The dinner date I have on my calendar is Monday May 19.

[mimitabby]

yeah, that's what i was thinking too. Monday. If you guys are going to be downtown, that's 6 miles direct from my office. (I get off work at 3pm)

[LBTC]

Yep it's the 19th & in town would be much better. Throw me some names of restaurants & I can check them out online to have a peek.

(this is cc btw)

[salsabike]

Cutter's Bayhouse, right by Pike Place Market, comes to mind. So does Etta's Seafood, across the street from Cutter's.

[KnottedYet]

The express busses stop running after about 6 pm. If we meet downtown can I bum a ride home off one of you north-enders? I'll give you gas money and gaze at you adoringly with my sweet puppy-dog eyes in eternal gratitude....
:p

[salsabike]

<snort> Well, that's all the convincing I'D ever need....Seriously, Knot, of course--I'll take you and Mary both home, if she can come.

[mimitabby]

Downtown, there's Ivar's main restaurant, too, isn't there?

YAY ! it sounds like downtown is winning.

[crazycanuck]

Cutter's bayhouse sounds just fine to me :) I just had a peek @ thier menu on thier website...mmmmmmm

So, who's a comin?

[mimitabby]

me, me!
Maybe Raleighdon too

[KnottedYet]

Meeeeee!!!!!!!!

[salsabike]

Me but no Chris.

[crazycanuck]

Where's quillfred? She was interested but i've not heard from her in a bit...

[MM_QFC!]

Hey all, Linda and I plan to be there. At least at this point, I'm hoping to be able to be driving again, so I think that I'm ok for transport - thanks so much for your offer, Salsa. And, Knott, we'll figure on driving you home, ok?
I do get up pretty darn early during the week, so I'll look to make it an early night; what time are we meeting?
I'll rest up for it!
Mary

[salsabike]

Hey, you guys, let's try to set a time to meet at Cutter's for dinner. For the sake of the folks who work downtown, not to mention the early-rising workers, how does 5:30 or 6:00 sound?

[mimitabby]

530 sounds fine. 600 is fine too

[MM_QFC!]

Same here...I'm picking up Linda on my way and we can be there by 5:30 too. How many will we have?
Mary

[mimitabby]

Count me in for 2 people.

did someone PM Quillfred?

[Xrayted]

Kit and I are with ya. Cutters it is. It looks like we will be spending the day with CC and Mr CC. I guess I better sleep extra on Sunday. I'm not sure I would normally have enough energy for that crazy chickie. :rolleyes::D:cool:

Is this the right place? We will mapquest it.
Cutters Bayhouse
2001 Western Avenue
Seattle, WA 98121

Any more ideas on what to do with our guests all day in your city? Please give me some ideas of what not to miss. I think we may do a walking/weaving/slightlydrunkentripping tour in that general area. ;)

[crazycanuck]

we're happy with 5:30pm if that suits...

Quillfred & I are discussing touring options..

[KnottedYet]

5:30 works for me. I'll be walking right down the hill, no problem!

And thanks MM_QFC and Salsa for the ride offers. (I'll just adore both of you, regardless of how I get home, how 'bout that?) :D

[sgtiger]

I think I'll be able to make it.:)

[mimitabby]

Is someone making reservations? It wouldn't hurt. I'm counting:

CC & Ian
Kit & X
QFC & Linda
Me & RD
Salsa
Knot
SGtiger
maybe Teigyr

that's 12 people!

[crazycanuck]

I hope someone local doesn't mind making the reservations..I give ye big hug for doing it :D

[mimitabby]

I can do it, just want to make sure i have the count right.
I'll make reservations tomorrow (Friday) morning, so please, if you're going, speak now or....

[salsabike]

Don't know if Teigyr's coming or not, but I'd include her in. She may be on a flight. And it's easier to have more seats than not enough...I think Quillfred may be coming too?

[crazycanuck]

Put quillfred down just in case..:)

[mimitabby]

I made reservations for twelve, reservations under the name Mimi & my last name.

[MM_QFC!]

thanks Mimi...looking forward to seeing y'all...in the meantime, enjoy this gorgeous (cycling) weather and be careful out there!
Tailwinds!
Mary

[crazycanuck]

Tank ya Mimi :)

If anyone would like to join Kit, X, ian & I wandering round seattle, you're welcome to come along.

See ya about 530

[KnottedYet]

It doesn't look like I'm gonna make it after all. (I'll try, but don't think I'll make it.)

Sorry, guys! :o

[mimitabby]

It doesn't look like I'm gonna make it after all. (I'll try, but don't think I'll make it.)

Sorry, guys! :o

what?? how am i going to be able to give you your birthday present??

[crazycanuck]

Thanks again Sgtiger, MMQFC, Mimi, Don, X, Kit, QUillfred, Salsa & Linda for meeting us for dinner :D

You guys are a hoot & thoroughly enjoyed your company.

Knot-I really wanted to meet you :cool:

[salsabike]

That was great! Just wish it had been a little longer...

[Trek420]

what?? how am i going to be able to give you your birthday present??

Guess there's gonna have to be another PNW ride?

[Xrayted]

:D:cool::D CC and her DH are even better in person. We had a great day hanging with the both of them and Quillfred. We have some pics to upload later today. I promise I'll do it. Really. Have to get caught up around here first.

It was wonderful to see all of the Seattlites last night. What an entertaining group. :D

So, when/where is the next gathering? Maybe in Australia? :rolleyes:

[teigyr]

Yes, pictures :D:D:D

I am so sorry I missed everyone and thank you for thinking of me for the reservations. It sounds like you all had a great time?

And please (fingers crossed) I hope I am around for the next one.

[Xrayted]

Okay, I finally got a computer that works so here's some pics. Sorry it took so long...

At Pikes Place Market... apparently the unsanitary market is just across the tracks.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/CC%20in%20Seattle/sanitarymarket.jpg
On the monorail leaving the music and sci fi museums. Quillfred, Kitsune, Ian, CC
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/CC%20in%20Seattle/monorail.jpg
unusual perspective of the needle-thingy-doowop.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/CC%20in%20Seattle/perspective.jpg
goofing around. CC, X, Quillfred and Ian on the ground
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/CC%20in%20Seattle/goofingaround.jpg
CC and Kitsune at dinner.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/CC%20in%20Seattle/KitandCC.jpg
CC's DH Ian and Mimi's DH Don. Yes Don, he really is crazy.:p
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/CC%20in%20Seattle/IanandRD.jpg
breaking bread with friends. Mimi, Sgtiger, MM_QFC, Linda, CC.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/CC%20in%20Seattle/dinertime.jpg
Salsa, Mimi, Sgtiger, CC
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/CC%20in%20Seattle/seriousdiscussion.jpg
CC and her little friend, Mr. Crab
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/CC%20in%20Seattle/CCandherfriend.jpg
X taking a pic
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/CC%20in%20Seattle/Xtakingapic.jpg

[sgtiger]

X, it looks like you had a lot of fun touring the city with CC and co. Thanks for post the pics.:D

[mimitabby]

what hysterical photos! Thanks for putting them up, X

[crazycanuck]

I have some cool photos to post..will do later this afternoon. I have to post a heap on facebook too..

[crazycanuck]

photos