All Girls Weekend

And a missfire

2011-11-05T07:32:00.000-07:00

This year has just gotten away from me totally.
Sorry gal's - this year an open house for a college has won out on what I'll be doing on this weekend. I'm going to Georgia Southern University open house to see if this is one of the places Liz would like to apply. Then we go from there.

Next year.. next year...!!

2011 All Girls Weekend - ramp up

2011-08-18T08:59:00.000-07:00

We're going to shake it up again this year. How does New Orleans sound? After Alaska with the family. This is about as far as my little car will tale me. Well that's not true. There is also San Antonio as an option. Where do YOU want to meet?

I can venture 1 days car ride away!! What's the vote?

AGW, the story behind 2010 and observations.

2010-12-09T12:53:00.001-08:00

All girls weekend was our typical time frame of Veterans Day Weekend. Mom and I headed out and flew direct – I so enjoy a direct flight. Since we were the first to arrive, we caught a shuttle to the hotel. We got there and they had (drum roll please) LOST my reservation…. I just calmly waited, showed the nice guy my printed confirmation from the website (their website, might I add) that stated I had even paid. The funny thing? The money never came out of my account – I double checked and they were telling the truth – it didn’t. How sad is that – I didn’t even notice that something I paid for and put extra money into the account for never came out? It worked to our benefit – and honestly, I think that they were offering upgrades all day long anyway, but they upgraded Janet and I to adjoining rooms on the 4x floor with a nice strip view. Yeah us. The rooms were quite interesting with a foyer door leading into the two rooms. That was nice – just lock the outer door and block open the inner doors and we were able to travel back and forth as we wanted. Mom, Tandy, Linda and I went to dinner that night and went in search of an inexpensive buffet…and my phone lead me astray. We went to the Sahara because a buffet was listed for that hotel – however there wasn’t one that we found. In the mean time, I put some money into a machine and hit a nice little jackpot – I put in $20 and came out with $80. Nice! I then put in $1 and got back $6. I really should have stayed there a while :o) Oh, well – Linda asked about the buffet location and was informed there wasn’t one… so we headed out and went to the Mirage to eat. It was a nice meal and fun to visit for a while.

The next day Sandy and Suzie and Aunt Tuny came into town in the late afternoon. We took the morning to head out to see the new bridge over the Hoover Dam. Yes, I said OVER… it’s farther downriver, however MUCH higher than the dam. The approach to the lake was shocking to me. I would think that the lake is a good 40’ below where I have ever seen it while living in Cedar City and diving there in my certification classes. When we were diving there, our place was in 20’ of water… If I had a car I would have driven out there – however it’s a good 40 miles to the north, so didn’t ask for that much of a drive… I’m sure it’s beyond bone dry now. Anyway… the drive down was interesting to see islands that had been underwater for YEARS now high and dry in the desert sun. Going over the actual bridge was very much a bust as the walls are high to keep folks from rubbernecking on the way over… traffic does NOT slow down at all zipping from Nevada to Arizona. Interesting… we go to the other side, turned around and headed back so we could take the “old” road down to the overlooks and such. Linda and I got out and hiked to the top of the hill to walk over the bridge. We refused to let mom go with us… she would have made it, but would have been done for the day. I was huffing and puffing at the top of it…but that’s not saying much, I’m out of shape. We walked to almost the middle – took a few pictures and headed back down to the car then headed back to town.

While Mom had been sitting there waiting on us, she made the decision she was going to take a helicopter ride to see what we had seen – really? First Helicopter ride at 75? Yes! She did… we went back into town and signed up – we splurged and took the more expensive one and went OVER the dam and around back over the lake – short, but thrilling ride. My first helicopter ride as well – Linda – was it yours too?? How would that be to do our firsts all together as the Autrey women? I’m assuming you have ridden in one in Hawaii at some point in your adventurous life.

We headed back into town and that afternoon Linda and I did a massage at the spa – ahhhhh. The only thing weird about the spa there was there was NO Jacuzzi. I REALLY missed soaking in the Jacuzzi :o( Oh, well… the massage for me wasn’t as nice as what I get at the chiropractors… so my days of spa may be short lived since they are so expensive in Vegas… I guess the expense hasn’t really changed, I have changed. With me now being able to get a massage for $20 why on earth would I pay $100? Hum… yeah, good question.

Dinner was an experiment in choosing a restaurant on the fly. It was OK – but not the best I’ve ever had, however as always it was fun to have us all together laughing, catching up and enjoying our time together :o)

Saturday dawned with a later start… and to be honest, I have no idea what we really did… the “highlight” of this day was the dinner at Sahara and a failed attempt to work the food challenge to our benefit. They have no way to order the 7lb burrito for the table, you have to do it challenge style… however what they did NOT tell us was that you have to sit at the main table for 30 minutes before they will allow you to go back to your own table WITH the burrito and share it. You have GOT to be kidding me! So… we all ordered, told the lady “just a drink – we’re sharing the burrito”… and they still made me sit up there and do the stupid time in the chair all by myself… I was VERY bad advertising for the challenge as everyone came by and talked to me and I let them know how stupid this was to have me sit there and not just “fail” already and go back to the table. What a joke. Mom and a few others hung with me for the duration and I ate my portion of the thing before taking it to the table and having everyone share it. Sigh. That didn’t go well! The burrito, however, was very tasty and good and there was still a LOT left over after everyone else ate a ton of it – Linda even had enough to take home with her for leftovers for a few more days! BIG burrito! Oh, well Angie got the shirt and was happy (pink shirt that says “Official Weenie”)

Janet and I were pressed for time as we were headed out to see a show that night as well. We went to see Cirque De Sole “Beatles – Love” I can honestly say that the HBO special did the costumes justice, however it wasn’t nearly the “typical” mouth hanging open gasping at the antics type of Cirque show. I was a little let down, it was more of a “show” style with production more of a focal point than the acrobatics. Sad, but this is one of the ones I wouldn’t go see again – all the others, I could easily go again!

Sunday was Mom and I headed home :o(

All Girls Weekend 2010

2010-11-29T13:02:00.000-08:00

This year was the year of the "posh" stay - Thanks Suz for finding the deal of the week on this hotel. The hotel itself isn't right on the strip, however, it's not that far OFF strip either. It's to the north of the Fashion Place Mall and about a block off strip - although it is only an empty lot towards the strip. I'm sure that will change soon enough since the Frontier has been removed and I'm sure that there will be another hotel take it's place soon enough.

Gotta LOVE the bath tub in this place! It's HUGE!!

The room - very nice room....

The view. with Linda on the sleeper sofa.

Dinner on night one at the Mirage Buffet.

Day 2 - a visit to the Dam. Linda and I walked up to the overlook from the bridge to see the dam from that view - very nice.

Click on the picture to view in larger size... Linda is at the 2nd column waving :o)

Mom was sooo mad that we wouldn't let her walk to the top of the bridge (*I* was huffing and puffing at the top - which isn't shocking... since I'm soo out of shape) because it was about 2+ floors worth of stairs... and only because, yes, she could have done it, but would have been worn out for the day.... she decided she wanted to take a helicopter ride instead! Yes MOM made this call - and we went with her :o)

The view at night from our hotel room - between the Mirage and what I can only assume is the Bellagio we could see the fountains going off from time to time :o)

Dinner at a Mexican restaurant in Treasure Island Casino. Nothing to write home about...not really great Mexican food, however GREAT company!!

The Lobby at the Trump morning #3

The Challenge that went awry - taking the first bite.

After the challenge fiasco sharing the burrito with everyone at dinner.

The End

Did I mention how much I love my wacky funny family :o)

Don’t forget all girls weekend is THIS weekend.

2010-11-10T12:22:00.000-08:00

Tentative plans for now are:

Thursday arrival for the Autrey/Liebhardt/Ashwood clans and spa afternoon (since I’m the only spa person this year)
Friday, Dinner for everyone at The Golden Steer (302 W Sahara)
Saturday: lunch at the Sahara for the 7lb burrito challenge (not that we’ll do a true challenge, but it will be fun just to SEE this thing!)
Saturday night – Show –Cirque’s Beatles Love
Sunday – departure for the Autrey/Ashwood/Liebhardt clans
Monday departure for the Winn/Sumida/Stratton Clans

2010 best of places in Vegas...who's game?

2010-11-01T18:21:00.000-07:00

Best Bakery
Freed’s Bakery
4780 S. Eastern Ave. 9555 S. Eastern Ave.
+51 (from 81 votes) Others come and go, but when readers think of bakeries in Las Vegas, they clearly think of Freed’s. For the old-timers, that probably has a lot to do with tradition, but for all of those newcomers, it’s probably because Freed’s keeps up with the times, with cupcake towers and photo cakes and Las Vegas-themed cakes, among others. Great Buns finishes a distant second.

Breakfast
The Cracked Egg
Rating: +50 (from 80 votes)Is it the homemade coffeecake? Is it the Tropical French Toast, with its toasted coconut, macadamia nuts and bananas? Is it, per chance, the gluten-free menu? Whatever it is, readers are all cracked up over The Cracked Egg. Omelet House finishes a close second.

Restaurant with a view:
Panevino Ristorante
246 Via Antonio Ave.
Rating: +20 (from 40 votes)We still don’t quite understand why the view is so fantastic from Panevino, because to look at the place from Sunset Road you’d think the only view would be the airfield across the street. But walk inside and you find out that this is indeed a breathtaking vista, the Strip undulating before you in a panorama of glittering, out-of-the-fantasy-books colors. The view from Ventano Italian Grill & Seafood finishes second.

Steak House:
Golden Steer
308 W. Sahara Ave.
Rating: +42 (from 92 votes)What can we say, we’re suckers for history, especially as it applies to old Las Vegas, and the Golden Steer is the epitome of old Las Vegas with its U-shaped leatherette booths, soft lighting and Sinatra-dominated soundtrack. But this 50-something favorite also is beloved to us for doing things right, whether it’s a steak, shrimp cocktail or gin martini

Dessert:
Layers Bakery Desserts
2708 N. Green Valley Parkway, Henderson
Rating: +29 (from 33 votes)What do we love about Layers? Well, for one thing, we can stop in and maybe have a piece of warm Heart of Darkness Cake, with its warm, gooey interior, or maybe a Whoopie Pie or chocolate eclair or Chocolate Mud Puddle (do you see a pattern here?). And we can drool over the rich, elaborate cakes in the case and maybe even take one home. If we feel like sharing

Anyone want to try a food tour???

2010-09-23T17:57:00.001-07:00

I just watched Diners Drive-ins and Dives on Las Vegas….

Want to do a food tour of Vegas?

I know I really enjoyed the food tour of Memphis when I went… it wasn’t done on purpose, however I did hit all of the spots on the food challenge guys sites to see.

Chris Cognac, The Hungry Detective, rolls the dice by leaving the touristy Las Vegas Strip behind to uncover the best food off The Strip. As Chris arrives in Vegas he lands at Ellis Island Casino and Brewery and discovers a back porch barbecue bargain platter for under $8. Next, Sean Griffin and Adam Soebel, two top chefs from Caesars Palace, lead Chris to an authentic Italian restaurant in a Vegas strip mall. Chris’s next lead takes him to Vegas’s Chinatown for some Thai lobster at Joyful House, a family run restaurant. Next, on the trail of some serious snacks, Chris meets up with two officers from the Las Vegas Police Department for dollar hot dogs and deep fried Hostess Twinkies at Mermaid’s Casino. Finally, Chris hits the jackpot when he stakes out Binion’s Ranch Steakhouse and tries lobster prepared a whole new way.

Rachel’s $40 a day: It's a high stakes gamble when Rachael tries to take on Vegas on $40 a Day. She starts her morning off with the Bellagio breakfast buffet. Next she decides to lunch at Mr. Lucky's 24/7. After some gambling she heads off to the Hookah Lounge. Rachael takes advantage of the late-night supper scene by visiting a hip local hangout called Firefly on Paradise.

Getting closer and closer and closer!!!

2010-08-26T19:17:00.000-07:00

YEAH! We're within a two and a half month window!!!!
Yes, you read that correctly - we're within two and a half MONTHS!
I look at the calendar and am chalking of the events that are coming up.
I have scrapbooking with Janet and Gail in less than two weeks!! Yeah!!!
Next up will be VEGAS!
I don't get that excited about the concept of Vegas, but the idea of the All Girls Weekend really makes me happy!!

Chocoate, anyone

2010-07-30T08:06:00.001-07:00

Does anyone want a repeat of the "Chocolate Tour" of our previous year? New and improved, of course.

And Gail and I wanted to know what sort of dinner the "Group" dinner would be. Mexican?
Big Name restaurant? IHOP? :-)

Another option for an interesting activity might be "Finding Nemo in Las Vegas" where we find all the aquariums in casinos, restaurants, hotels, then finish with the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay. Gail and I already have a sizable list of tanks we know of. I found one or two while wandering around there last week. Of course, you'd have to enjoy fish tanks to even consider doing somthing like this. We could throw in some sushi for you, Donna. (JK!)

~Linda

More Planning

2010-07-19T11:50:00.001-07:00

There were some e-mails lately about more choices on hotels.

Mom and I are booked at the Trump on a non-refundable, so this is where we’ll be staying.

I believe Linda and Gail will be joining Mom and I in our room since prices just keep rising as the dates get closer and they missed out on the $98 average a night pricing.

I did see some e-mailing back and forth on Friday – and dare I admit this, I was doing so in the potty because it’s the ONLY place at work I can get any private time to sit with a cell phone and “chat”… Work is – well, it’s by definition work. Emails are a bit hectic for me and I don’t tend to check very often because when I do, there tend to be a boat load of orders out there for jobs #2 and #3 or is that jobs #3/4? I believe kids would be #1 in reality, main paycheck would be #2…ah, you get the point. I don’t do email often and at best, I skim and typically think “Ok, I’ll get back to that tonight…” and never do. I’m horrible. I have a LOT of plans, and less and less follow through anymore.

ONE plan is to go see Cirque Du Soleil’s Beatles Love show. I saw the HBO special on how it was made…and before that point, I had no desire to see it…

After seeing the show, I have to see it now J I plan on getting tickets through the concierge at the hotel – I’m assuming top hotel will have some NICE seats available for us… I’m also looking at the highest price seats – after having them at the last show and sitting next to the plant… I want that experience again. If you’re interested in going – the price is $165 for the EXPENSIVE seats and $108.90 for the full view “inexpensive” seats… $102 for limited view seats and no offense, I think the $6 would be worth the full price view J In all honesty I want to see what they save back for the nicer hotels to sell… however this could bite me in the tush too… ya never know. I should ask someone who’s been in Vegas a while if this is the best way to go about it…

The only other plan I have is spa and I’m thinking Saturday is the day to do this….

Anyone for a spa or Cirque Du Soleil???

from prior post...

2010-06-18T14:25:00.000-07:00

Donna said...
I do believe it's Trump then.I went through priceline to get that price.
June 18, 2010 2:19 PM

Let the debates begin!

2010-06-17T18:24:00.000-07:00

I have booked my flights - I know, shocking for me to book my flights, however I couldn't beat the deal lately - I haven't seen them for less than 275ish for a long time. So, we're booked.
Mom and I will arrive on Thursday the 11th of November and leave out on Sunday the 14th.

Now the next issue - I have been looking for a hotel with the following: Shuttle and Spa.
I have come up with 7 so far - only a few that are within what I would consider reasonable - as in has what we're looking for AND having transport or easy access to the strip to do anything.

The Mirage - $174 average rate
Mandalay Bay - $169 average
South Point Hotel - $103 Average (not near strip - no transport to strip)
Red Rock Casino Resort Spa - $120 avg (not near the strip - no transport to strip)
The Platinum (no gambling and not a safe walk from hotel to strip) - $142
Green Ranch - $134 (again - not near the strip - no transport to strip)

Trump International Hotel, Las Vegas is averaging $98 a night for the time frame... I vote we do that one!!
Who's in?

Anyone want to join me in Atlanta in March?

2009-12-09T12:59:00.000-08:00

There is an expo in Duluth Ga on July 10th and 11th and for once I won't be just coming off of a scuba trip and can think about going to this one...

Who's in for a all girls weekend in Duluth to get a hotel room, scrap and have a good girly time?

Expo's

2009-12-03T19:48:00.003-08:00

I have signed up to ge the notifications from the expo's around the world... I'm now getting notifciations from Tampa and ever so tempted to GO to that one...
SOOOOO tempted!!!

I can't believe I'm going to say this.....

2009-11-04T18:24:00.000-08:00

But I want to start planning the NEXT All Girls Weekend....
and I'm actually leaning towards - don't fall over gals, but Las Vegas... I know, I know I say time and time again how I'm sooooo tired of Vegas and the repeat that it offers from just about EVERY aspect of my life... but I just watched a special on the Beatles "Love" show with Cirque du Soleil... and it looks FABULOUS! I'm thinking I would like to go to that show next year...

Now, how on earth am I going to justify the All Girls Weekend in November AND the expo in September? Hum... maybe I just WONT justify it and just do it...

Here's where things get waffly... do I want to spend that kind of money on TWO trips in a single year? I'm trying to work in closer trips as well too, so the expense factor starts to weigh in.
Anyone out there want to sway me either way?

The rest of the weekend

2009-10-15T18:09:00.001-07:00

I found my NAME.... I donated to the building fund for the new dorms - and I got my name on the wall (of shame, since there were soooo few?). I was actually quite shocked that so few names were on the wall - I KNOW lots of folks lived in Manzanita over the MANY years they were there... I have fond memories of living there...
We had a wonderful lunch/dinner of Elk and Pork - big spread with yummy food!

Can you tell we're all sitting around waiting for the food? No, really, we're sitting around visiting!

and that's the truttttthhhhhhhh

The All Girls Weekend Portion of the weekend

2009-09-23T19:39:00.000-07:00

Only one "man" allowed, and he was a little man (still nursing, so couldn't be far away from mom!)

From left to right is:
Donna
Jessica
Laura (standing)
Janet
Jonathan (in arms)
Gail

We had a GREAT time scrapping at the expo for two days for a total of 24 hours in the expo center - A fun filled but exhausting two days as usual. Thank you Janet for hosting and transporting those of us from out of town :o)

2009 All Girls Weekend wrap up

2009-09-15T14:16:00.000-07:00

Well, another year has come and gone and the all girls weekend has gone off smaller, but just as much fun as in the past!
Who was able to be there this year (some in a round about way) :
Scrapbookers:
Donna Autrey (Georgia)
Laura Autrey (Texas)
Janet Autrey
Gail Owens
Jessica Miller
Non scrappers:
Marilyn Autrey (Georgia)
Linda Liebhardt
Sarah Autrey
Katie Rossman (Nevada)
Caroline Owens (Gail’s daughter)
Bernice Liebhardt
Non-Women (well, this is the “round about” part)
Casey and Hayden Rossman
Mike Liebhardt
Seth and Jonathan Owens (Jonathan is still nursing, so he was a “scrapper” too)
Lexie, Ella, Braden (sp? Now why can’t I reach the website when I need to?) Liebhardt
Eric and Nick Liebhardt
LOTS of misc friends of Eric and Katie that I can’t even name.. well, just one – Katie (Eric’s friend).
Day 1:
The weekend started for Laura, Mom and I flying to Utah. This started bad on all fronts. Mom and I started out with mom asking “where are we going?” when I started to head north – uh, the airport?? Ha! She actually thought I had one more stop to do before heading north. I didn’t. It was only about 1pm so her thought was that it was too early. I didn’t think so. I am so glad we did it this way as right after the outlet mall we hit horrible traffic! We asked a guy in a truck how long it was … he said 4 miles… and we were going about 2 miles per hour. YIKES! We turned around on the median and attempted to get my $#%^&*! Garmin to actually rout us around the jamb. It, of course wanted to get me BACK to the freeway – ARGE! We go around THAT jamb, just to come across another as the freeway split going into Atlanta THEN another right before the turn off to 285. I found my way around that last one by taking the farmers market turn off and zipping up to the airport. Problems solved…. And we made it to the airport just in time to get through security, get to the gate and only waited a few minutes and we were loading. Whew!
We got to Denver only to have to wait an HOUR for our crew to show up from it’s other flight. Sigh. So much for getting there on time. While we were sitting there I got a call from David that Laura was stuck on the tarmac in Dallas! Poor Laura was stuck for over an hour waiting on the 30 – yes THIRTY planes in front of hers to take off. Needless to say that we were ALL late getting in – the 7:30 pm arrival which was to be our last become a 8:30 pm arrival… ah, well.
We finally all made it in and got to the hotel. Gail had checked in with the baby already and was simi-settled in when we got there
Poor Laura was not told by David the plans… so was surprised that she was doing all that was planned out. We have got to get her checking these blogs and e-mail :o)
Day 2 – dawned early at 6am to get up and head down to breakfast and to the Expo. Linda came up with Eric and the two of them and Mom went to SLC to the temple to go through a session (I’m talking out of turn here, because I’m not sure what that all means, other than they went through the temple that day). Laura, Gail, Janet and I headed to the expo. Gail took the early bird option and Laura, Janet and I chose to use the VIP so that Laura could do the class. Gail opted out because classes weren’t likely to go over well with a nursing baby. :o\ Picky boy!
We were really lucky in that the lady who was to join us at our table let us know early that she was not going to be using her slot. We asked for and received permission to have Gail join us in our area for the day! By the time Jessica got there at 6 or 7pm the “guard” was gone from the roped off area, so we snuck her in too :o)
Our gift bags this year had a mini album, some chip board mini’s for Christmas and a “freeze frame” – a new product for lining up pages. I gave mine to Gail as it was HUGE but thin – however I didn’t see the benefit of using it as I just don’t lay out my pages the way this product would be beneficial
Janet, Laura and I had our VIP class at 12 pm… it was HORRIBLE. The instructor who was to teach the class was put on bed rest just before the weekend and couldn’t find anyone to teach the class – AND the folks teaching the class were running between two rooms. Give me a break. I paid good money to actually BE instructed! They didn’t instruct. Shoot, they weren’t there most the time. I felt HORRIBLE that this was Laura’s first and only experience with classes at an expo – not a good example
That and it was a cheap class – a three page chip board book. Hello? VIP costs $75 EACH. Sigh.
Next year it won’t be VIP, it will only be early bird, I’m sure… less gifts, however, still in early entry… and the $55 difference I can look @ the class and determine if I want to do that item or not and possibly buy the kit out on the floor.
However, despite the disappointments, I did get a LOT done. I managed to finish a whole calendar blank – I’m SOO excited to have it done! I also finished a fun project that can’t be named until after Christmas, as well as a box set of 4 cards I won last year from SEI. They were simple and easy to put together… and a great bonus! I did one make and take at a cost – with glitter because I always wanted to try it… HATED it, so glad I tried it out there… that idea is a gonner :o) also did a few tags for fun :o)
Gail and Laura headed home at about 11pm – I had thoughts that we had chased Laura off for good, but I think we have converted her .. maybe! Janet, Jessica and I headed out at 12pm – yawn!
Day 3: Dawned just as early with breakfast at the hotel and we went in on the early bird time frame. The line was VERY short compared to prior years.
Jeannette was able to come out with her daughter at 10am and visit for a bit as they were doing make and takes and having an early lunch at a table close to ours.. I finished putting together another calendar with coordinating items to be put together later (didn’t happen at the expo, but I have goals to finish it at the next local crop).
Janet and I had a 12pm class with SEI, so off we ran. It was an INTENSE class. WE finished a full 20 page ABC album in 2 hours… it was extremely fast paced, but fun class. That was my ONLY project completed for Saturday as we didn’t do all the tags and embellishments on the project , so we came back to the table to wrap it up.
I did some shopping and ended up with some FUN vinyl – orange and purple for Halloween, chalkboard vinyl (not sure what I’ll market that as), some glittered orange and black and some flocked in black, white and brown! Fun stuff!! I also bought some software too that I can’t wait to try - one is all the stick people that I had been asked about at the store I do jobs for and one was all sorts of fun flourish’s.
We wrapped up the scrapping about 4:30 and headed down to Provo to pick up Robert and Sarah and head to Cedar for the next days gathering.
Day 4: Cedar City – Sunday. Most folks went to the Centrum for a talk by ??? not sure. I’ll update that when I find out who it was (or Linda or Janet can correct my shortcomings here as I didn’t attend!)
I walked the campus with Laura – saw all the new buildings…. And looked for my brick. I found it – finally – it wasn’t in the “courtyard” of the old Manzanita, but on the way to the parking lot form the building to the west side of the complex. Strange thing to be excited about, but I did find my brick!
The rest of the day was spent eating a wonderful dinner cooked by Mike, Seth and Casey in dutch ovens. They served potatoes with cheese and bacon as well as BBQ Elk and BBQ Pork, Salad, and home made apple pies from Linda’s backyard apple tree – very tasty! It was Eric’s 19^th birthday, so he had some friends there. Katie hadn’t been home in a while, so she had some friends there as well, so we had a very full house, and lots of fun watching the kids make mud pies outside and play!!
We sat around and visited, napped on the lawn and visited some more until it was time to head back to Provo for the night.
Day 5: was another early morning as Laura had an 8:30am flight. We were supposed to have a 9:30 flight, however it was changed to 10:20 before we even left Georgia – all our connections still worked out well to get us home by 6pm though. So, we checked in and went to breakfast there at the airport. It was very tasty and relaxing. We then wandered down to the gate area and found a nice set of chairs looking north over the mountains and watched the planes coming and going… sat next to a very nice lady who does plumbing supplies there in SLC. She was pleasant to chat with – going to Atlanta for a plumbing expo or some work related plumbing thing. :o) Well, we’re sitting there and they delayed our flight for ANOTHER hour, however with that delay came the offer for a free bag check for any carry on to your final destination. You mean YOU will take this beast of a scrapbook bag for free? You betcha! We took them up on that one! So, mom and I were down to one small carry on apiece. Not bad.
We got on the plane, and they got us to Denver and encouraged those without tight connections to please stay seated – we had 20 minutes to make our connection and we were in the back 1/3 of the aircraft…. And (drum roll please) our next gate was 2 gates down! Ha! We were fine
We got home on time, picked up our car and headed on home. We were home by 9pm, safe and sound.
All in all a wonderful weekend.

Two days and counting!!!

2009-09-08T19:21:00.000-07:00

Two days and counting until the fun begins!!

1 week to go - well, until I fly out!

2009-09-02T13:42:00.000-07:00

Can you tell I'm getting excited to get going?

I'm going to register for a digital class i think... now to find all the confirmations from the other classes as well so I know when I'm going to what class!

Can I just leave NOW to go please?

Two weeks to go!!!!

2009-08-29T08:13:00.000-07:00

Yes, I typed that correctly - just two weeks to go until we're scrappin'... and do i have a SINGLE thing ready? Heavens NO. Yikes... I am setting up Butch's laptop to take with me and do electronic scrapping and working on dad's scrapbook. It's time that one was done!!
Then I get to move on to Mom's work next.
It'll get done, it'll get done. (I hope!)

I signed up for a class!

2009-08-09T16:18:00.000-07:00

“Stamp and Page Expansion” Techniques / Album - SEI
Saturday - 12:00pm - 2:00pm

This Class was a hug hit at the Spring Show so SEI is offering it again! Create this $100 VALUE 12x12 poppy album, two smaller albums plus foil monograms & embellishments! Enhance a 20 page 12x12 album with Shadow Staging, De-bossing, Masking & Tri-fold stamping techniques using SEI’s NEW acrylic stamps & “Chalk Blocks” You will also create 2 page expansions & an amazing Burst Quote Booklet that is quick & fun to make. Basic Supplies w/lots of adhesive.

VIP has been booked for Friday....

2009-08-07T19:12:00.000-07:00

VIP has been booked for the Scrapbook Expo!!

*VIP AREA* Friday, Sept. 11th - Class 1:00 - 2:30
9:00am - 11:30pm

Be the *VIP* you truly are at the Scrapbook USA Expo!! Price includes an Awesome Scrapbooking "Goodie Bag" valued at $40 - Your All Day Crop & Shop Admission for the day - Early entrance at 8:45 a.m. - Spacious round tables that seat 4 - 5 people in the Special VIP Area - Breakfast Smoothie plus $10 Expo Food Voucher - An Amazing Class from 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. valued at $25 - Limited Electrical just for the VIP area if you want to bring your Cricut -Crop all day & night!

Who's up for cropping all day long????

Hotel reservations have been made.

2009-07-03T18:53:00.000-07:00

Not sure I mentioned this to the blog... but reservations for the All girls weekend have been made by this crew.
LOTS of reservations. We hav the hotel booked - we're staying in the Sandy Residents Inn:
https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-photos/slcsy-residence-inn-salt-lake-city-sandy/
we have at least 3 of us staying in a 2 queen bed suite with a pull out sofa as well - should be really nice to have a fridge and such "just in case" and with little Johnathan, maybe a must with bottles, etc. it will be nice ot have the extra room and we can easily fit a few more in here and there... I think Mom is staying downtown with Tuny for the first part and doing the SLC things with her while Gail, Laura and I do the Scrapbook Expo. I'm not sure if Linda will join Mom and Tuny with Johnathan or if she'll stay with us, Robert or what... I don't know the whole plans yet.

I also have our plane reservations...
Thu, Sep 10, 2009
Atlanta Hartsfield International Airport, (ATL) to Salt Lake City, (SLC)
Flight: Frontier Airlines Flight 421 (on Airbus A319)
Depart: 04:00 PM, Atlanta, GA (ATL)
Arrive: 05:18 PM, Denver, CO (DEN)

1 Stop - change planes in Denver, (DEN)
Connection Time:
Flight: Frontier Airlines Flight 577 (on Airbus A319)
Depart: 05:55 PM, Denver, CO (DEN)
Arrive: 07:20 PM, Salt Lake City, UT (SLC)______________________________________________________
Mon, Sep 14, 2009
Salt Lake City, (SLC) to Atlanta Hartsfield International Airport, (ATL)
Flight: Frontier Airlines Flight 531 (on Airbus A319)
Depart: 09:20 AM, Salt Lake City, UT (SLC)
Arrive: 10:45 AM, Denver, CO (DEN)

1 Stop - change planes in Denver, (DEN)
Connection Time:
Flight: Frontier Airlines Flight 428 (on Airbus A319)
Depart: 01:35 PM, Denver, CO (DEN)
Arrive: 06:30 PM, Atlanta, GA (ATL)

So, there you have it folks ... plans are moving forward!!

Updates, economy and changes in venue

2009-05-30T13:42:00.000-07:00

Updates, economy and changes in venue - now what on earth could THAT mean?
Let's start with the first - with the way the economy is going it has everyone thinking about what they can truly afford and what they would list as a "nice to have". I hear every day about folks cutting back, about work laying off jobs and for now - knock on wood and say a prayer, we're luck that Butch's contract job is still in place. That being said, it is just that - a contract job - if things keep going the way they are and Obama has his way with defense spending cut backs, we're going to be faced with a situation, I'm afraid. I worry about it, but don't try to let it run our lives. For now, we know we're blessed to have all that we do with our jobs having a certain amount of certainty to them. So, you can understand that with the changes and fears, I'm forced to not do quite what I would like to do every year. This year is no exception and I have found I want to do a combination of AGW and the Scrapbook Expo

For those of you who don't know, I have been going to the scrapbook expo for the last few years, it's a great time to scrap, get things done that I wouldn't normally make the time to do - in that I was able to finish quite a few projects last year AND do 13 pages of scrapping. Not a bad thing considering that I don't really get a lot done at home (NONE).

So, without further fanfare, this years AGW will be moved slightly in times to the weekend of September 10th - 13th to coincide with the Scrapbook Expo in Salt Lake City, Utah. I would love for all those that don't scrapbook to think about this as well as there are a lot of fun things to do in Utah other than scrapbook. If you need a rundown, I can get you the info! It will be a fun weekend and you're all welcome to join in!

I have reservations at the Residence Inn Salt Lake City Sandy 270 West 10000 South Sandy, UT 84070 USAPhone: Work 1-801-561-5005 Fax:: 1-801-561-9672

We'll be attending the all day session on Friday the 11th and all day on Saturday the 12th. We'll see if we can't get VIP tickets as well, so whoever is interested in joining in on VIP for Friday, let me know and I'll get the tickets. This year I KNOW I have to be on the computer the MOMENT the clock strikes it's hour as within a few minutes they are ALL gone it would seem!

So - who's interested?? Anyone? Everyone?

Flowers from the AGW has been placed for Janey

2009-05-05T17:33:00.000-07:00

I hope you all like this spray that was chosen.

I'm sad to announce the passing of one of our AGW memebers.

2009-05-04T14:25:00.000-07:00

2006

Janey center

Janey is the 4th one from the left

Janey on the right

And now on the left

2004

Janey on the right - middle row - Sams "club" (Town) atrium

3rd from the left in deep discussions over dinner!

2nd on the right - yep, all we do is eat, gab and eat some more on these things!

2003 AGW

Top row right

Janey will always be remembered as the first to smile and laugh at all our escapades during the weekend. She will be dearly missed at the All Girls Weekends.

Cruises Oh, My!

2009-01-22T14:59:00.000-08:00

OK, it's decision time... Who is going to seriously do the cruise with us this year? I have 5 confirmed travelers currently. I do need to solidify this in order to make some key decisions on destinations and travel itineraries.

What I'm trying to accomplish at this point is a count of those that would be willing to commit financially to this trip and make reservations.

I would like to get a firm headcount by the 2nd of February. Once I get a firm head count, we'll start talking which cruise we would like to go on.

Looking at Carnival Cruises out of San Diego to Catalina and Ensenada we can get an inexpensive cruise (less than $200 per person) so for those of you driving down, this would be the least expensive route to go. If we find that participation is limited and flights will be involved for all, we may look into Bahama cruises. It's all flexible at this point.

Trying to find a good fit. I think leaving out of San Diego would be best if leaving from West coast, and if leaving from East Coast I'm game for just about anywhere... most seem to leave out of Miami, so I would by flying either way (10 hour drive doesn't thrill me either Janet!)

So far, I have interest expressed by:
Marilyn
Laura
Janet
and me

Some have said they would not travel on a cruise without a spouse. That's really your call - if you want to have a spouse come along, the more the merrier (not you mom - we're sneaking out without our men so they can watch the girls!!!)

Linda's photo's here (well, Gails, but Linda's Blog)

2008-11-19T18:35:00.001-08:00

http://librarylindasblog.blogspot.com/2008/11/all-girls-weekend-2008.html
NO, I really didn't lick that glass... yuck... although, if I thought I could have licked my way through... maybe, just maybe I would have tried it!

Suz's pictures from the weekend

2008-11-19T18:34:00.001-08:00

Can be seen here:
http://sumidafamily.blogspot.com/2008/11/agw-2008.html

Pictures from Donna

2008-11-15T06:56:00.000-08:00

We're HERE!!!
We all made it to Vegas and are ready to PLAY!

OK, more like gossip, eat and visit, but we're here!

The one downer of the day was that Janey wasn't able to be with us this year. She was sick the morning of departure and wasn't
able to come :o( I even brought the dobbers from prior years
Bingo events - I wanted to go play BINGO!!!
You were missed Janey!!

EEEK - there was a MAN in the mix... OK, so not quite a man, but Hayden came to join us for the weekend. Katie was flying out to Kansas City with her mother in law and Linda and Gail were taking Hayden back to Cedar with them, so it was the perfect opportunity for us (mom and I) to see and play with the latest member of our family!

Dinner this year was at Don Miguel's in the Orleans Casino. They had good food and even better company!

Horrible self portraits - however, this is the beginning of Blue Man Group - they handed out tissue paper for us to "decorate" ourselves for the show :o)

Janet - we took your picture on your camera - you'll have to share with us on the blog!
We had a good time, although it wasn't what I expected of the show. VERY loud, very rock and roll - guess I should have figured that out as it was percussion stuff, eh? Oh, well, it was an experience!

The band members... they glowed in the dark in this paint those outfits. Fun to watch

Mom and I on our way to the Ethel M's Chocolate!!

We even enjoyed the hot tub for a bit on Sunday evening!

Monday morning dawned for the Chocolate walk - we started at the Fashion Place Mall - for what else, Chocolate!

Things got out of hand after our wonderful BREAKFAST of Chocolate Fondue!

Chihuli Glass ceiling- love this artist!

We walked to the Bellagio where we saw all of the wonderful fall decorations in place for Thanksgiving. I'm just glad they didn't do what all the malls and shopping places are - putting Christmas out before Thanksgiving. It was nice to see the wonderful fall colors and decorations.

Around the corner is another chocolate heaven - the chocolate fountain is HUGE there, but unreachable. Others will have to post the pictures we're we were attempting to "eat" it... and no, I wasn't licking the glass... wouldn't have done any good :o( hee hee hee!

Hayden even had his first ever cab ride. I'm sure that cab driver was ready to chuck me out, I had LOTS of questions!! He had little or no answers, but he did confirm that the Aladdin is now the Planet Hollywood Casino. There is a new HUGE hotel/casino being built along the strip and as near as I can tell it used to be the old Boardwalk. The Frontier is now gone, gone, gone... so there are a lot of changes going on out there....

I've tried to get this to line up for HOURs now... I'm done! If you want full size photo's let me know!

The All-Girls-Weekend is over for another year!

2008-11-11T19:43:00.000-08:00

Sad, but true.
Pictures to follow.
For all those that weren't able to make it, you were greatly missed! Janey, we missed our Bingo Buddy!! I brought the dobbers and everything!!
Sue wish you could have made it down this year, but I do understand conflicting obligations!
Tonya - it was another cowboy weekend with National Rodeo, you would have loved the views!!
Connie and Lorrie - wish we could have gotten together while we were there!
Elise - it was great to catch up, even if it was a short time. We'll do more in e-mail... jog my memory on all the old haunts and folks I knew way back when!

Weekend Fun!

2008-11-10T19:58:00.000-08:00

We have had a wonderful time this weekend...we sure missed those that we're able to come!

More to come on next years planning...start saving your pennies...I'm trying to put together a cruise for next year. San's that, it my end up being San Diego with a side trip to Tiajuna.

Today's the day!

2008-11-07T05:39:00.001-08:00

If you don't have your travelin' shoes on yet - Put'em on and head out the door!
Meet you in Vegas!!!

4 more days for me....

2008-11-03T14:40:00.000-08:00

If you don't count the rest of today... we'll be on a plane on Friday!

6 MORE DAYS!!!!!!!

2008-11-01T15:59:00.000-07:00

Need I say more? I'm not counting or anything...or excited!

Suz

1 week and 2 days... and I want to go NOW!!!

2008-10-29T15:03:00.000-07:00

I want to go to Vegas now... I don't want to be at work in our newly formaldehyde'd freshened environment (new carpet and new cubicles) - it's a chemical overload to the senses... my eyes itch and water half the stinkin' day... I stuff up while there and to add insult to injury my seat is too small - no not the width, then you could blame me, but the depth is shorter by 2" than our old chairs and my legs are screaming from lack of support. My emotions are screaming from lack of managerial support... and I don't want to BE there... Sad when you get new furniture and it's so cheap it sucks.

Ah, well, I would gripe if hung with a new rope as dad would say. I also have a hall way between me and the other half of my team and a full on WALL between me and the one who needs to be prompted to work. Lovely.

Yeah, it's a fun place to be - not.

Memories...

2008-10-29T08:21:00.000-07:00

I'm glad you did that flashback post, Donna! I had forgotten how many times we have done this crazy outing. Crazy fun, that is! I had also forgotten that I had short hair at the last AGW. And I will for this one, too! I'm not giving away just how short. You'll just have to wait and see... I did cut off enough to do a donation for Locks of Love, though.

I almost let a boy come with us....

2008-10-28T18:27:00.001-07:00

It was/is the new hairdresser I have... still not sure if he's truly gay or not... gives very strong good hugs... He said he would cut all our hair if I would just take him with me... tempting, tempting, tempting... just for the haircuts, shampoo's and facials. :o)

Trivia question

2008-10-28T13:27:00.001-07:00

Do you know how that first one got started ?

AGW's of the past!

2008-10-27T16:55:00.000-07:00

2002
The beginning of our AGW Adventure!
Moroccan restaurants, Top of the Stratosphere tower

2003
The year of the Cowboys - Yeeee haw!
The breakfast place - don't make me post those pictures gals!!
Sally attended along with some of Sue's Friends
A great time was had by all!

2004
year of Scrapbooking and a Pregnant Tandy (Braden is really that old now??)

2006

this is the year we learned about Geo Caching
Another year of scrapping with a calendar pattern that
Gail put together for us! Wonderful project.

2007 - cancelled due to my surgery and lack of folks wanting to do the trip this year :o( How sad!!

Which brings us to 2008! Come one, come all - we're at less than two week count down. We'll be staying at the Orleans in Las Vegas. I'll be there on Friday evening at about 9pm and staying through Tuesday morning.

If you're in the local area and want to know more details on the schedule - e-mail me at dashw00d@cox.net and I'll send you my cell phone number and our tentative schedule to meet up!

Dinner Reservations

2008-10-20T16:05:00.000-07:00

Don Miguel's doesn't take reservations for dinner - so if we want a place with reservations we may have to seek out a different place. I have 9 so far in the count:
Tuny
Suz
Sandi
Janey
Marilyn
Donna
Linda
Gail
Janet
Possible:
Katie
Jessica

I would think with 10 or less for an early dinner, we should be OK in the long run, right?

It's getting closer!

2008-10-18T12:43:00.000-07:00

3 more weeks, people! Yay!!!!!

Suzanne

Itenerary

2008-10-09T14:14:00.000-07:00

I thought the e-mail I sent last time updated the BLOG but it didn't - drat it... so correct me if I have the days wrong on this!

Saturday:
Spa day 10am
(http://www.orleanscasino.com/things-to-do/spa/treatments-and-packages)
I have a reservation for 10am on Saturday morning for a massage - a CHOCOLATE massage.
I'm not sure how I'll feel about it, but can you imagine smelling chocolate the entire time?
Hum.. wonder if it will just make me hungry instead of relaxed?
Hard to know... but I'll tell you when I'm done!!

Saturday evening - Dinner 6pm (http://www.orleanscasino.com/dining/don-miguels)
Reservations are pending confirmation with Don Miguel's there at the hotel.

Saturday night - Show night! 10 pm
Blue Man Group (http://www.bluemanvegas.com/?sid=2796718)

Can you say one BUSY day for me? The reality is that I will nap after the massage, then eat and laugh through dinner and wrap it up with a show that night... Then recoup on Sunday!!

Sunday - ??
Group Breakfast - hotel buffet
Church for those wanting to attend
Lunch dinner, visiting, playing, movies, bowling... lots and lots of stuff going on!

Blue all over!

2008-09-17T11:54:00.001-07:00

Prices tickets $139.50, $99.35, $79.00 with tax depending on where you
want to sit.

I don't think we want to be in the very expensive seats as they will be
in the VERY front and get you messy as all get out.

You can see their Vegas site at:
http://www.blueman.com/tickets/las_vegas

The booking agent said they were still pretty well available, so let me
know if you would like me to book us all together. So far I have
Marilyn, Linda and myself confirmed. I think I'll be aiming for the $99
tickets for us.

Let me know!

I'm feeling blue!

2008-09-16T08:33:00.001-07:00

The Blue Man Groups does have shows on our weekend. They have a 7pm and
a 10pm on
Saturday.

Who would be interested in going?

I'm getting excited!

2008-09-08T14:19:00.000-07:00

Well, no one is writing about our big trip coming up, so I'm (this is Suz by the way) hoping to stir things up. I'm getting really excited now that it's September. That means it's only about another 2 months. Oh...2 months. That does seem kind of far off. But still, we get to hang out in 2 months! Fun!!! Our room is booked and I'm ready to go NOW! Anyone want to go a little early? Tee hee.

I've BOOKED

2008-08-07T11:10:00.000-07:00

I booked our room at the Orleans! Gail, Tandy and I will be staying on Saturday and Sunday night. But we'll be there Saturday DAY and Monday DAY, too. Well, some of us will. I haven't checked with everyone yet.
YAAAYY!

HEAD COUNT PLEASE!!!

2008-08-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

Who's going to the group dinner on Saturday evening?
Post a comment with your name(s) so I can get a rough head count to start that process of reserving a table(s) ;o)

Viva, Las Vegas

2008-08-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

I'm testing to see if I can actually submit an entry on Donna's Blog...this is Linda!

I forget--when do we usually meet for a dinner? I glanced through the website for the Orleans. Shall we stick to our previous Mexican Theme? ha. I'll eat anything...it matters not.

Gail just mentioned last night how she has to start saving money for our trip to AGW. It'll be here before we know it. Guess I'd better get busy, too!

BOOK the Orleans!

2008-07-31T17:52:00.001-07:00

Thought I would make that announcement a little "bolder" ha!
Mom/Marilyn and I will be there from the 7th to the 11th - come join in on the fun!

Tentative Schedule

2008-07-31T17:42:00.000-07:00

Friday 7th November: Arrivals
Saturday 8th November:
Morning: Spa for those that would like to join
Evening: group dinner
TBD on location and head count of who would like to join in.
This is typically the ONE meal we all get together
Sunday 9th November:
Morning: group breakfast for those that would like to join
Church: for those that are interested in attending church in Vegas, we'll have the breakfast early enough (or late enough) to accommodate.
Evening: departures for some, but I'm here for two more days!! Anyone else wanting to stay with me, I'll be there until the 11th with Mom. The more the merrier.

I have heard a lot of folks comment that they don't have a holiday on the 11th. It's typically a government holiday, so I understand quite a few won't be staying more than the weekend.

For those that are staying longer, comment away and we'll plan something fun to do on Monday!

Hotel news and schedule.

2008-07-31T17:41:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have heard back from all places now - we're "on our own" because we're less than 10 rooms. So - book away! Majority would like to try the Orleans - so let's go for it! Book away!

Show Tickets

2008-07-31T00:09:00.000-07:00

I just checked the Venetian website for Blue Man Group tickets and there are no shows scheduled for the month of November. According to the site, tickets are available 120 days out so I don't know if they are just not scheduled yet or no show period. Bummer, I was looking forward to it. The tickets run $91 - 132 so I will have to pick between the spa and a show. Are we still considering a spa day?

Any other shows people may be interested in?

I did it! I did it!

2008-07-23T04:36:00.001-07:00

I booked our flights for the trip to Vegas!

I guess the decision is made on the Scrapping as well since I won’t get in early enough to do the scrapping in St. George. So – next up, I have to book the flights to SLC for the one in September!

I’m getting excited!

Now – to finalize the hotel… that will be the kicker!

Shows

2008-07-22T14:23:00.000-07:00

Who's up for a show this year?
Any suggestions on what show you would like to see?
I would like to see Blue Man Group maybe this year.

Room Reservations

2008-07-21T15:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I have called a few places.

I have left messages at the New Orleans about group sales, no response - AT ALL.

Frustration.

So - I'm still working on the place.

We all know the time:
The weekend of November 7th (Friday) - 11th (Tuesday - Veterans Day weekend) or some time frame there - in.

Gail, Janet and I have been talking about doing the Scrapbook Expo in St. George that weekend as well. I go out there in September for a long weekend and scrap and visit... but with flights and gas prices climbing so high, this may be a stretch for me this year. We're still hashing out the details on that one. We have also talked about moving the location to Mesquite Nevada for lower prices, but not sure that the everyone would want to travel the extra 80 miles - for those of us flying into Vegas as well as those driving up from California. I am going to see what they would do for a few suites in Mesquite compared to Vegas... although Vegas is hurting right now for tourism too - so you never know - this is the week for me to start making calls again. I was too early for them to even talk to me about reservations at a few placed. ;o)

I'm sure I'm still aiming for Vegas, but if these hotels don't start to cooperate, I may have to pull a few more hairs out. I could very well be bald by the end of the week from work alone :op Hum... more options for wigs and new "do's"... there's a thought!

Welcome to the All Girls Weekend Blog!

2008-07-21T15:04:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the All Girls weekend Blog!
If you would like to author a comment on the blog, let me know and I'll add you to the author list!
Otherwise, sit back, check in when you can and make comments to the "Chatty Cathy" posts!