Wave 2 Countdown.....

[pamperedalf]

Watch Out Chicago...Here we come:

Today is Saturday, May 3, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 72

Okay I am going to try and keep this going, if I miss a day feel free to add the count!:D

[pampermejolene]

YAY! I've been meaning to do this ever since I saw Ann's but I never actually got the calendar out to count the days! Thanks Amanda!

[pamperedalf]

Jolene I cheated, I took Ann's countdown from wave 3 and subtracted 3 days.

I am too lazy to count all those days, don't tell my students.

[lockhartkitchen]

Thanks Amanda! I have the city of Chicago on my desktop at school. My class thinks it cool. I tell them that's my vacation when school gets out. I look at it several times a day. It keeps me focused.

[pampermejolene]

Jolene I cheated, I took Ann's countdown from wave 3 and subtracted 3 days.

I am too lazy to count all those days, don't tell my students.

Genius! We can tell who is the teacher and who just works in the same building as them! I never would have thought of that! :rolleyes:


Thanks Amanda! I have the city of Chicago on my desktop at school. My class thinks it cool. I tell them that's my vacation when school gets out. I look at it several times a day. It keeps me focused.

Here is my desktop background. I made it after a teleclass. I posted it on my myspace so everyone would see it. Now you guys can hold me accountable too!
It's mostly PC related, but not all. You can click on it to make it bigger (didn't want to make it HUGE, trying to not completely hi-jack the thread!)
http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d161/jobubbs/th_visualgoals.jpg (http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d161/jobubbs/visualgoals.jpg)

[lockhartkitchen]

Cute Jolene!

[lacychef]

Yeah! We booked our airfare the other day; can't wait!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Sunday, May 4, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 71

I figured we should do pink for Help Whip Cancer.

Lacy, I am glad you got your ticket. Can't wait to see everyone!;)

[Debala715]

I can't wait to meet as many of you as possible during NC! I am so looking forward to it!!

[pampermejolene]

oh, right tickets.... Guess I should buy those!
I'm still holding out that the price will go down!:grumpy:

[pampermejolene]

Today is Sunday, May 4, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 71

I figured we should do pink for Help Whip Cancer.

Lacy, I am glad you got your ticket. Can't wait to see everyone!;)

Plus pink is pretty :balloon:

[lacychef]

oh, right tickets.... Guess I should buy those!
I'm still holding out that the price will go down!:grumpy:
We were hoping they'd go down too; but went ahead & got them since all the cheap ones are gone now...we did get round trip for $207, so not too bad.

[Bren706]

I figured I would post today's countdown, since I was here peeking in, and it wasn't here yet::D

Today is Monday, May 5, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 70

[heather223]

It seems like it is going to take forever to get here. I can't wait to meet you all!

[pamperedalf]

Thanks Bren706, I was just coming to do that. I was loading a kiln of mothers day gifts for my students this morning.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Tuesday, May 6, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 69



Can't wait, making plans to go to Gino's for cheese sticks, they were the best I had ever tasted.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Wednesday, May 7, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 68:D



I just realized I had 2 countdowns going. One for wave 2 and one for school to end.

[lacychef]

Which one are you more excited about?;)

[pampermejolene]

Today is Wednesday, May 7, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 68:D



I just realized I had 2 countdowns going. One for wave 2 and one for school to end.

Me TOO!!! Only 3 class days left and 16 days until I walk across the stage to get my bachelors!!! YIPPEE! :p :balloon:

[Denise's Fun]

This will be my 3rd time to Chicago and I am thrilled and cant wait to go, you guys even got me more excited with the count down.
I am new to chef success. I will be in Shearton too.

[pamperedalf]

Lacy, it's school right now. I want to be rid of one parent & student. I can't wait for a vacation.

[lacychef]

That's what I figured Amanda!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Thursday, May 8, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 67




25 days left of school, wahoo! Summer vacation will be so nice

[lacychef]

25 days left of school, wahoo! Summer vacation will be so nice

Wow, 25? When is your last day? You must go longer than us...

[jbdowd0798]

I AM SOOOO EXCITED!!!! Only 20 school days left for DS! He gets out on June 6th. :-)

[Kitchen2u]

Me TOO!!! Only 3 class days left and 16 days until I walk across the stage to get my bachelors!!! YIPPEE! :p :balloon:

AWESOME Jolene! Which airport are you flying out of?

[lacychef]

I AM SOOOO EXCITED!!!! Only 20 school days left for DS! He gets out on June 6th. :-)
Wow that's late! Our last day here is May 21!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Friday, May 9, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 66


Lacy I think it's around June 13thish. It's the Thursday right before father's Day. It's late they are voting on ending at the end of may and starting the second week of August. So we will see. 24 days left of school and w/ my horrible parent and manipulative student. He's not here today, wahoo! (I know bad teacher)

[pampermejolene]

AWESOME Jolene! Which airport are you flying out of?
Thanks! I am so excited!!! I'm down to just TWO class periods! But they are spread out over 2 weeks!

I have no idea yet! hahah! I should be buying my tix in the next couple weeks. I'm hoping Sac but it might end up being any of the 3 in the Bay Area. I have friends down there willing to drive me the airport, I just don't want to have to drive back up here after conference. I have a feeling I'll be sleepy!

[jbdowd0798]

I'm flying out of SJ, so is my hospitality director...but different airlines.

[pamperedalf]

We are flying out of SJ too.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Saturday, May 10, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 65




off to do a fair!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Sunday, May 11, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 64




Happy Mother's Day Everyone!!!!:D


Hope everyone is having a great day, 1 day closer to Chicago!!!!!

[jbdowd0798]

Flying from SJ to Chicago Sunday at 645am on American. Anyone else??? :-)

[pamperedalf]

Today is Monday, May 12, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 63


23 days left of school, basically 4 weeks.

We are flying out on SW & back on Amer. at the time that was the cheapest way to do it. We are also doing a park n fly at the clarion the night before. I get spoiled flying out of sac, parking is cheap. It's 15 a day at SJ.

[pampermejolene]

63 days till Chicago, 11 days till graduation and just 2 class periods left. I am one excited girl!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Tuesday, May 13, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 62



22 days of school left, Sweet!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Wednesday, May 14, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 61



Halfway through the week.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Thursday, May 15, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 60



Busy day, hope everyone is having a great Thursday!!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Friday, May 16, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 59




Yeah 19 days left of school!


My ds turns 4 tomorrow, if I forget to post it's because we are doing birthday things. Have a fabulous friday!!!!

[lacychef]

Have a great b-day party!
(I'll rub it in that here my dd only has 2 1/2 days of school after today! She's excited!)

[pamperedalf]

Oh thanks Lacy! Just what I wanted to hear. LOL

[lacychef]

Hehe:D

OK, in case Amanda doesn't get on here today:

today is Saturday May 17th (graduation day here)

days until conference: 58

[pamperedalf]

Thanks Lacy, my day has been chaotic. I woke up at 4 AM to a horse running in the cul de sac(SP). Thinking it was my neighbors horse (because they forget to lock their gate). So I started my day trying to catch a horse that wasn't mine in the dark. Luckily it was well trained, and I caught him not knowing who he belonged to. So I put him in our bottom field until a girl came looking for him, I guess he jumped a 6 foot fence hopefully he won't do it again.

My son's b-day was a huge success, we bought a water slide for him. Good thing because it was a 102 today. Next week is suppose to cool off. Hope everyone had a great Saturday, we are down to less than 2 months away for conference. Wahoo!!

[lockhartkitchen]

Me TOO!!! Only 3 class days left and 16 days until I walk across the stage to get my bachelors!!! YIPPEE! :p :balloon:


I'm not out until June 12 with students! We got our new assignments for next year. My principal mixed the pot. Only one of my co-workers is staying in 4th grade. One is going to another school, one down to third grade, and I'm moving to 5th grade. I'm excited, since that is the grade I was hired for and taught 10+ years. I'm more excited for school to end, because it makes it closer to my screen saver Chicago!!!! I see it every day. Counting! Counting! Counting!

[lockhartkitchen]

Today is Friday, May 9, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 66


Lacy I think it's around June 13thish. It's the Thursday right before father's Day. It's late they are voting on ending at the end of may and starting the second week of August. So we will see. 24 days left of school and w/ my horrible parent and manipulative student. He's not here today, wahoo! (I know bad teacher)


You're not bad! You've had a rough year. I'm going from 4th to 5th next year. I'm taking many of my 4th graders up with me. Some I'm telling principal no way! Me bad.

[pamperedalf]

Julie, I don't think your bad. I sometimes think when people read this who are not teachers, man I hope my child never runs across this teacher. Sometimes I wish that those parents who cause all the problems can switch roles with me. I do it with my students, why not the parents.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Sunday, May 18, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 57


I am dead tired today, hope everyone is having a Super Sunday

[pamperedalf]

Today is Monday, May 19, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 56


18 days of school left. Everyone have a great week!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Tuesday, May 20, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 57



17 days of school left and counting.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Wednesday, May 21, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 56



One day closer! 16 more days of school!

I hope everyone is enjoying the countdown. Can't wait to have our cheffer meet n greet!!!

[Bren706]

Today is Wednesday, May 21, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 56



One day closer! 16 more days of school!

I hope everyone is enjoying the countdown. Can't wait to have our cheffer meet n greet!!!

It looks like we are actually down to 54 days until Wave 2. I think you counted up yesterday. I am already anxious enough. I don't need to wait a few extra days. :p :love: :)

[lacychef]

Of course we are enjoying the countdown!

& I'll rub it in a little----today's the last day of school here:D :p

[pamperedalf]

I was just seeing if you guys were paying attention to my ramblings. LOL
At least that's what I tell my students.

Okay so yesterday was supposed to be 55 not 57 and today is 54. Yeah, thank you Brenda for noticing. You get an A for the Day!

Thanks Lacy just rub it in more. I am supposed to be writing my lovely parent an emai, I am just not in the mood. I want to yell and scream at her. Oh well.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Thursday, May 22, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 53


15 days of school left! Happy almost Friday! I do have less students for the next few days. Makes my job easier.

[PampChefJoy]

Hey Amanda,

My daughter's birthday is 5/17 as well :) We sweltered at Funderland on Saturday morning... love it! She turned 6... my baby is growing up!

You didn't happen to deliver in a Sac hospital, did you?

[pamperedalf]

Hey Amanda,

My daughter's birthday is 5/17 as well :) We sweltered at Funderland on Saturday morning... love it! She turned 6... my baby is growing up!

You didn't happen to deliver in a Sac hospital, did you?


No I delivered in Ukiah. I would have had him in the car if we tried to go to sac. I was the first of 16 deliveries that day. They had 1 lady in the hospital when we got there, and then there were people without rooms. My best friends daughter was born on the 17th as well. Popular month for my family!

[PampChefJoy]

My DD was conceived in August, but we were delivering around a time when there were a bunch of 9/11 babies being born a bit early... THAT was a baby boom back then.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Friday, May 23, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 52


14 days of school left, wish I had Lacy's school schedule.

Conference is definitely going to be interesting for me. My parent did not like my email, and we are on the same flight to Chicago. At least we aren't in the same room.

[jbdowd0798]

Today is Friday, May 23, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 52


14 days of school left, wish I had Lacy's school schedule.

Conference is definitely going to be interesting for me. My parent did not like my email, and we are on the same flight to Chicago. At least we aren't in the same room.


What do you mean your parent?? I'm confused! lol (It doesn't take much some days to confuse me!) :blushing:

[lacychef]

She teaches, & had a difficult parent of a student awhile back!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Saturday, May 24, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 51


Have a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend! Its raining here, but we need the rain.

PS not many more pink days and we get to switch the color. Sorry Jolene I know you like the color.



What do you mean your parent?? I'm confused! lol (It doesn't take much some days to confuse me!)

A whole different thread, but yes I am a teacher. I have one parent & student making my job 10 times harder than it should be. The kicker is she is my dir w/ PC & we are suppose to be staying the night before in San Jose and on the same flight out to Chicago. So there has been school drama, & drama staying in chicago. Just a lot of drama. There are threads on both, can't remember the titles.

[Koolotus]

Amand, thanks for keeping this updated!!!
I am so excited to see you again at conference...and deb...and everyone!

[pamperedalf]

No problem Cheryl, that is something I can't wait to see is all my cheffer friends.

I need summer vacation to be here. I do need to get on the phone.

[Koolotus]

Get on the phone!!!
I want to see you happy & excited & with a full show schedule in July!!!
Go girl :)

[pampermejolene]

Today is Saturday, May 24, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 51




PS not many more pink days and we get to switch the color. Sorry Jolene I know you like the color.


haha, I do. But it's good to change it up too! :D

My "other" count down is OVER!! I graduated with my bachelor's yesterday!!! YIPPEE!!!

[Koolotus]

Congrats, Jolene!!!

[lacychef]

Congrats Jolene! (& who cares how long it took you---you did it!)

[Bren706]

Today is Sunday, May 25, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 50

(Thought I would update since I was peaking in :p ) Woohoo! We are getting closer! I can't wait to meet everyone!

[pamperedalf]

Congrats Jolene!!!!! I was the same way about how long it took, don't worry the fact that you completed it is what is important.

Now don't rub it in that you are done, because I am green w/ envy.

Thanks Brenda, I have thought about updating before I go to bed for those of you on the east coast. I am proud of myself for actually remembering to come here everyday.

[myinnerchef]

Ladies - I have a question about the people who are assigned to a particular wave - will they always be in the same wave group (assuming they don't leave and return under a different NED)?

I'm wondering if I"ll see some of the people I met last year or if the groups are randomized each year.

[jbdowd0798]

Congrats Jolene!!!

Thanks for the clarification on the parent issue. I'm a teacher too (just not teaching at the moment) and i remember parent issues! YUCKO!

Are we all on the same flight?? I'm heading out to NC on July 13th via AA at 645am.

[pamperedalf]

Becky, I wish I was on that flight. I am flyin AA on the way home Thursday Morning. I am not happy about their new policy w/ luggage though.

I'm wondering if I"ll see some of the people I met last year or if the groups are randomized each year.

What I have noticed is that they do group the same execs for the waves. I know it goes on numbers from the previous year. Someone else w/ some knowledge want to correct me.

[pampermejolene]

Now don't rub it in that you are done, because I am green w/ envy.

.

Maybe you should make the new numbers in GREEN!! heheheh!

[kisrae]

THANKS for keeping us updated. I CAN'T WAIT!!!!!

[jbdowd0798]

Yeah I'm not happy about AA and the luggage policy either. But I guess let's think of this positively- its part of our Tax Write Off! hee hee:thumbup: :p

[lacychef]

Nope, not the same wave every year. I've been in all three in the past 4 or 5 years I think!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Monday, May 26, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 49

It feels so nice that it's Monday and I am not at work!

pampermejolene

Maybe you should make the new numbers in GREEN!! heheheh!

I was thinking Green, but not because of that. LOL

[pamperedalf]

Nope, not the same wave every year. I've been in all three in the past 4 or 5 years I think!

I think Lacy that they group the same execs together because we have been in the same wave together before. Like last year we were wave 3. You know who should answer this is chefann.

[myinnerchef]

I was also wave 3 last year. So my question is whether all of last year's Wave 3s will be Wave 2s this year.

[pamperedalf]

I was also wave 3 last year. So my question is whether all of last year's Wave 3s will be Wave 2s this year.

It seems like it. There might be a few new faces, but it looks to be the same crowd.

[jbdowd0798]

I will be a new face so be excited! :D ha ha ha Okay so new but you don't have to be that excited!!;)

[pamperedalf]

We are always excited to add a new face. Becky who is your upline, we might be able to meet that morning before we fly out depending on our gates. We fly out SW 7am. I am sure if my dir goes with us we will be there early, she has high anxiety.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Tuesday, May 27, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 48

Back to the grind today. 13 days left of school and before we go camping. As soon as the kids are gone. I am gone and off to the sand to relax, well as much relaxing that a 4 year old will let happen.

[jbdowd0798]

Amanda my director is Sharon Morris. She is out of TX right now, but I know Robyn Wellons is on the SW flight that leaves at 740am. She's my hospitality director. Of course isn't SW in a different building than the other flights?? I can't remember! LOL Its been so long since I've been up there.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Wednesday, May 28, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 47

12 days left of school and before we go camping! Yeah


Amanda my director is Sharon Morris. She is out of TX right now, but I know Robyn Wellons is on the SW flight that leaves at 740am. She's my hospitality director. Of course isn't SW in a different building than the other flights?? I can't remember! LOL Its been so long since I've been up there.

I have no clue what San Jose's airport is like. I have never flown out of there this is a first for me. We followed the cheapest fair. We tried for that first AA flight but the computer wouldn't let me buy it and everytime I tried the price kept going up. So that's why we ended up flying on SW out to get the same price I first tried for.

[jbdowd0798]

I know what you meant about finding the cheap fares. I should have booked when everyone on here was talking about $279 but didn't and ended up with $330 after a discount and stuff. Oh well, I'm going to NC!!! Thats the important part!! YAHOOOO!!!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Thursday, May 29, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 46

11 days left of school, and a mini vacation at the sand. DS won't stop asking how many weeks until the sand.


I know what you meant about finding the cheap fares. I should have booked when everyone on here was talking about $279 but didn't and ended up with $330 after a discount and stuff. Oh well, I'm going to NC!!! Thats the important part!! YAHOOOO!!!

That's why I booked on SW out and AA back is to get the $279.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Friday, May 30, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 45

10 days left of school, and a mini vacation at the sand.

I need to take a new pic of myself. I chopped about 5 inches off my hair, so I don't look anything like my pic. Oh and a new one w/ my librarian glasses see what you guys think. My students died yesterday when I put them on.

[lacychef]

Well get that new pic up!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Saturday, May 31, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 44


Last Day of the month to submit for a June 8th commission. Also last day to submit for TPC.

Everyone enjoy your weekend.

Lacy I will hopefully get a pic up tonight! Fingers crossed.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Sunday, June 1, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 43

New color, basically a month and a half to conference. Yeah!:D

[traci4tpc]

I will be a new face so be excited! :D ha ha ha Okay so new but you don't have to be that excited!!;)

I'm not a new face to conference but I am fairly new to Chef Success. This is an awesome site. All of you are so willing to share useful information, it's great. Looking forward to meeting new faces in Conference this year.

[lacychef]

It's getting so close!

[erinyourpclady]

I am so jealous......I really need and want to go but I did not plan well. There is always next year...........

[pamperedalf]

Today is Monday, June 2, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 42

[jbdowd0798]

Erin- We'll be thinking of you. I'd say we'd do a Marine Corp shout out but I don't think anyone would appreciate if we stood up in the middle of a workshop to do it! hee hee ;)

I'm new to conference but not PC nor Chef Success (anymore) and I'm SUPER Excited to go! If I could pack my bags today I would! I went clothes shopping yesterday! :D

[erinyourpclady]

Erin- We'll be thinking of you. I'd say we'd do a Marine Corp shout out but I don't think anyone would appreciate if we stood up in the middle of a workshop to do it! hee hee ;)

I'm new to conference but not PC nor Chef Success (anymore) and I'm SUPER Excited to go! If I could pack my bags today I would! I went clothes shopping yesterday! :D


Some might frown but I would love it! LOL!! Next year I will be carrying my cammie handbag so y'all will recognize me cause I look NOTHING like my avatar now. I colored my hair this weekend and it is a little darker then it used to be....

[erinyourpclady]

Some might frown but I would love it! LOL!! Next year I will be carrying my cammie handbag so y'all will recognize me cause I look NOTHING like my avatar now. I colored my hair this weekend and it is a little darker then it used to be....


I changed my avatar!! That's me with all that DARK hair!! LOL!!

[pamperedalf]

Erin it looks good, that reminds me I still need to take a pic w/ my new do and my new librarian glasses. Maybe tonight!!

Oh I am excited about conference!!

[pamperedalf]

Okay so I finally remembered to take my pic and can't find the cable to connect to the computer. So as soon as I find the cable I will post a new pic.

I have report cards to do this week so I won't be on as much!

[straitfan]

Thanks for doing this Amanda. I'm slow to jump in here......(was swamped with MY school year ending....but I'm from Lacy's corner of the world and we were out on May 22nd) It's taken me this long to catch up. Now I'm REALLY excited about conference approaching! I've been living in a hole a guess, what's the American luggage policy ---that's what I'm flying out on too. (I could go to AA.com, but you guys are easier!)

[lacychef]

Sorry you can't come Erin!
Christy, I'm not sure, but I'm thinking you have to pay for checked baggage now? We fly SW; but someone was talking about AA the other day....

[pamperedalf]

Today is Tuesday, June 3, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 41


8 days of school left, and I can't wait.

Okay AA announced last week or the week before to help make up for some of the costs they're loosing by charging $15 for the first checked bag. But there is a whole bunch of rules, like if you are a frequent flyer or part of their elite status you don't have to be charged. Then they will charge for a second depending on weight dimensions. I don't know I wasn't thrilled because they sold me the cheap fare and now their trying to get more $$ out of me. I am sure I forgot something.

[jbdowd0798]

Yeah I have their frequent flyer club but not at the elite status so they still get my money. Its a tax write off since we are going to conference but its still money we have to shell out before hand.

[straitfan]

Thanks for the info.....even though I don't like what you said :(

I waited a long time to buy my tix, as it kept going up and down. I was thrilled to get it at $122, now it 's going to cost me anyway! BUMMER!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Wednesday, June 4, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 40

7 days of torture left, and I am out of here.

Christy I totally agree about the shopping and waiting to get the lowest fare.

Lacy I changed my pic!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Thursday, June 5, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 39

6 days of torture left!!


I feel that I am cheating you after looking at the countdown to Wave 1 thread.:o

Remember to set up child care for your kiddos if you haven't already, I have already started my reminder list that I leave on the fridge for DH so he remembers what to do while I am gone.

[lacychef]

I'm laughing at your school countdown!

Hmmm....haven't looked at the wave 1 countdown since I'm not there...so I wouldn't know if you were cheating us or not!

[jbdowd0798]

I'm happy with our countdown so thats all that matters! :-)

I have to fly my mom in to babysit since hubby's job is from 7-6pm so he couldn't keep the kids for 3 days. plus paying a babysitter $7/hr for those days wasn't worth it either. The kids love my mom and she had the time so it was worth it.
Now I just have to deal with paying over $4.25/gal to get to and from San Jose Airport! Yucko!

[pamperedalf]

Becky I looked yesterday it's a 3 1/2 hour drive for us and almost a full tank in my truck. That's gonna hurt! I feel your pain.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Friday, June 6, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 38

I am so excited that it's Friday, 5 days of drama left!!!

I sure hope everyone has there room already, and start making plans to get to and from the airport. The L is really cheap and a different experience (don't do it by yourself).

[jbdowd0798]

Yeah its never fun to drive that far to the airport!

My dad lives in Chicago so he's my driver to the hotel! ha ha All its costing me is lunch and some time with him. Oh Darn! ha ha

[lacychef]

Funny; last night I had a dream about checking into the conference hotel:)

[pamperedalf]

Today is Saturday, June 7, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 37

I pulled out my carry on bag yesterday. Time to start planning, Chicago Weather can turn on you in an instant. Have an umbrella (we ate at Bubba Gumps last year in the rain), a sweater (for me it's weired because it's scorching outside and you get inside and it's freezing too drastic for me).

Oh Lacy we must be having the same dream. LOL

Becky how far is it from Monteray to San Jose? I have never been there, I wanted to try and go to the board walk the night before but then saw that it was farther away than I wanted to drive.

[jbdowd0798]

San Jose to Monterey is about an hour to an hour and a half just depending upon where in San Jose you are. The Boardwalk with the rides,etc is in Santa Cruz. Its fun. But I do like Monterey! :-)

Can we get Hilton HHonor points if we are staying there?? anyone know?

[pamperedalf]

Today is Sunday, June 8, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 36

Okay I decided to steal from Wave 1 because there are great tips. So thanks RAEBATES!!!!:D

don't forget to bring lots of $1 bills with you for tipping servers & cab drivers. Also, you might consider tipping housekeeping at your hotel. A dollar or two each day left in an envelope marked "Housekeeping" works well. That way you'll be sure to reward everyone, even if you have different staff each day.

Becky I am so jealous. Santa Rosa is the closest airport to us, but the price is really high. We almost paid the $400 ticket because we would save in Gas and hotel cost, then it went higher and we couldn't do it.

Don't know about the hilton points, call them!

San Jose to Monterey is about an hour to an hour and a half just depending upon where in San Jose you are. The Boardwalk with the rides,etc is in Santa Cruz. Its fun. But I do like Monterey! :-)

Can we get Hilton HHonor points if we are staying there?? anyone know?


PS... Okay I know this is really early, but I bought my tickets to Denver for January.:D (I will be walking in Denver, it didn't work now) I got round trip on United out of Sac for $159. My travel agent said that would be the lowest and it may fluctuate by going up and then going down. Yesterday it was $159 & this morning it's $179. I think it's exciting because this is the lowest fare for a conference I have ever paid.

[Koolotus]

You are BRILLIANT!!!
off to book my flight :)

[lacychef]

That's commitment Amanda! Ok....I will be walking in Denver with ya:thumbup: Denver is only 5 hours driving distance for me!

[pamperedalf]

Oh I wish it was closer to us. When they announced sunny 365 days a year, we thought for sure it was Cali, then they said Denver we were like huh!

I am committed:D, I will be arriving in Denver around 10 AM the day before. To go play! Lacy I can't wait to walk w/ you!

[jbdowd0798]

Okay Amanda clue me in sister! Denver?? Is that Leadership for 2009 or something else I missed??

Wow tix for $400+. I saw that and was glad I booked earlier. Oh well, I guess with the trend in pricing its better to do it all now then later.

[pamperedalf]

Denver is leadership 09 Jan 8th-10th.

So what I noticed is that SW will open for Jan anywhere from July to September. The lowest fare would be around the $159 that I got on united (I have united air miles), but I didn't want to chance it. I saw the fare and decided to go for it. So I printed my e-ticket and put 6 star stickies on it. One for each new recruit that qualifies, to encourage me to recruit.

I have to promote now, I have a ticket for leadership.:D

[Koolotus]

I have to promote now, I have a ticket for leadership.:D

Yes, you do.

And, you will!
Cause you kick A$$ Amanda and you are going to have the best summer and fall ever and I am going to be cheering you on!!
:D Go Amanda, it's your Director day, go Amanda!:D

[pamperedalf]

Yes, you do.

And, you will!
Cause you kick A$$ Amanda and you are going to have the best summer and fall ever and I am going to be cheering you on!!
:D Go Amanda, it's your Director day, go Amanda!:D


I am excited I am going to have a cheering squad! Wahoo!!!:love: Let's cheer for Lacy too, she's walking w/ me.

Oh I have take pics at Nationals because of all the people who are walking. Need to empty my camera.

Thanks Cheryl, I needed that. Makes up for the answering machines I got. I am trying to rebook one of my host right now. She moved into her new place!
Yeah!

[Koolotus]

Go girl go!
Lacy knows I will air horn for her too!!!

[pamperedalf]

Brenda can you do the countdown for me Friday through Monday over Father's day weekend. I would greatly appreciate it.

I am getting out of here, not hiding from you guys. I can't wait to not have to go to work, no lesson plans (well my ds wants to learn to write his name but I don't have any standards to meet).

[pamperedalf]

Go girl go!
Lacy knows I will air horn for her too!!!

Oh that is scary, an air horn. We wouldn't want to trip on our face! LOL

Cheryl you have to walk close to Ida so I get your pic. Oh I am getting excited. We need to finalize our meet n greet.

[jbdowd0798]

thanks I thought maybe i hadn't clued into something i should have. I have 3 leads right now but by the sounds of it they all won't sign til late July-early September at the earliest. I guess that wouldn't be too bad but wish it were a few months ago! :-) Oh well, I have one recruiting card for conference.

[Koolotus]

I can't wait to meet Ida :)
Becky there is still plenty of time to collect more cards if you want!
Just keep on keeping on!

[lacychef]

Oh that is scary, an air horn. We wouldn't want to trip on our face! LOL

.
LOL, maybe the air horn isn't such a good idea!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Monday, June 9, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 35

4 days of chaos left, then we go camping Yeah!

I never even thought of this. Thanks Rae!

You'll be getting lots of advice about packing light, and that's the best thing to do. However, I have one little extra that can really help. If you're sharing a room, one of you should bring along an outlet strip. You'll probably each have a cell phone charger. I've spent waaay too much time in hotel rooms crawling under the desk to plug in my charger or unplug it in the morning. Plus, if you have only one bathroom and more than one of you needs to use a curling or flat iron at the same time, you can easily use that outlet strip near the room mirror.

[pamperedalf]

LOL, maybe the air horn isn't such a good idea!

I know I would be startled and I know what happens on the Jumbo Tran does not stay on the Jumbo Tran.

[jbdowd0798]

Jumbo Tran!?!??!??!?! Oh no what am I in for??? So there could be pictures of possibly me making a fool of myself dancing or something!?!? Great just great! lol

[lacychef]

I know I would be startled and I know what happens on the Jumbo Tran does not stay on the Jumbo Tran.
LOL!:)
That is a good tip about the power strip.....maybe I need to check out all the other tips on the wave 1 thread!:p

[pamperedalf]

LOL!:)
That is a good tip about the power strip.....maybe I need to check out all the other tips on the wave 1 thread!:p

Lacy that's why I am starting to post them here. Why reinvent the wheel when RAE has already done it for us. I will keep copying and pasting for everyone to enjoy.

[Bren706]

Brenda can you do the countdown for me Friday through Monday over Father's day weekend. I would greatly appreciate it.

I am getting out of here, not hiding from you guys. I can't wait to not have to go to work, no lesson plans (well my ds wants to learn to write his name but I don't have any standards to meet).

Sure will!:D

[pamperedalf]

Sure will!:D


Wahoo! Thanks!:D

[pamperedalf]

Today is Tuesday, June 10, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 34

3 days of chaos left, then we go camping Yeah!

Thanks RAE

In years past, I've encountered a few panhandlers while touring the Chicago streets. Part of me always wants to help. Part of me is always afraid that I'll just be supporting a drug or alcohol habit. However, somewhere I came across a suggestion to carry fast food gift certificates to give.

Most fast food places still have the paper gift certificates available; you just have to ask. And, if you don't use them while at NC, you can always use them on the way home.

Another tip: Travel can really throw your good, healthy intentions for a loop. Take along some good, healthy snacks. Nuts, dried fruit, and such can help fill a rumbly tummy and make those triple-size muffins look much less appealing. They're also easy to take along in little snack-size zippered bags. Along with regular water consumption (bring your own or use a refillable water bottle) you'll be able tol save money and your waistilne.

[jbdowd0798]

Its so close I can taste Navy Pier! ha ha :-) I'm so excited!!!!!

[lacychef]

Yeah, we saw some people on the streets before too. Last year after eating at Giordano's, of course we had leftover pizza; one of my clustermates gave a guy her pizza instead of money.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Wednesday, June 11, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 33

2 days of wildness left, then we go camping Yeah!

Thanks Rae!!

Don't forget to take along address labels. These will save you time and effort filling out info on forms. Also, you'll want to take business cards along. You might even want to take a few self-addressed, stamped envelopes. That will make it easier to get people to send you info.


Take along the names and addresses of the hosts for your shows in the few weeks after you get back from NC. Your first day there, pick up postcards. Send one to each of your upcoming hosts telling them you're excited about learning how to make their show even better. It's a great way to connect with your host.

BTW, you might also want to bring along their phone numbers so you can do a bit of host coaching during breaks.

[jbdowd0798]

If you have even more time on your hands, make pre-printed labels of your hosts' info so you don't have to write it all out and also family members. Even though you may be home before the postcards arrive, the kids will love getting mail!

[pamperedalf]

Today is Thursday, June 12, 2008.
Days until Wave 2: 32

Holy Crackers(Ida's saying I stole it), I made it today is the last day of school. I cannot believe it's finally here. Wahoo, I will be shouting from the rooftops come 12:20 Cali time. I probably will be crying too. There are some really good kids. One wrote me a letter the other day saying she wanted me for her teacher every year. oh the heart tugs.

I will be camping until Monday afternoon, don't do anything I wouldn't do. LOL Hopefully I can get some rest and good family time in. I have a good book tat I haven't been able to start for the last 3 1/2 months.


Thanks again RAE!!!:love:

t will be mid-July in Chicago, so plan for hot, humid days and possibly chilly nights. Make sure that you try everything on, the complete outfit with shoes and any special foundational garments (need a new strapless bra?), at least a week or two before you leave.

Your first consideration needs to be comfort. You'll be doing a lot of walking and a lot of sitting. Is any piece too snug? Trust me, you'll be miserable by the end of the first session if you're wearing something too tight. Will every pair of shoes be be comfy after miles of walking and climbing stairs? (Oh, yeah, if you're planning to wear a skirt, make sure you can climb stairs in it. Narrow skirts are cute, but some make climbing nearly impossible.)

Now, check everything over carefully. You don't want to get to Chicago and realize that there's a stain, rip, or other problem with one of your clothing pieces. A week or two should give you enough time to make any repairs, have things laundered or dry cleaned, replace a piece or two, or even choose a whole new outfit.

It won't take nearly as much time as it sounds, and you'll be glad you planned ahead.

[lacychef]

Hope you have a good weekend Amanda! That's sweet about your students!

[Bren706]

Enjoy your weekend Amanda!

Today is Friday, June 13, 2008.

Days until Wave 2: 31

Thanks to Rae for the following tip:

While you're filling your June and July calendars, don't forget to block out a bit of personal time. If you can, set aside a day or two before NC to spend some quality time with your family or just getting yourself mentally prepared. Take a day or two after NC to go over your notes, absorb the info, make plans to implement any new ideas, and spend some private time with family.

A bit of extra time spent with your family before and after your absence might make them more likely to gracefully accept your absence in the future. And, a bit of down time can help you make the most of your NC experience.

Don't forget to leave a copy of your travel itinerary with someone at home! Someone will be worried about you if you don't!

[straitfan]

Yeah Amanda! You made it through the school year! Here's to a better group next year. We got our class lists this week, and I haven't had a chance to go through the yearbook and match up the names and faces of those I don't already know. Hope your camping trip is RELAXING!

[jbdowd0798]

Have a good trip Amanda!

I hope to meet you at NC- in less then a month when you get home! YAHOOO!!!!!

[Bren706]

Hello Everybody! Can you believe it?! We are only 1 month away! I am getting so excited. :D :love: :sing:

Today is Saturday, June 14, 2008.

Days until Wave 2: 30

Here is another great tip from Rae:

Once again, I'm suggesting another thing to add to your suitcase--hangers. I know. I know. You're supposed to pack light. That's wonderful advice. Ask yourself this, though. You're sharing a room with how many other people? You're each bringing clothes for about 3 days. The average hotel room has, what, 4 hangers?

Make things simple for yourself. Bring one good hanger for each outfit you're bringing with you. Once you arrive at the hotel, Place one complete outfit on each hanger.* Ta da! Now it will be really easy to grab everything you need for the day as you're getting ready each morning.

*You don't have to, but you can slip your underthings over the top of the hanger as well. This will keep you from having to rummage through your luggage each morning to find the right undies, bra, socks/hose, etc, for what you're wearing that day. If you're an early riser like me, your roommates will thank you for thinking ahead and making much less noise while they're catching a few more winks.

[pchefjaime]

Just signed up for confrence can't wait

[Bren706]

Today is Sunday, June 15, 2008.

Days until Wave 2: 29
(Only 28 days if you are arriving on Sunday, like I am :thumbup: :) )

Another great tip compliments of Rae:

"Okay, so I know I mentioned before about buying postcards while in Chicago for your upcoming hosts. I was just going through my NC folder and found the extras I bought last year.

I forgot that I had decided to think ahead. Before I leave for NC, I'll write, address, and stamp those postcards. Once I get to the hotel, I'll slip them in the mail. Easy. Before I leave Chicago, I'll buy postcards for next time."

[Bren706]

Today is Monday, June 16, 2008.

Days until Wave 2: 28

Today's Conference tip (Thanks Rae!):

"Don't forget to put your Chef Success button on your packing list. We want to be able to pick you out of the crowd.

Speaking of which, you might want to start practicing with the Where's Waldo? books to get ready to spot those Chef Success buttons at NC.

Don't have a Chef Success button? Look at chefann's signature. Click on the link for Chef Success Stuff. You'll find them there."

[lacychef]

Ha! I like the "where's Waldo" comparison!

[MissChef]

Okay, I'm here now! I might come into this thread and take it over, not cause I'm that way, but because now I'm really excited! I've avoided this thread up until this now so that I wouldn't cry!!!:cry: I didn't think I could go because money has been tight!!! But my hubby gave me a "father's day" present and gave me the okay to go!!! So I registered last night and I'll be there!
And for those of you that remember last year, I went crazy on the countdown thread! :D :p Sooooo..... I'M BACK!!! GET READY!! LOL!:D

[lacychef]

Boy Cathy, now you're jumping on all the wave 2 threads!:D

[pamperedalf]

So of course I came back right to this thread first!

Oh it was so relaxing, and too short. A little stressful though. We blew a trailer tire on the way up, then almost blew a truck tire, and then to top it off dh thinks that my transmission is going out. Good thing it happened on the small trip and not our big trip in 2 weeks to the Oregon dunes.

Yeah Cathy is going!! I am so excited it is getting closer!!!! Wahoo. I am all about vacations this summer, I can't get enough of them.

[lacychef]

Yeah Amanda! Glad you had a good trip; bummer about the truck problems...another vacation---plus conference? Lucky girl:)

[pamperedalf]

Today is Tuesday, June 17, 2008.

Days until Wave 2: 27

I can't believe how close we are getting. Yes Lacy another trip (we are lucky) we go camping every 4th of July for a week in the Oregon Sand Dunes w/ our quads. It's a lot of fun, and my husband's cousin and I go shopping in town, get all the holiday sales & since it's Oregon it's tax free.

Thanks Brenda for a wonderful Job!!


Another great tip from RAE (thought it was appropriate from my weekend troubles)
Seriously, if you're driving any distance, be sure to do a quick tune-up on your vehicle. Check the fluids, tire pressure, and anything else that needs routine maintenance. It will save you on fuel (which is imperative right now ), and make it much less likely that you'll have car trouble.


Where is your suitcase? If you're like me, it's packed away in some deep, dark corner of your attic. You might want to think about getting it out sometime soon. I'll be airing mine out so it doesn't make my clothes smell, like, well, a hot, stuffy attic.

[kisrae]

OH MY GOSH!!!! IT'S DOWN TO THE 20's
I can't wait. But DH is a little worried because we close on the house on the 31st

[heather223]

I can't believe how close we are getting, I can't wait!!

[Koolotus]

WOOHOO!! I am so excited and Cathy's going. Geez, it is getting goodf! LOL :)
Can't wait!!

[momoftwins]

Today is Tuesday, June 17, 2008.

Days until Wave 2: 27

I can't believe how close we are getting. Yes Lacy another trip (we are lucky) we go camping every 4th of July for a week in the Oregon Sand Dunes w/ our quads. It's a lot of fun, and my husband's cousin and I go shopping in town, get all the holiday sales & since it's Oregon it's tax free.

Thanks Brenda for a wonderful Job!!


Another great tip from RAE (thought it was appropriate from my weekend troubles)
Seriously, if you're driving any distance, be sure to do a quick tune-up on your vehicle. Check the fluids, tire pressure, and anything else that needs routine maintenance. It will save you on fuel (which is imperative right now ), and make it much less likely that you'll have car trouble.


Where is your suitcase? If you're like me, it's packed away in some deep, dark corner of your attic. You might want to think about getting it out sometime soon. I'll be airing mine out so it doesn't make my clothes smell, like, well, a hot, stuffy attic.

Amanda - you mean quads as in kids or quads as in 4 wheelers???

[pamperedalf]

Amanda - you mean quads as in kids or quads as in 4 wheelers???

I mean 4 wheelers, I have only been blessed w/ one child. Don't think it's in the books to have anymore.

That's our thing, we go camping about 6 times a year and 2 of them are week trips.

[momoftwins]

I kind of thought that was what you meant! How fun though!!! Our twins will be 3 in September - maybe next year we will attempt a camping vacation!

[jbdowd0798]

GOOD MORNING WAVE 2 goers!!!!!!!!!!! :-) Did I beat Amanda on here??? hee hee

Oh well, Just saying Good morning!

[pamperedalf]

GOOD MORNING WAVE 2 goers!!!!!!!!!!! :-) Did I beat Amanda on here??? hee hee

Oh well, Just saying Good morning!

Okay I am guilty of trying to sleep in today, it doesn't happen very often.

[pamperedalf]

Today is Wednesday, June 18, 2008.

Days until Wave 2: 26


9 days before my next camping trip, my ds is going to drive me insane. When do we get to go to the big sand?

RAE is so good:

If you haven't started a packing list, start it soon. It's probably best to make sure it's portable so you can jot things down as you think of them. Don't over-pack, though. How to strike a balance? Why not talk with your roommates? You can probably share some things like . . .

* Hair Dryer
* Night Light (to find your way to the loo in the night)
* Outlet Strip (for charging all those cell phones)

This is so funny:

Rooming with people you don't know? Be sure to have The Talk.

No, I'm not talking about sex. I'm talking about snoring. It can be really uncomfortable to tell someone you barely know that their buzzsaw impression that first night kept you up. Here's what I tell new roommates:

I sometimes snore. I also sometimes talk in my sleep. If I'm disturbing your sleep, don't be shy. Nudge me. Shake me. Wake me. Smother me with a pillow. Do whatever you need to do. I won't be offended. Heck, I probably won't even remember.

[MissChef]

Today is Wednesday, June 18, 2008.

Days until Wave 2: 26


9 days before my next camping trip, my ds is going to drive me insane. When do we get to go to the big sand?

RAE is so good:

If you haven't started a packing list, start it soon. It's probably best to make sure it's portable so you can jot things down as you think of them. Don't over-pack, though. How to strike a balance? Why not talk with your roommates? You can probably share some things like . . .

* Hair Dryer
* Night Light (to find your way to the loo in the night)
* Outlet Strip (for charging all those cell phones)

This is so funny:

Rooming with people you don't know? Be sure to have The Talk.

No, I'm not talking about sex. I'm talking about snoring. It can be really uncomfortable to tell someone you barely know that their buzzsaw impression that first night kept you up. Here's what I tell new roommates:

I sometimes snore. I also sometimes talk in my sleep. If I'm disturbing your sleep, don't be shy. Nudge me. Shake me. Wake me. Smother me with a pillow. Do whatever you need to do. I won't be offended. Heck, I probably won't even remember.
Amanda,
When I first came on this thread the other day, I said I would take it over, but then I realized that I have no clue where you get all these great tips from Rae.... so I decided not to take your official "counterdowner" title away! LOL!!!:D ;) Because your daily posts are so educational!!! and I love reading them!:thumbup: :balloon:

The funny part about Rae's tip is that I do snore.... I have huge tonsils, allergies that mess up my nose and I'm not as thin as I'd like to be so, that makes it hard sometimes to be a quiet sleeper! :blushing: So every year I buy a thing of ear plugs and leave them on the night stand and make an announcement that they WILL need to wear a pair when they go to sleep!!! I also buy the "breathe right" strips for me! I only use one ear plug because I have pretty bad hearing in my right ear, so I don't hear if I'm on my left side!!!
Anyway, that is how I handle my snoring!!! At home my hubby and I keep each other company with our snoring! LOL! We know we both do it so we don't get upset with each other, but it literally mortifies :o me when it's conference time so I buy ear plugs at Walmart and last year everyone said they didn't hear me! So that is a good thing! My plan worked and I will continue it this year and every year from now!!!:D

[pamperedalf]

Amanda,
When I first came on this thread the other day, I said I would take it over, but then I realized that I have no clue where you get all these great tips from Rae.... so I decided not to take your official "counterdowner" title away! LOL!!!:D ;) Because your daily posts are so educational!!! and I love reading them!:thumbup: :balloon:

The funny part about Rae's tip is that I do snore.... I have huge tonsils, allergies that mess up my nose and I'm not as thin as I'd like to be so, that makes it hard sometimes to be a quiet sleeper! :blushing: So every year I buy a thing of ear plugs and leave them on the night stand and make an announcement that they WILL need to wear a pair when they go to sleep!!! I also buy the "breathe right" strips for me! I only use one ear plug because I have pretty bad hearing in my right ear, so I don't hear if I'm on my left side!!!
Anyway, that is how I handle my snoring!!! At home my hubby and I keep each other company with our snoring! LOL! We know we both do it so we don't get upset with each other, but it literally mortifies :o me when it's conference time so I buy ear plugs at Walmart and last year everyone said they didn't hear me! So that is a good thing! My plan worked and I will continue it this year and every year from now!!!:D

Cathy I steal from the wave 1 countdown. Why reinvent the wheel when RAEBATES is already doing it for me. So I go steel away.

[jbdowd0798]

I woke up earlier than normal today so thats the only reason why I was on, usually you beat me! :-)

[lacychef]

Oh, that is so funny from Rae! "the talk", LOL! Funny, last year my friend that I shared a bed with; her dh & mine both said that we snore a lot...but neither of us noticed each other snoring....hmmm, maybe we were snoring too loud to notice?:rolleyes:

[momoftwins]

I love "the talk" and Cathy's response! I too am a snorer and also have allergies so I admit it always!! I also sometimes talk in my sleep!

[jbdowd0798]

I'm with yall about snoring and such. I chose to stay with other first timers in hopes we are all so tired that no one hears me!

[pamperedalf]

I know that I can snore and talk in my sleep, but no one at conference has said it was loud. I just loved the talk part, ds couldn't figure out what I was laughing at this morning.

[jbdowd0798]

I'm sure the hotels will be shaking this summer- from all our snoring! :)

[pamperedalf]

Today is Thursday, June 19, 2008.

Days until Wave 2: 25


8 days before my next camping trip, and they fixed my truck! Yeah, and I bought my IPOD FM transmitter, so I can listen to tunes in the truck.

Off to the beach today, see you guys later.


Oh RAE is a kick in the pants, too bad she is wave one...Thanks again to RAEBATES

I may make a "Rae's Roommate Survival Kit" for those sharing my room. I could include:

Breath mints (to offer to me when I need one)
TMI Sign (for when I start to overshare)
One really good chocolate (just because it's a necessity of life)
Earplugs (for when I snore, though you may want to leave them out in case I'm talking in my sleep--I'm frequently really entertaining when I'm unconscious!)


8 Mistakes that Can Spoil Any Trip

1. Winging it. Know where you're going to stay for at least the first night, especially after a long flight. (NC specific: Of course you have a reservation. Make sure you have that confirmation information with you, especially if it wasn't you who booked the room.)

2. Packing too much. Limit yourself to one suitcase and one carry-on. Put a change of clothes and your daily medication in the carry-on in case your luggage gets lost. (Not flying? Packing light is still important. You're just in less danger of losing your luggage.)

3. Forgetting essential items. Make a list of things you frequently forget, and put it in your empty suitcase.

4. Trying to do too much. Limit the number of activities you plan into each day. Schedule free days for long trips. (NC specific: I know there are lots of fun things to do after the evening sessions. Just don't try to do everything!)

5. Trying to get too much work done at the last minute. Spread things out. you'll never have enough time to finish everything the day before you leave.

6. Calling the office too much. This can be a sign of insecurity or trying too hard to control everything. Your boss and co-workers know how to reach you in an emergency, right?

7. Misplacing essential items. Keep boarding passes, identification, passports, trip itineraries, and other documents in one small, easy-to-get-to pouch or bag. Put a bright sticker or ribbon on your luggage to make it stand out.

8. Leaving town without making arrangements to have the mail and newspaper picked up.This is a sure sign to would-be thieves that your house is empty.

[jbdowd0798]

Thanks for getting up just for us! lol

[Koolotus]

Aha!
I am up early :)
24 Days to go!!
Yipee:D

Tips from Amanda-Rae????

[lacychef]

Aw Cheryl, you stole it from her, LOL!
I'm usually always on earlier, but I let her count down:p Hehe....good tips from Rae again.

[Flamingo]

About #4 in that list a few replys up..... "Howl at the Moon" and "A Bucket of Booze" I am sure to do that one evening...... Anyone game???????????????

[Bren706]

As Cheryl requested, here is the tip of the day, compliments of our friend Rae!:


"Traveling by plane? Photograph your luggage and its contents just before you leave. If your luggage is lost, you'll have a record for the airline. And, just being prepared may ward off this type of bad luck. You know, like carrying an umbrella almost guarantees it won't rain."

[kisrae]

HOLY MOLY! I'm sure glad that Amanda is my buddy. I would be SO behind on this trip. If it wasn't for her I'd have to stay with family again.

[pamperedalf]

You would think it's summer vacation or something. My ds is going to hate when I go back to work/school in the fall w/ everything we have planned for the summer. Thanks Cheryl and Brenda, at least you guys are on top of it. LOL

7 days before I leave for camping, wahoo and I won't have internet so I am leaving it in your hands but I will go find wireless and check in at least once I hope. Hehehe I can't stay away too long.

Another tip from Rae.....

Once you get to your hotel room, I know you'll be excited to talk with everyone and get started on the NC fun. Your stay will go much smoother, though, if you take just a few minutes to familiarize yourself with your surroundings. Where are the light switches, and which lights do they control? Where are the AC controls, and how do they work? Where is the emergency exit in relation to your room?

Oh, yeah, and from personal experience, make sure the room's clock radio isn't set to full volume on a mariachi station unless that's really how the people in your room prefer to be awakened. (Not Mine, but this funny. I have never thought to check the clock radio)

[raebates]

I thought I'd take a peek. Amanda told me she was sharing my tips. I'm glad everyone's enjoying them. I started doing the travel tips last year when I felt my countdown was getting boring. Don't give me too much credit, though. I did a bunch of internet searches for travel tips and made a little file. That's where most of the tips come from. (Of course, the smartalecky comments are all my own. ;))

[lacychef]

Love the tips Rae---& they wouldn't be the same without your smartelecky comments:)

[raebates]

Thanks, Lacy. Since I don't use that other word for donkey, smartalecky works well. I have a friend who says that that certain part of my anatomy is so smart I could tell what flavor the ice cream is just by sitting on it.

[pamperedalf]

Thanks, Lacy. Since I don't use that other word for donkey, smartalecky works well. I have a friend who says that that certain part of my anatomy is so smart I could tell what flavor the ice cream is just by sitting on it.

Rae it wouldn't be the same w/o your comments. I wanted to make sure credit is to you, since I am being non creative. The talk is still my favorite, LOL. My dh said you are adults, why would you be having the talk then I finished reading the tip and he laughed.

Thanks again Rae, you saved me a whole bunch of time.

[MissChef]

Say what??????? I'm the first to update this thread today and it's 3:00pm on the west coast!!! LOL!

23 days until conference!!!

I will go and try to find a tip from Rae..........:D ;)

[MissChef]

Okay!!! As promised, here's is our daily tip from Rae!
Thanks Rae! You're the best!:D ;)

Do your homework before you head out for NC. Take a few minutes to sit down and think about what you want to get out of NC.

What are you hoping to learn?
What questions do you want to ask?


Next, think about what tips you have to share.

Product Tip?
Booking?
Host Coaching?
Recruiting?


Over the course of the next couple of weeks, take the time to really think about these things. NC will be a great experience whether you've done your homework or not. However, you're more likely to reach your goal if you've given it some thought beforehand.

[Koolotus]

Thanks Catthy!!
I just thought I had missed it :)

[momoftwins]

WOO HOO - I am getting excited!!!

[Koolotus]

HA HA!
Days until Conference
22

Yippee! I am first :)
:p Cathy :)
Anyhoo, what is cool is I am leaving 2 days earlier to drive out so it is only 20 for me!!!!

[lacychef]

Man, I was just going to post the countdown, LOL!
You're driving Cheryl? How long will it take you?

[Koolotus]

It is 11 and 1/2 hours, but we are doing it in 2 days, to spread the fun and hit all the Cracker Barrels between here and Chicago!!
Should be fun!

[pamperedalf]

You guys are too funny! I went to an amusement park yesterday, we are crazy.
We left at 6:30ish and got home at 2:30 this morning. So more sunburn for me and I applied and applied Sun block.

But we went to San Jose and I can make it if the traffic's good in 2 and 1/2 hours. A lot shorter than I thought. So I have my route all planned out to the airport, since this is a new airport for me.

I have to tell you guys I am really bummed though, a friend of mine said you have to go eat at bennehanna's when you are there it's right there next to all the airport hotels (a jappanese steak house, love these) and they are closed for rennovations. Ugh!

[pamperedalf]

Rae's tip for today......

Traveling by plane? Make sure you pack anything you can't live without for a few days or easily replace (like medications) in your carry-on bag. You'll be in Chicago, so clothes, cosmetics, and toiletries will be somewhat easily available to you. Replacing prescription medications is a bit trickier.

Now, once you get to Chicago, you're likely to decide to put your keys in your luggage so you'll have one less thing to carry around with you. Make yourself a note to put them back in your carry-on bag (or purse) before you leave the hotel. It's bad enough to lose your luggage. It's even worse to also lose your way home and/or into your house.

[MissChef]

HA HA!
Days until Conference
22

Yippee! I am first :)
:p Cathy :)
Anyhoo, what is cool is I am leaving 2 days earlier to drive out so it is only 20 for me!!!!
I kinda figured someone would beat me to it today! This is the first time on line today and with my post yesterday, I figured someone would beat me!
Today has been a hard day...... very emotional about our cat.:(

BUT! I am excited that it's only 22 days away, and technically we leave 21 days from today, at least people that are flying! Most of us anyway! I leave the Northwest at 7 am.... so vacation begins in 21 days for me, as soon as I arive in Chicago!

[pamperedalf]

21 days to go..........Wahoo! I am packing the trailer. Friday Evening I am out of here.

Tips from RAE...............

I've said it before, but I think it bears repeating. Check over every item of clothing to make sure everything is clean and in good repair. Seriously. Shopping while at NC is fun. Frantically searching for a new top because there's a problem with one you brought to wear is not.

Travel can cause, um, digestive issues. While at NC, it would be easy to eat too little fiber and drink too little water. Plan ahead. Take some high-fiber snacks with you. Dried fruit, snack bars, and the like are portable and tasty. Make a conscious effort to drink lots of water. Take a refillable water bottle. There are water pitchers in each of the workshops, and you can fill up there. If you're picky about your water, take some of your favorite with you. You'll feel better.

[lacychef]

Wow, no one's been on since 1am today?! I wasn't able to be here this am since my dd had her sleep-over last night. I am exhausted:indif:
Getting so excited for Chicago! My mom's excited to watch my girls; she's been planning activities for them.

[pamperedalf]

Where is everyone???

They are shopping for NC....I will shop next week in Oregon.

I am supposed to be packing the trailer, oops.

[MissChef]

20 Days!!
I beat all of you!!!:p :p
I thought for sure I wouldn't be able to get on first today, or at all.... but look at me go! LOL!:D

Daily tip in next post!!

[MissChef]

And here is Rae's tip!!!!

Be sure your family knows that you may not be able to call at a specific time each day. You don't want them to worry. Just remember that (1) you may not have good cell reception in some areas, (2) you may be running (literally) between events, and (3) the schedule is slightly different each day.


Again.... thanks Rae... your tips make the countdown even more enjoyable this year!:D ;)

[Bren706]

Today is Tuesday, June 24, 2008.

Days until Wave 2: 20

Rae's Tip for today:

If you're using any type of public transportation to get to NC, be sure to check the carry-on rules. They change, so they may not be the same as the last time you traveled. Contact the company you're using for your travel, and ask about their rules. You can always contact the Transportation Security Administration (www.tsa.gov), but individual lines often have additional restrictions. You'd hate to have to leave something important behind.

[Bren706]

Cathy, It looks like we were typing at the same time! But yes, you did beat me!:p :p I am so excited (especially, since there are only 19 days for those of us that arrive on Sunday!!:sing: :sing: :D

[MissChef]

Cathy, It looks like we were typing at the same time! But yes, you did beat me!
In the words of my kids..... na na! :p J/K! LOL! :D I know you can hear them now! I beat you... I beat you!:p Oh geez, it's summer and that's all I can hear!!! Somebody help me!! LOL!:D

[pamperedalf]

You guys are too funny, I stayed away today because I thought they would be down all day.

[Koolotus]

but mooooom!! I wanted to be first today!!!
:(
Hee hee, I am leaving my house on Saturday to drive so it is only 18 days for me!! :D

[pamperedalf]

but mooooom!! I wanted to be first today!!!
:(
Hee hee, I am leaving my house on Saturday to drive so it is only 18 days for me!! :D

Same here Cheryl, we drive to San Jose on Saturday, because I am not doing that drive early Sunday Morning.

Ooh I leave for camping in 3 days!!! Wahoo!

[Koolotus]

19 Days!

Wahoo!!

Amanda, you are certainly taking full use out of your vacation time! Have fun :):):)







pssst. I"M FIRST!!!:p

[Bren706]

OMG! It is getting so close! I better start getting in touch with reality, and get myself organized for the trip.

Here is today's tip:

Some consultants (especially moms) like to leave a care package for their families. Now, The Furry Guy is used to being on his own, so a pan of mac & cheese and a few phone calls to touch base while I'm gone will be just fine for him. However, if you have young children at home (or a spouse who's not used to being on his or her own), a few "special-occasion only" treats could help them deal with your absence and may make them more willing to let you go next time. Oh, yeah, and don't forget to add a quick love note for each of your loved ones.

[lacychef]

I always leave a special little goody bag for my girls; nothing fancy, just new books, coloring book, etc...of course I always bring them home something too!

[pamperedalf]

Koolotus;
Amanda, you are certainly taking full use out of your vacation time! Have fun :):):)



pssst. I"M FIRST!!!:p

Isn't that what vacation's all about? I am getting excited, so excited. I want to leave town now.

[pamperedalf]

I forgot to add part of the reason I want to leave is to find clean air, Areas of Northern Cali were hit hard by lightning and we had over a 100 fires in our county alone. Everything is smoky.

I just want to breathe some fresh clean air w/o coughing, and to see the mountains around us.

[MissChef]

I forgot to add part of the reason I want to leave is to find clean air, Areas of Northern Cali were hit hard by lightning and we had over a 100 fires in our county alone. Everything is smoky.

I just want to breathe some fresh clean air w/o coughing, and to see the mountains around us.

I've been seeing the news, there are over 800 wild fires in California~:eek: That is crazy! I am originally from California, lived there my first 22 1/2 years, southern California though. But I have 2 sisters that live in Northern California. My parents just moved from Southern Calif. last year.... they moved to Tennessee.

[MissChef]

OMG! It is getting so close! I better start getting in touch with reality, and get myself organized for the trip.

Here is today's tip:

Some consultants (especially moms) like to leave a care package for their families. Now, The Furry Guy is used to being on his own, so a pan of mac & cheese and a few phone calls to touch base while I'm gone will be just fine for him. However, if you have young children at home (or a spouse who's not used to being on his or her own), a few "special-occasion only" treats could help them deal with your absence and may make them more willing to let you go next time. Oh, yeah, and don't forget to add a quick love note for each of your loved ones.

It's getting hard to come up with something for my 12 year old son! Everything he likes is expensive! My daughter still is happy with dollar store stuff! And then there is my hubby! Ughhh! As stated in other posts, he doesn't really "love" me going to conference! So he's a pain in the tail! I make all of there dinners before I leave so that he can have life easy! And if I don't do this, he will eat out the whole time and then conference ends up costing me even more, because he wouldn't eat out, if I was home. Their food bill for 4 dinners, could run close to $100.00 and then my hubby would no doubt eat out for lunch to which could be as much as another $50. By the time you add in my food for confernece.... We're looking at about $200-$225.
So, life may be more complicated for me to get out of here, but I have more peace of mind while I'm gone! Even if he wants to do one dinner out with them, that's cool, but every night for 4 nights!!??!! Nope!.... I'm into nutrition and I cringe when I think of all that fat and carbs!
But I think I will get my kids something special this year.... I just thought of a magazine for my son, he loves that, or guitar picks, and coloring stuff for Jessica.
I always bring home souveniers,(sp?) for all of them!:)

[pamperedalf]

I've been seeing the news, there are over 800 wild fires in California~:eek: That is crazy! I am originally from California, lived there my first 22 1/2 years, southern California though. But I have 2 sisters that live in Northern California. My parents just moved from Southern Calif. last year.... they moved to Tennessee.

Yah we had a bad lightning storm Friday Night and everything is so dry because we didn't get enough rain this year. So not much playing at the lake, there taking a lot of the lake water to put out our fires.

Cathy I grew up in Southern Cali, in the high desert (San Bernardino County). I love Northern Cali, except right at the moment. We need that rain that other people are getting.

[kisrae]

I have to say I am getting real worried about going but also can't wait. I haven't found a new place to live (closing escrow 7/31),haven't started packing and to think my DH is going to take the kids camping while I'm gone. He's great with the kids but camping! We live in Northern Ca and we have bears and big cats with fangs. I know the survive moms rants but bears and big cats have fangs.

Oh my gosh...I just thought, I haven't even gone shopping for the trip yet.
First things first. New house

[pamperedalf]

18 days to go.....:love:
17 before I fly out.....:p
16 before I leave for the airport......:sing:

1 more day before camping. :p I really need to finish the trailer. I bought a mattress yesterday and can't wait to sleep on that instead of the futon mattress.

Can't wait to see everyone!!:D

[lacychef]

That's funny Ida.....don't worry too much!

Wow, I was thinking...Amanda got up early today:p Have fun on your camping trip!

[kisrae]

Holy Crackers Amanda. When did you go to sleep? Those darn chickens.:)

[pamperedalf]

Holy Crackers Amanda. When did you go to sleep? Those darn chickens.:)

Way too late! I am enjoying some piece and quite Caleb is still sleeping.

I was making my shopping list to go shopping.

[MissChef]

Amanda ~ you haven't put Rae's tip in here yet, so I did.... don't mean to steal your glory but hey, what can I say! LOL!:p:D

Rae's tip for June 26th!!

As you're starting to really think about what you'll be taking with you, you may want to consider purchasing an inexpensive travel toiletries kit. You can get them inexpensively from places like Wal-Mart, Target, and even The Dollar Store. Mine has a hook, so it can hang on the back of the bathroom door or on a towel rack. The convenience can be worth the cost.

[pamperedalf]

Amanda ~ you haven't put Rae's tip in here yet, so I did.... don't mean to steal your glory but hey, what can I say! LOL!:p:D

Rae's tip for June 26th!!

As you're starting to really think about what you'll be taking with you, you may want to consider purchasing an inexpensive travel toiletries kit. You can get them inexpensively from places like Wal-Mart, Target, and even The Dollar Store. Mine has a hook, so it can hang on the back of the bathroom door or on a towel rack. The convenience can be worth the cost.

I copied it, must have forgotten to paste it, oops.

[pamperedalf]

Since I was slacking, here is Rae's tip that I had copied but somehow forgot.....

Arriving early or staying an extra day? Talk to your cluster or traveling buddies about any touristy things you want to do--see a play, visit a museum, etc.

[chefann]

Ooh- here's a suggestion: on Wednesday and Saturday nights, there are fireworks cruises on the lake from Navy Pier. They're a total blast!

[lacychef]

I want to do one of those cruises so BAD.....we've always done other things...maybe this year!

[Koolotus]

Ooh- here's a suggestion: on Wednesday and Saturday nights, there are fireworks cruises on the lake from Navy Pier. They're a total blast!

You can also see the fireworks from the pier...or in my case from outside Dick's last resort! LMAO, I love that place :D

[jbdowd0798]

I'm ADDICTED to CS!! I'm on vacation and HAD to check email and CS! LOL Thanks Amanda! I'm in Tahoe for 2 weeks without a computer at the house!!! ARGH! :-)

Thank goodness for libraries!!!

Check back in a few days for more tips!

[pamperedalf]

You can also see the fireworks from the pier...or in my case from outside Dick's last resort! LMAO, I love that place :D

Oh Cheryl, I can't wait to hang out w/ you. We have always gone as a cluster on Sunday night. That place is fun, I was in shock the first conference and they took me there.


I also have to hit Gino's for the cheese sticks. We went there last year for dinner and they had the best cheese sticks I have ever tasted.

I have always wanted to do the cruise, that would be fun...

[Koolotus]

[QUOTE=pamperedalf;482567]Oh Cheryl, I can't wait to hang out w/ you. We have always gone as a cluster on Sunday night. QUOTE]


So watcha doing Sunday ;)?

I thought it was hysterical!
We have cluster dinner Monday night, so I will pop in there and then take off for the MnG, hopefully I am not too late! I want to hang with my buds!

[Koolotus]

17 Days!
or 16 if you come Sunday
or 15 if you are driving with me :)
Can't wait!
Happy happy!

[pamperedalf]

Here's Rae's Tip for Today......

if you haven't started your packing list yet, start it now. Seriously--an actual
list. Make it portable, and carry it with you. You'll think of things to add at
odd times, and if you have your list with you it's easy to add things. If you're
like me, you'll never remember to write them down later. (My problem is remembering where I put that list, I did it yesterday when I went shopping for camping food.)


Oh yeah I leave for camping in about 9 hours. I will talk with guys in over a week and see you in 15 days (I am a spazoid 16 days, I am trying to rush it)!!!!


So watcha doing Sunday ? Well we get in at 2, then check in the hotel about 4. Drinks at 5, I am surely going to need them. If Ida hasn't made me die of laughter and I have to change my clothes. She has a plan, and I don't know if I could keep a straight face.

[lacychef]

OK, so what is Dicks? Dare I ask...


Have a great camping trip Amanda!

[pamperedalf]

OK, so what is Dicks? Dare I ask...


Have a great camping trip Amanda!


Dick's is this lovely established bar where they are rude to you, they used to have bra's hanging from the bar(last year I don't remember seeing them), they will make mens private parts hats. If you can handle it, it's a lot of fun. I think they have good apitizers (SP), if you don't think you could handle the above sit on the river tables (they can't say anything outside due to legal reasons). Okay you dared.. LOL

Thanks Lacy I am going to have a great time camping, now off the computer.

[kisrae]

I'm ready to go! Get me out of this smoke!!!
Just some background: Amanda and I's directors always make cracks about being on a budget when Amanda or I have gone on trips with them,but they do it in a way that is just rude.

Last year I stayed with family because I didn't have any extra cash and my friend made me feel guilty if I didn't stay with my family.(Not this year baby!)

So long story short, this year I'm going to mention as much as I can around them how "i'm on a budget" They wont get it but it will be funny as heck to me and Amanda.
I'm like that sometimes I try to make things fun. Goodness will it be hard to keep my smartallick (sp?) mouth shut around them.

I'm ready to have a good time!

[kisrae]

Dick’s is located in the River East Plaza, right on the river, near Navy Pier in downtown Chicago. This Fall we're Moving the Mayhem to Marina City. Just a short swim down the river - *ick's new joint will be the perfect place to let your hair down, throw back some cold ones, and grab some of the best grub in town.



Just got this of *ick's website: It's moved

[pamperedalf]

Dick’s is located in the River East Plaza, right on the river, near Navy Pier in downtown Chicago. This Fall we're Moving the Mayhem to Marina City. Just a short swim down the river - *ick's new joint will be the perfect place to let your hair down, throw back some cold ones, and grab some of the best grub in town.



Just got this of *ick's website: It's moved

Weren't they always close to Navy Pier or does this mean it's closer to Navy Pier. Oh I don't care the Juice is calling my name....LOL

Hey did you get the email about the room. $613, did you see my email earlier? I thought it was pretty good.

[Koolotus]

took me about three reads throughs to follow you 2!
OK, drinks at 5, I can follow that :)
I will see if I can be there, I am on a budget, but I need a beer!

[pamperedalf]

took me about three reads throughs to follow you 2!
OK, drinks at 5, I can follow that :)
I will see if I can be there, I am on a budget, but I need a beer!

What's scary is we know what we are talking about? Call me either way. We are not staying at the Sheraton anymore (due to our budget) we are staying 3 blocks away and saving $190 dollars at Club Quarters. That more than pays for our hotel the night before our flight.

[lacychef]

OK, I think I remember a couple cluster-mates talking about going there before....why is the website censoring the name? LOL!

[Koolotus]

I'll call ya lady, we are driving in Sunday morn. I have to get the shuttle back from PC HO, so I should be around town bout 5!
Have fun camping with the bugs :P:p:p

[kisrae]

I censored the name...but to be honest I'm not sure why it is a name after all.
DRINKS AT 5 sounds good. If your late you'll have to catch up:)

[Koolotus]

No worries...I will!!:yuck::D:yuck:

[Flamingo]

Ok am I the first today?????:chef:

16 Days!
or 15 if you come Sunday
I only have 15 YEA!!!!!!
I am so excited to be the first today....:blushing:

[Koolotus]

Stinker.
But I only have 14 days!!!:p

[Flamingo]

Where is everyone from wave 2......

[lacychef]

2 weeks!! wa-hoo:balloon:

[straitfan]

Leaving 2 weeks from tomorrow. I'm really getting excited now. The tickets to WICKED that I ordered through Ticketmaster came today..............just added to the excitement!

[pcchris]

Christy - you'll LOVE WICKED! It's amazing......hope you have a great time there!

[pcchris]

I'll be there....unable to make the MnG.......but I'll maybe see some of you at McCormick.

[Flamingo]

Again I am the first?????????? Whats up with that???

15 Days!
or 14 if you come Sunday

:chef::chef::chef::chef:
I only have 14 YEA!!!!!!

[lacychef]

I'll be there....unable to make the MnG.......but I'll maybe see some of you at McCormick.

Hey Chris! Good to "see" you! Where have you been hiding?

[pcchris]

Hey Lacy!

I've been around...mostly lurking. Lots going on in my life....don't want to get into it. Let's just say that conference will be a huge relief for my overstressed brain.

I hope to see some of you there!

[momoftwins]

Leaving 2 weeks from tomorrow. I'm really getting excited now. The tickets to WICKED that I ordered through Ticketmaster came today..............just added to the excitement!

Sweet!!!! That looks soooooooooooo good and I have heard great reviews!! Are you going on Sunday night??

[Bren706]

Today is Monday, June 30th.

Days until Conference: 14

(13 if you are arriving on Sunday like me :chef::D:chef::D)

Today's Tip:

A couple of small things to add to your list of things to carry with you at NC--safety pins and double-stick tape. There are few wardrobe malfunctions that can't be fixed with one or the other.

[Flamingo]

:grumpy:Ok it seems that I am the first only on the weekends...

All you other wave 2 people must sleep in then.:indif: Because I am not the first today......LOL;)

[lacychef]

Hey Lacy!

I've been around...mostly lurking. Lots going on in my life....don't want to get into it. Let's just say that conference will be a huge relief for my overstressed brain.

I hope to see some of you there!

Well take care of yourself, & hopefully we'll run into each other at conference!

[straitfan]

Sweet!!!! That looks soooooooooooo good and I have heard great reviews!! Are you going on Sunday night??


The only Sunday show is a 2:00 matinee. Our flight gets into Chicago about 9am, so I think we should make it with no worries. (Will probably have to stow our luggage and check into the hotel afterwards). I wanted to do this SO BAD last year, but didn't have the time. I made sure to work it into the schedule this year.

[MissChef]

It sure is getting close! I can't wait! Days like today when the kids are fighting a lot, I look forward to NC even more!:D

[momoftwins]

It sure is getting close! I can't wait! Days like today when the kids are fighting a lot, I look forward to NC even more!:D

Ditto!!! I am so looking forward to the time away from my kids!!! I love them but they are going to be 3 in September and are surely acting their age!

[momoftwins]

The only Sunday show is a 2:00 matinee. Our flight gets into Chicago about 9am, so I think we should make it with no worries. (Will probably have to stow our luggage and check into the hotel afterwards). I wanted to do this SO BAD last year, but didn't have the time. I made sure to work it into the schedule this year.

I am jealous! I have wanted to see that too - maybe it will make its way here to Omaha (or back to if it has been here before, can't remember)!! You will have to tell me all about it if I get to see you at the meet n greet or something!

[momoftwins]

OK - so anyone out there not see the Sex in the City movie yet??? I am planning on taking it in while in Chicago - probably Sunday night. I need to find the movie listings somewhere online. I remember there is a movie theatre not far from the Sheraton.

[Bren706]

Today is Tuesday, July 1st.

Days until Conference: 13


(12 if you are arriving on Sunday like me ):sing::D:D

Today's tip:

"I know you ladies want to look your best at NC. (I'm sure you men do, too, but this tip probably won't apply to you.) You'll be tempted to bring lots of cosmetics "just in case." Resist that urge. Think about the look you'll be creating and what you'll be wearing. Bring only those cosmetics you'll need. You'll be glad you did." Thanks Rae!

[lacychef]

Dang! I thought for sure I'd be the first today, LOL!:p

[Koolotus]

Seriously, I need to stop sleeping in!
Thanks Brenda for taking the ropes :)
11 Days for me!!
time to get moving!

[straitfan]

I am jealous! I have wanted to see that too - maybe it will make its way here to Omaha (or back to if it has been here before, can't remember)!! You will have to tell me all about it if I get to see you at the meet n greet or something!

Buy a ticket and come with us!! If you'll be in by then. Part of our cluster is flying in from Omaha (our director's director is her sister and she lives up there). I'll have to find out what flight they're on. The rest of us are flying in from KC.

OK - so anyone out there not see the Sex in the City movie yet??? I am planning on taking it in while in Chicago - probably Sunday night. I need to find the movie listings somewhere online. I remember there is a movie theatre not far from the Sheraton.


That sounds like fun!! But don't think we'll be able to do it Sun. night. HMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM I'll have to think about that one. We're at the Sheraton too. I know that still on the list of "should have done last year" is Garrett's popcorn and American Girl Place. (And I'm sure my clustermates would be bored stiff, but the teacher in me REALLY wants to find some time to visit the field museum.) I'd probably have better luck getting them to the aquarium. Probably won't have time to do it all. Anybody have any leads on discount admissions???

[Bren706]

Dang! I thought for sure I'd be the first today, LOL!:p

haha!:p:) maybe next time! (or maybe not) :p

[momoftwins]

Buy a ticket and come with us!! If you'll be in by then. Part of our cluster is flying in from Omaha (our director's director is her sister and she lives up there). I'll have to find out what flight they're on. The rest of us are flying in from KC.




That sounds like fun!! But don't think we'll be able to do it Sun. night. HMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM I'll have to think about that one. We're at the Sheraton too. I know that still on the list of "should have done last year" is Garrett's popcorn and American Girl Place. (And I'm sure my clustermates would be bored stiff, but the teacher in me REALLY wants to find some time to visit the field museum.) I'd probably have better luck getting them to the aquarium. Probably won't have time to do it all. Anybody have any leads on discount admissions???


Christy - my flight gets into Chicago at like 4pm. I had wanted to go to the Cubs baseball game (have always wanted to do that everytime I have gone to NC) but the game is at 1pm! UGH! Maybe next year!!! I wouldn't mind seeing the Field Museum either. Things to think about!

Who is your directors sister??

[lacychef]

haha!:p:) maybe next time! (or maybe not) :p

OK, we'll see tomorrow!

[straitfan]

Who is your directors sister??

Glee Witzke---I can't remember the name of the town she lives in right now........could be Beatrice, but I don't think so.

[momoftwins]

Ah - don't know that name at all. I live in Omaha.

[kisrae]

COULD IT BE TRUE? Am I the first today?

JULY 2nd.........12

(11 Days until I arrive)


I can't wait!! I'm still looking for a house to move into. I'll be packing my house up along with my stuff I'm taking to CHICAGO.

Can some one post the tip of the day? I'm not sure where to find it:o:blushing:

[lacychef]

Yeah! Everyone else is sleeping in today; & I thought I did:p

Days until conference:12

11 if you come in on Sunday!

Wo-hoo!

[lacychef]

Ida, we were typing at the same time, LOL!

[MissChef]

Yeah! Everyone else is sleeping in today; & I thought I did:p

Days until conference:12

11 if you come in on Sunday!

Wo-hoo!

LOL!!! Kisrae beat you!!!! ROTFLMBO! Awww Lacy, better luck next time!!;):D:p

Here's the tip of the day!

Do one last check, skin out, of all your clothing. Remember to check everything carefully. Does anything need to be cleaned or mended? Does everything fit comfortably? Is there anything you can eliminate from your packing?

On a side note, several people on other threads have mentioned carrying Tide Stain Sticks. Those work well. Personally, I like Oxy Clean Spray-Away Instant Stain Remover. There are also the tried and true Shout Wipes. Whichever you choose, it's wise to carry something. Of course, you may not have as much trouble eating without spilling on yourself as I do.

[kisrae]

I love it. Thats what I get when I have to go back and edit myself. I was in shock.

[lacychef]

HA! I got a phone call while typing....or I'd have been first, LOL!

[kisrae]

I talked to Amanda yesterday. Her family is doing great and theire having a great time camping.
Thanks Cathy for the tip today.

[lacychef]

Days until conference: 11

10 if you come on Sunday!

Wow, it's getting CLOSE!

Here's Rae's tip:
Now's the time to start checking on the weather forecast for Chicago. That may help you narrow your clothing choices, lightening your packing load.

[kisrae]

Thanks Lacy! I'm off to meet some friends for breakfast then off to shop.
HAVE A GREAT DAY GIRLS!

[straitfan]

It's getting so close!
I have to go shopping and find at least one more outfit! (also have to buy earplugs for my roommates! (LOL!)

[jbdowd0798]

I think I may need to shop for one more outfit too. I'm clueless and waiting on answers about any dinners, etc. that I need it for. I have emails out to my directors,etc. so we'll see!! :-)

Thanks for the countdown!! I'll be arriving on Sunday!!!!!!!!

[momoftwins]

It's getting so close!
I have to go shopping and find at least one more outfit! (also have to buy earplugs for my roommates! (LOL!)

My thoughts exactly!!! I am going to try and go maybe Saturday or Sunday during the twins nap time if I can get DH to stay home then and watch them! It is soooooooo much easier shopping for clothes without the twins!! I too am going to buy earplugs for my roommates!

[Bren706]

Happy 4th of July everyone!!!!

Days until Conference: 10

9 days if you arrive on Sunday!

Today's tip:

You'll come back from NC full of excitement and great ideas. Don't waste it. Start a list now of the people you want to contact after you get back. You know the people I'm talking about--all of those "maybe" and "one day soon" people. Start your list and put it where you'll find it within 24-48 hours of returning.

[DebbieJ]

I think I may need to shop for one more outfit too. I'm clueless and waiting on answers about any dinners, etc. that I need it for. I have emails out to my directors,etc. so we'll see!! :-)

Thanks for the countdown!! I'll be arriving on Sunday!!!!!!!!

Who is your Exec Director?

[jbdowd0798]

Nancy Jo Ryan. I read the other thread on her theme but never been to NC I don't want to overdress and stand out or underdress and stand out! ha ha

[Bren706]

Days until Conference: 9

8 days if you arrive on Sunday!

Today's tip:

Make a list of the people you'll want to immediately send fall mini-catalogs to. I've already told 6 people that I'll slip one in the mail to them along with a list of the discontinuing items as soon as I'm back. (The postcards I send are for July/early August hosts. I consider it an extra little host-coaching contact. They'll receive a mini-catalog at their show.)

[lacychef]

Thanks for doing the couting Brenda--I wasn't even on the computer yesterday.
Hope you all had a good 4th!

[MORFIA]

anyone at the #300,000 table??

[kisrae]

Days until Conference: 8
7 days if you arrive on Sunday!

Today's tip:

We've talked about the importance of comfortable shoes. Now is a good time to check over the ones you're bringing. Clean and inspect them before packing. Polish them, if necessary. If you're like me, you'll want to look good almost as much as you'll want to be comfortable.

Thanks Rae

[lacychef]

One week--wa-hoo!:D

[jbdowd0798]

I'm pumped! Got in late last night from vacation and now its time to really think about and start packing for Sunday's trip!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[MissChef]

When I woke up this morning, it was about 7:30 and I thought, "Wow! This time next week, I'll be in the air, on my way to freedom!" LOL! J/K, my kids and hubby are great, but I look forward to not having to make all the decisions and fix everyone's issue! Including my hubby! LOL!:balloon::thumbup::D Only for a few days though, that is all I can handle, then I become major home sick!! And I just have to have my family!

[Bren706]

I really, really, really need to start packing!

[kisrae]

When I woke up this morning, it was about 7:30 and I thought, "Wow! This time next week, I'll be in the air, on my way to freedom!" LOL! J/K, my kids and hubby are great, but I look forward to not having to make all the decisions and fix everyone's issue! Including my hubby! LOL!:balloon::thumbup::D Only for a few days though, that is all I can handle, then I become major home sick!! And I just have to have my family!

I can really relate. I've been looking for a house to move into and I started to pack. I know when I'm gone nothing will get done. I hope I can find a house before we leave on Saturday.
WISH ME LUCK!! I also have a job interview on Weds morning. I need this job!

[Bren706]

Today is Monday, July 7th:

Days until Conference: 7

6 days if you arrive on Sunday!:D:D

Today's tip:

Only 1 week to go! Yippee! Now's the time to start checking on the weather forecast for Chicago. That may help you narrow your clothing choices, lightening your packing load.

[lacychef]

I really, really, really need to start packing!

HA! I'll do that on Saturday!:p

[pamperedalf]

HA! I'll do that on Saturday!:p

Lacy you sound like me. I am getting better about procrastinating.

[lacychef]

Hey, you're back! Did you have a good camping trip?
Yes, I'm a huge procrastinator...trying to get better! I'm happy---I got 2 new capri/nice tshirt outfits in JCPenny's yesterday. Got 4 things for $47:thumbup:(that's the only place around here to shop---other than Walmart!)

[pamperedalf]

Hey, you're back! Did you have a good camping trip?
Yes, I'm a huge procrastinator...trying to get better! I'm happy---I got 2 new capri/nice tshirt outfits in JCPenny's yesterday. Got 4 things for $47:thumbup:(that's the only place around here to shop---other than Walmart!)

Camping was awesome, it felt too short. My son tried giving me a heart attack on his quad several times. Our shopping was fun, we hit Fred Myers and their sales, then no tax was sweet. Lacy I totally understand about shopping, there is not much here either. We do have a lot of botiques (SP), but I am too cheap to pay $40+ for a top.

I just pulled out my carry on bag, we will see if I wait to Saturday Morn.

[momoftwins]

Hey, you're back! Did you have a good camping trip?
Yes, I'm a huge procrastinator...trying to get better! I'm happy---I got 2 new capri/nice tshirt outfits in JCPenny's yesterday. Got 4 things for $47:thumbup:(that's the only place around here to shop---other than Walmart!)

Lacy - I went to Kohl's yesterday and bought a new capri outfit and a new top to go with a pair of capri's I have at home!! I am totally looking forward to meeting all of you!!

[Flamingo]

Today is Tuesday, July 7th:

Days until Conference: 6

5 days if you arrive on Sunday!


I'm so EXCITED>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

[Denise's Fun]

Hey everyone we only have 5 days till wave 2....are you ready

[heather223]

I am so excited and can't wait!

[lacychef]

Today is Tuesday, July 7th:

Days until Conference: 6

5 days if you arrive on Sunday!


I'm so EXCITED>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

& I just can't hide it! LOL!

Amanda I hear ya; we have a little community owned clothing store here. It's great if your a corporate office worker & like spending 40-80 on each piece. No thanks! I'm way too cheap for that!

[pamperedalf]

I am so proud of myself, my suitcase is out and half of my clothes are in already. My dh about fell over when he saw me take it out. He wanted to know where his wife was?

I printed a few signs for our cheffer lunch this year Lacy.

[Koolotus]

show off!!!
I just printed driving directions and some other goodies for the team for conference.
I have clothes that are set aside for conference, but no packing....yet.
Leaving Saturday morning, plenty of time! eek:eek::eek::eek::eek:

[pamperedalf]

show off!!!
I just printed driving directions and some other goodies for the team for conference.
I have clothes that are set aside for conference, but no packing....yet.
Leaving Saturday morning, plenty of time! eek:eek::eek::eek::eek:

Cheryl, this is quite rare for me. I also figured if I get it done early I won't buy anything else because there is no room in my carry on.

[lacychef]

Ha! My dh would probably ask the same thing!
Today I'm working on laundry & cleaning house; since the kiddos are staying at grandma's, if it's clean when I leave then surely it'll be clean when I get home:thumbup: Maybe I'll start packing tomorrow...

[pamperedalf]

Lacy in my house that is called wishful thinking.

I need to call dh to make sure he doesn't forget to feed the animals and collect eggs, because he will forget.

[Bren706]

! I'm happy---I got 2 new capri/nice tshirt outfits in JCPenny's yesterday. Got 4 things for $47:thumbup:(that's the only place around here to shop---other than Walmart!)

HA! I'll do that on Saturday!:p

Yeah,
I will probably be running around before and after my 2pm show on Saturday, packing. I also need to get my contact lists and labels ready, and all that other paperwork ready.

I did pick up a summer dress at Ross's for $10.99 yesterday (our ED banquet is a Summer Garden Party), and a pair of Capri's at Walmart today). I also got bandaids and tylenol! Most of my outfits are layed out on the bed in our spare room.

[lacychef]

Lacy in my house that is called wishful thinking.

I need to call dh to make sure he doesn't forget to feed the animals and collect eggs, because he will forget.

HA! Here too, but a girl can wish right?;) Actually I think mine will stay clean, since it'll just be dh here.
I need to make him a list too; to remember to feed the cats & dog.

[momoftwins]

Lacy - where in Kansas do you live???

[pamperedalf]

Lacy my starts out w/ all my hotels (well the one where I leave the truck & the one in Chicago) flight, what to feed the animals, what to put in my son's lunch because he would totally avoid putting fruit or vegies in. Then at the bottom again did you remember to feed the dog? She is the one that get's forgotten a lot.

I wish mine would stay clean, but I know that Thomas the Train Tracks will take over the whole house. Because I won't be home to make them put it away.

[MissChef]

Today is Tuesday, July 7th:

Days until Conference: 6

5 days if you arrive on Sunday!


I'm so EXCITED>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Actually today is Tuesday, July 8th!! I only caught on to this because my sisters b-day was yesterday, the 7th, so that is why I noticed!

[MissChef]

I am so proud of myself, my suitcase is out and half of my clothes are in already. My dh about fell over when he saw me take it out. He wanted to know where his wife was?

I printed a few signs for our cheffer lunch this year Lacy.

Too funny! I started packing on Sunday, and I pretty much have what I want to wear. I am having a friend come over tomorrow and help me decide on a couple of things, and then we are going shopping for a light sweater, for those darn conference rooms! Brrrr! Other than that I really don't need to buy much besides snacks! I know I feel like I'm forgetting something so I just printed all the tips and the checklist from PC's website and I'll read it later.
I do not feel good today at all!!! I had wanted to accomplish much today, but my head is pounding! I'm due to start my montly hell!:yuck: Gosh the older I get the worse my period gets! And I know my headache will go away once I start but then the cramps will start! ughhhhh!!! Well, one bright side is that I should be feeling fine for conference, so even though I feel pesimistic, my natural optimistic nature is trying to come out!
So hopefully by Thursday night I'll be mostly packed up and then I'll have to just add in the necessities and go. Then I need to pack my kids' stuff because they will be with my sister while I'm gone (hubby's out of town!). ughh..... my head is pounding so bad I feel sick! :yuck:I need to quit thinking about it!:grumpy:

[pamperedalf]

Too funny! I started packing on Sunday, and I pretty much have what I want to wear. I am having a friend come over tomorrow and help me decide on a couple of things, and then we are going shopping for a light sweater, for those darn conference rooms! Brrrr! Other than that I really don't need to buy much besides snacks! I know I feel like I'm forgetting something so I just printed all the tips and the checklist from PC's website and I'll read it later.
I do not feel good today at all!!! I had wanted to accomplish much today, but my head is pounding! I'm due to start my montly hell!:yuck: Gosh the older I get the worse my period gets! And I know my headache will go away once I start but then the cramps will start! ughhhhh!!! Well, one bright side is that I should be feeling fine for conference, so even though I feel pesimistic, my natural optimistic nature is trying to come out!
So hopefully by Thursday night I'll be mostly packed up and then I'll have to just add in the necessities and go. Then I need to pack my kids' stuff because they will be with my sister while I'm gone (hubby's out of town!). ughh..... my head is pounding so bad I feel sick! :yuck:I need to quit thinking about it!:grumpy:

I find it's everywhere in Chicago. I always have a sweater w/ me because I walk in a Chicago building and freeze. I asked one time in a restaurant what the temp was set at and she said it's at 65. That baffles me to go from hot/sweaty to frigid cold. Too much for my blood.

[momoftwins]

Too funny! I started packing on Sunday, and I pretty much have what I want to wear. I am having a friend come over tomorrow and help me decide on a couple of things, and then we are going shopping for a light sweater, for those darn conference rooms! Brrrr! Other than that I really don't need to buy much besides snacks! I know I feel like I'm forgetting something so I just printed all the tips and the checklist from PC's website and I'll read it later.
I do not feel good today at all!!! I had wanted to accomplish much today, but my head is pounding! I'm due to start my montly hell!:yuck: Gosh the older I get the worse my period gets! And I know my headache will go away once I start but then the cramps will start! ughhhhh!!! Well, one bright side is that I should be feeling fine for conference, so even though I feel pesimistic, my natural optimistic nature is trying to come out!
So hopefully by Thursday night I'll be mostly packed up and then I'll have to just add in the necessities and go. Then I need to pack my kids' stuff because they will be with my sister while I'm gone (hubby's out of town!). ughh..... my head is pounding so bad I feel sick! :yuck:I need to quit thinking about it!:grumpy:


Cathy - I know Merrill had a cute light weight zip up cardigan last year. I bought it and love it - in fact seeing your post about shopping for one reminded me to be sure to pack it!!

[MissChef]

It's 12:00 am here on the West Coast, and so that makes today:
Wednesday July 9th!

There are 5 more days until conference. And if you are leaving on Sunday like me then that is 4 more days until we leave!


Wahooooo!:D:thumbup:

[Koolotus]

It's 12:00 am here on the West Coast, and so that makes today:
Wednesday July 9th!

There are 5 more days until conference. And if you are leaving on Sunday like me then that is 4 more days until we leave!


Wahooooo!:D:thumbup:

I leave Saturday Morning so it is only 3 days for me! woohoo!
But I am jealous, jealous, jealous reading about the girls that left while I slept!!!

[lacychef]

Lacy - where in Kansas do you live???

I live in "the home of Bob Dole" LOL, that's what we're known for here. Right in the middle of the state, off I-70.

I find it's everywhere in Chicago. I always have a sweater w/ me because I walk in a Chicago building and freeze. I asked one time in a restaurant what the temp was set at and she said it's at 65. That baffles me to go from hot/sweaty to frigid cold. Too much for my blood.

65 is cold! I guess I'm the odd duck out, cause I'm usually not really that chilly. Sometimes just a tad, but I'd rather be that than hot.

I can't believe it's almost time:) I did get some snacks yesterday; I need to get some film for my camera though...our digital broke so I've got to use my regular one.

[pamperedalf]

I leave Saturday Morning so it is only 3 days for me! woohoo!
But I am jealous, jealous, jealous reading about the girls that left while I slept!!!


I am so glad that I am not the only one. I was thinking last night wouldn't it be nice to be in Wave 1 and learn all the new products tomorrow. Yes that would be nice wouldn't it. Oh I can dream. Did you notice I am green w/ envy?:D

[lacychef]

You're green with envy....now my eyes are bugging out from reading that, LOL!

[heather223]

I am so proud of myself, my suitcase is out and half of my clothes are in already. My dh about fell over when he saw me take it out. He wanted to know where his wife was?

I printed a few signs for our cheffer lunch this year Lacy.

I have been asking my husband to get my suitcase down from the attic. He started laughing at me last night... I asked him why and he told me that I must not be his wife, I couldn't possibly want to pack any earlier than Sunday at 7:00 am. I board the bus at 9:00 am Sunday. I didn't see anything funny about this... I was serious about packing. He promises I will have my suitcase tonight!! I better! :chef:

[pampermejolene]

I'm so jealous you all are going!! But at the same time I'm glad I canceled... things got really tight financially and I think it would have been even more stressful if I committed that time and money to it.
You all are going to have such a great time.

[lacychef]

Today is: Thursday, July 10
There are 4 days until conference! And 3 days until we leave on Sunday!

Wo-hoo!

[lacychef]

I guess we don't have a tip from Rae today, since wave 1 starts today! (lucky ducks!)

I've got one if it hasn't been said though.....don't forget to print out your airline flight info!

[Bren706]

Here's a tip from Rae that I don't think we have posted here yet:

Just a reminder: While you're at NC, you'll be on CDT. If you live in another time zone, you may want to start adjusting your body clock soon. You don't want to be miserably tired at NC.

[kisrae]

I'm ready now. I finally found a house for my family to move into and got a new higher paying job. So I can go and enjoy myself and not stress about my family being homeless at the end of the month.
What a relief.

[pamperedalf]

Ida we could leave today, J/K. I am not ready yet, I need to get groceries for the family, and we have a date night tomorrow. We are going to go see love guru.

Chicago look out the best wave will be there in 3 days! Wahoo!

[jbdowd0798]

I AM PUMPED!! I can't wait and like everyone else, not packed yet. I think I finally have my outfits planned out but it won't be anything stellar for NJR's banquet.

SEE YOU ALL SOOOOONNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[lacychef]

Here's a tip from Rae that I don't think we have posted here yet:

Just a reminder: While you're at NC, you'll be on CDT. If you live in another time zone, you may want to start adjusting your body clock soon. You don't want to be miserably tired at NC.

Glad I don't have to worry about that one---I'm in central time here.

I'm ready now. I finally found a house for my family to move into and got a new higher paying job. So I can go and enjoy myself and not stress about my family being homeless at the end of the month.
What a relief.

That's awesome Ida! Congrats twice:)

[heather223]

I'm ready now. I finally found a house for my family to move into and got a new higher paying job. So I can go and enjoy myself and not stress about my family being homeless at the end of the month.
What a relief.

Glad it all worked out for you!

Ida we could leave today, J/K. I am not ready yet, I need to get groceries for the family, and we have a date night tomorrow. We are going to go see love guru.

Chicago look out the best wave will be there in 3 days! Wahoo!

Can't we all leave today? I have to go grocery shopping as well and pick up a few last minute things I need.

Good news... my hubby finally got my suitcase down!! WHO HOO I can pack! :chef:

[momoftwins]

I just went to Target this afternoon (am totally addicted to that store) and picked up a few travel size things!! I am going to be doing laundry Saturday and will pack then! I may get my suitcase out tomorrow during the twins nap time!!

[jbdowd0798]

i too hit target for travel size bottles of stuff. It easier to have travel size and throw out a bit of soap or something like that then the hassle of getting it there or the airport having issues.

Can't wait to leave!!!

[straitfan]

I have GOT to get that suitcase down and start putting actual items in it (it's already packed "in my head")! LOL!
"
Survived trip to Wally world today. Got a big bag of stuff as a "survival kit" for my roomies: power strip, earplugs (I snore), safety pins, snacks, emergency sewing repair kit, press on/off happy face light to use as a night light, aspirin. Thought this was easier than goodies for each one.

Gotta go find that suitcase!

[momoftwins]

Oh darn it - I forgot the ear plugs!! Guess I will be heading back to the store - I forgot something else too and now of course I can not remember what it was - need to check my list!!! I love the nightlight idea!!

Christy - I am guessing by your avatar that you are a huge George fan!! Did you ever to go the George Strait music festivals in Kansas City when they had them??? I swear I have seen you before!! George is my man!! LOL! I cant' wait to meet you at conference!!

[MissChef]

Today is: Friday, July 11th!
There are 3 days until conference! And 2 days until we leave on Sunday!

I'm so excited and I just can't hide it!!!:D

[Koolotus]

Today is: Friday, July 11th!
There are 3 days until conference! And 2 days until we leave on Sunday!

I'm so excited and I just can't hide it!!!:D

WAHOO!!!!
I leave in 26 hours!!!

Guess I should go pack :)
See Ya there!!!

[straitfan]

Oh darn it - I forgot the ear plugs!! Guess I will be heading back to the store - I forgot something else too and now of course I can not remember what it was - need to check my list!!! I love the nightlight idea!!

Christy - I am guessing by your avatar that you are a huge George fan!! Did you ever to go the George Strait music festivals in Kansas City when they had them??? I swear I have seen you before!! George is my man!! LOL! I cant' wait to meet you at conference!!


Uhmmmmm....if you've EVER been to a George concert in the midwest there's a good chance you've seen me before! On the risk of sounding like a stalker.....I've seen him in concert somewhere around 26 times!!!!!!!!! :love:
He's the only man my DH would ever have to worry about!!!

Yes, I went to the KC festival twice. I think it was maybe '98 that I was sitting dead center in the front row!!!! I just thought of something, but if that was the case, you would have put 2 & 2 together by my last name, but you wouldn't have happened to have went to KC with someone named Cathy Bonsall from Omaha? My DH's relatives are all from the Dunlap, IA area, and some of them have "spilled over" into Omaha.

[straitfan]

Sharisse-----Oh-- I guess my last name ISN"T in my siggy line--it's Hard--maybe you know some of DH's relatives!

[pamperedalf]

Oh I can't wait to get out of here. I need to go buy some snacks.

The smoke is back and I want to get back to the clean air.

[lacychef]

I've GOT to start packing today! I'm borrowing my mom's rolling suitcase though, & forgot to get it yesterday:rolleyes:

[kisrae]

Have to confess. I haven't started packing. But I've been thinking about it.
I'll do it tonight after my show.
I'll be packing the kids stuff too. DH is taking them to see their uncle. So I better not get things mixedup.

[Flamingo]

I have chosen my stuff but as of yet not packed anything....................I need to get in gear!

[momoftwins]

Christy - I can't even remember the year of the festivals in KC but I know I went to all of them that they had there!! I don't recognize your last name (Hard) or Cheryl Bonsall! The 2nd year we went to George though we were on the sidelines not too far up from the field! They were awesome seats (that was the year of the Dixie Chicks)!!! I sooooooooooooo love George!!!

He was here in Omaha back in 2004 I believe and my seats were 3rd row (that was when he was with Dierks) so I got awesome pictures!!! He can eat crackers in my bed anytime!!! LOL!!!

I think I have asked you before, but where is Sterling Kansas??

[momoftwins]

I've GOT to start packing today! I'm borrowing my mom's rolling suitcase though, & forgot to get it yesterday:rolleyes:

Lacy - where in Kansas do you live??

[pamperedalf]

Have to confess. I haven't started packing. But I've been thinking about it.
I'll do it tonight after my show.
I'll be packing the kids stuff too. DH is taking them to see their uncle. So I better not get things mixedup.


Well you better hurry, we leave in 30 hours. No bookings yet, just some cc stuff.

[straitfan]

Christy - I can't even remember the year of the festivals in KC but I know I went to all of them that they had there!! I don't recognize your last name (Hard) or Cheryl Bonsall! The 2nd year we went to George though we were on the sidelines not too far up from the field! They were awesome seats (that was the year of the Dixie Chicks)!!! I sooooooooooooo love George!!!

He was here in Omaha back in 2004 I believe and my seats were 3rd row (that was when he was with Dierks) so I got awesome pictures!!! He can eat crackers in my bed anytime!!! LOL!!!

I think I have asked you before, but where is Sterling Kansas??

Sterling is about 25 miles North and West of Hutchinson, which is pretty much right in the middle of the state. (Hutch is where I teach).

Lacey lives waaaaaaaaaay out in Western Kansas!!!

Why am I on here? I HAVE to pack!

[lacychef]

I'm about 60 miles west of Salina, off I-70. I thought I was in the middle of the state Christy!

[Brandi2007]

I am packing tonight! Too much to do tomorrow. See you all in Chicago!

[Becky0216]

I still have nothing ready. I guess i need to get on the ball. I am SUPER excited to get there.

[pamperedalf]

Not to brag or anything but I am practically done!!!

I will see you guys in a few days, well Ida I will see tomorrow.

[chefjeanine]

I still have nothing ready. I guess i need to get on the ball. I am SUPER excited to get there.


Me neither. I have to do laundry before I can start packing. :grumpy: I'd love to have everything ready tomorrow as I leave Sunday. That would be planning ahead for me. :rolleyes:

[momoftwins]

I am doing my laundry tomorrow and packing then!!

[Bren706]

I have most of my clothes packed. I just have to mend a button or two on 1 shirt. I still have all the misc. stuff to pack, some of it is laying out on the spare bed already. And then there is address labels to print, postcards to write out, opportunity info, catalogs, etc. to bring with me too.

[jbdowd0798]

I am going shopping tomorrow for the last 2 things I want then I'll pack. I leave the house at 4am Sunday so it will be nuts.

Amanda- what time again are you leaving??? I wonder if I'll have other PC consultants on my flight. Guess I"ll have to wear something and my purse to stand out.

[DebbieJ]

I'm still out in Montana for my brother's wedding (which was last night). I am busy doing laundry in our condo right now b/c tomorrow we're going to Yellowstone for the entire day and then flying out first thing on Sunday. :eek::eek:

I just hope I can get some sleep on Sunday night. I am catching a very very early train on Monday morning so I can go to the Hilton before going to McCormick. Ugh!

[pamperedalf]

I am going shopping tomorrow for the last 2 things I want then I'll pack. I leave the house at 4am Sunday so it will be nuts.

Amanda- what time again are you leaving??? I wonder if I'll have other PC consultants on my flight. Guess I"ll have to wear something and my purse to stand out.

Our flight leaves at 7:50 on SW. I haven't flown out of San Jose, so I don't know what the airport is like. A New one for me. We will have PC shirts on.

[pamperedalf]

OOH, OOH It is Jul 12th somewhere in this country. So the countdown is mine today!!!!:yuck:


2 days until Conference & 1 day for those coming in on Sunday. We leave in 14 hours. Can't wait to see everyone!!!


Tip for the day, don't forget anything for all those procrastinators out there (me included, good thing Walgreens is close by! I need to finish DHs note so he doesn't forget to feed the dog.

[Flamingo]

I leave sunday.............Can't wait

[lacychef]

It's crunch time to get ready!
I did get all my clothes packed yesterday; just have to pack everything else now.
My director is picking my up a little before 5am tomorrow:eek: I'll be going to bed early tonight!
See ya all soon:)

[Flamingo]

Hey all.................. Just checked in with Southwest for my boarding pass.....You know you can do this 24 hrs in advance...........Now I know it's close............I'm soooooooooooo excited. I just can't hide it. La la la

[lacychef]

Thanks for that reminder---I'll have to do that in a bit!

[Flamingo]

Also just checked the weather forcast for our wave...............Lookin good for all 3 days................We are so lucky.

[Kitchen2u]

I'm leaving in about 3 hours...I guess I better pack! :D

[pamperedalf]

I can't believe you guys let me get away w/ my last post. I didn't catch it when I posted earlier, but now that I am more awake I caught it.



I accidently put Jan instead of Jul. I am tired, my brain is fried. I need to finish some last minute things for DH & DS but I leave in less than 7 hours. Yah!!!

[straitfan]

I just printed my boarding pass and plan on leaving here about 2 this afternoon. OUr flight leaves at 6am in the morning, and the airport is 3.5 hrs. away. I'm driving to a clustermates parents' house to spend part of the night anyway! Just one last check to see that I have all the info. for the CS gatherings!

C-ya in Chi-Town!

[kisrae]

Just a reminder in case I missed it. Don't forget to bring your postcards that we got from HO when we signed a new recruit. I just packed mine in my bag.

SEE YOU ALL SOON!

[pamperedalf]

I'll post it here and the lunch meet & greet thread. These are the flyers I made up. So Look for them.

[MissChef]

Just a reminder in case I missed it. Don't forget to bring your postcards that we got from HO when we signed a new recruit. I just packed mine in my bag.

SEE YOU ALL SOON!

I got sent 2 but I can only find 1:(.... oh well. Thanks for the reminder!

[pamperedalf]

Good Morning!!!!

1 day left before conference starts, wahoo! We will be in chicago in about 5 1/2 hours. Can't wait to see everyone. We are meeting Cheryl at dicks for drinks around 5 if you are bored.

Have safe travels!

[chefjeanine]

Safe travel everyone! See you soon.:)

[jbdowd0798]

WHAT A GREAT TIME! As I write this I'm sitting in the USO at O'Hare and wanted to give a shout out to Amanda, Morfia, Momoftwins(sorry don't have your card handy for a first name), and I can't remember one other name. :angel:

I kind of expected to meet more but then again didn't have a chance to go to the meet and greet. I hope you had fun.

Thanks for meeting with me and talking for a few minutes ladies. I had a great time at conference!!:love:

:chef::chef::chef:

[DebbieJ]

I had fun talking with Cheffers over my $15 Martini at the Sheraton. :eek::eek: I caught up with a few others throughout conference and finally saw Lacy this morning at closing general session.

There were photos being taken at the M&G and Morfia was going to email them to someone to post since she is picture challenged. ;);)

See lots of you in Denver I hope!

[jwpamp]

Hey, Deb...at least YOU got served! I forgot my ID in our room and the bartender insisted on me showing her my ID before serving me a beer....uh, LOOK AT ME!!!!!

Geez, she could be my daughter!! :rolleyes:

[pamperedalf]

I am packing my suitcase right now, saying goodbye to the windy city. I will see you all next year (or at leadership, I have my tickets).

I will post pics and tell more when I get home tomorrow night. Love you guys, and so glad that I got to hang out w/ everyone.

[lacychef]

So glad I got to finally see you Deb:) My director was like....ok remind me her name, LOL!

So glad to run into Amanda & Ida several times!
& happy to see Cheryl after she got done walking!

[Koolotus]

So glad I got to finally see you Deb:) My director was like....ok remind me her name, LOL!

So glad to run into Amanda & Ida several times!
& happy to see Cheryl after she got done walking!

Lacy!
You saw me ?!?
Why, oh why didn't you stop me!
I would have loved to meet you :)
Leadership definetly :)

[chefjeanine]

Good to see everyone who made it to they daytime meet & greet. Also, the random Cheffer I met during the rest of conference.

I look forward to all the discussions going on here when Wave 3 has finished.

[Bren706]

Indeed, it was such a pleasure to meet everyone, and spend some time together. What a great group of cheffers! And to everyone at Monday's lunch, I hope that we do not see each other same time, same place next year (Because we will all have PROMOTED!!!!!:D:D:thumbup::sing:)

I will post my photos in a few days as soon as I get caught up at home, and caught up with making some contacts and get my business on track.

[lacychef]

Lacy!
You saw me ?!?
Why, oh why didn't you stop me!
I would have loved to meet you :)
Leadership definetly :)

I was the one that grabbed your hand when you were walking back down the isle to your seat after the new director walk!:)

[Koolotus]

I was the one that grabbed your hand when you were walking back down the isle to your seat after the new director walk!:)

Awesome!
You should have grabbed me and said
"I'm Lacy!!!"
Then I would have sat and talked!!
I can't wait to "actually" meet you at Leadership :)

[Bren706]

Lacy, I wish we had the time to sit and chat as well. I was so happy to meet you. We WILL be walking at Leadership!!! Cheryl, we will see you there!!!!

[lacychef]

How funny Cheryl...I wasn't sure if you'd recognize me or not at that time.

Yes Brenda, you me & Amanda ARE walking at leadership! (if I can figure out something to do with my kiddos those days so I can go!)

[pamperedalf]

How funny Cheryl...I wasn't sure if you'd recognize me or not at that time.

Yes Brenda, you me & Amanda ARE walking at leadership! (if I can figure out something to do with my kiddos those days so I can go!)


You will figure it out w/ no problems. We will be walking at leadership! :D:D

[Flamingo]

Can I walk with you guys???????????????????

[Bren706]

Sure can!!! We will all walk together on stage!

By the way Andrea, I had such a great time hanging with ya' at conference! Can't wait til we do it again at Leadership!

[pamperedalf]

Let's have a whole group, Wahoo!!!!!

Kitchen2u gave me the talk at our exec dinner (I really needed to hear it). She even gave me HW. I need to take pics, but I will post my HW pics on here somewhere.

[Bren706]

Speaking of Kitchen2u, did you see Ginny on the big screen? Yeah Ginny!!!

[DebbieJ]

I love Ginny. Glad she gave you homework, Amanda! :D

[pamperedalf]

Speaking of Kitchen2u, did you see Ginny on the big screen? Yeah Ginny!!!

I did, and I screamed Loud!!!

[kisrae]

We just got back from the coast 3 hrs ago and after a nap I finally got on.
I had such a great time meeting you all. Even with some of the cold shoulder from my "D", I had a great time.
Cheryl, I'm already shoping for my sunglasses. :cool:

[jbdowd0798]

Oh I forgot to say I MET JEAN JONAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:love: Gotta download that pic to my avatar!! I saw and met her at the 1st Timer's Orientation. She was just talking with Jan from HO and someone else and right before she left I asked if she wouldn't mind a few pictures.....myself and 4 my clustermates! SHE ROCKS!!!!!!!!!:love:

[MissChef]

Oh I forgot to say I MET JEAN JONAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:love: Gotta download that pic to my avatar!! I saw and met her at the 1st Timer's Orientation. She was just talking with Jan from HO and someone else and right before she left I asked if she wouldn't mind a few pictures.....myself and 4 my clustermates! SHE ROCKS!!!!!!!!!:love:

:eek::eek:uhhhh..... no...... you can't!:eek: I'm the only one that gets to have her in their avatar!!!!!!:p;) LOL! She's mine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! J/K!:D

[jbdowd0798]

LOL You are too funny!! My avatar wont look that good. In my pic, my boobs look like they grew three cups! LOL I can't wait to download it and post it!

[pamperedalf]

Cheryl you made it home! We were waiting to say bye, but I couldn't stay awake imagine that. My body was on overload.

[Koolotus]

Cheryl you made it home! We were waiting to say bye, but I couldn't stay awake imagine that. My body was on overload.

Yep, 3 hours in and out of chi-town traffic :(
Luckily I had thoughts of "the Blues Brothers" to keep me awake!!!
I loved hanging with you and IDA :)

[pamperedalf]

Yep, 3 hours in and out of chi-town traffic :(
Luckily I had thoughts of "the Blues Brothers" to keep me awake!!!
I loved hanging with you and IDA :)

We had a blast too! It took us awhile to get home through San Francisco traffic. I told Ida, she needed to make me mad so I could stay awake, that didn't work. So we stopped to shop and that woke us up.

[MissChef]

LOL You are too funny!! My avatar wont look that good. In my pic, my boobs look like they grew three cups! LOL I can't wait to download it and post it!

Why? So you can show your boob size or just to have a pic with Jean Jonas!!?? :p J/K! I can understand the chest size issue. It's an every day issue!:grumpy::D

[jbdowd0798]

LOL I jus didn't realize how big my boobs looked in pictures. I think they are blah but in this pic its either my boobs or how I was standing but WOWZERS! lol Okay so maybe I'll be nice and crop the pic so you can see my face and not just boobs! :blushing: