@Donica Quote from: Donica on January 06, 2019, 11:52:38 AM
What fun!!! It looks like everyone was having a great time. I sooo have to come up and visit. I've been to Oregon many times but a trip the Wa to visit with Kenda is a two day road trip from here. One day I will make the trip girls! I have a few pans on the fire to take care of first.
Stop by the Bay Area and maybe I'll do the second half with you!
Hugs and smiles from another California girl
Quote from: Jessica on January 06, 2019, 11:57:57 AM
@Donica
Stop by the Bay Area and maybe I'll do the second half with you!
Hugs and smiles from another California girl
Your on Jessica! I'm not sure when I can make this happen but it is in my bucket list for sure. Who knows? Maybe I'll make the trip in between surgeries?
<<<ROAD TRIP>>>
Quote from: Donica on January 06, 2019, 12:27:45 PM
Your on Jessica! I'm not sure when I can make this happen but it is in my bucket list for sure. Who knows? Maybe I'll make the trip in between surgeries? <<<ROAD TRIP>>>
Wait until early September and two other women could join you for a girls trip to the Pacific Northwest!
That is a trip I want to make! Going to Roslyn and seeing Kendra play! Hopefully I will be able to make the trip this year! Y'all look great!
Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 06, 2019, 01:07:30 PM
Wait until early September and two other women could join you for a girls trip to the Pacific Northwest!
That would be wonderful Steph! A Susan's reunion in the Northwest. Oh dear! Can you imagine that many party girls in one place? All of the Pacific Northwest will probably increase their police presence :o
Quote from: Donica on January 06, 2019, 02:08:41 PM
That would be wonderful Steph! A Susan's reunion in the Northwest. Oh dear! Can you imagine that many party girls in one place? All of the Pacific Northwest will probably increase their police presence :o
This was last June in Astoria at the Pride Parade....
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180610/163918365219ddcf991f11f887204c63.jpg)
Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 06, 2019, 01:07:30 PM
Wait until early September and two other women could join you for a girls trip to the Pacific Northwest!
September sounds great to me
@Steph2.0 @Donica @islandgirl @Kendra @Laurie @Michelle_P
Quote from: Jessica on January 07, 2019, 10:33:32 AM
September sounds great to me @Steph2.0 @Donica @islandgirl @Kendra @Laurie @Michelle_P
We're gonna need a bigger van!
Cassie suggests we have a banner on the side that says "Pleiades Tabernacle Choir." All together now in seven part Harmony...
Stephanie
Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 07, 2019, 11:54:18 AM
We're gonna need a bigger van!
Cassie suggests we have a banner on the side that says "Pleiades Tabernacle Choir." All together now in seven part Harmony...
Stephanie
That sounds like so much fun!
We will have various singing pitches to work with, depending on the point of transition with each of us.
I'm gonna need a bigger condo... :laugh:
I'll bring sleeping bags!
Oh! And I have a blow-up mattress!
Quote from: Donica on January 07, 2019, 02:01:46 PM
I'll bring sleeping bags!
Oh! And I have a blow-up mattress!
We have created a monster!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190107/590d9b839a8022c223b7d8f9c8615523.jpg)
Quote from: Jessica on January 07, 2019, 10:33:32 AM
September sounds great to me @Steph2.0 @Donica @islandgirl @Kendra @Laurie @Michelle_P
Don't count me out! Susan has wanted to do some travelling, and that is an area of the country we have yet to visit!
You guys be sure to post about the plans for your trip to the Pacific Northwest. I'm already here and would love to meet you.
@Jessica_Rose @GordonG Quote from: Jessica_Rose on January 07, 2019, 08:47:51 PM
Don't count me out! Susan has wanted to do some travelling, and that is an area of the country we have yet to visit!
The more the merrier 🌸🌸🌸
Maybe we need a bus 🚌
Quote from: GordonG on January 07, 2019, 08:54:34 PM
You guys be sure to post about the plans for your trip to the Pacific Northwest. I'm already here and would love to meet you.
Will do 🚌
Hugs and smiles from a California girl
@Steph2.0 - can you pick me up at IAD when you fly out there? I pack light for the occasion.
This is very tempting and I should be OK to flay again in September...
~S
Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 07, 2019, 11:54:18 AM
Quote from: Jessica on January 07, 2019, 10:33:32 AM
September sounds great to me @Steph2.0 @Donica @islandgirl @Kendra @Laurie @Michelle_P
We're gonna need a bigger van!
Cassie suggests we have a banner on the side that says "Pleiades Tabernacle Choir." All together now in seven part Harmony...
Stephanie
Quote from: sarah1972 on January 08, 2019, 09:59:48 AM
@Steph2.0 - can you pick me up at IAD when you fly out there? I pack light for the occasion.
Uhh... aren't you going to the wrong Washington?
Stephanie
FWIW, please keep in mind that what drove the September time frame was my special appointment with Marci Bowers, currently scheduled for September 25th. I was warned that this could shift as much as a couple of weeks either way, and I won't know for sure until about three months before, as we start getting the paperwork in place (wouldn't it be cool if I was being reborn on my September 3rd birthday?). So it's a bit premature for me to start any serious planning until June or July. Keep in mind, too, that I intend to take @sassycassie to Yosemite and a grand tour of San Francisco pre-op, so I'll need time for that. I'll be a little busy post-op...
Stephanie
Quote from: Jessica on January 07, 2019, 09:48:49 PM
Maybe we need a bus [emoji590]
Too much, the Magic Bus!
Stephanie
@Steph2.0 Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 08, 2019, 10:23:52 AM
FWIW, please keep in mind that what drove the September time frame was my special appointment with Marci Bowers, currently scheduled for September 25th. I was warned that this could shift as much as a couple of weeks either way, and I won't know for sure until about three months before, as we start getting the paperwork in place (wouldn't it be cool if I was being reborn on my September 3rd birthday?). So it's a bit premature for me to start any serious planning until June or July. Keep in mind, too, that I intend to take @SassyCassie to Yosemite and a grand tour of San Francisco pre-op, so I'll need time for that. I'll be a little busy post-op...
Stephanie
Stephanie, if you're true to your intent to visit Yosemite, I could bring my travel trailer to Yosemite Valley for us to stay in, it sleeps 8 comfortably. I have a vast experience with the park and could show you the sights. This of course requires planning and reservations made months in advance.
No, I was hoping you take one of your little planes and I can ride along. ;D ;D ;D I live only 16 miles away from IAD...
Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 08, 2019, 10:14:47 AM
Quote from: sarah1972 on January 08, 2019, 09:59:48 AM
@Steph2.0 - can you pick me up at IAD when you fly out there? I pack light for the occasion.
Uhh... aren't you going to the wrong Washington?
Stephanie
Quote from: Jessica on January 08, 2019, 10:37:34 AM
@Steph2.0
Stephanie, if you're true to your intent to visit Yosemite, I could bring my travel trailer to Yosemite Valley for us to stay in, it sleeps 8 comfortably. I have a vast experience with the park and could show you the sights. This of course requires planning and reservations made months in advance.
Wow, that would be pretty cool. They have camping in the valley?
I've been there three times before, but Cassie hasn't seen it and really needs to.
The moment I have a definite date for GCS I'll be ready to make reservations!
Stephanie
Quote from: sarah1972 on January 08, 2019, 10:42:57 AM
No, I was hoping you take one of your little planes and I can ride along. ;D ;D ;D I live only 16 miles away from IAD...
Oh! Umm no. There are way too many reason why not. First, it's not likely I'd fly one of my planes to California, especially since I'd have to fly it back, and post-op there's no way.
Second, you are not getting me anywhere near DC's airspace. It's the ugliest in the country. Just the wake of an F-16 two miles away would tear me apart!
Finally, the second seat in my two-seater would already be occupied. Unless you want to ride outside?
Stephanie
Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 08, 2019, 11:45:20 AM
Oh! Umm no. There are way too many reason why not. First, it's not likely I'd fly one of my planes to California, especially since I'd have to fly it back, and post-op there's no way.
Second, you are not getting me anywhere near DC's airspace. It's the ugliest in the country. Just the wake of an F-16 two miles away would tear me apart!
Finally, the second seat in my two-seater would already be occupied. Unless you want to ride outside?
Stephanie
But if you did fly here, you could land 1 mile away from where I live (the flight path goes over our house) at our small local airport.
Quote from: Jessica on January 08, 2019, 11:52:05 AM
But if you did fly here, you could land 1 mile away from where I live (the flight path goes over our house) at our small local airport.
Only if that airport's outside the ADIZ surrounding DC! Security is crazy inside it and I'm keeping waayyy outside that!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190108/cde967bb6b416dcbf53df26ed5db5030.jpg)
Stephanie
Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 08, 2019, 11:59:24 AM
Only if that airport's outside the ADIZ surrounding DC! Security is crazy inside it and I'm keeping waayyy outside that!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190108/cde967bb6b416dcbf53df26ed5db5030.jpg)
Stephanie
Is 2403 miles far enough?
Only 112 planes in sight right now... And there are smaller airports close by outside the "crazy" zone.
(https://hkjukg.dm.files.1drv.com/y4mCXXLjfT9BV-FWlo4SDHrwasqqBlNaLDb8CF-1nohBMSL6pM8rvkJGxuxYnlEiBWLZ855-5m3p1Ou1Lq3RrDLnYk9AhrSPEc0RPh0UYAAdtem7K3lUNlVYf87jWC0Yib1TxXE0wr-wKhXAhX8lr63zy--yQWjW8FlJIMMWiaKVGWrV_c1U6BPrZmfS9hdAiW_X4j5ICW1oz5X2dwZE0kxKQ?width=1258&height=686&cropmode=none)
I saw that guy standing on top of a plane in an airshow... but it would ruin my hair...
I found some cheap flights on Alaskan Airlines to Seattle :-) Now we just need a final date!
Quote from: Jessica on January 08, 2019, 12:03:35 PM
Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 08, 2019, 11:59:24 AM
Only if that airport's outside the ADIZ surrounding DC! Security is crazy inside it and I'm keeping waayyy outside that!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190108/cde967bb6b416dcbf53df26ed5db5030.jpg)
Stephanie
Is 2403 miles far enough?
My transportation fees will be about $40 each way.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190108/d7c831b06aaa3cdf180cf940507ac29a.jpg)
It's been awhile but I've been to Yosemite a few times. Your going to have a great support team with you through your surgery Stephanie. I would be up for all of that. I'd love to see Yosemite again especially with all of you ladies.
Not only is all of the Pacific Northwest going to increase there police presents but the bears in Yosemite are going to run and hide too ;D
Quote from: Jessica on January 08, 2019, 12:27:09 PM
My transportation fees will be about $40 each way.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190108/d7c831b06aaa3cdf180cf940507ac29a.jpg)
Wow! You work cheap Jess! I'll cover that both ways. Hummm! I don't think we're all going to fit. I'll drive too. $25 will fill my Cosmos sled tank.
Unfortunately spam cans win on $ front. Flying that distance is typically not cost effective for GA. Closest I'd get to IAD is warrenton or fredricksburg if there were a compelling reason. Anyone got a velocity or RV10 we could borrow? NEver know where I'll be but I'd like to meet y'all. the flying alone would be worth the trip.
Quote from: Jaime320 on January 08, 2019, 12:40:49 PM
Unfortunately spam cans win on $ front. Flying that distance is typically not cost effective for GA. Closest I'd get to IAD is warrenton or fredricksburg if there were a compelling reason. Anyone got a velocity or RV10 we could borrow? NEver know where I'll be but I'd like to meet y'all. the flying alone would be worth the trip.
@Jaime320 stay tuned for updates in the future!
Hugs and smiles from a California girl
While the enthusiasm is appreciated, please keep in mind that Steph is out west for surgery. Having done this myself and provided support for several others, including extended stays at Michelle's Nest, I have a few suggestions.
1. Allow a few days of quiet time before surgery, to calm and center yourself. This is about the patient, not her posse.
2. Post op, plan on being around for two weeks; one in hospital and one resting and recovering at the Nest. The patient may have a post op checkup at around 10-14 days after surgery.
Please remember to keep the patient centered. Her needs come first, always.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: Michelle_P on January 08, 2019, 01:45:29 PM
While the enthusiasm is appreciated, please keep in mind that Steph is out west for surgery. Having done this myself and provided support for several others, including extended stays at Michelle's Nest, I have a few suggestions.
1. Allow a few days of quiet time before surgery, to calm and center yourself. This is about the patient, not her posse.
2. Post op, plan on being around for two weeks; one in hospital and one resting and recovering at the Nest. The patient may have a post op checkup at around 10-14 days after surgery.
Please remember to keep the patient centered. Her needs come first, always.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Thank you Michelle! Lots to think about with an endeavor such as getting a bunch cackling hens together. 🌸🌸🌸
Quote from: Jaime320 on January 08, 2019, 12:40:49 PM
Unfortunately spam cans win on $ front. Flying that distance is typically not cost effective for GA. Closest I'd get to IAD is warrenton or fredricksburg if there were a compelling reason. Anyone got a velocity or RV10 we could borrow? NEver know where I'll be but I'd like to meet y'all. the flying alone would be worth the trip.
The meetup would actually be in Roslyn, WA on the West Coast. I was just joking Steph2.0 can pick me up in her little plane at IAD...
Quote from: Michelle_P on January 08, 2019, 01:45:29 PM
While the enthusiasm is appreciated, please keep in mind that Steph is out west for surgery. Having done this myself and provided support for several others, including extended stays at Michelle's Nest, I have a few suggestions.
1. Allow a few days of quiet time before surgery, to calm and center yourself. This is about the patient, not her posse.
2. Post op, plan on being around for two weeks; one in hospital and one resting and recovering at the Nest. The patient may have a post op checkup at around 10-14 days after surgery.
Please remember to keep the patient centered. Her needs come first, always.
Thank you, Michelle. I do tend to overdo things. In Europe I was on the run right up to the morning of surgery. I figured I'd get plenty of sleep from then on, but your point about having quiet time beforehand is well taken. Getting me centered might be a problem, though, when I'm already so unbalanced.
Stephanie
Getting back to the topic at hand, notably a west coast road trip with a stop at the Brick for an evening of, "Free beer @ exit 80".
Please count Deb and me in on this. We have been planning a west coast swing, Canada to San Diego, for August and September. Catching Free Beer at that road house is a must!
Tia Anne
Quote from: Michelle_P on January 08, 2019, 01:45:29 PM
While the enthusiasm is appreciated, please keep in mind that Steph is out west for surgery. Having done this myself and provided support for several others, including extended stays at Michelle's Nest, I have a few suggestions.
1. Allow a few days of quiet time before surgery, to calm and center yourself. This is about the patient, not her posse.
2. Post op, plan on being around for two weeks; one in hospital and one resting and recovering at the Nest. The patient may have a post op checkup at around 10-14 days after surgery.
Please remember to keep the patient centered. Her needs come first, always.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Agreed Michelle! Definitely things to consider for this occasion.
Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk
Has anyone checked with Kendra
@Kendra if the band will be playing in late summer?
What kind of music does this band play?
Chrissy
Quote from: Anne Blake on January 08, 2019, 06:29:15 PM
Has anyone checked with Kendra @Kendra if the band will be playing in late summer?
IDK Tia? It's still a long way off yet.
Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk
Quote from: Anne Blake on January 08, 2019, 04:09:54 PM
Getting back to the topic at hand, notably a west coast road trip with a stop at the Brick for an evening of, "Free beer @ exit 80".
Please count Deb and me in on this. We have been planning a west coast swing, Canada to San Diego, for August and September. Catching Free Beer at that road house is a must!
Tia Anne
I would so love to meet you and Deb. Let's make this happen!
Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk
Donica,
There are a lot of neat Susan's gals (ok, guys too) on the west coast and we hope to meet many of them on that road trip. Your name has been high on the list...... so yes, let's make this happen.
Tia Anne
I think many of us want to meet each one another!
Quote from: Anne Blake on January 08, 2019, 07:24:23 PM
Donica,
There are a lot of neat Susan's gals (ok, guys too) on the west coast and we hope to meet many of them on that road trip. Your name has been high on the list...... so yes, let's make this happen.
Tia Anne
The Trans-Pacific Portable Pulchritudinous Pleiades Party!
Both Cassie and I have personal friends we want to meet up with in Eugene, OR. We never thought we'd have a caravan along, but we can make it happen one way or another.
Stephanie
You girls just know how to have fun!
Perry
Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 08, 2019, 08:54:25 PM
The Trans-Pacific Portable Pulchritudinous Pleiades Party!
Both Cassie and I have personal friends we want to meet up with in Eugene, OR. We never thought we'd have a caravan along, but we can make it happen one way or another.
Stephanie
Just let me know girls. Wow! Pulchritudinous! I had to look that one up. Not just for the definition but for proper pronunciation too. I love it! Girls just want to have fun ;D
Hmm, Ladies if you happen to come across any Northern Pacific RR stuff please send me some pictures. The NP has been gone for many decades now. if anyone happens on old Milwaukee Road artifacts even better. The Milw has a soft spot in my heart. Especially since they used electric locos on the Rocky Mountain Division and in the Pacific Northwest. Long live the Milwaukee Road!
Lisa
Whats this West Coast Roadtrip Thing without a visit to the Pacific Ocean beaches! I am a mile from the beaches and a quarter mile from Highway 101 in Oregon. We slept 7 or was it 9? in this 2 bedroom house last June when Jessica's picture of us was snapped at Astoria Pride. We have over 15 acres of camping space and a mile of trails to wander.... over the river and thru the woods to the Unicorn Forest they go...the whore knows the way to play in the hay and .......
The Pacific Northwest has a growing reputation as being LGBTQ friendly and it is, for the most part, deserved. Come on out and walk the beaches. Feel welcome and safe.
@Tessa James Quote from: Tessa James on January 14, 2019, 05:43:50 PM
Whats this West Coast Roadtrip Thing without a visit to the Pacific Ocean beaches! I am a mile from the beaches and a quarter mile from Highway 101 in Oregon. We slept 7 or was it 9? in this 2 bedroom house last June when Jessica's picture of us was snapped at Astoria Pride. We have over 15 acres of camping space and a mile of trails to wander.... over the river and thru the woods to the Unicorn Forest they go...the whore knows the way to play in the hay and .......
The Pacific Northwest has a growing reputation as being LGBTQ friendly and it is, for the most part, deserved. Come on out and walk the beaches. Feel welcome and safe.
I wonder if
@Kendra and her merry band of minstrels would want to play there... and play there!
Oh that would so ROCK! Kendra? We can facilitate as we have more than a few cool venues to play around here...
TL;DR:
My extremely tentative schedule for the west coast trip is:
Fly to SF on 9/5
Yosemite 9/8-9
Tour SF 9/11-12
Road Trip 9/13-21
Surgery 9/25
Return home 10/10
———————————-
Hello Girls! I was starting to lose track of
who and
where on this thread, so I reviewed all of the posts, and here's a current summary of the extremely tentative plans.
First and foremost, the initial driver for all of this is the date of my GCS with Dr. Bowers. It's subject to change a few weeks either way, but at this point it's set for September 25th, 2019.
For the road trip, I'll start with the known destinations so far, with approximate travel times (not counting stops):
Walnut Creek, CA
- 8 hours
Eugene, OR
- 2 hours
Portland, OR
- 2 hours
Astoria, OR
- 3.5 hours
Seattle, WA
-1.5 hours
Roslyn, WA
And, either before or after the big Road Trip, Yosemite National Park, 3 hours from Walnut Creek.
Based on travel times, and taking into account that both Cassie and I have friends to visit in Eugene, one possible itinerary could be:
Outbound: Walnut Creek -> Eugene -> Portland* -> Seattle -> Roslyn.
Return: Roslyn -> Seattle -> Astoria -> Portland* -> Eugene -> Walnut Creek.
Notes:
- I'm assuming that Kendra's offer for friends to crash at her Seattle condo still stands.
- Portland could be omitted if
@Laurie is traveling the entire route with us.
- It may be possible to go to Roslyn to dance, then return to Seattle for the night.
- We could visit my friend in Eugene on the outbound leg and Cassie's friend on the way back.
- I haven't talked to my friend in Eugene, but she's the type who could very well offer us a place to crash for a night or two.
- Eugene makes a decent stopping place so we don't have to do the entire leg from/to Walnut Creek in one day. I don't know about you girls, but I'm getting a little old to sit in a car or a bus for 12 hours.
- We should add in a few days so we can see the sights. I'd suggest 1/2 day on each leg to see Eugene, maybe a day at Portland, definitely a day or two in Seattle, and at least a full day for the paradise that
@Tessa James talks about.
That makes the trip about a week long.
Now for the interesting part. At this point I have sixteen sisters who have expressed interest in either having us visit or actually going on the trip:
@Steph2.0 @SassyCassie @Kendra @Michelle_P @Laurie @Jessica @Donica @islandgirl @Jessica_Rose @Susan_Rose @Anne Blake and Deb
@GordonG @sarah1972 @Alaskan Danielle @Tessa James On Michelle's advice, I'm giving myself, let's say, three days before surgery to relax and get balanced (considering I'm usually off-kilter). That means I need to be back in Walnut Creek on the 22nd. I'd like two full days in Yosemite, and probably two days in San Francisco.
So... working backwards, here is a possible plan, set in Jello.
9/5: Cassie and I fly in to SF.
9/6: Settle in.
9/7: Travel to Yosemite.
9/8-9: Yosemite.
9/10: Travel back to Walnut Creek.
9/11-12: San Francisco
9/13: TP5* begins, night in Eugene.
9/14: Morning in Eugene, travel to Portland and on to Seattle.
9/15: Day in Seattle, travel to Roslyn. (Stay in Roslyn or return to Seattle?)
9/16: Day in Seattle
9/17: Travel to Astoria
9/18: Day in Astoria
9/19: Travel to Portland, day in Portland.
9/20: Travel to Eugene
9/21: Morning in Eugene, return to Walnut Creek.
9/22-24: Get centered.
9/25: The Big Day.
10/10 or so: Return home.
*Trans-Pacific Portable Pulchritudinous Pleiades Party.
I'm absolutely sure this is all subject to change. Discussion and modifications are welcome. It's nothing more than a starting point. It's fun to think about, if nothing else.
Stephanie
Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 15, 2019, 09:49:49 AM
TL;DR:
My extremely tentative schedule for the west coast trip is:
Fly to SF on 9/5
Yosemite 9/8-9
Tour SF 9/11-12
Road Trip 9/13-21
Surgery 9/25
Return home 10/10
———————————-
Hello Girls! I was starting to lose track of who and where on this thread, so I reviewed all of the posts, and here's a current summary of the extremely tentative plans.
First and foremost, the initial driver for all of this is the date of my GCS with Dr. Bowers. It's subject to change a few weeks either way, but at this point it's set for September 25th, 2019.
For the road trip, I'll start with the known destinations so far, with approximate travel times (not counting stops):
Walnut Creek, CA
- 8 hours
Eugene, OR
- 2 hours
Portland, OR
- 2 hours
Astoria, OR
- 3.5 hours
Seattle, WA
-1.5 hours
Roslyn, WA
And, either before or after the big Road Trip, Yosemite National Park, 3 hours from Walnut Creek.
Based on travel times, and taking into account that both Cassie and I have friends to visit in Eugene, one possible itinerary could be:
Outbound: Walnut Creek -> Eugene -> Portland* -> Seattle -> Roslyn.
Return: Roslyn -> Seattle -> Astoria -> Portland* -> Eugene -> Walnut Creek.
Notes:
- I'm assuming that Kendra's offer for friends to crash at her Seattle condo still stands.
- Portland could be omitted if @Laurie is traveling the entire route with us.
- It may be possible to go to Roslyn to dance, then return to Seattle for the night.
- We could visit my friend in Eugene on the outbound leg and Cassie's friend on the way back.
- I haven't talked to my friend in Eugene, but she's the type who could very well offer us a place to crash for a night or two.
- Eugene makes a decent stopping place so we don't have to do the entire leg from/to Walnut Creek in one day. I don't know about you girls, but I'm getting a little old to sit in a car or a bus for 12 hours.
- We should add in a few days so we can see the sights. I'd suggest 1/2 day on each leg to see Eugene, maybe a day at Portland, definitely a day or two in Seattle, and at least a full day for the paradise that @Tessa James talks about.
That makes the trip about a week long.
Now for the interesting part. At this point I have sixteen sisters who have expressed interest in either having us visit or actually going on the trip:
@Steph2.0
@SassyCassie
@Kendra
@Michelle_P
@Laurie
@Jessica
@Donica
@islandgirl
@Jessica_Rose
@Susan_Rose
@Anne Blake and Deb
@GordonG
@sarah1972
@Alaskan Danielle
@Tessa James
On Michelle's advice, I'm giving myself, let's say, three days before surgery to relax and get balanced (considering I'm usually off-kilter). That means I need to be back in Walnut Creek on the 22nd. I'd like two full days in Yosemite, and probably two days in San Francisco.
So... working backwards, here is a possible plan, set in Jello.
9/5: Cassie and I fly in to SF.
9/6: Settle in.
9/7: Travel to Yosemite.
9/8-9: Yosemite.
9/10: Travel back to Walnut Creek.
9/11-12: San Francisco
9/13: TP5* begins, night in Eugene.
9/14: Morning in Eugene, travel to Portland and on to Seattle.
9/15: Day in Seattle, travel to Roslyn. (Stay in Roslyn or return to Seattle?)
9/16: Day in Seattle
9/17: Travel to Astoria
9/18: Day in Astoria
9/19: Travel to Portland, day in Portland.
9/20: Travel to Eugene
9/21: Morning in Eugene, return to Walnut Creek.
9/22-24: Get centered.
9/25: The Big Day.
10/10 or so: Return home.
*Trans-Pacific Portable Pulchritudinous Pleiades Party.
I'm absolutely sure this is all subject to change. Discussion and modifications are welcome. It's nothing more than a starting point. It's fun to think about, if nothing else.
Stephanie
The dates you have for Yosemite are all booked in the campgrounds, but might I suggest the Yosemite Lodge or for a tent cabin try Half Dome Village (Camp Curry). Do this as soon as you can, as they will book up.
All the dates work for me.
SQUEEEEEEEEEEE
Quote from: Jessica on January 15, 2019, 11:11:47 AM
The dates you have for Yosemite are all booked in the campgrounds, but might I suggest the Yosemite Lodge or for a tent cabin try Half Dome Village (Camp Curry). Do this as soon as you can, as they will book up.
All the dates work for me.
SQUEEEEEEEEEEE
I would love to book now, but I won't know a definite surgery date until approximately June. I'll check to see if the reservations are cancellable. If I can't figure out something for the valley I may have to get a hotel in Mariposa or somewhere else outside and drive in for the day.
@Steph2.0
QuoteOn Michelle's advice, I'm giving myself, let's say, three days before surgery to relax and get balanced (considering I'm usually off-kilter). That means I need to be back in Walnut Creek on the 22nd. I'd like two full days in Yosemite, and probably two days in San Francisco.
I was being slightly euphemistic, but you'll want to be in a restful and safe environment a few days before surgery. There is almost certainly a pre-op regimen to follow.
You may have a pre-op appointment at which some lab work is done, and a pre-op care regimen and prescriptions are issued. There is generally some bowel prep, done to minimize risks in surgery. You may be put on a low-residue diet a few days before surgery. 1-2 days prior to surgery you may be on a liquid diet and be given a 'clean-out' treatment, such as a jug of Colace. You really don't want to be on a road trip for this!
Being in a calm and relaxed state before going in for surgery will also help you feel better in those last few hours before surgery, less rushed and more certain of what you are about to do.
By the way, my colon was nicked in my surgery while opening the vaginal vault, and the prep saved me considerable complications. The only impact on me was a couple more days on a restricted diet post-surgery while in the hospital.
San Francisco from my place is trivial. I generally go over there as a day trip, wander around on foot (it is VERY walkable) dine and shopn there. I often lead a half-day hike that hits lower Market St, the Ferry Building, Embarcadero, Fisherman's Wharf, North Beach (Little Italy), the real and tourist Chinatown, and the great shopping district around Union Square.
Golden Gate Park, the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, and even Ocean Beach are a short light rail or bus ride away. Driving is NOT recommended. SF is way too much like Manhattan, but with less skilled drivers!
Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 15, 2019, 11:23:29 AM
I would love to book now, but I won't know a definite surgery date until approximately June. I'll check to see if the reservations are cancellable. If I can't figure out something for the valley I may have to get a hotel in Mariposa or somewhere else outside and drive in for the day.
I'm glad to see we're back up and running. I have some catching up to do.
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@Steph2.0 Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 15, 2019, 11:23:29 AM
I would love to book now, but I won't know a definite surgery date until approximately June. I'll check to see if the reservations are cancellable. If I can't figure out something for the valley I may have to get a hotel in Mariposa or somewhere else outside and drive in for the day.
And then there is the Ahwahnee Hotel...for pure decadence!
https://www.nationalparkreservations.com/lodge/majestic-yosemite-hotel/?gclid=Cj0KCQiApvbhBRDXARIsALnNoK0mY1XmEc-sEC_XfJ58uSJBz4dquBpFoXXukBi0G4mhJVSUhUwt7YUaArAGEALw_wcB
But if your up for backpacking, wilderness permits are easier to get.
I have all the gear we need!
Hugs and smiles from a California girl
Everything sounds great to me Stephanie! It sounds like Michelle has quite the itinerary planned for SF. The last time I was up there we stopped in Monterey and spent the day at Pier 39. We took a glass bottom boat ride around the bay. We had to scare the sea lions off the docks so we could get to our boat lol. THEIR VERY BIG!!!
I am so looking forward to this. Nothing is set in stone yet but I mentioned the roadtrip to my dear friend "A" and I was wondering how you all would feel if she made the trip with me?. She is not yet a member of Susan's (that I know of?) but she is a very sweet full time trans women. I will be taking her to her FFS surgery next Friday. I hoping to have my FFS done in March or April. We should both be well enough by September.
I copied your rough draft itinerey Stephanie and will follow up with updates.
Hugs,
Donica.
This sounds like so much fun!
I will only be tentative for now. This is usually a very busy time at work and I will be ramping up for a huge event in 2020 around this time. It will have to be a later decision once I get the schedule worked out and it will only be parts of the road trip I can attend. I am really looking forward and hope it will work out.
Hugs...
Sarah
@Donica Quote from: Donica on January 15, 2019, 02:13:35 PM
Everything sounds great to me Stephanie! It sounds like Michelle has quite the itinerary planned for SF. The last time I was up there we stopped in Monterey and spent the day at Pier 39. We took a glass bottom boat ride around the bay. We had to scare the sea lions off the docks so we could get to our boat lol. THEIR VERY BIG!!!
I am so looking forward to this. Nothing is set in stone yet but I mentioned the roadtrip to my dear friend "A" and I was wondering how you all would feel if she made the trip with me?. She is not yet a member of Susan's (that I know of?) but she is a very sweet full time trans women. I will be taking her to her FFS surgery next Friday. I hoping to have my FFS done in March or April. We should both be well enough by September.
I copied your rough draft itinerey Stephanie and will follow up with updates.
Hugs,
Donica.
Donica, your friend would be most welcome, and the Prius has plenty of room!
Love your new avatar Sarah!
Quote from: sarah1972 on January 15, 2019, 02:23:08 PM
This sounds like so much fun!
I will only be tentative for now. This is usually a very busy time at work and I will be ramping up for a huge event in 2020 around this time. It will have to be a later decision once I get the schedule worked out and it will only be parts of the road trip I can attend. I am really looking forward and hope it will work out.
Hugs...
Sarah
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[emoji126][emoji175][emoji178]
Quote from: Jessica on January 15, 2019, 02:33:59 PM
@Donica
Donica, your friend would be most welcome, and the Prius has plenty of room!
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Quote from: Donica on January 15, 2019, 05:18:46 PM
Love your new avatar Sarah!
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Aww... thanks Donica... New Years Eve. I do love the curls...
Hugs,
Sarah
Oh wait, this is not the NY Eve avatar, the one I currently have is from a business trip to New York using MassTrans*it (Amtrak).
Quote from: sarah1972 on January 15, 2019, 08:07:45 PM
Quote from: Donica on January 15, 2019, 05:18:46 PM
Love your new avatar Sarah!
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Aww... thanks Donica... New Years Eve. I do love the curls...
Hugs,
Sarah
For the record. I have absolutely no idea where I may be around that time frame. I may not be living here. I may be in the process of moving somewhere else (location unknown) My lease is up either end of September or end of October. I do not intend to renew it.
As far as I know no one knows when or even if Kendra and the band will be playing in Roslyn during that time. I may have missed it but I have seen anything where anyone has talked to Kendra about it. Might be something to do.
You all know I am the only one allowed to wander around the country without a schedule or an ugh plan.
@Kendra @Laurie @Tessa James Quote from: Laurie on January 16, 2019, 01:15:06 AM
For the record. I have absolutely no idea where I may be around that time frame. I may not be living here. I may be in the process of moving somewhere else (location unknown) My lease is up either end of September or end of October. I do not intend to renew it.
As far as I know no one knows when or even if Kendra and the band will be playing in Roslyn during that time. I may have missed it but I have seen anything where anyone has talked to Kendra about it. Might be something to do.
You all know I am the only one allowed to wander around the country without a schedule or an ugh plan.
Wherever you are you will be in our hearts Laurie. As for Kendra, she will be where she will be. The one thing we do know is that Tessa has offered a place to gather in Astoria.
I will be as it becomes.
Hi Kiddies. This subject seems to have been resurrected by a reference on @Alaskan_Danielle's thread.
Expenses and limited time have forced @SassyCassie and me to scale way back on our trip to California. At this point my GCS with Marci Bowers is still scheduled for September 25th, though they warn me it can move a few weeks either way. Our plan at this point is to fly in 5-7 days early, see SF with Michelle and any others who are local, spend a day or two at Yosemite, then rest and prepare for the surgery. Afterwards, of course, I'll be pretty much immobile or limited to easy local stuff.
You all are of course still welcome to plan whatever awesome trip you'd like, but I'm afraid a full west coast road trip is off the table for me.
Stephanie
Quote from: Jessica on January 15, 2019, 01:27:29 PM
@Steph2.0
And then there is the Ahwahnee Hotel...for pure decadence!
https://www.nationalparkreservations.com/lodge/majestic-yosemite-hotel/?gclid=Cj0KCQiApvbhBRDXARIsALnNoK0mY1XmEc-sEC_XfJ58uSJBz4dquBpFoXXukBi0G4mhJVSUhUwt7YUaArAGEALw_wcB
But if your up for backpacking, wilderness permits are easier to get.
I have all the gear we need!
Hugs and smiles from a California girl
I have nothing but horrible memories about that place. We went there just before they closed for the winter so there was snow on the ground. Unfortunately the only room we could get didn't have a bathroom. Normally it wouldn't be a problem however I seem to have acquired a case of the runs that didn't let themselves be known until after I turned in for the night. I had to get dressed for the cold, walk around the building outside to get to the golf changing area to reach the restroom. After repeating this about 4 times, I collapsed on the bed with my clothes on and pulled the blankets over. Fortunately I was cleaned out and after a few hours I undress and had a restful remainder of the night.
Quote from: steph2.0 on May 10, 2019, 08:48:07 PM
Hi Kiddies. This subject seems to have been resurrected by a reference on @Alaskan_Danielle's thread.
Expenses and limited time have forced @SassyCassie and me to scale way back on our trip to California. At this point my GCS with Marci Bowers is still scheduled for September 25th, though they warn me it can move a few weeks either way. Our plan at this point is to fly in 5-7 days early, see SF with Michelle and any others who are local, spend a day or two at Yosemite, then rest and prepare for the surgery. Afterwards, of course, I'll be pretty much immobile or limited to easy local stuff.
You all are of course still welcome to plan whatever awesome trip you'd like, but I'm afraid a full west coast road trip is off the table for me.
Stephanie
This sounds far more practical to me, as someone who lives here, and has been through this particular medical hoopla before.
There will very likely be a couple of quiet days just before surgery, which will be spent on a low residue or liquid diet followed with a gallon of tasty beverages. Yes, the intestines and colon will almost certainly have to be empty before this surgery. You won't want to be playing tourist then. Trust me...
We can firm up the itinerary for you once you have a hard date.
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Quote from: Michelle_P on May 10, 2019, 10:24:15 PM
This sounds far more practical to me, as someone who lives here, and has been through this particular medical hoopla before.
There will very likely be a couple of quiet days just before surgery, which will be spent on a low residue or liquid diet followed with a gallon of tasty beverages. Yes, the intestines and colon will almost certainly have to be empty before this surgery. You won't want to be playing tourist then. Trust me...
We can firm up the itinerary for you once you have a hard date.
Oh, I've had enough colonoscopies to know how to ride in that rodeo. I'm likely to be playing
fast and loose for at least a day before the surgery.
Ugh...
Stephanie
Hummm, Yes Ava and I were still planning to make the trip in early September. The original plans were just a rough draft. I understand and also think it best for you and Cassie to downsize your plans Steph. We were planning to stay in a hotel or Airbnb and meetup when possible before your surgery and see the sights.
I visited with in-laws in the Sacramento/San Francisco area on our way to Reno every year back in the day. I'm sure things have changed since I last visited. As for the rest of the trip to connect up with Kendra, that depends on Kendra and the rest of the West coast gals and all that were planning to make the trip. I did want to be there with you before and after your surgery to wish you good luck Steph!
Nothing is set in stone yet. It's still a long ways away. I'm thinking I will be recovering well from my FFS by that time. So what say you ladies?
Oh yes! Ditto on the colonoscopies girl. You'd think they would have come up with a better way in twenty years. I guess they think the torture is funny ::)
Well I'm still game. Like I've said before, I'm retired and everyday is Saturday.
And my latest colonoscopy will be done by September.
@Donica and @Jessica, that would be so cool. We could hang out for a day or two in SF, then as many as would like can go with us to Yosemite.
Yosemite has to be my most favorite place in the world, @Dena's horrible experience notwithstanding. @SassyCassie has never seen it, and I want to be the one to show her. Jessica, you mentioned the possibility of taking a trailer there. Is the hassle factor too high to make that worth it? I've stayed in one of the cabins in the valley in January and it was fine, even with the minimal heat and the ice-cold floor in the shower. I'm willing to get a cabin again.
I just wish I had a definite date so I could make solid plans. As soon as the clinic gives me that date, I'll pass it on.
Stephanie
@steph2.0 Quote from: steph2.0 on May 11, 2019, 07:12:20 PM
@Donica and @Jessica, that would be so cool. We could hang out for a day or two in SF, then as many as would like can go with us to Yosemite.
Yosemite has to be my most favorite place in the world, @Dena's horrible experience notwithstanding. @SassyCassie has never seen it, and I want to be the one to show her. Jessica, you mentioned the possibility of taking a trailer there. Is the hassle factor too high to make that worth it? I've stayed in one of the cabins in the valley in January and it was fine, even with the minimal heat and the ice-cold floor in the shower. I'm willing to get a cabin again.
I just wish I had a definite date so I could make solid plans. As soon as the clinic gives me that date, I'll pass it on.
Stephanie
The time to book a spot for the trailer has come and gone. You have to be jonnie on the spot when they become available. You may be hard pressed to even get a room at this point. My son is coming out from Minnesota in June to show his wife for the first time and had to book 6 months in advance. But there are cancellations and luck may win out.
Hugs and smiles from a California girl
Quote from: Jessica on May 11, 2019, 07:32:38 PM
@steph2.0
The time to book a spot for the trailer has come and gone. You have to be jonnie on the spot when they become available. You may be hard pressed to even get a room at this point. My son is coming out from Minnesota in June to show his wife for the first time and had to book 6 months in advance. But there are cancellations and luck may win out.
I was afraid of that. Without a date for the surgery I'm stuck. We'll have to do the best we can. May have to get a room in Mariposa or even Fresno and drive in for the day or something. Yuck, but oh well...
Stephanie
As of this morning, there lots of hotels and 3 bedroom vacation rentals available in Mariposa around the 13th to the 15th of September. A little spendy but doable. I'm sure they will be available the following weekend and during the week. Most of the cheap motels are already booked, even in Merced.
Quote from: Tessa James on January 14, 2019, 05:43:50 PM
Whats this West Coast Roadtrip Thing without a visit to the Pacific Ocean beaches! I am a mile from the beaches and a quarter mile from Highway 101 in Oregon. We slept 7 or was it 9? in this 2 bedroom house last June when Jessica's picture of us was snapped at Astoria Pride. We have over 15 acres of camping space and a mile of trails to wander.... over the river and thru the woods to the Unicorn Forest they go...the whore knows the way to play in the hay and .......
The Pacific Northwest has a growing reputation as being LGBTQ friendly and it is, for the most part, deserved. Come on out and walk the beaches. Feel welcome and safe.
Let's all keep in mind Tessa's welcoming offer.
Ava and I have booked a room in Mariposa for the 20th through the 22th of September. We have to head back down south on Sunday the 22th. We have until the 18th to cancel if things don't workout. We are both looking forward to meeting everyone and hope we can all meet up there and have some fun. However, as I mentioned earlier, nothing is set in stone. If there is a chance to make the complete trip north, (coming up earlier), we are certainly open to it.
Hugs, Donica and Ava!
@Donica Quote from: Donica on May 12, 2019, 09:23:31 PM
Ava and I have booked a room in Mariposa for the 20th through the 22th of September. We have to head back down south on Sunday the 22th. We have until the 18th to cancel if things don't workout. We are both looking forward to meeting everyone and hope we can all meet up there and have some fun. However, as I mentioned earlier, nothing is set in stone. If there is a chance to make the complete trip north, (coming up earlier), we are certainly open to it.
Hugs, Donica and Ava!
The Miners Inn or the Monarch?
In one week reservations open for a possible camp spot in the Valley on 9/20-9/22 for my trailer.
I will do my best!!
Quote from: Jessica on May 13, 2019, 11:55:08 AM
In one week reservations open for a possible camp spot in the Valley on 9/20-9/22 for my trailer.
I will do my best!!
That's awesome Jessica, but please don't book anything that's not cancellable. I can't possibly commit to being there on a specific date yet!
Stephanie
@steph2.0 Quote from: steph2.0 on May 13, 2019, 01:36:59 PM
That's awesome Jessica, but please don't book anything that's not cancellable. I can't possibly commit to being there on a specific date yet!
Stephanie
Stephanie, do you think that me having reservations to camp in Yosemite is something I would want to cancel? (They are cancellable btw) If you wouldn't be able to make it, that would be sad as I toast marshmallows there..... it's not too far from where I live, and I love it.
Hugs and smiles from a California girl
Quote from: Jessica on May 13, 2019, 01:46:52 PM
@steph2.0
Stephanie, do you think that me having reservations to camp in Yosemite is something I would want to cancel? (They are cancellable btw) If you wouldn't be able to make it, that would be sad as I toast marshmallows there..... it's not too far from where I live, and I love it.
Oh, in that case, by all means! I just didn't want you to make them with me in mind and then have me mess everything up. I couldn't take the pressure!
Fingers crossed that we'll be there with you!!
Stephanie
("Would you like another roasted marshmallow?"
"S'Mores, please!")
I must sadly report that even though I clicked the reserve button immediately upon release, I was unable to secure a site in Yosemite Valley. It certainly says a lot about the draw to such a beautiful place.
On the chance that anyone would be up to hike and camp into Little Yosemite (above Nevada Falls), I've got gear for 4.
Frowny face Jess 🙇♀️
@Jessica Dear Jess:I am following this thread closely to see how it shakes out and eventually see a firm date for a West Coast get-together that I can pencil in on my calendar.... please keep the conversation going.
Hugs,
Danielle
Quote from: Jessica on May 15, 2019, 09:40:55 AM
I must sadly report that even though I clicked the reserve button immediately upon release, I was unable to secure a site in Yosemite Valley. It certainly says a lot about the draw to such a beautiful place.
On the chance that anyone would be up to hike and camp into Little Yosemite (above Nevada Falls), I've got gear for 4.
Frowny face Jess [emoji2308]
Stephie has a sad. [emoji53]
Sorry to hear that Jess! It would have been nice if we could all stay in one place, especially in the Yosemite valley. Not to worry though, there are still lots of hotels in Mariposa and surrounding areas. Not sure how long they will last.