It has come to my attention that there are large numbers of jatraqueros and jatraqueras living within a comparatively small (by Canadian standards) radius of me. Some have expressed interest in gathering.
A few considerations are: 1) the school year affects some people (not me), what with free time allotments, funds for travel, and of course moving at the end of the academic year. 2) the work week affects some people (me), for whom fun is pretty much confined to weekends. 3) not everyone can travel on a whim, even with the relatively short distances we're talking about here.
Given these things I suggest we convene on a major urban centre. That is to say, Toronto. Everyone ought to be able to get there pretty easily, since it's a major transport hub for planes, trains, and buses.
So. When? Some weekend, obviously, but precisely which weekend should probably be decided by the school people, who I guess are getting dangerously close to finals and whatnot.
[Title edited.]
[ April 24, 2005, 11:52 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
*cheers twinky, despite the fact he said he may not be able to attend*
I am in Toronto until the 6th of May.
I have no present weekend commitments, and although I have exams there are only four of them spread ridiculously far apart across almost a month.
Pick a weekend, I'll be there.
Again, thanks, twinky .
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
6th of May! That makes it pretty easy. I keep forgetting that Waterloo's terms end earlier than everyone else's because of co-op. From the second week of April onward, my weekends are free and I can make one of them a three-day weekend if people want to commence with the festivities on a Friday. Let's see what everyone else says.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
No, Toronto's terms in later than EVERYONE elses.
...but in this case, it's a good thing .
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Toronto! I can get to Toronto! We've been thinking of taking Thomas to the science museum up there.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Heh. Well, Waterloo's terms DO end earlier, too. So my perception is skewed. Posted by fiazko (Member # 5812) on :
I'm not in Canada, but can I come anyway? I could swing Toronto, although I've never done the crossing country border thing by myself. It basically depends on the weekend, but I would like to come.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Of course! The gathering isn't exclusively FOR Canadians, it's just happening in Canada. If Telp doesn't see this thread I'll email him or something.
Tick, do you mean the Ontario Science Centre, or the Royal Ontario Museum? Because the latter has dinosaurs! Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
The latter is Under Construction. They're building a big modern Crystal stuck on the side of it...
It's still open but in a much-reduced form.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Oh, right, the stupid Ruin The Awesome Museum project. Bah.
I love the dinosaurs.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
I think I was at the first one, twinky. It's been a few years, though.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
You should take him to both, provided the construction at the ROM allows for the viewing of dinosaur bones.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
He didn't seem too interested in the dinos at the Buffalo Science Museum, but the exhibit of art made up of gears/pulleys/found objects fascinated him. He's more of a train kid than a dinosaur kid. So far, anyway. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
What kind of little kid doesn't love dinosaurs? (I am betraying my secret dinosaur love here.) Though I confess that planes and trains are mighty cool too.
Anyway, it'd be cool to met you and your family if you can make it. Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Give him time. We were actually in Burlington a few weeks ago for an Ikea trip.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm thinking of going to Burlington this Friday for an Ikea trip. One of my friends lives very close to that Ikea. Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
We got stuff for Thomas's room there, including his first real bed. Posted by Zeugma (Member # 6636) on :
I need to go to an Ikea at some point to decorate our fabulous new pad, and Toronto is only 5 or 6 hours from here. I won't have enough money for a big shopping trip for a while yet, though. When's you thinkin?
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
I don't think the latter is completely closed, isn't their a new exhibit with fossils showing the connection between dinos and birds? Something along those lines.
I'm interested, Toronto being so close and all. I don't really know what my schedule is going to be like (some things are still up in the air), but I do know that March is right out.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
March is right out for me, too. I only have one unbooked weekend this month and I'm saving it for the purchasing of important household items.
Posted by Ticklet (Member # 6918) on :
I am sure given time I will like Dinosaurs a litte better. I do have a stuffed dino I like but I am not even 2 yet! Besides power tools are much more fun.
[ March 09, 2005, 02:36 PM: Message edited by: Ticklet ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Just keep an open mind, dude. Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
He does like that stuffed dino - he will take it's mouth and make it bite you.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Just you wait. Before you know it he'll be playing with two dinosaur dolls, and all of a sudden:
quote:"Yes... this is a fertile land, and we will thrive. We will rule over all this land, and we will call it... 'this land.'"
"I think we should call it 'your grave!'"
"'Ahhhhh! Curse your sudden but inevitable betrayal!"
"Hahaha! Mine is an evil laugh!"
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Twink, I live in Burlington! Not near the Ikea, though I know how to get there. Three most frequently asked questions in a Burlington gas station: where's the highway, where's the booze, and where's the Ikea.
I am definitely on board for a Hatrack CanaCon. Not this month, but there's a large number of April/May days I'd be free. Preferably May, since I have an exam mid-April.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
We'll keep it before May 6th for Teshi. Other than that, Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Maybe we should have this shin-dig at the Ikea. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
My Ikea trip is the day after tomorrow, but I'm sure I could be persuaded to return there later. I'm sure we can come up with neater things to do, though. Like, seeing the dinosaurs at the ROM. *cough cough*
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I live about two minutes away from the ROM. I can find out if the Dinosaurs are there or not....
But I have a feeling they're not, at least right now .
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
It's okay. When I was living in Toronto last summer I went to see them twice in the space of a few days. I don't desperately need to go again. But I'm like a little kid when it comes to dinosaurs. And airplanes. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Look what's across the street... you should all come visit Ryuko and ElJay...
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Personally, I'm a big fan of trains (like Ticklet ) but dinosaurs are cool too.
I know nothing about planes, except I'm not terribly happy when I'm inside them.
quote: Look what's across the street... you should all come visit Ryuko and ElJay...
Nah. You should come visit US.
[ March 09, 2005, 04:13 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
I'd want to go to the Science Centre more. It's interactive and such. Can you imagine a bunch of Jatraqueros on the Earthquake Bridge? Or trying out the talking typewriter? Besides, I haven't been to the Science Centre since I was about 11, and I need to go again.
(edited for spelnig)
[ March 09, 2005, 10:45 PM: Message edited by: Eaquae Legit ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Oooooooooooo... dinosaurs from China... *goes off to investigate flight options*
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I don't remember the last time I was at the Science Centre. We could go there with Ticklet, maybe. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
From what I remember of the science centre in Toronto it's actually pretty good. Much better than the one in Ottawa, which seems to go by the theme of "Science? We don't need Science!"
It does have trains though.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
quote: Nah. You should come visit US.
Well, this earthquake bridge thing you mention does sound awfully appealing, but I have a wedding to go to in April...
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
The last time I went to the science centre my friends and I all dressed up like the stereotypes of our professions. The computer scientist and I were demonstrating the concept of relative motion to children by walking up the down escalator when the security guards tossed us out for setting a bad example.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
LOL. So if you go, you'll have to be in disguise?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
o_O
That's it, I'm instituting a Hatrack.ca dress code. Everyone must wear their regular clothes.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
How are you going to enforce that?
"But I ALWAYS wear plaid lumberjack shirts and bright orange suspenders attached to spotted pink clown pants!"
[ March 09, 2005, 06:36 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
If by "disguise" you mean "not a lab coat and goggles", then yes. It fun while it lasted though, everyone just seemed to assume we worked there Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:How are you going to enforce that?
With my impeccable taste.
(BtL, a word out of you and you DIE. )
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I would probably be able to come if it was on a public transit line...(as the OSC is) and I would probably bring along a friend, if that's okay.
Depends on the day, though. If we do April 1st-April 2nd, I won't be able to come. (Robot competition at the Hershey Cantre, Mississauga. If anyone wants to drop in and see that, they're more than welcome)
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I can't do April 2nd. My university friends are convening for a massive party to celebrate a bunch of things (most notably two birthdays).
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
April 2 is a no-go for me as well. I'm flying.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
*scratches April 2 off the list*
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
So we'll do one of the other three weekends in April, then. Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
I'm pretty free in April as well, if no one minds a newbie tagging along... I have an exam on the 9th, but if it's a later weekend I can come. I haven't been to the Science Centre in about a decade either, but I recall it being very fun. As are the ROM dinosaurs, which I'm *always* up for.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
How about, of the remaining weekends, everyone interested in coming lists the weekends in order of preference.
The weekends are:
April the 8th, 9th, 10th April the 15th, 16th, 17th April the 22nd, 23rd, 24th April the 29th, 30th and May 1st
[ March 09, 2005, 07:22 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Best: 15-17 or 22-24 Fine: 29-1 No good: 8-10
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
All of those weekends are, I think, fine with me.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
I can come any of those weekends - in spirit, that is. My corporeal being will still be in Sri Lanka, though. But it won't bother any of you if I haunt the gathering, will it? Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
1. April the 22nd, 23rd, 24th 1. April the 29th, 30th and May 1st 2. April the 8th, 9th, 10th (extremely iffy - I'm actually meeting a NZ Pwebber on the 8th) 3. April the 15th, 16th, 17th (immpossible, due to an exam on Sunday)
[ March 09, 2005, 10:24 PM: Message edited by: Eaquae Legit ]
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
*just finished skimming WestJet prices*
oi...this is so incredibly affordable...*sooooo tempted*
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Everybody, quick! Tempt him!
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
*glares*
I have to check when my exams are first...so I guess that's what I'm doing tomorrow in between classes
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
Hmmm... the 8th and 22nd (the actual days) are no good for myself. I could always show up the day after.
But if I was to order those weekends it'd be:
April the 29th, 30th and May 1st April the 15th, 16th, 17th April the 8th, 9th, 10th April the 22nd, 23rd, 24th
Ted/Pod no longer checks hatrack, so when he's done his homework I'll inquire with him if he's interested.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Cool. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I'm so jealous of the WenchCon people, so I had to check prices, didn't I? Can't just be satisfied with the HUGE wedding gathering next month, have to think about meeting more people.
Non-stop Minneapolis to Toronto for US$227.
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
I've got exams on the 18th and 20th so I'd rather not be doing anything the weekend before. I'm pretty sure my dance card is clear every other weekend though, after the 2nd that is.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
So far, it seems like the weekend starting on the 29th is the best one for the most people.
Edit: Incidentally, BtL, did you get Eric's email last night regarding this weekend? Are you in?
[ March 10, 2005, 09:24 AM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Prices for me would be $1400 US. Not bad, not bad. But I'm still not coming. 28 hours of travel time is ugly, and the next time I go to Canada, it'll be to the west where I actually know people. Um, I mean, where people love me. Er, I mean. . . *runs screaming from thread*
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
We are A-OK with any of the weekends. Sounds like the 29th-1st might be the best, but we can get there most any weekend.
Posted by fiazko (Member # 5812) on :
I vote for the 29th, also, but if I can't make it, I'll get over it. Eventually. Posted by Arthur (Member # 4026) on :
April 8-10 is a no go for us. Since the 7th is the Ticks birthday and we have tickets for something on the 10.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Is that when that is?
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Edit: does HHGTTG come out on the 29th or the 6th? I'm confused.
[ March 10, 2005, 07:08 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Just found out the 29th to 1st is a no go. Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
My order is this:
1st- 16-17 2nd- 23-24 (My Japanese Homestay will be here, if that's okay.) 3rd- 30-1 (ditto... but she's leaving on the Sunday, so not very good.) 4th- 9-10
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
[ March 11, 2005, 06:39 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
My last exams are on April, 19. So yeah...anything after that there is a chance I may be able to make it
Posted by digging_holes (Member # 6237) on :
I haven't been to Toronto in ages. Since I was, like, seven years old and my shoelace got stuck in the escalator at the CN tower.
Of course, I won't know if I can make it until it's much nearer in the future, but as of right now I have nothing else planned. So everyone else set up a date, and I'll see from there.
This could be really cool. Posted by digging_holes (Member # 6237) on :
Also, I really think we should call it TwinkyCon. With t-shirts and everything.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Thanks for the thought , but it would really bug me if it was named after me, so much so that I probably wouldn't go in order to ensure it would have a different name.
Okay. We now have two equivalent "best weekends," because on the 22nd Jaiden can't make it and on the 29th Tick can't make it. This is going to be a problem if more people don't list weekend preferences! *stern looks all around*
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Who's missing who should have posted? Perhaps we should chase them down?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Well, all other things being equal, (that is, if no one else posts to rank dates) I think we should go with the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th. While the 22nd is bad for Jaids she said she could come the next day, so we could save the stuff she wants to do the most for the 23rd. If we go with the 29th then Tick can't make it at all.
As long as we go to either the ROM or the Science Centre, I'll be happy. Posted by digging_holes (Member # 6237) on :
What about the CN tower? I haven't been up there since I was 7.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
There's also the Zoo, but it might be a bit chilly for that...
Posted by digging_holes (Member # 6237) on :
Maybe. Then again, you don't really have a winter in Toronto, from what I hear. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
You didn't see the snowstorm we had last night.
Edit: But it's the end of April, after all. It won't be warm, as such, but it will probably be bearable. I don't actually know. I've never lived through a Toronto Spring.
[ March 13, 2005, 06:46 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
For sure do it the weekend of the 22nd because Tick can't go at all the other weekend.
I'm working the night of the 22nd until 11:00pm, so I'm sure I can head over to Toronto either that night or early the next morning. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:You didn't see the snowstorm we had last night.
I did.
quote:I'm working the night of the 22nd until 11:00pm, so I'm sure I can head over to Toronto either that night or early the next morning.
I guess that settles that, then. Weekend of the 22nd it is.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Hooray!
Twinky: I looked out my window at this blizzard amount of snow last night! It's not supposed to snow, it's supposed to be March! Arggggh!
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I always wish my birthday wasn't quite so wintry. But yesterday's snowfall was pretty mild, at least compared to what we were getting when I was still in Nova Scotia earlier this year.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
It was your birthday yesterday?
Posted by kwsni (Member # 1831) on :
Whoa. I miss a lot when I don't have a computer. I haven't read the whole thread yet, but I'm guessing I might be able to make it, if Ken can get some time off.
April is a very good month for me. The whole thing.
Ni!
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
No, not yesterday.
Keep us posted, kwsni.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Are you being deliberately vague?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Yes.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Curses. Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
well...the dates work perfectly for me...however, since JetsGo went under, WestJet has increased their prices so it's over 250$ more for me to fly than it was previously...so unless I come into a sudden windfall of money, it's unlikely I can come Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
That's one of the problems with living in such a big country. The distances are enormous.
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
*sighs* yeah...I don't know...I'm just very irritated that it went from a very big possibility that I could go to almost no chance
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
Prices might drop soon after the Jetsgo stuff settles down
Where are you from? Have you tried via rail?
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
I hope so. I'm from Abbotsford, BC. My final exam is on the 19th of April, so I'm not sure if I could even make it in time...and generally I've heard that rail is more expensive than flying that distance
[ March 13, 2005, 11:07 PM: Message edited by: ReikoDemosthenes ]
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
And rail would likely take 3 or 5 days. I've done Kamloops to Winnipeg, and that took at least two, if I recall correctly.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
You're right.. I looked up VIA Rail prices because I was thinking about going across Canada this summer...
NOT affordable for me.
Posted by tt&t (Member # 5600) on :
Happy birthday for the ... *cough* t- other day, Raja.
(You know you have to pay me not to tell, right? Right. Also, if I lived in Canuckland, I'd totally be going to the Canacon, if only to remind you of your gir-... dang, so many things I just can't say!)
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Thanks.
Don't worry, I'll keep the hush-up money coming in regular installments. Posted by fiazko (Member # 5812) on :
Looks like I'm out. I'm in a wedding that weekend. If it counts for anything, I'd much rather drive to Canada than stuff myself into a bridesmaid dress, but you all have fun, and somebody better take (and post) pics.
And Happy (late) Birthday, twinky. Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
We're in. Jen put it on the calendar so there will be someone that remembers.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
*bump* so everyone can see the finalized date and post their intentions.
Then we can start making proper plans.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
I should be there, but don't include me in hotel plans. I live close enough that the expense of a hotel just isn't justifiable. I know I'll probably miss some of the late-night fun, but that's what late-night GO trains are for.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Erm, I guess I should add "I'm coming"...
"I'm coming."
[Although I can't guarantee any sort of sane state of mind. I'm already starting to lose my sanity over this present essay ("help! help! is the author referring to Plato's Cave Allegory? Is he saying that it's bad? Why is he saying that!? What does it mean?!" etc etc) and there are still a few essays to go...]
Posted by digging_holes (Member # 6237) on :
I will see if I can come after I know how much it will cost me. What with bus fare, hotels, and other expenses, it could very well exceed the capacities of my budget. My financial means have unexpectedly shrunk recently.
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
*just found a fare of reasonable range...may be coming afterall*
I'm hoping to know in the next day or so
*crosses fingers*
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
*bump*
*cackles* Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
aaaaand the verdict is...
I'm there!
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Just out of curiosity, is there any reason we couldn't do both the ROM and the Science Centre? I dunno about most people, but I top out after about 3 and a half hours in the ROM. That leaves a lot more hours to do other things. Even if we stared at the dinos for a solid five hours, that's still a lot of time left.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
The ROM is free on Friday nights 4-9, and the special exhibition (The Feathered Dinosaur thing) costs less.
If people arrive before then, we could take advantage of this...
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:I'm there!
Awesome.
I think we can do both the Science Centre and the ROM.
Now to start thinking about where I'll stay...
Posted by kwsni (Member # 1831) on :
Barring any emergency, I'm set to go, I've just gotta tell ken what days to ask for off. Finding a place to stay would be my next move...I dunno if you guys have talked aobut that yet.
Ni!
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Anyone know of a fairly kid-friendly hotel near to one of those sites?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Now we're getting into territory I haven't charted. I have no idea about places to stay in or around Toronto because every time I'm there I stay with family or friends. I haven't decided what I'm doing this time.
Do all of the hotel people want to try to stay at the same place (a kid-friendly place, obviously), or not?
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
I'd say for sure yes... The only hotel I know near the Science Center is "Inn the Park"... but it's a little expensive if I remember correctly. It's in walking distance of the Science Center, however, and kid friendly
[ March 21, 2005, 04:26 PM: Message edited by: Jaiden ]
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
What price range are we looking for? How many hotel rooms? (5+ we should look for group rates...)
Crowne Plaza has prices around $100 a night. (Near Ontario Science Center I believe)
Or there are things like the Days Inn, etc. that I believe run around $75-100 a night
[ March 22, 2005, 12:12 AM: Message edited by: Jaiden ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I think that's most important to people coming from "away" -- TheTick and his family, RD, dh, and so on. But you're right, it's possible (probable?) that we'll wind up wanting five or more rooms.
So, faraway people, have a look at our options and settle on where you'd like to say. The rest of us will fall in line Posted by Arthur (Member # 4026) on :
I asked my boss, since her family spends a lot of time in Toronto. She said definately stay at the Crowne Plaza - they have a great pool with a dome over it and you can see the stars at night. Plus it is close to the science center and down the street is a little village- North York that has great restaurants. Plus the floors in the bathroom are heated
[ March 22, 2005, 10:21 AM: Message edited by: Arthur ]
Posted by Arthur (Member # 4026) on :
The Zoo has Creativity and Innovation week Friday, Apr. 15 to Sunday, Apr. 24
A celebration of the unlimited potential in all of us. This week’s goal is to raise awareness of the opportunity to unleash creativity from within ourselves,our families,our communities and our workplaces. This year’s theme is “How might YOU creatively make a difference?” The Zoo is celebrating with activities in the Group Events Tent as well as special keeper talks, touch tables and more. Don’t forget to drop by the Americas Pavilion and check out our fantastic NEW interactive display - Zoos and Aquariums Take Action. www.zooaction.ca Posted by plaid (Member # 2393) on :
It's 3 days from Vancouver, BC to Toronto on the train. (I know this, because I'll be doing it next month!)
I don't know what the regular VIA price is, but I'm buying something called the North American Rail Pass, it costs ~$500 (U.S.) and allows unlimited travel for a month in the U.S. and Canada. One quirk of it is that if you get it you have to do travel in BOTH the U.S. and Canada... so in my case, though I'm wanting to do all of my travel in the U.S., to satisfy the pass requirement, I'm traveling from Vancouver to Toronto on my way back east.
I'm going to miss the get-together date by a bit, but will there be any leftover jatraqueros in Toronto on April 27th? I'll be passing through around then...
[ March 22, 2005, 11:03 AM: Message edited by: plaid ]
Posted by digging_holes (Member # 6237) on :
Because of my financial situation becoming more and more restrictive with every passing day, it is becoming more and more doubtful whether or not I will be coming at all. But of course, if I do, it will have to be at the lowest price possible.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
I'd like to come, but I as well am somewhat short on that whole 'cash' thing. I'm close enough that I could probably still make it by getting out of the hotel cost and coming just for the day on Saturday or something though.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I hope it works out. I'm sorry I can't be of anymore help in finding accomodation, but really I know nothing about such things and live smack in the middle of Toronto, where the hotels are ridiculously expensive.
Posted by digging_holes (Member # 6237) on :
Is there one of those youth hostels in Toronto? I hear they offer very unexpensive lodging to travelling young people with little money.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
There are a couple of sites that list youth hostels which provide cheaper staying, although the site I looked at didn't list prices:
All the other lists seem to have the same hostels with the same information.
If you search the individual names you'll come up with prices. The one at the top of the list, which seems overwhelmingly "cool", offers beds at $25ish/night for one of four beds in a room. I have no idea how much sleep you'd get.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
May I point out, even though I'm probably not coming, that if you had 4 people staying in a $100/night room, it would also come out to $25/night/person? That's how we did it at KamaCon. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Or there's that option .
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
But, ElJay, that would be logical.
Edit: What I obviously mean is I'd probably be up for something cheap like that for one night, anyhow, if anyone else wants to join in.
[ March 22, 2005, 08:37 PM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Sorry. I'll try to stay frivolous going forward.
After I mention that The Tick and family couldn't stay at a youth hostel anyway, and it's a lot more fun to have everyone under one roof, and that if you're going to be sleeping in a room with three strangers anyway it might as well be strangers you already know, kinda. In a place that has what sounds like a lot cooler amenities than a hostel would. And happens to be close to some of the really cool places you're talking about going.
Don't know why I keep reading this thread, anyway. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
You're just jealous.
...yeah.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Well, yeah. Isn't that obvious? The museums sound really cool, and I'm not even gonna follow the zoo link 'cause it would just make it worse, and I'd get to meet all sorts of cool new hatrackers. *pout* And I can probably afford the bloody tickets, the problem is that to get the cheap fares I'd have to come on Thursday and stay 'til Monday, and no one would probably be interested in splitting hotel fares for that many nights and it's more time off work than I was planning on taking in April.
*grin* Not like I've been thinking about it or anything.
Posted by Myr (Member # 5956) on :
That's why *I'm* reading it
edit: darnit, lj snuck in there when I wasn't lookin.
[ March 22, 2005, 08:42 PM: Message edited by: Myr ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I'm sad that you want to come and can't, but I'm happy that you would want to come .
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Awwwwwww! That's so sweet.
Ya never know, things might line up and let it happen. I'm not going to rule it out yet. But it's a pretty slim chance.
I've always thought it a pity that I live so close to Canada and have never visited. Of course, if that was my only motivation, I could accomplish it with a 5 hour road trip if I really wanted to.
Posted by kwsni (Member # 1831) on :
It IS nice to have everyone under one roof, since we end up staying up until all hours of the night, and spend way more time in the hotel just hanging out in the hotel than you'd believe.
Ken and I could probly handle the Crowne Plaza, if we had a couple people stay with us. Not like we spend that much time in the rooms anyway.
Ni!
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
Eljay, I live close-ish to Toronto (as in it's a few hour drive or train trip) but no big deal. So if you want to come and need some where to stay Thursday, etc. I'll double check with my peeps
(Ted and I will be heading to Toronto for the festivities and staying there)
[ March 22, 2005, 09:16 PM: Message edited by: Jaiden ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Thank you, Jaiden. I'm still not going to make a decision until I see how much time I end up taking off for the wedding, but that would make it another step closer to feasible.
So is there a train stop right at the airport? So I could fly in to Toronto and hop a train to where ever you are?
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
It's kind of ironic that we're considering going to the Ontario Science Centre, I mean given the initials and everything.
On the upside, I've just checked and I can easily get there from where I live, so that's all good for me. Anywhere closer is even easier (especially the ROM ).
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
You'd fly in and take one of any number of shuttle busses to wherever we're going. The bus system at the airport can take you to several different points along the subway line. Union Station is right smack downtown by the Royal York hotel, the bus station is on Bay Street and the airport is actually a little outside of the city, about 20 minutes by bus, depending on traffic. You can get pretty much anywhere in the GTA using public transportation, Toronto has a much better system than people in the city give it credit for. I think I've been in every station in the city at least once, I know my way around
Or you could always take one of the bajillion cabs that haunt the main transport hubs. Fare from the airport to downtown would probably run you around 50 bucks though, much cheaper to bus it.
The ROM is right on the subway line at museum station and the Science Centre is a short bus ride from Eglington. Both easy to do. The zoo is on Meadowvale in Scarborough and, while you can still get there on the subway/bus line, it's a much longer trip. A good 30-40 minutes from downtown.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Yeah, if we go to the Zoo, it'd probably be easier for me to meet people and get driven out, if that's okay.
BtL, did you just do that off the top of your head? Or did you look it up? Everyone seems to know more about the ttc than me!
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
The only things I'd have to look up are the actual schedules. I know most of the bus lines/airport shuttles in the city off the top of my head as well as every subway station. I'm weaker on the GO system. But most people don't use that within the city.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I'm impressed.
But then I'm totally useless at public transport.
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
Most people who rely on public transportation know it off the top of their heads Keep in mind that I've lived in the city about as long as you have but have friends and family scattered all over the place that I can only get to by "riding the Rocket". But here in KW? I barely know this place at all. Probably 5 or 6 bus lines, that's it. Heck, I don't even know where the train station is. Everything I need is around campus, why travel?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I'm impressed, too, for the record. But the part I was actually curious about was getting from the airport to where Jaiden is, if I was going to spend the first night at her place. It sounds like I would probably take a shuttle bus into the city (No way on a $50 cab ride, even $50 of y'all's money. ) and then grab a train from there?
And what's GO stand for?
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
GO stands for nothing, it's just the name of the short-distance commuter train company that runs around Toronto. GO trains are green .
Okay, I looked at the map and there seems to be GO trains that run from near the airport- I'm assuming there are shuttles from the terminal to the station.
I don't know where Jaiden is, but you'd probably need to take the GO train to Union Station and catch another train from there to wherever Jaiden is.
It might be worth considering how much you would save on the thursday plus train versus the friday without... Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
It doesn't really stand for anything... just GO, y'know.
You can take either an airport shuttle (for around 15$, they go roughly every half hour) to the Royal York and cross the street to Union Station where you'd then get on a train bound for London.
You could also take the 58a bus for $2.50 to Lawrence West and take the Subway south to the train station.
If you're going to the bus station and taking a bus to London you'd want to take the 307 line to Eglinton West and take the subway south to Dundas Station which is the bus line and get on a Greyhound.
It's about 3 hours to London from Toronto, fares you have to look up yourself. I'm actually a lot closer if you'd rather hang with me for a night or two, but I live in a dirty all boy student house. You have been warned. Astaril lives in the same city and I'm willing to bet her place is a lot cleaner. Point being, if you can get yourself here we can find a place to put you for the extra days.
Edit: Right. The airport shuttle gets you downtown in about 20 minutes, taking the TTC will take you about 35 minutes and you have to cart your own gear
Edit 2: Darn it! I was right the first time, the fare is $2.50.
There may well be a GO bus that heads to the airport. But like I said, I don't do GO.
[ March 22, 2005, 10:13 PM: Message edited by: Bob the Lawyer ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Well, talk about convenient timing to jump in and catch up on a thread. Yeah, if KW is more convenient than London, I can certainly offer a clean all girl student house for a day or two if you don't want to stay in a dirty all boy student house. (I make no promises it'll be any *tidier*, but it will be *clean*.)
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
BtL, do you come in a pocket version for easy consultation?
Added: *laugh* Okay, I won't worry about the extra days. You guys are ALL just incredibly sweet.
[ March 22, 2005, 10:16 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
Man, I wish. I would totally buy a pocket version of myself to tell me what I'm thinking.
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
Sweet? We're just getting started! It's the Canadian way, after all Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
There's also a TTC bus from Terminal 2 to Yorkdale shopping centre, which is near the northwest end of the Yonge subway line. That takes you right down to Union Station. The bus is about $3.60, I believe.
And BtL's right. Even just the subway will get you pretty close to anywhere important. Or within walking distance. I believe a subway token is $2.25, and that includes transfers to upground TTC. A day pass is $7.50, unless they've upped the price. Oops. $2.50?
GO I was once told stands for Government of Ontario, since they own the thing.
Oh, and ElJay, Rei is going to be flying in Thursday as well. I don't have any more spare rooms, but both of us would be up for something that evening, if you were.
Oh, and a car ride from KW where astaril is to the airport is about an hour and a half. The bus trip from the KW bus terminal to downtown Toronto is about 4 hours.
[ March 22, 2005, 10:22 PM: Message edited by: Eaquae Legit ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Edit: That was to BtL... Eaquae Legit, I think if I come in Thursday I'll probably be concentrating on getting my butt wherever it's supposed to spend the night, but thanks for the thought. Although Teshi has a good point that I need to compare the cost of all the extra getting around to the cost of flying in Friday instead. A couch for Sunday night might end up being more important.
[ March 22, 2005, 10:22 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
BtL, I must say this bus knowledge *is* impressive. And here I always figured you just looked up the buses we'd need ahead of time to impress directionless me whenever we were in T.O.
Oh and by the way, the KW train station is on Victoria, between King and Weber. Just for future reference.
And ElJay, no problem. That's what student housing is for, cramming as many people as possible in to help others save money.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Astaril, are there any interesting events happening that Thursday that you know of? KWLT or on campus or Centre in the Square or soemthing?
EDIT: This applies even if ElJay isn't around.
Oh, and the trip from airport to KW runs about $35, with bus, subway, long bus, other bus.
[ March 22, 2005, 10:25 PM: Message edited by: Eaquae Legit ]
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
4 hours? Holy blap, what kind of crappy bus driver did you have? Bay --> KW is an hour and a half, closer to 2 and a half if you take the Guelph line. I've probably done that route over 50 times and it's never taken 4 hours.
EIJay, if it's seriously cheaper for you to fly in for the extra days do let us know. I promise you we can pick you up from the airport and whisk you to a couch in a city of your choice or within Toronto at little-to-no cost to yourself. Ve hav our vays.
Ah so. Thanks, Asta. Consider me knowledgerized.
[ March 22, 2005, 10:28 PM: Message edited by: Bob the Lawyer ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
There's a weekly Theatre On The Edge show Thursday nights; it's a local improv comedy group that's pretty fun. I'm sure there's other things too. There's usually multiple festivals in various parts of town. I can look around and see what's up.
Oh, and four hours from Kitchener to TO?? What bus are you taking!? The Greyhound is an hour and a half to two hours, depending on the route, from Kitchener to Union Station.
Edit: Yeah. Like Bob said.
[ March 22, 2005, 10:30 PM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
You know, now that I'm bragging about my travelling skillz I just know twinky is going to pop in here and point out that I only know the city so well because I've gotten lost so many times...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
So, I've gone from being highly-unlikely-unless-a-miracle-happens to seriously-considering-doing-this in the space of about an hour. Cool.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
We Canucks are miraculous that way.
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
quote:So, I've gone from being highly-unlikely-unless-a-miracle-happens to seriously-considering-doing-this in the space of about an hour. Cool.
Oi do I know how that goes...
[ March 22, 2005, 10:33 PM: Message edited by: ReikoDemosthenes ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
DANGIT! No!!!! I just looked at my calendar and realized I've got my last exam that Thursday night! Well, drat. On the plus side, I'll be done around 9:00, and on the further plus side, it's taking place in the building across the road so I can be home by about 9:02. And on the further further plus side, I'll be in a fabulous mood when it's over because I'll have just graduated
But I guess that means I'll have to skip out on much of the fun that night though. Unless you all want to come to my exam with me and watch me play with human skeletons...??
Edit: Hmm. Speaking of graduation, I ought to get back to finishing my essays of doom tonight so that becomes a realistic possibility. Talk to you all later, and good luck figuring it out, ElJay. Hope you can come!
[ March 22, 2005, 10:39 PM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
I'm probably remembering my trips to and from Richmond Hill. When you count the city bus to the KW Terminal, the wait, then the bus ride, then the subway up to York Mills, then the bus up to RH, yeah, it was a long trip. But I've made so many bus trips on so many different days and lines that they get all jumbled in my mind. Sorry. Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
But one more thing I just checked, KWLT (Kitchener Waterloo Little Theatre) does in fact have a show on that night at 8:00pm. It's Popcorn Plays IV - a collection of ten minute or less plays that are a mix of a bunch of different genres and are often locally written. They're usually pretty fun. Tickets are about $10 I think. Maybe a bit less for a group rate. So that's one idea.
Right. Back to the essay.
[ March 22, 2005, 10:45 PM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
quote: Man, I wish. I would totally buy a pocket version of myself to tell me what I'm thinking.
I wish I could provide all those early-birds with a place to stay because it would be very convenient but I'm in a student residence and sharing a room so I don't think it would work so well... Ah well, I hope all you people find accomodation!
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
ElJay, just don't follow advice from Bob about which car to jump into when meeting new people
Is everybody planning on being in Guelph that night now? *Debates about calling up her cousin for a place to stay*
[ March 22, 2005, 11:02 PM: Message edited by: Jaiden ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Story, Jaiden? That sure sounds like a story...
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Guelph?
BtL and Astaril are in KW, and Rei and I will be in Burlington. Who's in Guelph?
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
That's called me reading two thigns at once. I was thinking KW, but typed Guelph o_O
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
lol... Well, I know a great little cafe/indie theatre/bookshop in Guelph...
Just kidding. But I do love it there.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Wow, this thread has come a long way.
I haven't quite decided what I'm doing. I might arrive on Thursday, I might arrive on Friday. I might leave on Sunday, or I might leave on Monday. I might take some time off from the gathering to visit family, and for that matter I might stay with family... or I might get a room at whatever hotel you guys are all using.
Ask me again in maybe a week. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I went and checked tickets this morning, and prices have jumped more than 100 bucks since last time I looked.
So I put in an autonotification order. If they drop again, I'm booking, and we'll work out where I'm sleeping when it becomes an issue. If they don't, I'm staying home and sulking quietly. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Hey, Teshi, if I'm in Toronto on the evening of April 21st (Thursday), can I get my Firefly DVDs back from you? I'd prefer get them the night before the festivities start and leave them with my gear, as opposed to carrying them around on Friday.
(Oh, right, and just so you know, they're in the mail. I mailed them express the day before yesterday. So you should have them soon, if you don't already. Enjoy!)
Posted by Arthur (Member # 4026) on :
Eljay, If you don't mind staying with an almost 2 year old you could room with us. We won't be getting there until Friday though. Also if it is somehow cheeper to fly into Buffalo than Toronto we would be happy to take you there Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
You beat me to it. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Hmmmmm. I like kids, but mostly in small doses. So it would probably be better to arrange roomies a different way. Although I suppose you could say an almost-two-year-old is a pretty small dose? I will check ticket prices to Buffalo, though, to see if that helps. I really want to come now!
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
quote: Hey, Teshi, if I'm in Toronto on the evening of April 21st (Thursday), can I get my Firefly DVDs back from you? I'd prefer get them the night before the festivities start and leave them with my gear, as opposed to carrying them around on Friday.
See the "I'm Hooked" thread .
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
ElJay, I'm not quite settled on Thursday night arrival yet, but if that's what I do then you can room with me if you like. Saves you the trouble of busing it to KW. I don't snore, and I put the toilet seat down.
Teshi, I went and posted on your thread. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
That's tempting, 'cause it looks like the flight gets in kinda late on Thursday, and I'm not sure I want to be arriving at KW at midnight or so just to go back to Toronto in the morning.
Bob the Lawyer, you used to room with twink, yes? Can I get independant verification of the no snoring?
*hopes no family members come in and mention she talks in her sleep*
Posted by digging_holes (Member # 6237) on :
Okay, I think it's official now... I can't come. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Oh no! Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm sorry to hear that, dh.
BtL and I never shared a room when we lived together (in fact, I never roomed with anyone), but we did share a room at my place during the first Hatrack.ca and both of us, as far as I could tell, managed to get a decent night's sleep. That was the time Pod barfed on the subway.
Anyway, the offer is open if you're interested, ElJay. Not that you're here to check this thread this weekend. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
*bump*
So how about this? I know I'm sold. Who's with me? Posted by kwsni (Member # 1831) on :
I'm afraid I have to bail, too, guys. I've got a family thing that I need to be around for that weekend. I'm really disappointed that I can't go.
Ni!
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
swing could be neat...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
So, that's two two hour classes, with dances after them? Would we go both nights, or would that be too much? *bounce* I like to dance.
kwsni, that sucks. I hope your family thing is a positive one, at least.
[ March 30, 2005, 05:36 AM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by Arthur (Member # 4026) on :
That looks like a lot of fun - but the tick hates dancing - Maybe Thomas could be my partner? Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I was torn between "I always wanted to try that" and *runs away screaming*. But then I realised that If I always wanted to try it, this was the perfect opportunity because If I suck only selected people will know and there's no way I'd do it with people I know in real life.
So, reason won out. I'm in, if people want to do it.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I don't think you need to sign up with a partner, Arthur. If you read the descriptions, all bu the arials class (which I don't think we'll be taking) you rotate partners anyway. So you know, if you want to do it...
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Multiple dance partners would be worse! My two-left-footedness would be inflicted on more people!
edited to stop an out of context reference
[ March 30, 2005, 12:38 PM: Message edited by: TheTick ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
If people want to do the dancing, we're going to need to reserve spots in advance. So we'll have to come to a consensus.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Soooooooooo. My plane gets in 9:02 PM Thursday, 4/21.
twinky, did you decide if you'll be in Toronto Thursday night or not yet? Wanna be roomies?
*bounce* I'm going to Canada! To another Con! Woo-hoo!
Addeed: My tickets are not refundable, so no backing out now y'all!!!
[ April 04, 2005, 08:53 AM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
You've got yourself a deal, ElJay. And actually, I get in a bit after seven, so I can hang around and meet you at the airport.
The lack of replies to this thread while I was away indicates a disturbing lack of interest in dancing. While I'm happy to go with just ElJay and Teshi ( ), if nobody else is interested I wouldn't really want to abandon the Con.
So far we have the ROM on Friday and the Science Centre on some other day (Saturday, I guess). What else do we want to do? Do people want touristy things as well as fun things? I've never been to Niagra Falls but that's a bit out of the way. There's the CN tower, I suppose. Thoughts?
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
What's the official head count? Have we decided on a hotel yet?
I -can't- dance. I have no sense of rhythm. And three left feet.
But I'm game for it neverless I have no idea if Ted would be game for dancing though, we've never gone dancing togeather- I don't even know if he knows how to dance (Yes we have been togeather for 3 years... shows how big of dancers we are )
I'm so-so game to do touristy stuff, I don't have unlimited resources so depending on the price of everything will dictate if I can attend all the touristy stuff. But if you guys want to go, I always love to wonder around the "lil" towns (china, italy, etc).
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
I might not be able to be off early on Friday like I hoped. If not, we probably wouldn't get there until late Friday/Early Saturday. Though, if anyone *did* want to do Niagara Falls on those days, it is very close to us.
*continues to ignore the dancing*
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
It looks like it's a day-trip for me or none at all. So I can come Friday for the ROM and just get the Greyhound back here that evening.
But I would *so* have been in for swing-dancing! (Matter of fact, I'll be doing just that in KW tonight.) Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Astaril! I just hope it's not none-at-all, I want to meet you!
How about we find a place that we can go swing dancing just one night, Friday or Saturday? I also don't want to miss Con activities to do the full lessons/dance thing if not everybody wants to do it. Plus that's lower commitment for those who are a wee bit nervous about the whole dancing thing.
As far as touristy stuff, I am primarily coming to see Hatrackers. I think one big to-do for each day is enough, or things start to get over-scheduled and stressy. Downtime at the hotel playing games and laughing is one of the best parts of Hatrack gatherings. So if we do the ROM Friday and the Science Center Saturday I think that's good. Wandering around the "lil" towns sounds fun, too. Maybe Sunday? How much time are we likely to spend at the Science Center Saturday?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
The list of attendees is something like this, I think:
me Teshi Astaril ElJay TheTick's family Jaiden Pod ReikoDemosthenes Eaquae Legit Desdemona, possibly with friend(s)
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
[Edited 'cause I knew the answer to this, I just forgot.]
[ April 04, 2005, 12:38 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I agree with ElJay's suggestion of the one-thing-a-day .
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I actually really enjoy just roaming around Toronto. Of course, I can do that whenever.
So ROM, Science Centre, and the rest we'll just do by the proverbial seat of our pants. Sounds good to me. Next step is to pick a hotel, I guess, but it seems like hardly anyone needs one. *goes back to look at Jaids' list*
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
And I'm all in favour of roaming, too. I do a lot of that. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Okay, I think the Crowne Plaza wins based on Arthur's boss' review and its proximity to the Science Centre, but first I have to check how close it is to the nearest subway station.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I probably will only be able to come Saturday or Sunday, with my Japanese exchange student. She has never been to Canada before, and is really excited. She really wants to have lunch up the CN tower, so could that be a possible activity? If it's a group and we reserve tickets in advance, it should be easier to get in.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
If people want to scale the tower, I'd tag along. I haven't been up there since I was very young.
I guess the reason I haven't been to the Science Centre since that band trip oh so many years ago is that it isn't near the subway. Those of us without cars (everyone but Tick's family, I guess) should maybe consider staying somewhere a little closer to a subway stop. Though there's always the bus, too, I suppose.
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
I'm pretty sure the 100 and the 34 go by the hotel (they go by the OSC on Eglinton) so you could take either of those to the Eglinton subway line. The 100 might not go out far enough, don't know for sure.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
That's true, but if we're going to be roaming in Toronto a lot then I think it would make more sense to be staying close to the subway line; that way we'd only have to take the bus to and from the centre and the rest of the time we could stick to the subway. I'll investigate hotel options near subway stops a little more closely...
Posted by Arthur (Member # 4026) on :
I think we can be in Toronto about 9PM on Friday-If we pick the Tick at work and don't run into much traffic - so don't count on us for anything on Fri.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Okay. You guys want to take Ticklet to the Science Centre, right? We'll make sure to do that on Saturday. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
What's this tower thing everyone keeps talking about?
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Up at the top there're some thick glass tiles you look down through, and even stand on (and, say, jump up and down on).
Lay down on your back on the tiles, then roll over like you're rolling out of bed onto the floor, looking over your shoulder as you come around. It's freaky and fun, all at the same time.
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
The restaurant on the top is decent... it slowly rotates. But it's a bit expensive (you do get to wander around the top for free though)
[ April 04, 2005, 04:02 PM: Message edited by: Jaiden ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:Lay down on your back on the tiles, then roll over like you're rolling out of bed onto the floor, looking over your shoulder as you come around. It's freaky and fun, all at the same time.
Awesome. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
More scary, however, is lying outside on the grate. I have definately done that. I must be mad. I'm not sure if you're allowed anymore, but no one stopped me then.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Hey, neat! So do we actually get to climb the steps, or are they just open for the charity events?
Added: Lying on the grate sounds like fun, too!
[ April 04, 2005, 04:07 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
It sounds like the stairs are closed most of the time.
quote:More scary, however, is lying outside on the grate. I have definately done that. I must be mad. I'm not sure if you're allowed anymore, but no one stopped me then.
Even awesomer.
Edit: This is so the longest thread I've ever started.
[ April 04, 2005, 04:13 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Isn't that tower in some movie with John Candy about the Canadians attacking America (a comedy spoof)?????
[ April 04, 2005, 04:21 PM: Message edited by: Farmgirl ]
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Canadian Bacon, and I don't remember if it is in the movie or not. Been a while.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Yes it is in the movie "Canadian Bacon", at the end. They run up the stairs.
EDIT: Beaten by The Tick.
[ April 04, 2005, 04:23 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I've checked out the site, and you can make reservations for lunch. It may be expensive, but I'm up for it, seeing as I think it really would be cool, and Sachi wants to do it as well. You can make reservations online, here. You can also purchase tickets online, and skip the line-up. I'm not sure if we are big enough to qualify as a group, however. They have a professional photographer on the glass floor, who takes pictures of one or more people lying on it. I have one from 3 years ago, when my friend Carey and I were there, and it looks really cool. The skypod is also really cool (highest observation deck in the world on a manmade structure or something.), and I love the elevator ride.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
If we have to take the elevator, do we at least get to jump as it starts back down?
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Hm, although it's an expensive restaurant you do get free admission with the purchase of a main dish and the view and I'm sure it's a lovely place to eat, so I'm okay with it, if the consensus is we want to go .
Or I'm happy just to go up, which is what I normally do).
EDIT: And of course we get to jump, ElJay!
[ April 04, 2005, 04:47 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Hey that's a great coincidence! How would that work with the dinner?
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Well, the climb ends at 11:00 am, so we could hang out on the top for a little while, and reserve lunch for maybe 12:00?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Hmmmm. Honestly, I'm not sure I'd want to climb it with huge crowds of people there for an event. Not very laid back. And we'd be a lot less likely to be able to get into the restaurant. Perhaps we should do it Sunday instead?
[ April 04, 2005, 04:58 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
That is in keeping with the one-event-per-day scheduling. Sounds good to me.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
All sounding very good to me. Friday's even a PA Day in the region, so I get all Friday off! Woo! I'm a bit nervous about the dancing - I suck. I probably wouldn't go unless everyone else did.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Practically everyone sucks at dancing. The trick is to not care that you suck. Then it's lots of fun.
Arthur mentioned the zoo a couple of pages ago. If people are interested in the zoo then I guess we'd need to decide between the CN tower and the zoo or something.
We also need to finalize a hotel selection, because the closer we get to the date the higher the rates will be.
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
I'm still up for dancing, even though I'm in the boat that most of us seem to be in...and if it comes down to the CN Tower versus the zoo, I'll take the zoo
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Well, we can always just go out dancing somewhere after the ROM on Friday night. Or Saturday. I'm sure there are plenty of places to dance in Toronto. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Hey, couple of questions for y'all!
How's the weather likely to be?
Have we figured out a hotel? Who all will be staying in said hotel? I know the Tick family and twink & I will be, Teshi and Astaril probably not... what about the rest of ya? That'll help in making a decision.
And, on a scale of milk to dark, what are each of your chocolate preferences?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'd expect there to be at least one rainy day. If it's sunny, though, it should be a nice temperature (in the 20s, or for you, high 60s/low 70s).
There is as yet no hotel consensus but I think we need to come to one pretty quickly. The most important factor is the hotel's kid-friendliness, for the sake of Ticklet. I'm happy to stay at the Crowne Plaza (I have a soft spot for nice swimming pools), which is why I haven't exactly been busting my butt hotel-hunting.
I love all kinds of chocolate, but my favourite is fairly dark (70% cacao). But not too bitter.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
So what's the drawback to the Crowne? Just distance to the subway line?
And thanks for translating the temp for me. Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
I'm going to be crashing at EL's, so I won't be staying at a hotel. Regarding chocolate, I have no preference in colour.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
*looks at list*
That leaves Jaiden and Pod, then.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
I don't think we'd have any qualms with looking at other hotels, we just don't know anything about the others. My main concern is having a rec area or pool or something like that where we can go with Thomas if he gets restless at the hotel.
Posted by Arthur (Member # 4026) on :
It doesn't look like 360 is very toddler friendly. We could split up on Sunday and do both the zoo and the CN tower.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
How long are you guys going to be able to stick around Sunday?
If it's between the zoo and the tower, I'd lean towards the zoo, I think.
Posted by Arthur (Member # 4026) on :
It should take us approx 2 - 2 1/2 hours to get home so as long as we left by 9 PM that would be ok
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Unless Jaiden and Pod have huge objections to the Crowne, then, we may as well stay there since we know it's nice, kid-friendly, and pool-enabled.
As to the zoo/tower thing... I've never been to the zoo, but I'm game for either or even neither. Whatever everyone else decides on that score is fine with me.
So when, how, and where should the whole group (except Clan Tick) meet on Friday? Maybe somewhere like Queen's Park, which is just south of the ROM and therefore close to the subway...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
pssssst. Change the thread title, to indicate we're planning and everyone should stop in. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Good point.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
There is a subway stop ("Museum") RIGHT outside the ROM, so in order to get to Queen's Park you have walk South slightly. The Queen's Park stop is much further South.
We could meet outside the ROM, on the steps outside. It's not like there's masses of space but it's pretty easy to find and it's not like Queen's Park where people could be at each end and be totally unable to find each other .
EDIT: If we want to meet in a quieter and more neutral spot, so we can actually have a chance of knowing who is who, we could meet at the War Memorial right at the Northern Tip of Queen's Park- that's right close to the Subway stop. Either one is literally a two minute walk for me, so I'm pretty flexible.
[ April 06, 2005, 04:29 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Sid Meier (Member # 6965) on :
I live in Rigaud smack dab at the dge of nowhere. My friend lives in the far side of nowhere Shobugimo.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
That would be sensible, silly. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I only know because I live right there!
EDIT: And although sensible isn't usually my forte, today it is because I'm procrastinating on an essay due tomorrow and so organising, which actually feels useful, is a good excuse!
[ April 06, 2005, 04:33 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
This part of the planning I shall leave to people who know what they're talking about. Posted by Sid Meier (Member # 6965) on :
WAIT you live in Rigaud or Shobugimo!? if shubugimo then I wont be able to meet you if you live in rigaud...
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:If we want to meet in a quieter and more neutral spot, so we can actually have a chance of knowing who is who, we could meet at the War Memorial right at the Northern Tip of Queen's Park- that's right close to the Subway stop. Either one is literally a two minute walk for me, so I'm pretty flexible.
This works for me. Everyone else, weigh in! Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
What time would we be meeting? I seem to recall the free admission to the museum is in the late afternoon/evening... what time do our students get free? Should we meet for lunch or something first?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
(Also, on the phone, KrabbyPatty just said "So I hear you're going to Canada." Ooops. I thought I told her I had gotten the tickets... *laugh*)
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Okay.
On Fridays the museum is free (Except the special exhibit, which is nevertheless cheaper) from 4:30-9:30.
The special exhibit, the feathered dinos one, on that day costs $5.00 for students, $10.00 for adults. You can look at how much you're saving here.
It sounds like quite a regimented regime so if we want to go through the special Dino exhibit we have to buy tickets when we first arrive because it says the last ticket is sold an hour and a half before closing. They offer a group rate, but I have no idea how that would work on Friday (do we have more than ten people?).
Looks like the other dino sections are closed . Here's what's still open, so you know what you're getting into.
Concerning meeting times, I'm guessing people will want to eat sometime, although whether before we meet or as a group I don't know. Despite being a student (or perhaps because of being a student) my knowledge of places other than Tim Hortons, Starbucks, MacDonalds, etc, is heresay.
However, there are places around (this is Bloor we're talking about, after all) and I could ask people to find out what is good if we want to eat as a group. If we don't, we probably don't want to be in the museum for all that time, especially if it's half-closed , but again not exactly stuck for destinations, although I know that Ticklet might get a bit worn out as the evening goes on.
Concerning people with cars:
quote: Parking: Although there is no Museum parking lot, there are several paid lots within walking distance of the Museum. They are located at the following locations: Bloor Street and Bedford Road, 1 Block west of Avenue Road. On Cumberland Street, 1 block north of Bloor, east off Avenue Road. Behind the Colonnade at 131 Bloor St. West. One block north of Bloor Street West on Avenue Road
There are places to park within walking distance, however these are right uptown in an upscale shopping district, so I'm guesssing they are pretty pricey. The subway is $2.50/adult, no idea for children, $1.70 for students if you have the student pass-thingy. However, I usually drop in $1.70 anyway and no one's stopped me yet, so student-aged (or thereabouts) people might wish to consider that .
Uh... I think that's everything.
EDIT: I forgot to add that people may actually be happy with the lower-class food rather than a restaurant.
[ April 06, 2005, 05:08 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
That's why I'm asking. It depends on when people are arriving from their various locations. What I remember is that Clan Tick won't be around for Friday night since they get in late Friday evening, and also that Jaiden and Pod will either be late on Friday night or not coming until Saturday. Desdemona and friend are Sunday.
I don't know about RD, EL, or Astaril. They are the ones we need to decide with, since Teshi won't have trouble getting to this meeting place.
Edit: The subway's up to $2.50 now? That must be a recent development, it was sitll $2.25 last summer.
[ April 06, 2005, 05:08 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Yep, the subway raised it's prices this Winter. Very annoying.
However, now even more people cheat the system, so I have no idea if they're actually raising more money.
EDIT: There's quite a good cafe in the Museum Basement that I've been to, too .
EDIT: There's a parking discount for museum-goers, so it's a fixed rate .
quote: Come to the Admissions Desk and ask for a parking voucher for a discount at The Parking Authority of Toronto Municipal Parking Lot at 9 Bedford Road. When exiting the parking lot, present the coupon, together with your entry parking ticket, to receive the following discounted rates:
Monday to Saturday maximum (7am to 6pm) $10.00 Night maximum Monday to Sunday/Holiday (6pm to 7am)$4.50 Sunday/Holiday Day maximum (7am to 6 pm) $4.50
All rates include GST and PST. There are no one-half hour rates.
[ April 06, 2005, 05:15 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Thank you, Teshi.
The Tick family won't make it in 'til around 9:00 PM, so they won't be joining us at the museum.
I'm just thinking that if Astaril is only joining us for the day on Friday, we should probably meet earlier and spend some time hanging out/playing games/whatever. Depending on her plans, we maybe meet around lunch time, eat, find a place for coffee or a drink with tables so we can play cards if we want, and chill until 4:30 museum call. Then we could go over, get tickets to the special exhibit, and do the museum, leaving whenever we're done to go to dinner/a bar/dancing/whatever.
Edit: *grin* Okay, looks like we know as much about Friday as we can until the remaining three weigh in.
[ April 06, 2005, 05:16 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Not quite. I'm trying to think of a place where we can just sit without getting thrown out for talking up space. If it's nice, outside in Queen's Park might be our best bet. Or another green space.
If it's not nice, if il pluie, I have no idea.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
As long as at least one person in the group gets a new drink every hour or so, most coffee shops around here will let you hang out forever. That not the case there? Where in the world do college students study?
If it's nice, I'd rather be outside. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
The coffee shops tend to be pretty packed and pretty small; mostly in-and-out places. If there's only five of us we might be able to squeeze in but I'm not sure everyone would immeidately have a seat.
There's plenty of places for students to study- libaries, student centres, etc. Not many use the coffee shops because there simply isn't enough space! Also, the coffee shops serve everyone from movie stars to business people to tourists to the homeless, so although it's a mixed bunch, students are not exactly in the majority.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Ah, gotcha. We have some like that, but a lot are open, relaxed places with cushy couches and coffee tables that encourage you to hang and chat. Some even provide games.
My favorite coffee shop/bar has TVs and old atari systems, and brings you a game menu along with the beer list.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
The Chapters and Indigo branches have cafés where they'll let you sit for however long if you buy something. Once BtL and I sat in an Indigo and played Netrunner for most of an afternoon. And, of coure, you have the added bonus of being in a bookstore.
I know nothing about coffee shops since I don't drink coffee (or tea, often).
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Whoops. Forgot that the Ticklet was coming along. I was looking over the rates again, and they're quite expensive for lunch. Do you think that we could just go up sometime? It really is the best view you'll find anywhere, and (unless Ticklet's scared of heights) toddlers usually enjoy the glass floor. (from my experiences with my cousin) It will take 2 hours tops. (correct me if I'm wrong)
I'll be either sunday or saturday, depends on what's going on (CN Tower or Zoo)
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Ticklet is not afraid of heights, but his mommy is. If you guys want to do that (and she doesn't) we can work something out amongst ourselves.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
I don't know much about the downtown coffee shops and thingie. The only good eats I know for sure are up in Richmond Hill.
I found out today that I AM working on Friday, if I get called, so I won't be able to leave b-town till around 4. Takes about an hour-50 mins to get from there to Union. And from there maybe 10-20 minutes to the Museum stop, depending on the rush hour traffic on the subway. So figure on Rei and I being there around 530pm. Unless I am not working, in which case all bets are off and I can leave whenever I want. I am good to meet at any subway stop or nearby, just let me know. The alternate plan is for us to drive up somehwere convenitnet like Yorkdale and take the subway down from there, which would mean we weren't dependant on the train - the subway runs way later than the GO, so we'd be able to stick around longer.
Milk chocolate here, ElJay.
Weather in late April seems to run warm to coolish. Pack a jacket and/or sweater, but some light clothing as well.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
It's actually not that scary. I brought my friend (who is terrified of heights) up there, and she said that we were so high up it just looked like a painting. As well, it isn't all the way arond the level- only a little bit is glass.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
And re:Eljay's chocolate question:
I like dark chocoolate, but am very allergic to all nuts, including peanuts, so it is very hard finding chocolates that I can eat. Don't bother bringing any for me, if that was your plan.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:Takes about an hour-50 mins to get from there to Union.
Unless there's a power outage at Union and your train stops on the tracks for 45 minutes before deciding to head back to Exhibition, and then while waiting for the next train at Ex (roughly a ten minute wait), you see your Sarnia-bound VIA train departing Union station without you.
Not that I'm, um, speaking from recent experience or anything.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Okay, I've been alerted to a coffee shop which is bigger and there is an Indigo and a Chapters nearby so although they aren't HUGE we surely will be able to find some space, especially with our dwindling Friday numbers...
OH! Chocolate. Right . I am a fan of all kinds of chocolate but I really love dark chocolate.
twinky. *pat pat*. It's called an adventure!
[ April 06, 2005, 06:41 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Poor twink. lol.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Well, it wasn't so much an adventure as it was a phone call to Air Canada to get myself on the next Sarnia-bound flight, then four hours in Terminal 1 at Pearson, which is already my home away from home given how much time I've spent there.
At least I got home in time to get a few hours' sleep before work the next day.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Oh. That's not all that good. . Now I feel bad that I laughed...
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I did buy a duffel bag before going into the terminal. That was the highlight. There was also the matter of spending time alone in the terminal as against sitting next to the nice girl I met on the way there and who had wanted to sit with me on the way back. I don't mind solitude, but interesting company is certainly better most of the time.
Now I suppose she'll always wonder what happened to me. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
See, that's a plus. You'll be the mystereous stranger who broke her heart. She'll tell the story for years.
Why no, I'm not melodramatic at heart, what makes you say that?
----------------
I am SO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!!! Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Boy, go out for a day and threads just go on without you. Weird.
Anyway, I've got something here Friday morning, but I should be able to catch the 11:00 bus so I'd arrive at Union Station at 1:05 (or 2:00 on the next one if something goes drastically wrong). I'm assuming lunch will be over by then, so I can eat before I come. I could meet you at Union, or at this coffee shop/Chapters that Teshi found if someone gives me decent directions. I'm hopeless at directions unless I have a map/written directions in my hand. Soooo...wherever you guys want to meet? I think I'll recognize you, Raja, and for everyone else, I'll have to go dig up that picture thread I saw somewhere...
Oh, and as for chocolate. Uhh, vegan? Honestly, don't worry about it. It can be hard to find. (The thought makes you my new hero though, ElJay!)
Edit: And I'll have to catch the bus back that leaves at 9:30.
[ April 06, 2005, 08:40 PM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Oh, chocolate...hmm, I'm definitely a milk chocolate kind of guy.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Okay then, why don't ElJay and I meet Astaril and Teshi somewhere on Friday midafternoonish, since the four of us will all be there before anyone else? Then we can meet EL and RD wherever's good for them, have dinner, hit the ROM, and then get Astaril back to the bus station before finding somewhere to go dancing.
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
*talks with Pod to see what our plans are going to be*
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
If you're counting on me to know where to dance, you're out of luck. This may sound sad, but I've steered clear of such places since I've arrived (I mean on the planet). I'm not a dancer, club-goer, drinker etc., and also I've heard interesting stories about places. So I have no idea where we would go.
If we're looking for something mostly harmless, like on par with swing dancing, I have absolutely no clue either .
Yes, yes, I live in a big city, but I just don't get out much, at least to anywhere which involves dancing!
As to dance clubs or bars... I don't know either. I know some pubs in the Yonge and Eglinton region, but that's pretty far from where we'll be. All I really know about clubs is that my cousin, who lives near Queen, is right next to a big clubbing district. So there must be clubs in that vicinity.
One of these years I'd like to go clubbing and/or pubbing in Toronto, just for fun. I don't expect it to be this time, though. (Besides, I'd want BtL along for clubbing. )
[ April 06, 2005, 11:17 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
You're crazy!
I can't dance! *dies*
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
You can, Teshi. It's easy.
Well, West Coast swing is easy. Lindy Hop is pretty hard. We won't do that.
Edit: No clubbing this time? *takes vinyl off "to pack" list*
[ April 06, 2005, 11:20 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Crazy... like a fox!
Everyone complains that they can't dance. (Myself included.) But somehow dancing is always fun anyway. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
EDIT: It's not so much that I can't, at least I hope it's not. It's that I don't! I mean, I am terrified of dancing!
[ April 06, 2005, 11:21 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
I think we should demand BtL to come. (why isn't he?)
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
We'll practice a little Friday afternoon, so you know what you're doing before there are crowds around. Honest, it'll be fun.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
He has a very good reason, unfortunately.
[ April 06, 2005, 11:24 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
I'm with Teshi. I usually go, though, and try to make it look like I don't care I look like an idiot. I've never gotten feedback on how successful I am at this.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
The trick to both club dancing and swing/ballroom is precisely that: to not care. Almost everyone looks silly, especially in clubs, but the point is that if you're having fun you don't care. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
See, you are a good, brave person, EL.
EDIT: If I'm in the right mood, I honestly can not care. If you're all throwing abandon to the wind, I can probably do that too.
I promise promise promise I won't be a wet blanket!
[ April 06, 2005, 11:28 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
^What twink said.
Added: oooh! And iTunes just brought me Glenn Miller! Perfect!
[ April 06, 2005, 11:28 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
No, my roommate is just very good at getting me to do things.
And I DO care. I just try not to look like it.
Edit: And I am a wet blanket, but I try not to let that show even more.
[ April 06, 2005, 11:29 PM: Message edited by: Eaquae Legit ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Teshi, by that time, if you're not having a good enough time that you wouldn't care regardless, I'll eat my hat. Erm, anyone's hat that happens to be available, I wasn't really planning on bringing one.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I can bring a hard hat if you want. The company will issue me a new one if you eat it.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Okay, I'd pay money to watch ElJay eat a hard hat.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
If we go to club, though, you WON'T get me dancing. Swing, okay, I'm quite happy to participate in something, even though my brain will go through mental jumping through hoops, I'll end up being like "I enjoyed that". But a club, nuh uh. No ifs ands or buts .
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
I didn't realize my email wasn't there, thank you
[ April 06, 2005, 11:35 PM: Message edited by: Jaiden ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
NP, Jaiden.
Teshi, I used to be anti-clubs and anti-dancing too.
Edit: Okay. NOW I'm going to bed. BED, I say.
[ April 06, 2005, 11:34 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
EL, how much? Do I get condiments?
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Well I am you when you were my age. Remember I am still practically a spring chicken.
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
Twink, tell Bob Ted and I will miss him and we hope he's okay.
(We're off to bed too. I'm afraid we got side tracked in our conversation and schooling (graduate for Ted) became the main topic )
I promise, however, Ted and I will be there, and most likely it'll be late Friday (after midnight). Ted and I are game for anything, pretty much. We've never gone dancing (yes, we have been togeather for 3 years) and I'm pretty certain between the two of us we have a large amount of left feet
[ April 06, 2005, 11:40 PM: Message edited by: Jaiden ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Will do, Jaiden.
Teshi, yes, I know. I resisted the urge to use the word "grasshopper" in my last post.
I'm going to bed now, I swear.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Condiments? Yes.
How much? That would depend on the showmanship. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*giggle* I don't think that's quite what they mean when they say you should be sure to get enough fiber in your diet, is it?
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
I dunno... It works for my dog. She has a thing for hard plastic.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I'm surprised people don't sell edible hats.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*snarf*
Okay, it's bedtime for me, too. I'm just hoping that I'm right about Teshi having fun, because regardless of your dog's opinion, I was thinking something more in line with a fedora or a nice cloche when I made that statement.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
*giggles madly* wow...that leaves me very impressed...I wonder if they ate their example
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Heh. This is a standard portrait of me in a club:
So suddenly it doesn't seem so bad that I won't be able to join you... though I'm sure it would be fun. Anyway, the mid-afternoon meeting sounds good to me. Any ideas for where? I guess that can get figured out closer to the day once you (twinky and ElJay) decide what you'll be doing in the morning.
And Eaquae, where do you find these things? And more importantly, why am I so tempted to try it??
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I don't know about ElJay, but I plan to spend a lot of the morning sleeping.
The Greyhound terminal isn't too far from a subway stop, if memory serves. We can always just meet you there, or thereabouts, whenever.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Hey, that looks like me in a club, too!
So what's going on, where do I come into this?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
You are meeting ElJay, Astaril, and twinky on Friday. Whatever time is convenient for you.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Apparently you can meet me for breakfast...
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
The bus drops off at Union, I believe, and leaves from the Greyhound station near Dundas. This always struck me as confusing. Hmm. It's been a while since I got it there. I might be confused now.
Anyway, I'll get there (wherever there is) at 1:05, so if you want to meet me there, that's fine with me. If that's convenient for you, Teshi, you could always meet up there as well.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
That works. If we wind up at the wrong location we will obviously be late.
Edit: I like Union (or at least the VIA part of Union), so if it's there we'll have to poke our heads inside.
[ April 07, 2005, 10:26 AM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
I'll ask BtL where the bus stops. Or maybe EL knows. I know it leaves to come back here from the terminal a couple blocks away from Dundas station for sure. I have it in my head that it drops people off at Union though.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
You know that they show the locations on the schedule, eh? Greyhound.ca and all that.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Well, yeah. But that would be easy, and logical. Hmm. Hold on...
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Okay, let me get this straight:
Twinky and ElJay are arriving the day before (Thursday). Twinky mentioned a while back that he wanted Firefly back on the Thursday, does he still want to do this? I can hang on to it until Sunday, if he likes.
Astaril is arriving at 1:05 (theoretically) on Friday at the Dundas Greyhound station. I've never been there but I know where it is , if I go down there to meet Astaril and others, who are by now awake and finished seizing the day.
Meanwhile in the morning, twinky is sleeping and ElJay is somewhere else, presumably seizing the day .
I pick a time and meet people somewhere, right?
[ April 07, 2005, 10:31 AM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
*holds*
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I'm pretty sure all Greyhounds go to the Dundas station.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
610 BAY STREET appears to be the drop off *and* pick up point according to the website. It also drops off at the Royal York though, if that's closer for any of you.
It's just that I remember going down once on the bus and getting off somewhere (Union?), and then BtL had to correct me to stop me getting the bus back from the same place. I'm probably crazy. I'll check.
Edit: I mean I'll check where the bus stops, not if I'm crazy. I already know the answer to that one.
[ April 07, 2005, 10:33 AM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:Twinky and ElJay are arriving the day before (Thursday).
Yes.
quote: Twinky mentioned a while back that he wanted Firefly back on the Thursday, does he still want to do this? I can hang on to it until Sunday, if he likes.
No, now he wants to wait until Sunday.
quote:Astaril is arriving at 1:05 (theoretically) on Friday at the Dundas Greyhound station. I've never been there but I know where it is , if I go down there to meet Astaril.
Okay.
quote:Meanwhile, twinky is sleeping and ElJay is somewhere else, presumably seizing the day .
*laugh*
quote:I pick a time and meet people somewhere, right?
Basically, yes. I think it makes the most sense to convene for Astaril's arrival at whatever station the bus goes to.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*grin*
My plane doesn't get in until after 9 PM Thursday, and twinky graciously offered to hang out at the airport and meet me there, so we can ride into town together. So I don't know what time we'll actually make it to the hotel and get checked in and stuff.
I will probably sleep a little later than normal, but if twink is gonna be snoozing all morning I'll be up and about. Perhaps you can give me your phone number, and if you want to get together before Astaril comes in, we can hang out?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I was kidding about the snoozing, though I'll probably sleep in at least a bit.
Edit: Do you have classes that day, Teshi?
[ April 07, 2005, 10:38 AM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
If you're at the hotel, you're quite a distance away from me, ElJay. I think I'll meet you all at the Greyhound station at 1:05 .
EDIT: No, I'm in exams as of Monday (Wwoo! no more essays!)
[ April 07, 2005, 10:39 AM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Sounds like we've got Friday pretty well nailed, except that we haven't heard Jaiden & Pod's take on hotel choice yet, and we should finalize that. Do we need to talk more about Saturday and Sunday, or should we just deal with it when we're all in one room overtalking each other instead of overtyping each other?
*leaving the conversation for awhile. That silly work thing*
Edit: Okay, then. If twink isn't conscience, I shall amuse myself.
[ April 07, 2005, 10:42 AM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
There are a couple of other things:
How will we meet Jaiden and Pod? They get in late on Friday.
How will we meet Clan Tick on Saturday? (They'll be at the hotel, so I don't imagine it'll be overly difficult.)
How and where will we meet EL and RD on Saturday?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
The Tick Clan will be getting in around 9 Friday, so we could probably hook up with them when we go back to the hotel, if we're not out too late.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I think it depends where people are staying. If the hotel's close to the Science Centre we could meet there, then walk to the Museum. Or we could meet at the Science Centre.
EDIT: Or what ElJay said, but if it's very late I'm not going to want to go gallavanting all over the city on buses and subways to get back home so I probably wouldn't join you then.
[ April 07, 2005, 11:59 AM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
If we're back early enough to meet Clan Tick then we will also be back early enough to meet Pod and Jaiden when they arrive under cover of darkness.
I'd be surprised, though, if we're heading back to the hotel that early on a perfectly good Friday night. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Teshi, are you using Science Center and Museum interchangeably now, or talking about two different places? The Minnesotan is confused. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Argh. I originally wrote Science Museum, then realised it was confusing, and changed all but that one museum to Centre. I mean the Centre, which is different from the Museum.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
The Ontario Science Centre and the Royal Ontario Museum are two separate locations. The latter is on the subway line, the former is not (but *is* on a bus line).
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
If it's very late, we will escort you safely home, and then gallavant ourselves back to the hotel, of course.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
^^^^
Indeed.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Rei and I can meet pretty much anywhere on the public transport lines, prefereably close to the subway, and around 530pm. Since you folks will be the ones already there, where's most convenient for you?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I have no idea where we'll be then. If Astaril, Teshi, ElJay and I convene a bit after 1 PM as planned, we can pretty much be anywhere in the city by 5:30 PM. So I'd say we should meet at a subway station close to where we're going to want to have dinner.
I guess that doesn't help much, since I don't know the locations of any nice restaurants in Toronto. North York, yes, Toronto, no. But I don't think we want to go all the way up to North York.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Could we perhaps go to the Museum and pick up the tickets for everyone for the special exhibit, and then meet up? Quick dinner and go do the museum? Or will we not need to get the tickets in advance?
I don't think we need to find a particularly "nice" restaurant or anything for Friday night, although I generally prefer independants to chains, even if the independant is a dive. In fact, dives can be fun. But I'm not too picky either way.
Edit: I mean meet up with Rei & EL at 5:30, if that wasn't clear.
[ April 07, 2005, 03:03 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Yeah, we could go there ('we' being the four of us) in the afternoon and get six tickets, then meet EL and RD (I feel weird writing 'RD,' since my own initials are RD, or RDD when I want to be precise) at 5:30 PM, have dinner, and hit the museum.
By 'nice' I mean 'serves tasty food.' Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Ah, okay. Then yes, I am in favor of a "nice" restaurant. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
*bump for Jaiden*
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Well, unless someone comes up with a restaraunt in the meantime, probably meeting out in front of the ROm would eb best.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Sure. Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
Ted and I are still "planning"
Ie. we're trying to figure out when we can get in on Friday night. It'll have to be after midnight. (I'll be working until at least 10:30 that night... I'm in the restaurant business so that time isn't sent in stone.)
I'd almost suggest just meeting you at the hotel when you guys get in. Or does one of you have a cell phone? We could call when we got into Toronto Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*does not have cell phone
Are you guys cool with the Crowne Plaza, or do you think we should try to find someplace else? It's probably getting to the point where we should make reservations, especially as it looks like we'll only need three rooms.
Everytime this thread falls off the first page I want to bump it, even when I have nothing to say, 'cause I'm so excited about getting to meet y'all. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I'm excited too! I'm going to be real!
I do not have a cell phone either.
[ April 08, 2005, 12:04 AM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
I'm excited too, and we do have cellphones. We've even tried them out in Canada. I can send my number via e-mail to whoever wants it.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
No cellphone here, either.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Do we need to talk any more about Saturday and Sunday? How is out zoo v. CN Tower split shaping up?
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
By the way, I checked and I *am* crazy. So I'll be arriving at the Bay Street terminal, and meet you all there at 1:05. S'okay? Good.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Nothing wrong with a little crazy.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Famous last words. Remember you haven't met me yet. I'm going to hold you to that judgment!
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Promises, promises.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Bay is the one that's near the Dundas subway station, right?
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Yep. It's about two blocks away, corner of Bay and Edward St. (just a block past Dundas St). Map here. There's a big ticket selling counter, and a little cafe/snack stand. How about we meet around the little cafe?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Deal.
Last time I tried to find the Greyhound terminal from Dundas station, though, I walked the wrong way for a couple of blocks first. The road bends in a funny way around there and makes it somewhat confusing, even for someone with my excellent direction sense (that's enough out of you, tt&t).
I am confident that we'll get there this time. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Okay. Friday 22nd at 1:05 at the little cafe thing of the greyhound station. I'll be there. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
It's almost exactly two weeks away. Two weeks less 35 minutes, depending on Astaril's bus and how easily we recognize each other...
Edit: Astaril, did I have a beard when I met you? I had one sometime in that vicinity, but I don't now.
[ April 08, 2005, 01:43 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I'm following him. *points at twink* So it's his fault if we're late. Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Sounds good. Yeah, I walked the wrong way too the first time I tried to find it. Actually, I walked the wrong way three times. There were only four directions, so thankfully the fourth try worked out...
And Teshi, I looked you up in the Hatrack album so I think I'll know you if you get there first. And no, I don't think you had a beard, twinky. I just remember you being tall and thin and spectacled. But I cheated and looked you up in the photo site too, so I'll know. I'll find a picture soon that looks something like I currently do and put it up somewhere.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
quote: tall and thin and spectacled.
I read this first as tall and thin and speckled.
And yeah, I'm sort of medium hieght, long brown hair that'll probably be up, all-over-the-place fringe that sometimes behaves itself.
[ April 08, 2005, 02:05 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Well, I could have meant freckles. I'm certainly speckled that way. Are you freckled, twinky? You could be speckled *and* spectacled.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Nope, no freckles to speak of. I was pretty sure we met in the pre-beard, inter-mohawk period but wanted to make sure.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
*has cellphone
I may come either Saturday or Sunday. Undecided as to what day to go to the zoo with my family and my homestay. (they want to take her there)
I'll know more closer to the time. Thanks!
EDIT: It would also be weather-dependant
[ April 08, 2005, 04:47 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by Temposs (Member # 6032) on :
hey all you Toronto-area people. In case you didn't know, I'm going on a trip with my roommate to some eastern cities after the semester ends next month...
We're going to Toronto, and I'd like to find a place for us two to stay. Mackillian is hosting us in Boston.
We'll need lodging for the nights of May 16th & May 17th.
My roommate is a 29 year old exchange student from South Korea learning English here. He teaches high school history and likes breeding cocker spaniels.
We're both very flexible and quiet, we only need a spot on the floor or something.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Temposs, I'm not going to be here, and even in the case that I was here I live in a residence and I have a roomate who might not be too thrilled if two strange people slept on the floor one night.
EDIT: I'm very sorry.
[ April 08, 2005, 10:30 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Sorry, Temposs. I'm not in Toronto, and I'll be living in a 9 by 10 foot attic anyway by that time. I don't think we'd all fit! I think there's some youth hostel type places around TO though. I seem to recall one of the universities renting pretty cheap rooms out to students ($25 a night or something like that). You could check that.
Posted by Temposs (Member # 6032) on :
Yes, I'm aware of the hostels, but I'm trying to avoid extra cost if I can. $50 is a lot of money to me!
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Unfortunately, I live four hours from Toronto.
Jaiden, are you and Pod cool with the Crowne?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Hey twinky, is there a particular place at the airport that would be good for us to meet? Also, have you looked at any of my pictures? I've checked yours out, but I'm just awful at recognizing people, even ones I know, in public places. Back when you could still meet people at the gate, I once walked right past both of my parents. (true) They followed me down the concourse to the baggage claim, and stood off to the side while I looked around for them. They eventually came up behind me and scared me half to death.
Anyway, lemmee know if you haven't been able to find, oh, one of the dozen or so wedding shots out there or something. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
You'll arrive in Terminal 2. I'm not sure if I'll be able to meet you at your gate or if I'll have to go down to the arrivals area past baggage claim. It's been a few years since I was in Terminal 2. If I can get from Terminal 1 (where I arrive) to Terminal 2 without winding up outside security, then I'll check the screens for your gate and wait there. If I get stranded outside security then I'll have to meet you past baggage claim. IIRC, the doors to baggage claim are these big glass sliding doors, so if I'm not at your gate, go to baggage claim and have a peek through the doors to see if you can see me there before getting your bag(s) (if you're going to check bags, that is). Then we can either make our way to the hotel via public transit in a rather roundabout fashion or just cab it, depending on fatigue and laziness levels.
As to spotting me, I can wear something recognizeable like my big silver headphones. That's what I did when I met tt&t in NZ, and it worked out well.
I've seen various pictures of you around. I'll be sure to refresh my memory before theh 21st so I don't do what I did at the train station in London -- which was walk right past Jaiden and Pod without even looking at them. Whoops. They weren't sure it was me, because I'd cut all my hair off, so they debated for a while and then came and asked me if I was me as I was waiting in line to use the payphone to call them.
<----- not the sharpest brick in the sea
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Isn't there an arrivals place where you can stand with a sign and wait for people to come through customs (because ElJay is coming directly from the U.S., right)? Isn't that how most people meet up?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I have no idea. I can't remember the last time I made an international connection through Pearson. When I said Terminal 1 (domestic travel) was my home away from home I wasn't kidding.
From what little I remember about Terminal 2 back when it was the domestic terminal, the pre-security area is basically a big long hallway. If I wind up out there, I'm just going to look for the American flag that ought to indicate the door from which the Americans will be emerging.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Most (all?) international airports have a door that comes from customs and leads into the terminal proper. If you look around you should be able to find this one door- there will be a bunch of people standing around it staring at it. I can't imagine any airport not having this.
And I think you should make a sign .
EDIT: This post sounds like I'm all high-and-mighty traveler instructing lowly non-traveler. I know this isn't the case. I know you know what I just told you. However, I still think you should make a sign.
[ April 09, 2005, 09:00 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I could make a sign. That might be fun... but it might also get me thrown out of the airport.
In other news: I bought a clavinova today! *dances*
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Erm... don't a lot of people have signs? I know that at Heathrow (or Gatwick) Airport in London, England practically every second person waiting "beyond the doors" has a sign. I thought it was common practice everywhere!
EDIT: A clavinova is an electric piano? Excellent! Although I obviously prefer the real thing, budget-wise that's not possible for people.
A piano is one of the first things I intend to buy when I have a house/room/apartment/space of my own .
[ April 09, 2005, 09:08 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Nice! Congratulations. That's what we've got at home at my parents' house. I miss it. I've got a piddly little keyboard here that's not even full size. Does yours have a disk drive for recording? That was my favourite part about ours.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Teshi: It is.
Astaril: Yes, it can record two tracks, but I'm more likely to just hook it up to my computer. When my computer is fully functional again, that is.
[ April 09, 2005, 09:08 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
When I went to Japan with my school, a bunch of the parents had a huge sign that said Welcome Home, Millies! If this is okay, I'm pretty sure a sign like the one you would have would be okay.
This was at Pearson.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Do you play, twinky? Well, obviously you do, but I mean at what level?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I don't really know how to quantify my level. I've been playing since I was four years old. I did my Royal Conservatory exams up to Grade VIII when I was a teenager and then stopped taking the exams. But I kept playing higher level pieces. When I went to university, though, I didn't have easy access to a piano, so my skills have atrophied somewhat. I linked some stuff here a while back, but none of it is recent.
Edit: Holy crap, that means I've been playing for 20 years.
[ April 09, 2005, 09:14 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Ah yes. I forgot you're one of those serious recording types, aren't you... I need to find a cheap way to record myself soon. I've got a friend who's been bugging me for years to send her new music. My old ghettoblaster finally busted, and my nephew's old Fisher Price recorder just isn't up to the job anymore. Do you know if there are relatively inexpensive computer programs/microphones you can get? (And does anyone care that I'm totally derailing this thread?)
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Awesome! I love the piano, I love to play it. I have my grade nine but I'm truly not that good.
I know the feeling about not having easy access to a piano. They like to keep the plebs dirty little fingers away from the keys: if you're not in the music department, there's a certain narrow-eyed look they reserve specially for you.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Teshi, aren't you in a residence? Don't most residences have pianos?? Or was I just lucky? (All the small ones at UW have them, and I'd imagine the bigger ones do.)
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm a Mac user, so any advice I could offer would most likely be useless to you.
Teshi, you've got to stop it with the self-deprecation. No more of this "truly not that good" business, 'mkay? We agree? Good.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Hmm. Perhaps I'll make researching that a project for the summer.
And Teshi, seriously, listen to the man. "Grade 9" and "not that good" don't belong in one sentence! Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Hey! I'm actually not that great at piano. Sure, I can play it and all, but it's just not my strength. I wish I was better.
I would love to be able to sight read much better than I can. Until I can do that, until I can play triplets over duplets, I'm not going to be happy with my playing.
I'm not afraid of saying I'm good at something. I can honestly say that I am a pretty good classical singer. If I focused on it, I would be very good.
[ April 09, 2005, 09:23 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:until I can play triplets over duplets
I can't do that well either, you know. So now if you ever hear me or a recording of me, you don't get to accuse me of being good. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
This thread is making me want to play/sing. Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I'm not very musically inclined, so I'll just rerail the thread...
have we decided zoo vs. CN Tower yet?
Is the zoo on the subway line?
If we decide to do the zoo, I won't be able to come. I'm going to the zoo the day before (saturday) with my homestay, and I wouldn't want her to have to do the same thing two days in the row. I wouldn't mind it personally, but she's only here for two days.
This is not concrete, however. I may be going on the Sunday, in which case I would join you for whatever you're doing on Saturday.
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
How did you manage to get your grade 8 without playing triplets over dublets? It's a craaaazy world. Mind you, if you think your skills have atrophied, twink, you haven't suffered through my meat-handed handling of the ole piano lately. And heck, I never learned to play an instrument and sing at the same time, so you're all way ahead of me.
Incidentally, I don't think they'd kick you out for carrying a sign. Heck, when I last needed one taped a sheet of bristol board to a broom stick that had "DAN" written on it in crayon with a big arrow pointing toward my head. Worked brilliantly.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I can understand Teshi and Desdemona not catching on, but you should have realized the sort of "sign" I was thinking of would almost certainly get me expelled from any public place. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
...
Sometimes, I really dislike being totally non-innuendo-ish. Other times, it makes me feel like I have a kind of moral superiority.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
It's just because you're young and innocent. You'll learn when you're older. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I resent that.
1. I may be young and innocent, but I am not that young and innocent. I'm a lot less innocent than I was, say, three years ago. However, because I do not try to hear innuendo, or try to put it in (unless I'm in a really odd mood), I tend to just gloss over other people's.
2. In real life, this isn't a problem. People usually smirk, so I can tell. On the internet, it's more difficult.
3. I get the feeling I have a "sweet and innocent, fluffy, bunnies and flowers" type reputation.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
That was how I felt when I was your age, too.
(Okay, now I'm just being a dick. But at least I'm honest about it. )
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
Considering I just wrote an exam on English criticism you'd think I'd have picked up on it as well. But then, you're just a sweet and innocent kind of guy, aren't ya? What was your favourite kind of apple again?
Anyway, I'm just going to chalk it up to my wanting to tell my story.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
quote: I appreciate your honesty...not, you know..a lot...but...
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Not to discourage you, Teshi, but at nearly 23, I *still* can't get rid of my sweet and innocent sunshine and flowers reputation. It can be handy, I admit, but sometimes I really wish people would learn the difference between honest and innocent...
Edit: How'd the exam go, Dan?
[ April 09, 2005, 11:33 PM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
You know, in some circles I have that sort of reputation myself. It can be useful.
quote:What was your favourite kind of apple again?
Why am I not remembering what the apple thing is about? Is it, perhaps, a little too much time spent with my good friend Alexander Keith? ( )
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Ah.
I probably would have caught that IRL, but I seem to think of Hatrack as a sunshine and flowers kinda place. Except for when KQ posts, obviously.
EDIT: typpo
[ April 09, 2005, 11:37 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
KQ?!?
When I think "queen of Hatrack innuendo," my mind does not immediately jump to KQ.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I was lurking in a chat with her once...
EDIT: and I wasn't really around during the height of the Ralphie era.
[ April 09, 2005, 11:41 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'll take your word for it.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I don't mind being sunshiny cheerful optimism, but I don't like being lambs, puppies and bunnies. It's simply not me!
I need a way to project another image.
EDIT: Perhaps a signature that strikes fear into the hearts of my enemie, followed by a smile, to show although I may be fierce, I'm also cheerful:
What do you think?
[ April 09, 2005, 11:47 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I dunno about bunnies. I wouldn't go that far. But "pure as the driven snow?" Yes, I would say that.
That does not, however, detract from your many other awesome qualities. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Pfft. You have no idea what sort of qualities I have.
EDIT: Although "pure as the driven snow" has a sort of fierce sound about it .
[ April 09, 2005, 11:50 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm not buying the " "
And I'm also not going to take the bait and enumerate a list of qualities.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I'm not asking for qualities. I'm just saying. This what I mean. I never go fishing for compliments! (Okay, sometimes, but not ONLINE) You have no idea what sort of person I am, other that my innocentness, which I'll admit to.
Hmph .
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
*laugh*
You're pretty bright, and you're articulate. So there! That's two, two's a list.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Goodness, what I miss when I go out for dinner. So, what kind of sign are we talking about here, twink?
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
*sigh*
Well thank you very much, twinky, but I'm honestly not looking for compliments. Also, I am not all that articulate in person, so it's not even all that correct. I don't mean to be mean.
Let's change the conversation topic. I'm feeling a little like I'm under a magnifying glass.
EDIT: Thank you, ElJay...
[ April 10, 2005, 12:04 AM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
No problem, Teshi. I like you too, and I think you're really cool. I'm looking forward to meeting you.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
[ August 19, 2021, 10:51 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
... Is that you playing?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Yeah. I love this piece. Love it, love it, love it.
Posted by Temposs (Member # 6032) on :
Another request for a place to stay in Toronto on May 16th & 17th for my roommate and I, in case you all hadn't seen it before.
Does someone who's going to this hatrack.ca thingy actually LIVE around Toronto(i.e. within an hour's drive) on a permanent basis? :-P
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
You. Are. Amazing.
Wow.
(A little choppy on the runs ( That's my criticism), but still, holy crumpets!)
And it is a very lovely piece. I'm going to find a piano and make you perform it when you come.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
No no no no. I can't perform it. It isn't ready. There are swaths of melody in the middle that still escape me. [Edit: Yeah, this piano is so crisp that it really shows every little error. I wasn't aware how choppy my runs were until playing it on this today.]
Temposs, I don't live in or near Toronto. Sorry...
[ April 10, 2005, 01:09 AM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Darn. I won't pressure you, because I strongly dislike being made to perform.
Keep practicing and record it .
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I really couldn't have it ready in two weeks. Something simpler, maybe, but if I work really really hard Lylatov might be ready by, say, Christmas. It's difficult.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I can hear that it's difficult! I look forward to hearing the completed and perfected recording . I'll remind you around Christmas .
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
The part I have recorded there is the easy part. Seriously. There's a lot of two on three, four on six, and other weirdness that gives me fits in the remaining five pages. Musically it's very simple, but technically it's challenging. I'm hoping the fact that I love it will give me incentive to practice. Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
wow...
So,
have we decided zoo vs. CN Tower yet?
Is the zoo on the subway line?
Very sorry for the rerailing, but I would really like to know the answers... maybe we should have a vote zoo vs. CN tower?
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
The zoo is far away... much less accessible that the CN Tower which is of course on a Subway line.
There are buses that head out to the zoo, I believe, but I can't imagine it would be easy to get to.
If it were easy to get to, I would vote Zoo, because I'm been to the CN Tower many times, but since it's not I'm more ambivalent.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Desdemona... I think we might end up splitting the group. I'd really like to meet you, but things seem like they'll be difficult with you having your home stay student there and planning stuff with your parents and everything. Could we maybe plan on meeting for dinner Saturday night? That way if you guys go to the zoo Saturday while we're at the Science Center we could still all meet up in the evening and the whole group would get a chance to meet you. Would that be okay, or do you already have plans? Plus then if there does end up being a group going to the CN Tower on Sunday and you want to join them, we can work out the details then.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I think that I'll just stop posting here and confusing everybody, including myself, until I have everything sorted out.
Feel free to go back to your music discussions!
EDIT: Speeling
[ April 10, 2005, 01:41 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Oh, don't do that! We don't have everything sorted out, either. At the very least, email me your phone number, so we can connect that weekend and hook up for awhile. These things always end up being rather flexible, ya know?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
*bumpity*
Hotel selection needs to be finalized ASAP. I would really like to book it, say, tomorrow.
[ April 10, 2005, 10:35 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
If you don't get any more responses, I think you'd be perfectly justified in making an executive decision. It's your thread, after all. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Executive decision, you say... I like the sound of that. Executive. Decision. Mmmm, yes.
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
Sorry, hope you weren't waiting for me. Whatever hotel everyone else is staying at (within a reasonable price range... say under $150 a night ) Ted and I are game for Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Cool. This the place we're talking about? Hey, look! Stay two nights and the third is free...
(Guess I didn't have to be concerned about coming in a day early, regardless.)
[ April 10, 2005, 11:25 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Ooh, that looks like a very nice hotel. It's a shame I have my residence. Sigh.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Hey, looking at those packages, they include deals for hotel and Science Center, and hotel and zoo. The Science Center one includes tickets for 2 adults and 2 kids, so it might not end up being cheaper for us, but anyone who is certainly going to the zoo and staying in the hotel should probably book that way... Or at least check zoo prices, and see if it's a good deal.
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
Are we all sure about the Crowne Plaza Toronto?
Because if so, I want to make my reservations tomorrow (or tonight if I get a response)
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
Oh, by the way, I have exams from the 25th on, so if I hide in my books for a few hours, it's not me being antisocial. It's me trying to have a future Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Sounds fair enough, Jaiden. We won't begrudge you a future.
I think we're good for the Crown Plaza... Authur & The Tick okay'd it, twink & I did, and now you and Pod, and that's all that are getting rooms.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
*bumpity*
Depending on your room type preference, the "stay two nights, get the third night free" package can save you a significant chunk of change. Just a heads-up.
You can't book packages online, though, you have to contact them either by phone or email.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
(does this mean you're booking our room and I don't have to worry about it?)
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Yes.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Cool, thanks. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
*bump*
ElJay and I are booked.
Edit: Holy crap, 10 pages. This is far and away the longest thread I have ever started.
[ April 11, 2005, 07:29 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Okay, I have myself all sorted out. And it's a huge change of plans
I will come downtown on Friday night after my homestay and I get home from school, and then get on the subway.
This means I will be downtown at about 5:30-6:00. I will probably stay until 8-9. When do you plan on leaving the ROM?
Where should I meet you?
This is final. (I hope)
EDIT: Unless you are planning to go to a bar for dinner, in which case I won't bother. And I am too lazy to comb through 10 pages of thread looking for Friday plans, so if someone could tell me them again, I would be much obliged.
[ April 11, 2005, 07:35 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
We're meeting RD and EL at about that time on Friday as well. I'm sure we can find a minor-friendly place to have dinner before going to the ROM (the plan was to go to the ROM after dinner, IIRC).
So, hooray! Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Wow, it's so weird that I am "not" unable to drink! I keep thinking how odd it is. O.o
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Desde, does this mean you will be by yourself, or will you have your homestay with you?
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
With homestay. She will not have seen the ROM. She speaks english rather well. She is rather quiet. She will be no trouble. I hope.
ROM after dinner soinds great... do we know when it closes?
EDIT: and what subway station/where should we meet?
[ April 11, 2005, 08:29 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
*whispers*
Um... If I could possibly know the IRL names of everyone who is coming, that would be great. I don't think you want me calling you your hatrack sn in person!
EDIT: I'm Kate and my homestay is Sachi.
[ April 11, 2005, 08:50 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I don't know, I think "Twinky" is a fine name. .
You can actually call me Teshi, if you want. I answer to both that and my real name. EDIT: Which is Victoria, in case you were wondering.
[ April 11, 2005, 09:04 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Hi, Kate, I'm Liza. I think you'll find it's hard not to call people by their screennames, though, and I'm fine either way.
I'm glad Sachi will be coming, I didn't ask because I thought she'd be any trouble, I asked because I'm paranoid, and I'm a lot more comfortable with the idea of two 15 (ish?) year old girls coming to meet a group of "adult" strangers that they only know off the internet than one 15 year old girl doing so. Not because I think any of us are bad people, but it just doesn't seem like a good idea. As it is, I'm glad we'll be meeting in public and will be in public all the time. I wouldn't, for example, have been personally comfortable with the idea of you coming and meeting us at our hotel. For our protection as well as yours.
Please don't take offense at this post... I just believe it is better to avoid even the appearance of impropriety, particularly when you are talking about minors and unrelated adults. Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
No offense taken at all.
I have had a talk with my parents, and I have made a pact not to leave a public place with you people, and more thingslike that. My parents trust me, and they feel that with Sachi I will be quite safe. I will be able to call them anytime on my cellphone.
I have been downtown with only one friend before, and have been quite safe.
EDIT: It's probably safer than any of our school dances!
[ April 11, 2005, 09:47 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I'm glad you and your parents have discussed it. I, also, have no doubt you'll be safe... and I wasn't at all concerned about you being downtown with only one other person.
As far as your other questions, since I don't know the city at all, I won't presume to try to answer them. I don't think we've set where we're meeting Rei and EL yet, so perhaps we can find a place that works well for all concerned.
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
Ted and I have booked our room
In "real life" I go by Jaiden and Pod is Ted.
[ April 11, 2005, 09:51 PM: Message edited by: Jaiden ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Jaiden, yay! This is getting so real! I went and found my passport yesterday, so I could be sure my country will let me back in. Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
My given name is Brenton, however I answer just as easily to Rei, so whatever you folks prefer.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
I go by Ali or Alison, usually, but I'll answer to a wide variety of names, including EL.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm Raja. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
You know I won't be able to say your name without a certain flair, Twinky...
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
You won't?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Should we discuss where Victoria, Raja, "Astaril" ( ) and Liza will be meeting Brenton, Ali, Kate, and Sachi Friday at around 5:30?
Boy it feels funny to write all those real names!
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Yes, we should. Ali and Brenton should probably be the deciding factor, since the "rest" of us can get to more or less anywhere by riding the rocket (boy, I really just don't like that slogan).
[ April 12, 2005, 10:28 AM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Are the rooms together? Or can we not do that for so few?
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
quote: You won't?
Ah, the joke lost its funnyness. I meant that Raja, complete with rolled r's is one of those names that just wants you to say it 'with flair' if you know what I mean. If you don't, that's okay. I was in an odd mood when I posted it.
quote: Boy it feels funny to write all those real names!
It feels funny to be called by it. Online, I rarely see my real name written out like that, because except with official e-mails and family e-mails, I never use it on the computer!
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Tick, I think twink and Jaiden both just called up and reserved a room for the relavent nights, so they're probably not going to be together. You and/or Authur should probably do so soon as well. Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Ha HA! So I'm the mysterious one with no real name yet! Except to EL, that is, and BtL, and probably twinky, and... huh. Well, never mind.
Right. So I go by Polly with most people in real life, or feel free to call me Asta which'll probably be easier to remember. You can say Astaril if you like, but heck, *I* don't even know how to pronounce that out loud.
Edit: ElJay, is it said Liza as in Liza Minnelli or Liza as in Lisa with a Z?
[ April 12, 2005, 01:27 PM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Astaril, I puzzled over that a bit, and I think I know how I would pronounce your handle, at least. But now that you say it again, I think I did know that you're Polly.
My name is pronounced like Liza Minnelli's. Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
As a general rule it seems that you call people as their screen names at Hatrack gatherings, because that's how you've come to know them. Heck, at the last Hatrack gathering I called Raja "twinky" and he referred to me as BtL. A funny thing, that.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
To be fair, you sometimes call me "twink" in real life in the general case, too.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Brent and I will be riding the rocket, once we get into the city. So somewhere along the subway is best, but we can manage otherwise.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
So will we, so I guess we can meet at any station we like. Um... I guess it should be one that's near places to eat. I know *I'll* be hungry. But lots of stops are near places to eat...
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
Good lord, do I really? Like, when we're not talking about Hatrack? That's uncool.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Well, Teshi actually is a name that sometimes is used so really it's quite interchangeable for me, even in real life.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I think so. But I can't recall any specific instances, so maybe I'm just off my rocker. I know Fred has done it, but then I was 'Twinky' before Hatrack anyway (it was the name on my Frosh t-shirt).
Back in the CLT days when we were really les enfants terribles, it wasn't all that uncommon to use Twinky, Plummer, Raptor, and Jooky over Raja, Eric, Fred, and Daren.
[ April 12, 2005, 01:51 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
quote:so maybe I'm just off my rocker.
[sidenote: This is the first time I've ever heard anyone who's not me use that expression!]
O.o
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Perhaps a stop that is near food AND the museum, then, so we don't have too far to go after we eat? Does that narrow it down some?
It's funny, the more Hatrack gatherings I go to the more people are moving to using real names instead of handles. Particularly in the cases of people with long or hard to pronounce handles. But like I said, I picked my name because it's the easiest to spell of the nicks my family calls me anyway, so I'm good with it.
Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
There are other nicknames your family use? Do tell . . .
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
And did people sing "There's a hole in my bucket" a lot to you growing up? I know I'd have been tempted... I find many names (and jobs) seem to have one certain joke that goes with them which everyone else just *has* to say at some point, as if they think they're the first and it's still funny.
No, for the last time, I don't want a cracker.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
"There's a hole in the bucket" and "Lil' Liza Jane." The worst was dkw's freshman year away at school, we went down to visit her and took a bunch of her friends out for pizza. One of them was a guy named Henry, who had also had the song sung to him a lot as a kid. He had never met an actual Liza before, and I had never met an actual Henry, so someone had the bright idea that we should sing it to each other. In the pizza parlor. And they wouldn't shut up about it until we did.
First, you do not want to hear me sing. I enjoy music, but am not musically inclined. Second, apaprently Henrys aren't as rare as Lizas, so he hadn't really heard it as often, and didn't know all the lines. But they wouldn't let us just quit, so I prompted him through it until we were done.
An absolutely hidious experience at 16, let me tell you.
Added: In case it wasn't obvious, I will not be asking if you want a cracker, or calling you "Pretty Polly," regardless of how enchanting you may happen to be looking that day.
[ April 12, 2005, 03:56 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Being semi-British and Victoria and attending Victoria College has its low-points, too.
...
Any name has its associations.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Indeed. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
I've never heard a joke to go with my name, none, but of course, 1 out of 5 girls my age has my name, or maybe that many ever, it's fairly popular.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Well, ny name rhymes with "hate," which isn't that much of an issue now as it was in grade two.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Hmm. Can't say *I* know too many breyerchic04s. Must be a local thing where you live.
But going on that, I'd guess you're a Jennifer, or maybe a Sara(h). Those are the two girl names I know the most examples of.
Edit: Oh, and ElJay (and others), don't worry. You can call me 'pretty' all you like...
[ April 12, 2005, 04:42 PM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Asta: I think of Pollyanna when I hear your name.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
I'm not surprised. One friend called me that all through my first year of university. Another was Pollywog. I think of the white cat from CATS the musical when I hear Victoria. It's the only one I've known. I guess most people's minds probably jump first to the Queen, eh...
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
"Pollyanna" the movie made me cry for days. I thought it was so sad. (I must have been about five). You don't have to worry about me calling you anything other than Polly- I think it's a great name. There must be another Polly character that I know because the name has very good connotations for me.
Oh! One thing: my family often jokes that I or one of my sisters should have been called "Polly" so my parents could say "Polly, put the kettle on" like the rhyme. Do you ever get that?
Well a lot of people equate Victoria with traditional britishness, and since I am Victoria as opposed to Vicky or Vicky or Vick or Tory, this is doubled. When they hear I have a slight accent, the stereotype is sealed. Ah well.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Of course, the easiest way to spot us is to look for this little guy. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Awwwww Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
He (Ticklet) has eyes as big as saucers!
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Does he have a name?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Ticklet! Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
This one is one of my current favorite pictures, where Thomas and his cousin Ethan had a little talk. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
my name is Sarah (I'm not coming), just telling you because it is popular and there is no joke or rhyme or anything, i've been made fun of but never for my name.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Ticklet looks like such a sweetheart! Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I am officially excited for this!
I have been refreshing Hatrack for the last loong time waiting for someone to post in this thread, so I will now.
My questions: Have we decided where to eat dinner?
That would pretty much answer other questions.
Here is a site with a lot of restaurants in the "neighbourhood" of th ROM.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Yonge Street is a bit of a walk from the RoM but not more than ten minutes.
Sassafraz is the "It" place- probably cost a fortune. As the list says, celebrities eat there.
Hemmingway's is a pub for which you probably have to be 19, so if we're eating with Des, that's not an option. You can eat outside, although it'll probably be totally overflowing on a friday night.
Cumberland Street is an exciting place though; it's sort of celebrity street. During the Film Festival there were screenings there and a bunch of celebrity spotters. It's a nice street to just sit, too. In the summer, I spent a lot of time there just people watching. It's close to the big celebrity hotels and home to one of my favourite movie theatres .
I don't know the other places by reputation.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*drools*
Okay, I shouldn't have started browsing menus before making dinner...
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Wow, a lot of those places are expensive. I guess that's to be expected in the Bloor area. St Thomas street is right near me- that's another celebrity hotel, outside of which I saw Regina Williams, the sole figure from the film world I caught sight of during last years festival. Had never heard of her at the time.
The Pangaea Restaurant sounds promising, although probably about fifteen minutes walk from the RoM. I think I know where it is...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Not only does expensive = expensive, it also usually equals = takes a long time. Since we want to go to the museum, I really think we shold find something casual. Also, we need something vegan-friendly. So let's add those parameters to our hunt, along with location.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
There are a couple of Sushi places I've heard recommended. I could ask around to get the names, although I'm not a huge Sushi fan myself.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
If I'm the only vegan along for dinner that night, seriously, don't worry about that. As long as there's bread, french fries, or rice, I'm good. Honestly. I don't ever eat much at once anyway so I won't be needing a place with a lot to offer.
(And by the way, Teshi, no, I never got the kettle rhyme with my name. I'm not even sure I know the whole thing.)
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
The only place I know of near the ROM is McDonalds!
I don't eat sushi, however. Sorry!
[ April 12, 2005, 09:15 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
What about this place? Is the location good? The menu looks promising...
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I think it's a bit of a difficult area because it's so upscale/student, so there's one end or the other. The "other" end would include places like Des' Macdonalds, Tim Hortons, either a Pita Pit or somekind of Subway place, various coffee places, and such.
EDIT: That place you linked to looks good, though ElJay. About a ten minute walk I'd imagine. I'll go see what it looks like tomorrow.
[ April 12, 2005, 09:29 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Okay, fill me in. What is the policy for bars in Toronto. Are minors not let in after a specific time of night, not allowed in at all? Would a Bistro/Bar like that be okay? Does that place have a seperate "bar"??
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I think the Ethiopian place right at the top of the list or any of the noodle joints listed would probably be somewhere in the middle, but I know I tend to be more adventurous with my eating choices than most.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*laugh* And now the thread's moving! Teshi, if you check it out, check to see if they look like they could accomadate a party of 8. From the website, that's what would concern me most, as it looks awfully "hip." But the prices don't seem bad and there is a wide variety of options.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
It looks like it's between Wellesley and Bloor-Yonge subway stops, so maybe we could meet at either of those, and then walk (if it's nice) or take the subway (if it's not) to the museum after dinner.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I think taking the subway from Yonge to Queen's Park would be excessive, even if it was a blizzard.
It's only ten minutes, fifteen tops. Bring umbrellas if it rains.
I walk almost everywhere, so short distances like that are tinsy tiny!
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Seeing as it's about 1 km away and not a very complicated route, we should be fine. I didn't realise how close it was!
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Yes, only I might take you through my Quad which is kind of on the way. Just because I'm a proud UofTian.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
As long as you don't get us lost...
EDIT: Oh, and the prices look good for that restaurant, as well!
[ April 12, 2005, 10:33 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Loosing yourself in Torono is nearly impossible. Seriously. Even if you don't know the area, which I do, very well, since I live here and all .
Teshi's Guide to Not Getting Lost in Downtown Toronto:
Most places:
CN Tower = South.
Unless you're down by the river, in which case
CN Tower = North
Or under the CN Tower, in which case
CN Tower = Up
Everywhere East of Yonge is called East, everything West is West. Numbers radiate from Yonge so 1 Bloor Street West, for example, is right on Bloor and Yonge, going West.
Finding things is hard, sometimes, but if you know the intersection it's easy.
The only street that is confusing is Dundas, which is wiggly and crosses both east/west and south/north streets.
The Subway lines are also pretty easy, although I have made one mistake. No idea about buses and streetcars; never tried!
All in all, if you're above ground, getting lost is pretty impossible.
*shows off knowledge of Toronto just for the sake of it*
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I think you mean LAKE Ontario, not "The River"
What if you're on top of the CN Tower?
Dundas is very long and very wiggly and very confusing. It parallels Bloor and crosses Bloor and just manages to confuse me all over the place.
Which is just dandy.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Ooops. Pfft. Lake... river... it's all the same... *shifty eyes*
Top of the CN Tower, you know where you are so you cannot be lost.
*smug*
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Teshi
Me now
And thatnks to you, I'll probably dream about Dundas tonght
[ April 12, 2005, 10:49 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
*laugh*
Sleep well! Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I saw all these posts when I came back and thought there might have been some planning going on...
But at least now I know which direction is which in Toronto. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Nah, we're just taking up space with our nattering!
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
It's very difficult to go the wrong way in Toronro. Unlike, say, Christchurch.
As to restaurants, I am omnivorous and am happy to eat anywhere, but I will peruse the list later this morning and see if anything tickles my fancy...
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Because we're about to drop off the front page...
A list of who is coming:
twinky (Raja) ElJay (Liza) Teshi (Victoria) Astaril (Polly) The Tick (Mike) Arthur (Jennifer) Ticklet (Thomas) Jaiden (Jaiden) Pod (Ted) ReikoDemosthenes (Brenton) Eaquae Legit (Ali/Alison) Desdemona (Kate) Desdemona's Homestay (Sachi)
If I've missed anyone, please tell me!
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Or, say, KW, where all the parallel streets cross multiple times, and the road map looks like a crayon drawing by a small, drunken child. (Edit: in response to twinky's post, if it wasn't obvious.)
As for restaurants, so long as it's not ye olde McD's, I'm perfectly happy.
[ April 13, 2005, 11:18 AM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
That looks right to me, but of course different combinations of people will be together at different times.
Posted by Sean (Member # 689) on :
I was told that Waterloo was laid out by Mennonites to avoid hills, but the drunken child theory would explain alot too.
I'm actually heading into Toronto on the right day, but I'm just heading in long enough to fly out of there. Pity.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Sean, we can't even meet you somewhere and say hi? Which day is the "right" day?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
There are multiple "right" days. We could conceivably pop out to the airport on the express if you don't mind going through security an extra time.
Astaril, Christchurch is very well laid-out, the problem is that when one is holding the map upside-down, one tends to wind up walking in the wrong direction. (In my defence, the words were right-side up.)
Posted by Arthur (Member # 4026) on :
We are booked
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Woo-hoo!
I am -SO- excited!
I've met The Tick before, but now I get to meet the rest of the family. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:We are booked
Huzzah! Posted by Sean (Member # 689) on :
I believe our flight's at seven on Friday the 22nd (we're going on the traditional post-grad wander around Europe). My friend's parents are giving us a ride to the airport to meet my sister at some point. I suppose you'd welcome to come watch us sit around and stand in lines, but I think you've got other places to be. No worries.
Aside: Woot, 9 days to Paris!
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Ah... we'll be transitioning from dinner to the ROM at that point, most likely. That's too bad.
That's some pretty impressive lurking you've been doing there for the past five years. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Ah well, it was worth a thought. Have fun in Paris!
(And that is impressive lurking!)
7 days 'til Toronto! For me, anyway. Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
I'm glad I have SOMETHING to look forward to.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Edit: Okay, that feels insufficient. Tick, man, I really hope that over the weekend we can cheer you up/make you forget about the suckage for a while.
[ April 13, 2005, 04:09 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
^^^^ Definitely.
Posted by Sean (Member # 689) on :
Thanks ElJay. If I don't have fun on this trip it's probably time to get out of the fun-having business altogether.
Twinky: I pick my words with care. I did have a few hundred posts as Livious before switching back to this name.
I should aim for a ten year / hundred post landmark. *grin*
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Ah, so you were Livious!
I'm confident your trip will be good times. Trips generally are.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Well, all this excitement is contagious. I can't wait either now. Oh, and plus, the 22nd will be my first truly, entirely, guilt-free-from-schoolwork day in over a year and a half! So I will likely be in an absurdly giddy mood anyway (just to warn you all).
twinky: Ah, I see. So the map was right-side up and *you* were upside down. I can't laugh much. I've been lost in my town of 1000 people, where there's only 30 streets, and none of them more than 200m long... (In *my* defence, I was only 7 at the time.) I'm still pretty directionless.
TheTick: I hope life gets better, whatever's wrong. I won't get to meet you, but I'm sure everyone else will show you a super-fantabulous time and make you forget cares for the weekend!
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
okay, I'm officially confused.
On friday night it will be:
Twinky Teshi ElJay Jaiden Pod Astaril Desdemona Desdemona's homestay
Right?
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Rei is also coming with EL, and I think Jaiden and Pod are getting in much later Friday night, if I recall correctly.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I went a-rambling looking for the Browntone Bistro but I didn't go armed with an intersection so I just kind of perused. I didn't find it.
There are lots of places on Yonge, some nicer-looking than others. (That's rather an unfortunate section of Yonge; the strip-club bit.) I don't think I went south far enough to have passed it.
I found many of the places that we ruled out though! .
However, I will go again, now I know the intersection and track it down.
One other thing: Meeting people on Yonge would be like searching for a needle in a haystack. I suggest we meet somewhere less bustling. Yonge on a Friday evening is chaos .
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
What about in the subway station? One of the lesser-used ones (Wellesly or that other one there) may be okay if we have a concrete spot (like underneath this sign or something.)
If that doesn't work, where do you suggest to meet?
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
...bump...
Because I'm so excited to meet everyone!
This March and April have probably been (and will continue to be) among the best of my life. Skiing for two weeks, robotics competition, Sachi coming to Canada, meeting Hatrackers... I am sooo excited!!!
And teshi, if you're curious, I dreamt about being lost on Dundas last night. But someone came up to me and pointed out that I was up the CN tower, so i couldn't be lost, so I knew where I was. It was altogether confusing.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
That's a great dream!
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Now I'm scared of Dundas, which is a problem because I live rather near it, and have to take it to get to school.
AND IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT!!!
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Aw. *pat pat*.
I promise we won't go near Dundas .
And I promise never to invade your dreams again. Or at least, my directions... .
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Hopefully I'll dream about something a little less confusing tonight.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*bump*
In one week from today, I'm going to Toronto! Just thought y'all would like to know.
What? You knew that already? Oh. Carry on then!
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Also, why don't we just meet at the front of the museum? There might be a lot of people, but the area isn't all that large. I think you could probably pick us out of the crowd. I'm pretty tall, if all else fails.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I know the partying is for the gathering being so soon, but seeing Teshi's post pop up just like that felt like it was for me coming, and I got a little ego boost. Not, um, like I need those. Anyway. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
That works. It's not too for from the museum to anywhere where we might eat, and never very busy, even on a Friday Night.
So what time are we meeting outside the museum pre-dinner on Friday?
And we should really start thinking about Saturday and Sunday because I'm going to have to start making sure I have enough change for the subway rides.
ELJay: It is for you coming! Am I right in thinking this is your first time in Canada?
[ April 14, 2005, 03:14 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
The museum was really busy last summer during the Eternal Egypt exhibit. They brought in some really cool stuff.
But mostly I go there to see dinosaurs. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Awwww. Thank you, Teshi!
Yes, it will be my first time in Canada.
And I saw the Eternal Eygpt exhibit! It was awesome! (At the Minneapolis Art Institute, assuming it was the same traveling exhibition, which is likely.)
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I saw that exhibit with BtL.
Teshi, about time -- I dunno. 5? 5:30? The four of us (you, me, ElJay, Astaril) are meeting EL, RD, Des, and Sachi. Everyone is getting there via public transit, IIRC. Also, you don't keep a supply of subway tokens on hand? What kind of Torontonian ARE you, anyway?
It being ElJay's first time in Canada, we will have to be sure to give her an extra special dose of wholesome Canadian goodness. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Well, last time I waited on the steps of the museum on a Friday night it wasn't too busy, and if we're four or five people all waiting for who ever's meeting us there we'll be pretty obvious, I imagine...
For people who are meeting us, the subway stop is Museum the North/South line and it's right there by the museum, assuming you come up the right (as in "not wrong") stairs.
quote: Also, you don't keep a supply of subway tokens on hand? What kind of Torontonian ARE you, anyway?
One who walks. Everywhere.
Oh, good idea, I think I'll just invest in a bunch of tokens.
[ April 14, 2005, 03:27 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Yes, I think you're right (as in "not wrong"). Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
It's actually the left stairs, if you're coming out.
And I refuse to be mocked .
[ April 14, 2005, 03:28 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
quote: ...an extra special dose of wholesome Canadian goodness.
Am I right to feel frightened at this? Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I don't know, I have no idea what it entails.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:One who walks. Everywhere.
Hm. I guess you don't live too far from downtown... when I lived in North York (both times) I took the subway to and from work as well as to pretty much anywhere I needed to go apart from basic errands.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
In the last eight months I have taken the subway five times. I like to walk . The longest I've walked is one way to Home Depot waaaaaay out at Keele Station. I took the subway back.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I like trains, so I like to take the subway.
We'll send her (ElJay) home with a flag and one of those "Canada kicks ass" t-shirts.
[ April 14, 2005, 03:36 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I want one of those shirts!
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I love to use the Subway... I love trains. This has been said before, I know. But the subway makes a hole in my pocket!
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
They have "Canada Kicks Ass" shirts? Cool. It'll go great with my "America is Scary" shirt...
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
See, I was convinced that we were going to the museum after dinner, so we should meet there. Can someone de-confuse me?
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
Canada Kicks Ass. What's really funny is how often the model is groping herself on that website. If we behaved like that all the time maybe we'd have more of a film industry
Anyway, word on the street is that Dad's recent and last ditch change of meds is working wonders for him and, while things are by no means "good", they are also no longer "end of the line". So I'm thinking I may just attend Friday and catch a plane out of Pearson that night/some other time that weekend.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I think that's still the plan, Des. But we have to pick up tickets or somesuch for the special exhibit before dinner so I think it makes as much sense to meet at the RoM before as it does after.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
BtL, based on your description I will not be clicking on that link until I get home.
And, while I understand it's not a sure thing, I am nonetheless thrilled that I might get to meet you after all. If it does happen, I promise not to try to put you in my pocket.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Thanks.
I am NOT having a good day. just rereading this thread makes me feel better. Thank you all!
EDIT: Eljay snuck in while I was posting...
[ April 14, 2005, 04:51 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
ElJay, as far as I can tell, the model to whom BtL is referring is pretty mundane.
Unless he's going to a different site.
There's nothing I would consider non-work safe...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Thanks, Teshi...
quote: Access Denied by SmartFilter: Forbidden, this page (http://shop.canadaka.net/index.php?cPath=21) is categorized as: Nudity, Chat, Games.
Apparently you and my work have different definitions. Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
Heh. It's definately work safe and mundane. I was just amused when I clicked on the "Female Ringer" shirt and saw the model in red underwear and the accompanying shots of her pulling the shirt up. Bust then, if you're buying the shirt to be sexy I guess the pictures are what you want.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Dan!! That's... well, not "awesome," but it'll still be really good to see you.
ElJay, I hope you don't get in trouble, but on the other hand I'm laughing so very, very hard... Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
twinky:
Also, Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:Bust then, if you're buying the shirt to be sexy I guess the pictures are what you want.
Emphasis mine.
Ahahahahahahahahaha! Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
So, BtL, if you come, does this mean you're going to get the bus to TO with me so I don't have to worry about accidentally getting off too early at that imaginary bus-stop?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
ElJay, on the page that is directly linked to I swear that there is nothing remotely un-work safe other than the fact it's trying to sell you things.
However, I didn't click on anything else, so what BtL seems to be getting could be somewhere else...
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Teshi, if you click on the picture of the first shirt on the page you linked to, the model pictures start to...well, let's say they focus more on the 'ass' part of the slogan than the 'Canada kicks'.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
If you click any of the pictures to look at the shirts you are treated to scantily-clad models groping themselves. One is even pulling down her panties.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Ah. How charming.
EDIT: I didn't realise this might get you into trouble! I hope it doesn't!
[ April 14, 2005, 10:21 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
You Canadians are trying to corrupt me already.
(Um, in case you couldn't tell, I'm totally rolling in laughter!)
[ April 14, 2005, 06:17 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
I'm surprised you didn't link to those shirts that say "Canadian girls kick ass"
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
*cough cough* Errrm...I may have one of those...
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I have a sweater that says "Kiss Me I'm Canadian"
but no Canadian Girls Kick Ass. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I heard this very interesting Dinosaur News and thought our resident dinosaur enthusiast would be interested.
[ April 14, 2005, 10:07 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
8 days!
EDIT: and 13 pages!
So, Teshi, have you checked out the restaurant?
EDIT2: So we meet outside the museum at XX time, buy tickets for the special exibit, troop over to the restaurant, eat, troop back to the museum, and look at old stuff until 9:30 at the latest. Cool!
[ April 14, 2005, 10:38 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Crumpets! No I haven't. I forgot! Tomorrow, I promise!
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
They have crumpets? I like crumpets...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I don't know that I've ever had crumpets. What are crumpets, exactly? I believe you're supposed to have them with tea, yes?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Crumpets are a bit like English muffins, only not meant to be split before toasting, and much softer and a little sweet.
They can be eaten with tea, but I prefer them as part of breakfast, toasted and dripping with butter (just like the picture I linked to).
*drools* I miss crumpets. Too bad the brand that was kosher for ages isn't anymore.
[ April 15, 2005, 02:38 AM: Message edited by: rivka ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
You're a crumpet! Or is that strumpet?
Thanks for the dinosaur news, Teshi. That was pretty neat. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
You callin' me names? Or was that directed at rivka?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I just wanted to say "strumpet."
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Hmpf.
*barely contained excitement*
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I don't like crumpets, interestingly enough. I never have...
I should try them again though.
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
I don't believe I've ever had crumpets...although I'm in love with scones...current scones with devonshire cream and raspberry jam...*dreamy eyed*
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Well. Scones are a whole different story...
As are muffins. The English kind, that is.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I've never had crumpets. I like scones, though.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
So, are we ever going to talk about Saturday and Sunday? Or just let them take care of themselves? It just seems funny that we've put sooooo much planning into Friday, and almost none into the rest of the weekend.
As I understand it, we'll meet up with Arthur, The Tick, & Ticklet and Jaiden & Pod whenever a) they arrive at the hotel and b) we drag ourselves in Friday night. If either of those is too late, we'll hook up in the morning. I think we need full real names of whomever the room is registered under, so the desk will connect us to each other initially. Otherwise we could just say something like if we haven't found each other prior, meet in the hotel lobby at 9 AM.
("We" in previous paragraph refers to twinky and I, as we're the only other ones staying at the hotel.)
Then it seems we (all of the hotel contingent) have to meet up with non-hotel Saturday contingent (Teshi and Rei & EL, right?) and head off to the Science Center. What time are we going to want to do that? The Science Center is near the hotel, right? Should we just meet at the hotel? That way, also, non-hotel people can bring along a bag with, say, a swimsuit in it, and leave it in one of the rooms, in case we all want to go back and play in the pool after the Science Center. Or play games the rest of the night. I'm bringing Fluxx! And Chrononauts, if I can manage to pick up a copy this weekend.
Sunday we still seem very vauge on. I know the Ticks want to go to the zoo, and honestly I think that sounds like fun, but they will be the only ones with a car and it's been stated the zoo is hard to get to by public transportation. Could one of the locals maybe do a little research into how hard? We might end up spliting the group that day.
My flight leaves at 7:30 PM Sunday, and I think my confirmation said check in 90 minutes in advance for international flights, so I need to be back at the airport by 6:00. twink, when do you leave? It would be nice if we could head out together, but if not oh well. Oh! We should check check-out time at the hotel! That will be important to know...
Any other thoughts?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Logistically, would it be better to do the zoo Saturday, since it's further away and we wouldn't be as rushed for time, and then the Science Center Sunday? If we're doing the zoo as a group, of course.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
If we split up for the zoo, a couple of folks could ride with us. One would have to sit next to the kid seat, though. We're probably pretty flexible for the Science Centre. Thomas usually gets up around 8am, so some time after that for breakfast would work.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
What about a taxi? If there were a lot of us it might be affordable.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
ElJay:
I leave a bit after you, so we may as well head back to the airport together. As to Friday night, I think what we should do (after swapping names, that is) is you or I should call the evening arrivals from wherever we are (be that back at the hotel gaming or pooling with everyone or out teaching the non-dancers how to jive) sometime after we're expecting them to arrive. If this happens early enough that there's time to hang out en masse Friday night, great, but I'm not sure how likely this is. Either way we'll have made contact and can exchange room numbers.
WRT the Saturday-Sunday plans... hm. *ponders*
[ April 15, 2005, 02:22 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
If we're dancing, I figure we'll probably get back well after the evening arrivals get in. (I don't know how to jive either, incidentally.) So, yeah, they should let us know ETAs and we'll give a ring from wherever and find out how they're doing, get room numbers, and determine if they're likely to be awake when we get back.
I went to lunch right after that long post, and a co-worker asked me, like, three times why I just suddenly started grinning. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm really excited too. I'm particularly looking forward to meeting Ticklet. Maybe I'll be able to convince him that dinosaurs are awesome.
We've actually been given ETAs -- Clan Tick gets in sometime after 9 PM and Jaiden and Pod get in closer to midnight.
I meant "jive" sort of generically.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
I have a car, but I have zero to none Toronto driving experience, except for one trip on the 401 into Yorkdale Mall. So that's probably not very helpful. Unless there's not much highway driving involved to get to the zoo, in which case I can take four passengers.
My personal preference would be the zoo rather than the tower, since I just went up it last week, and while I found it cool, the zoo has way more to look at. Not that I'd mind the Tower, just the zoo is my preference.
Far as times go, Brent and I will be able to manage, but probably no earlier than 830am is a good thing, and maybe as late as 930am. When does the OSC open, anyway?
Have we thought at all about where we'll eat on Saturday evening, or for lunches? At the zoo/OSC/hotel?
I am scared of just "dancing", usually, and I certainly don't jive, but I can do ceili dances. The Gay Gordon is a favourite. /random
And does anyone else feel funny seeing "OSC" here?
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I pointed the fact that the Ontario Science Centre is oddly appropriate a while back... but no one seemed to care but me!
Hm. Dancing. Perhaps I can fake a broken leg...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
EL, I am experienced and confident driving in strange cities and highways, and if you are comfortable with me driving your car I am more than happy to, assuming that I am legal to do that on a US driver's license. (I believe I read that I am for up to 60 days in my preliminary checking into coming research, but would double check before doing so, of course.) If you are not comfortable with that, I understand completely and would not feel at all offended.
For Sunday, if we end up going to the zoo, could we check out of the hotel, throw our bags in the back of EL/The Tick's cars, and go and do whatever for the rest of the day? That would be helpful logistically... I'm sure the hotel would hold our bags for us, but it would kinda suck to have to go back and claim them.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Also: I feel no need at all to get an early start Saturday, that's no biggie. We'll make a call depending on what time we shut down Friday night. And the rest of the meals we can probably play by ear.
Also also: You both said you would try swing dancing! It's easy, honest! But of course no pressure. Or at least not much.
[ April 15, 2005, 04:42 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I want to put a smily here but there was no single one that expressed my feelings:
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
We'll see how it goes, ElJay. It's definitely worth considering. I'll have the chance for some more experience before then, so maybe I'll be okay. But my trunk isn't huge, so I don't know how much luggage I could fit. Well, seeing as it's only one weeknd, probably I can fit a lot.
Admission for the OSC is $14 for adults, $10 for under-17, and Ticklet is free. Parking is $8, and here's the transit directions. Open 10am to 5pm. The Science of rollercoasters is on, as is Environment Month, and the live reptile shows are on while we're there.
The Toronto Zoo is open 9am to 6pm. Here's directions by car and by transit, and it looks like the transit is actually not that bad. In particular, I think the Sheppard-Yonge stop would be good, since the subway stops there too (I think). Admission is $19, and free for Ticklet.
And I saw the CityPass whole looking around, and if we thought we would be doing more, it might be worthwhile - ROM, OSC, Zoo, Science Centre, CN Tower, and Casa Loma on one pass for $47.
Oooh, I'm getting so excited!
Edit: And I'll dance. Just be patient with me and I'm sorry if I step on anyone's toes.
[ April 15, 2005, 05:00 PM: Message edited by: Eaquae Legit ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
quote: The Science of rollercoasters is on, as is Environment Month, and the live reptile shows are on while we're there.
FABULOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I LOVE rollercoasters, and I missed that exhibit at our Science Museum last year! And reptiles! Little dinosaurs! Wonderful! I'm even MORE excited! I'm SO GLAD I decided to come!!!!!
WOOOOOOOO!
Um, sorry about all the exclaimation points.
But not very.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:And reptiles! Little dinosaurs!
[ April 15, 2005, 05:10 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
You left off the exclaimation point. It should be:
quote:
quote: And reptiles! Little dinosaurs!
Added: 'Cause if I'm going to be scolded, I want the exclaimation point in there.
[ April 15, 2005, 05:08 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Fixed.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Thank you.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:For Sunday, if we end up going to the zoo, could we check out of the hotel, throw our bags in the back of EL/The Tick's cars, and go and do whatever for the rest of the day? That would be helpful logistically... I'm sure the hotel would hold our bags for us, but it would kinda suck to have to go back and claim them.
This is a really good idea.
Also, I'm happy with whatever Saturday-Sunday arrangemetns people deem acceptable in terms of which day to go where.
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
I really enjoy swing dancing...even though I've only done it once...and the real source of enjoyment comes from knowing what to do with that music that I adore
[edit] this is what I get for reading the thread, then forgetting to refresh it before posting: a totally seemingly out of context post
[ April 15, 2005, 05:31 PM: Message edited by: ReikoDemosthenes ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Yay! Another dance fan! We'll reach critical mass yet. Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
ElJay and twinky: I just checked my flight time for when I leave, and it's at 7.10 PM on Sunday. So I could/should probably go with you as well, then.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Righty-o. We'll have to head to the airport around 5, then, maybe even a smidgen earlier...
Edit: You'll be leaving from Terminal 1, right? I guess that means 6 is still fine.
[ April 15, 2005, 06:09 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
I actually have no clue which terminal I'm leaving from...all I know is that it's with WestJet to Abbotsford, BC
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I believe Terminal 1 is pretty much all of the domestic flights.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I found Brownstone Bistro! I walked right past it on my first wander, too, despite the fact the letters proclaiming its name are fairly large and yellow (although attractive and "cool").
It looks like a very nice place; people inside, people outside and enough seats for a largeish group although we might want to reserve space ahead of time. It also looks fairly 'hip', as ElJay said, but also not overly so.
It's about ten-fifteen minutes walk from the RoM and is at the intersection of Gloucester Street and Yonge.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Cool. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
So... that's a "Yes that sounds like we should go there then."?
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Nice. Yes.
I'm so happy that this is all working out!
Exactly one week from now I will be in your company. I love hatrack!
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
In one week I will be real. I'm looking forward to knowing that I truthfully exist and not wondering that if this all a figment of an overactive imagination. Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I think you're a figment of a crumpet, if you catch my drift.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Nope, that drifted right past me.
"What?!"
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Yes, let's go there. And eat!
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Sorry. I just wanted to say crumpet.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Good. I'm glad that's settled.
Des:
[ April 15, 2005, 07:49 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
um, I know that this sounds weird, but if someone could actually make sure I eat something, I would be much obliged. I'll probably be okay, but maybe a little reluctant. Just warning you in advance.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Des, I will do that for you . But hopefully we'll be having so much fun you wont even notice what you're doing !
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Thank you. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
You know, I noticed the other day that all the other cons have spawned multiple planning threads, one about hotels, one about who's coming, one about activities, and usually a couple trying to get specific people's attention to make plans for the trip. This one, all the planning has been done in this one big thread. I wonder why that is?
Oh, and 5 days left!
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
Our ruthless Canadian efficiency. And we want everyone to think we're popular because we have a super long thread.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Our ruthless efficiency and our nice red uniforms.
No one expects a Royal Commission!
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
<bumpity bump bump bump>
Because it's 6 days!
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Oooh, getting so excited! Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
*cue The Maple Leaf Forever*
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
I don't suppose any of you local lot know of any good poster stores in the area, do you?
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
There are definately several, Rei. It depends where you mean, "in the area".
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
er...well, a place that would not be insanely out of the way to get to...which I'm just realising may be hard to predict...do you know roughly where they are and we can figure out once I'm out there if it is practical?
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I just checked the weather.
It's supposed to be a low of 1 and a high of 9, scattered showers. I was wishing it would be warm, but so be it.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Pfft. It's four days out. All that could change. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Rei: I know there's one somewhere on Yonge, but I'm not exactly sure where. There's a sort-of one further west down Bloor. I'm sure with a bit of research I could find the others... but I don't know if we'll be near them...
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
*nods* if we are, great...if not, c'est la vie
...and I leave in 3 days, 9hrs!
(yes...I'm at the "counting the hours" stage)
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
The weather looks okay to me. Not warm, but not frigid, and it looks like we won't get snow.
I'm still packing one pair of shorts. Hope springs eternal. But I will also pack my space pants and other jeans for practicality's sake.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Thomas is in California with his grandparents right now...that temperature will be a rude awakening for him.
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
oi...your weather is almost as bad as we had been having here, until yesterday. Stupid fickle weather...at least it's taken a turn for the much better, now.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
So it's going to be a little cool... big deal!
We'll still have fun. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Promise?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Yup. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Good. Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Get a room you two.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
We have one!
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
LOL
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Obviously I need to be more careful of what I say in this thread. You people... geez.
(Edit: Okay, okay, so maybe it was a little bit funny.)
[ April 18, 2005, 03:18 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I"m so excited Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Me too. I'm really looking forward to this weekend. I think it's going to be a ball. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I've notw finished my MediEVIL exam, so I can celebrate too, without feeling guilty!
It's such a shame about the weather. It's absolutely beautiful outside right now. I'm sure it won't dampedn our spirits at all but it's just annoying! Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Tomorrow it's supposed to be 26!!!
Time to break out the knee socks. I was SO warm today. I hate the uniform.
My homestay comes Wednesday
And I meet you all friday
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I used to wear knee socks when I was little. Probably because my dad does. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Heh heh.
I still have my grey knee-socks with the green holding-up things that was part of the girls' uniform in the Cubs pack I was in.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
School wool kneesocks. School wool tights. No other options.
Broken air conditioning. Long sleeved blouses/sweaters.
But I'm excited about coming there, too, even if it is a little chillier than planned.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*bump*
Day after tomorrow I'm going to Toronto!
And Teshi, assuming you meet twinky and me first, you will be the first person I have been one of the two required hatrackers to "make" real. I'm pretty excited about that. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Heh, well, if I meet Asta first before you and Twinky it might depend on who is walking faster or something.
Why are the exact criteria for being real? Is it sight? or do you actually have to talk?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I think "meeting" implies some sort of verbal introduction/confirmation of identity.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
So... if I refuse to talk I could be there the whole time and you'd never know for sure?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Yup. And then you would still not be real because none of us could be completely sure it was really you.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Is Asta real, though? She knows Dan, obviously, but wasn't there some doubt as to if she and Raja have actually met? I don't think she's really real until they meet and confirm that, or she meets another real hatracker. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Oooh, good point ! So I have to meet and talk to you and twinky before I am real. *reminds self to be in talkative mood*
I'm so excited!
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Or, if Dan comes, him and twinky, or if I stop at the corner to tie my shoe and twinky meets you, Asta, and Dan, then you'll both be real 'cause of the two of them. *laugh* As long as you talk enough to confirm your identity.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I can refuse, if you want, to talk until you arrive.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Astaril/Polly is real. I've met her once, though she wasn't a Hatracker at the time, and I think Dan had only just started posting. I'm not sure I even knew that Dan was posting yet (he kept it a secret from me for a while).
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I appreciate the offer, but that's okay. I don't need to manipulate reality ( ) for my own personal satisfaction, if I don't get to help make you real it'll happen with someone else sometime. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
(That was what twinky calls a "deadpan" joke)
But I would have not talked (or not revealed my identity, which sounds awfully spy-ish), if you were sufficiently wishing to end my non-realness... Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
quote: (That was what twinky calls a "deadpan" joke)
Oh.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
It's almost Wednesday! And Wednesday is practically Friday. Which means that since the con starts on Thursday for ME, it's essentially here already!
(The joys of engineering approximations... )
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
It starts pretty late Thursday, ya know.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'll worry about that on Thursday.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Technically, I think I'd be real anyway, since I've met EL before too. Though I'm not sure if we've really talked either. In any case, I'll be sure to rush, errr...rush the bus driver, so that I'll meet Teshi first and can watch twinky and ElJay race to be the second. Or something.
Right.
Hurrah for it being almost the weekend!
Edit: By the way, will you recognize me, or should I go find an online picture of myself somewhere? I guess this is aimed at twinky, since none of the rest of you have ever seen me. Hmm. Maybe I just answered my own question. I'll go look...
[ April 19, 2005, 02:15 PM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Picture!!!!!
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Heh. I found one online already, but BtL would *kill* me. I'll cut him out and post it.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Picture, or I won't be able to recognsie you if I get there first!
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
If it's the Halloween one I've already posted it here, so go nuts. Is it a FASS one? I don't think we were ever on stage together...
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
No, it's the Halloween one. Well, in that case, it's here. (I'm the one *without* the flowers.)
You should post one from FASS this year though anyway, Dan. I'm sure everyone could use a good laugh.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I wonder what Eric would think of that picture. I think it would reinforce the conclusions about you that he has already drawn, Dan.
This is probably the tenth time I've asked, but are you actually going to be at the con this weekend? Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
And if you are, will you be wearing the flowers so Teshi and I can recognize you?
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
As of yesterday, when I last spoke with Asta about it, I wasn't planning on coming. You, however, should know better about asking me what my plans are any time before I'm actually supposed to be somewhere. If I'm there, I'm coming. But if I don't come, don't expect me Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
That's what I figured, I just wanted confirmation that nothing was definite. Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Well, to be fair, I *did* have to coerce him into letting me do that to his face. But on the other hand, it really didn't take all that much effort...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
You did that, Polly? Great job!
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Thanks. (I used to be, well, let's underemphasize it and say 'mildly obsessed' with the musical Cats.) So, Dan, do you want to borrow the flowers if you come Friday then? I mean, it would definitely make things easier for recognizing people.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
So if it was Halloween, what were you dressed up as?
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
She had planned on bring a Christmas tree, but wound up going as someone who had spent too much time doing somebody else's makeup and so had to throw on something at the last second.
As for the flowers, you know it wouldn't make much coercing, but didn't they not survive the ceilidh?
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
We were so close to getting the tree outfit all glued/pinned together in time too. Ah well, your face was worth it. The medieval garb was probably easier to dance in anyway.
And no, I still have the flowers. They're fine. So that means you'll wear them? Well, now you *have* to come.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Tomorrow Sachi comes.
3 days!!!
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I'm using twink's method of estimation... as far as I'm concerned, it's basically tomorrow.
Which means I should pack!
Which means I should finish the laundry!
Oh dear...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Tomorrow! Tomorrow I will be in Canada! And then the next day the Con 'officially' begins, and I will be meeting all of you fun people! Yay!
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Have you packed and finished the laundry?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Um.
<_<
>_>
I put the last load of laundry in the dryer before I left for work.
And I got out my duffel bag! That's progress!
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
But really, I really hope it's not raining tonight, 'cause I want to mow the lawn before I leave, too. It's been a wet Spring, and the grass is just going crazy.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I've already decided what 'm going to wear (pretty much)
Except for the shirt. I'm deciding between my bright blue one or my Eat the Rich one.
It's a hard decision!
And the weather's looking up: high 15, low 4. Scattered showers.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I'm sure it is tough.
I have a general idea of what i'm going to pack. But I do have to pack tonight, 'cause I'm not going home tomorrow after work before going to the airport.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I'll remind you...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*grin* Okay. Around 7:00 your time would be good. I should be home and have the lawn mowed by then.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
What time zone are in? (forgot about all that time zone stuff!)
I'll be sure to remind you... don't want you have to be wearing twinky's clothes all weekend! Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*LAUGH*
I think my hips are a bit bigger than twinky's.
I'm in Central, so I made the change for you... 7:00 Eastern would be good.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Only a little bit... and your shoulders may be a bit smaller.
I think that it'd be fine..
grrrr... I got the flood protection THREE TIMES on this. and then it double posted.
[ April 20, 2005, 09:16 AM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Hmmmm.... I do like that sunshine shirt he's wearing in one of his foobonic pics...
But with you reminding me to pack, I'm sure it won't be an issue.
Besides, if I did forget anything, that would be an excuse to shop, not to steal from my roommate. Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
That's true... but won't you go shopping anyways? We need excuse now?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Ohhh, I like you!
I apparently do need to get a Canada Kicks Ass t-shirt, at least!
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
What can I say. However much I deny it, I'm a girly girl at heart. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Nothing wrong with that. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Let's review.
Thursday night I'm meeting ElJay at the airport and we are making our way to the hotel. On Friday we'll get on the bus->subway and meet Astaril and Teshi (and maybe BtL!) circa 1 PM at the Greyhound terminal, which is a few blocks' walk from the Bloor-Yonge subway station. We will cavort around downtown Toronto until 5 PM or so, when we will meet Des, Sachi, RD, and EL in front of the ROM. Then we will have dinner at the cool place Teshi scoped out, take in all the dinosaurs we can see at the ROM, and then ElJay, RD, and myself will attempt to persuade everyone else to go swing dancing at a place the fine folks over at the Lindy Hopper forums recommend (the Reservoir Lounge, which is downtown on Wellington street near Yonge). Des and Sachi won't be able to come because they're leaving early (9 PM or so, right Des?), so we will cry bitter tears but do our best to carry on. At maybe 10 PM we'll call the hotel to see if Clan Tick has arrived. At maybe 12 AM we'll call the hotel again to see if Jaiden and Pod have arrived. We will coordinate plans for meeting on Saturday morning and then when our feet are just too tired to dance anymore we will disperse (taking Teshi home first if it's late) and then retire.
If the dancing is ultimately voted down, just replace it with everyone going back to the hotel to play games.
Then on Saturday morning we convene and make for the Science Centre. Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Sounds about right, dude.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Okay. I'll email you and Jaiden when I get home from work so we can all swap reservation info (like, say, last names) so that we'll be able to reach one another in the hotel.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Perfect. Exactly right. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Desde, you should give your cell phone number to someone, too, so if we don't meet up easy we can call you.
I nominate not me. I don't do well with phone numbers. Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Who wants it? Cellphone number up for auction.
Do I hear twinky?
What about Asta?
Soooomebody else?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Just put in a qualification here that it's for the highest bidder who's attending the con. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'll take it. I'll write it down and then memorize it in case I lose it.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
at Eljay.
Twinky, it's sent to the e-mail in your profile.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
If you want to send it to me also, I can program it into my phone so I definitely won't lose it.
mightytick at gmail dot com
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Got it. Replied.
Tick and Jaiden, you have email from me as well regarding hotel reservations.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I won't see you, Tick. Your flight gets in after I have to go home. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
See, this is the only thing about this whole con that I'm unhappy with. Astaril, Des, and Sachi won't get to meet Clan Tick, Jaiden, or Pod.
Teshi, ElJay and I will have to be cool enough to make up for it, I suppose. Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
That's right, there's a severe lack of cell-phone-having at this gathering.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Possibly because cellphones are the devil.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Cellphones are a necessity.
Do Astaril/EL/the other person who's coming that I can't remember have cellphones?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I don't think so, no.
I despise cellphones. When I have a car I'll get a pay-as-you-go and leave it in the glove box for emergencies, but that's about it. When I leave my place it means I am doing something fun and do not wish to be reached.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Heh. I like it so if one of us has Thomas the other is reachable in an emergency. Also, Jen's car is a magnet for people who don't stop at stop signs and red lights. Cellphone + Broadband = No more being beholden to Verizon.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
See, I have no qualms about letting it go to voicemail if I don't feel like talking. Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
My cell doesn't have voicemail. I normally just use text messages- I hate all phones. I hate talking on the phone. I sound like I'm 10!!
EDIT: speeling
[ April 20, 2005, 05:38 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I absolutely concede that cellphones are useful, but for me -- and I've had one before, it was my only phone for four months on one of my co-op terms, so I know what I'm missing -- the disadvantages outweigh the advantages such that I'm not interested in paying for one.
Heck, if the phone in my apartment starts ringing off the hook, I'd be liable to just shut the ringer off and let the answering machine pick everything up. If someone wants to do something spontaneous with me, they are welcome to come knock on my door.
I'm probably showing my age here (heh), but there's a fundamental disconnect between me and text messaging. I just don't get it. I mean, I more or less understand the principles, but if I was going to do that sort of thing I'd try to get set up with a Blackberry so I could use real email. But really, when I'm out in the world I just want to be out in the world. These days I'm actually not even taking my iPod or GBA with me a lot of the time.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
I'm with you on the text messaging. Ugh.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Old people.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I dislike cell phones and text messages for all the usual reasons.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
quote:Old people.
Yeah. On the one hand I feel young; I actually feel like I'm too young to be out in the workforce doing the job I'm doing full-time and earning full-time dollars for doing it. But on the other hand I feel old, because I just don't get stuff like text messaging, which is ubiquitous among people a mere few years my junior.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Oh, darn. I missed the cell-phone number auction.
No, I don't have one. All phones are the devil, and the portable kind are the worst of them all. Funny, normally everyone's *against* me on this debate.
Anyway, yeah, it really is too bad that I can't meet the rest of you, but firstly, there's no way I can afford a hotel and secondly, I have a whooooole lot o' work to do this weekend, that's technically supposed to be done by Friday. Heh. Oops. But I'll be sure to think of you having fun for the rest of the weekend while I sit in my windowless lab scraping dirt off of fox-bones with a toothbrush. Not that I'm jealous...
[ April 20, 2005, 06:10 PM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*amused at all the young'uns*
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Wow, I'll never think of my job as boring again, even when there's nothing to do but post to Hatrack.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
^agrees
and I thought that school was boring.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Are you making fun of *my* job??? But it's so interesting! And I'm not even being sarcastic! I actually love it. And I don't just clean bones; I get to identify and catalogue them too! But no, really, it is pretty cool. I get to do other stuff, like draw up site maps and work with all sorts of Northern artifacts. And even the bones are neat, because you get to see all the pathologies, and see what they were eating at certain sites, and once in a while you find other artifacts in with it, amber beads or whatnot. Admittedly, this might still sound kind of boring, but it's really fascinating when you know about the context of it all! Honest!
Okay, I'm done now. Just had to make sure you all knew my job is cool on the inside, at least. And we all know it's the inside that counts. (Although I really do wish there were windows...)
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I was joking, if you couldn't tell. I could never do that, though- I would go stir-crazy within an hour.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
ELJAY!!! GET PACKING, YOU!!!!
I was out, okay? Sorry for not reminding you earlier.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I think Asta's job sounds pretty awesome. A lot better than caring for and creating games and teaching small screaming children!
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I have commenced packing operations. Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Hatrack isn't entertaining me tonight...
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Yes, it's been rather slow.
And distractions are welcome, because studying political terms isn't fun!
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*shifty eyes*
Chocolates bought, lawnmower fixed, lawn mowed, flowerbeds cleaned, debris bagged and out for the trash, laundry done, kitchen trash out...
And I'm, um, going to the mall.
*runs out of thread*
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
PACK!
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
... packing, Eljay? As I siad before, we really DON'T need an excuse to go shopping...
EDIT; And I, for oone, dont want to see you in twinky's clothes...
[ April 20, 2005, 08:51 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
slow hatrack = me Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm mostly packed. I've been packing intermittently between bouts of other stuff. Since I'm only bringing a backpack, it's not like I have much to worry about.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
<---- me, excited!
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
^^what she said.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Me, too. I actually *thought* about the clothes I'm wearing/bringing, which is pretty much a first. Ultimately, though, my pragmatic side triumphed over my nascent fashion sense as a consequence of the space constraints involved. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Well, we appreciate you *thought* ( ) about what you were going to wear, even if you were thwarted by practicality.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
So I wonder if ElJay has packed yet...
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Whoa. People pack more than an hour before they go somewhere?? Weird. I imagine I'll pack (as in, grab my wallet and a book to read on the bus) about, oh, ten minutes before I go. The joys of day-tripping.
I just finished some more hours at work, and now I get to go home, work more in the morning, go for acupuncture (gah!), then study and write my **LAST UNIVERSITY EXAM EV-ER!** (Who, me? Ecstatic? Nooo.) tomorrow night, and then get up and go meet you all! I must be excited; I'm onto counting activities left. (I'm too lazy to count hours like everyone else.)
Oh, and, yes, I knew you weren't *really* making fun of my job, but I'll take any excuse to wax enthusiastic about, well, anything.
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
Last exam? Meh. Been there. Done that.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I will. In just a moment. See, it's not quite the last minute yet...
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote: When I have a car I'll get a pay-as-you-go and leave it in the glove box for emergencies, but that's about it.
twink, I don't know about Canada, but in the US you can get one-time-fee emergency cell phones. (Oh look! They cover a bit of Canada. But you probably have better choices.)
Oh, and ElJay? Pack.
Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
mwahahahaha!
I will wait to send the email I owe ElJay until just after she departs!
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Hmmmmm.
I've decided what I'm gonna pack. 'Zat count?
Okay, I'm gonna go pack. Geeze.
And fugu? Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
Why thank you ElJay Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Hmpf.
Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
(waiting is aided by the fact that I'm far too sleepy right now to write a decent email)
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
So, how many pairs of shoes ya suppose a girl needs for three days?
Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
Considering I had 3 pairs of shoes and a pair of sandals with me for a 3 day model EU conference (1 pair sneakers, 1 pair brown dress shoes, 1 pair black dress shoes, and they were some very nice utopian rope sandals from East Wind, plaid's previous intentional community), I'd say at least that many.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Goodness, an enabler!
Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
Given what I understand about your collection, I think you've already found ample catalyst
However . . .
*enables ElJay*
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
quote: Given what I understand about your collection, I think you've already found ample catalyst
I'm sure I have no idea what you could be talking about.
Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
*goes to bed content in the knowledge ElJay will have taken exactly as many shoes as is appropriate for her*
edit: <--- also has an addictive personality
[ April 21, 2005, 12:42 AM: Message edited by: fugu13 ]
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
I have a cell (well, my mom's). The number is up for auction as well.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Okay, I think everything that I won't need in the morning is now packed.
Thank you all for your indulgence. Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
Think nothing of it, I've been using this delightful conversation as a periodic break from writing boilerplate code for next year's gradebook application.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Whoops! Forgot a swimsuit. That's an awfully nice looking pool...
Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
On a completely unrelated note, everybody should make sure to bring cameras, the more pictures the better.
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
aaaand...I'm off to sleep so I can be up in four hours to be at the airport!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
fugu is absolutely correct. Pictures WILL be posted early next week, neh?
Well?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I knew this would happen!
You know how sometimes you come instantly wide awake just minutes before the alarm is supposed to go off? Woke up this morning feeling bright and chipper, figure it must be just about time to get up... roll over and see it's 4:00 AM. Haven't been back to sleep since. I would have had plenty of time to pack had I waited!
Not that I'm not excited to see y'all, but I could've used the extra two hours of sleep.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Does it weird anyone else out that people who aren't coming are reading the thread?
Also, I had to pack last night because I'm leaving almost straight from work today.
Edit: EL, if you send me your cell number (address in profile) I'll add it to my list.
[ April 21, 2005, 07:06 AM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
quote: Does it weird anyone else out that people who aren't coming are reading the thread?
Yes.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Geez, I have to spend a day at work now? Bah! Oh well, at least I have things I can do. Time to learn all about my benefits plan... between bouts of Hatrack, that is.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I just tried to log into my secure work systems with my Hatrack ID.
[ April 21, 2005, 08:10 AM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Will you be able to nap on the plane?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Possible, but not likely. I'll probably be pretty wired.
(The mistake wasn't due to fatigue, I feel fine. Just distracted. )
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Oh. Okay.
(*bouncebouncebouncebounce*)
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I went to check in and print my boarding pass on-line, and apparently you can only do that for flights originating in Canada. That seems somewhat silly.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
You can do that?
[ April 21, 2005, 08:37 AM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Well, yeah. Most airlines are up to 24 hours in advance, but Air Canada seems to be only 12 in advance and only for flights originating in the country. It's really nice, when you get to the airport you just go straight to security if you don't have to check bags.
[ April 21, 2005, 08:39 AM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
How did I not know about this? And here I've been using the express check-in kiosks all this time, thinking I was all smart and stuff since I hardly ever see anyone else using them. But now I know better! Those people were just printing their own boarding passes, and walking past me laughing to themselves about how stupid I am...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
So, ya gonna go check in?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm actually not sure that I want to do it this way. I like real boarding passes. But the least I can do is complete the first few stages of the online check-in process just to see how it works...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Suuuuuuure.
Added: I suppose you like real concert tickets, too? You know you can just print those out too, right?
[ April 21, 2005, 08:50 AM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Well, checking in at the Sarnia "airport" is hardly an issue. The plane only seats 16 or 18 people and is rarely totally full.
Edit: Yes, I do like real concert tickets. You can get them signed by the band.
I like VIA Rail's system, actually. When you print your confirmation stuff it has a bar code that you can scan at the station to check in and get your ticket. I think that's a good system. And besides, I'm already paying a bunch for the ticket, Air Canada damn well ought to supply the paper!
[ April 21, 2005, 08:53 AM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*amused* Just listened to a message from my father asking if I want to meet for coffee tomorrow afternoon. Um, no. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote: Does it weird anyone else out that people who aren't coming are reading the thread?
No, not really. I'm used to it by now.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm torn between and Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I caved and checked in online. That's pretty cool. Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
One more day!
Anybody know offhand how much the tickets are for the ROM special exhibit? The ROM site is not getting along with my computer and I can't seem to find out, and I'm about to head to the bank to get out money for tomorrow.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I just went and got my blechy allergy shot, which sucked even more than normal, but I sat and read about Toronto while I was waiting to see if I'd survive, so that was fun. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I actually think it's been posted to this thread, but I don't know where. Looks like $10 from what I can see on the site.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Hmm. I'm about to go for acupuncture, maybe I'll try that to distract myself too... Glad to know you're taking precautions in case you're allergic to any of us though. Wouldn't want that to spoil your weekend.
Edit: Hmm. Yeah, I guess I could have thought to read through the thread again to find out, eh... Thanks!
[ April 21, 2005, 11:24 AM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
*wonders where the allergist got the little bits of Canadian hatrackers to build up my resistance*
*decides I don't want to know*
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
*studies politics*
*bounce*
EDIT: The Weather Network says it's going to rain all weekend! Isn't that just peachy.
<---- spirits not dampened.
[ April 21, 2005, 11:38 AM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm totally scoping transit options around Toronto (between Pearson and the Crowne Plaza, for instance). Should keep me quite agreeably occupied until lunchtime in about 20 minutes.
Edit: My spirits are not, er, dampened either. I thoughtfully packed an umbrella.
[ April 21, 2005, 11:39 AM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I fixed my umbrella yesterday.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm still hopeful, though. I also packed shorts. Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Yikes... I can't read 17 pages that fast. Can someone enlighten me?
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
EDIT: I was wrong on many counts.
[ April 21, 2005, 11:57 AM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm flying to Toronto from Sarnia tonight, as is ElJay [Edit: ElJay is not flying from Sarnia. She is flying from America. Just so we're clear on that.]. Tomorrow we're meeting Astaril and Teshi at the Bay Street bus terminal at 1 PM, and then we're meeting ReikoDemosthenes (who has flown in all the way from BC!), Eaquae Legit, Desdemona and her homestay Sachi in front of the ROM at about 5 PM. We'll get tickets to the special dinosaur exhibition, then go have dinner before going to see said exhibition. Then we'll ("we" being everyone who can/wants to) either go out dancing or back to the hotel to play games/swim.
Friday evening, TheTick, his wife Arthur, and their small child Ticklet are coming, as are Pod and Jaiden. We'll get in touch with them by phone to make arrangements to meet Saturday morning and sort out what time we want to go to the Science Centre.
Then I think on Sunday the current plan is to go to the zoo.
Edit: Teshi beat me.
[ April 21, 2005, 12:05 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
A broader overview:
A bunch of Hatrackers are gathering in Toronto this weekend. There are activites planned for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Wanna come play?
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Point on the swimming, I don't have a bathing suit with me in Toronto so swimming is not an option for me. However, I'll bring my camera and be poolside photographer...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
You should have said something sooner! I could have packed and extra or three! I could still swing by home on the way to the airport...
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Buy one. ElJay and Desdemona might be doing some shopping anyway.
Also, you didn't need to remove the content of that post. I thought it was pretty clear.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Nope, it's really fine . Thanks for offering, though!
EDIT: About the post, I had all names mixed up, so I deleted it.
And I'm really tempted to go buy one because I love to swim, but... money... time... I have no idea where to... many factors...
When I came to Toronto, I was like "Ha, no way I'll need my bathing suit!"
[ April 21, 2005, 12:07 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
I would be fun to come out and be "real" at under 100 posts... but I'm not sure I can swing it. (I don't know how large the 'ticklet' is but trying to bring the "miriya-lings" to the ROM and having a coherent conversation with anyone is probably impossible)
The science centre on saturday might be do-able... any idea when you'll be there?
[ April 21, 2005, 12:11 PM: Message edited by: Miriya ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Not yet. But if you email me a contact number for you (my email address is in my profile), I or someone else can call you as soon as we *do* know. I have a list of people's cellphone numbers in case there are delays and/or mishaps.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Ticklet is under two, and won't be there for the Musuem Friday. I think we'll be getting a relatively early start (for people on Holiday) Saturday, and then having "unstructured time" afterwards when we're done. The Science Center, I believe, opens at 10.
It would be great to meet you! Reality is fun, honest!
Added: And to meet the miriya-lings! How many are there, and how old?
[ April 21, 2005, 12:08 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I'm going into meetings soon, and then heading out, so this will probably be my last post.
twinky, see you in about 8.5 hours. I'm wearing dark blue jeans and a long-sleeved black t-shirt. I will be clearly labeled for easy identification.
The rest of you, see you Friday/Saturday! I'm excited, can't wait... Oh, and Astaril... I spoke with the chocolatier today, and the medallions I bought are, in fact, vegan. The truffles, obviously, aren't.
Miriya, I hope you make it!
YAY!
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
What kind of t-shirt has long sleeves? I thought "t-shirt" implied short sleeves? Maybe I just have an "old media" view of shirts...
Anyway, like I said, big silver headphones. And I think I'll be able to meet you right at the gate.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
T-shirts with long sleeves are usually called "long-sleeved t-shirts", and they've been called that as long as I can remember...
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Huh. I see. I would just call such a thing a "shirt," with no modifiers.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
They aren't nearly as common for guys as they are for the ladies, that may have something to do with your lack of long sleeved t-shirt knowledge. I have one, but I got it at a surf shop back home, that was the last guys long sleeved t-shirt I've seen.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
I doubt you'll get this in time, but have a great flight, ElJay, and see you tomorrow! Oh, and regarding the vegan chocolate? You **rock**.
Have a good flight too, twinky, if I don't post again before you leave. I'll be wearing....uhhh....haven't thought about it. Let's see. *goes to look in closet* Ah, I'll make it easy. Rainbow-ish shirt, jeans with flowers, and a funky jacket. Probably a backpack too.
Oh, and if something goes freakishly wrong, and I don't get off the bus, I'll be on the next one, which gets in at 2:00. I'm sure it won't happen, but just in case.
I'm getting excited. I'm getting out of KW! And meeting all of you! And seeing dinosaurs! What could make a better day??
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Hm. I have a shirt that I got at a Radiohead show. I guess it could be called a "long-sleeved t-shirt."
Edit: Thanks, Polly. I will almost certainly be wearing a navy t-shirt that shows Godzilla trashing Tokyo on the front. The Godzilla is distressingly cute. The scene is white on the navy background.
[ April 21, 2005, 01:16 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
I don't know if that'll be clear enough. I've seen a lot of things that resemble Godzilla in Toronto bus stations. Oh! You mean a *picture*. Those are *people* I'm thinking of... Well, shouldn't be a problem then. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
This is the t-shirt. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Yeah, that's kind of stretching the definition of "Godzilla".
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Ha ha ha! Nice! I think I've seen that before somewhere. BtL might have shown it to me. I don't really have a picture of mine, but I'm sure you'll find me. Or someone else (ie. Teshi) will. Or else I'll sit on a bench looking despondent like Anne of Green Gables because nobody wants me. Well, actually, I'd probably *hope* nobody wants me in that case, so maybe I wouldn't be too despondent after all. Being propositioned by strangers in bus stations is kind of creepy.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
It's growing on me. I bought the shirt for the "Tokyo Police Cataclysm Division" on the back, but I'm liking the front more and more. Definitely my current favourite shirt. I'm actually stealth-wearing it right now, under a snappy-looking sweater. Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
I don't think I've seen that one before. You really have a thing for funny t-shirts, don't you? Fine then, if I come I'll have to come wearing something new and fancy as well. Or just those flowers. Y'know, whichever.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Funny coincidence...this thread had me checking out WRV's site, and they have a 'Toronto' thermal.
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
And Asta, check yer mail! Do I have rehearsal tonight or now?
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Are you coming? Or is it still too early to ask? We are down to less than a day, and I'd like to know if I should fix these flowers up tonight or not.
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
Those flowers deserve to fixed regardless of whether or not I come. It largely depends on how much work I get done today and what I feel like half an hour before the bus leaves Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I wonder why they're called "Toronto thermals?"
I bought the TPCD shirt as part of a birthday gift to myself (the other part was a receiver and 5.1 speaker setup).
A lot of my t-shirts say stuff or have pictures or whatever. I do have some "plain" shirts too, and my fashion choices in this regard are generally context-dependent (i.e. should I wear the sunshine shirt, which contains profanity, home to visit my folks? No.).
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I have no idea what I'll be wearing, other than probably my pretty generic navy-blue and white spring jacket.
Oh! I'll wear my colourful backback. It's sort of mexican looking and largely purple.
We should have arranged to wear pink carnations or something.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Hmm. My rifle mail alert appears to be not working again. Anyway, go check your mail. Because I feel like making you work for an answer you could find out yourself, so I'm not going to post it here.
(Edit: To BtL, if it wasn't obvious.)
[ April 21, 2005, 01:36 PM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
I'm checking my mail. Nothing. Let's see, 10% of nothing is...
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Well, nothin'... over nothin'... carry the... nope, still nothin'.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
My massage therapist's name is Jayne. I always think of that. I should ask her if she's seen it.
Hmm. Maybe my "send" button isn't working either today. But it's in my sent folder...as of Thu, 21 Apr 2005 13:35:14 -0400 (EDT).
Fine. Yes, you're in the 1:00 plots. And are you coming here this afternoon?
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I need a massage therapist. But first I must enroll in the company benefits plan! *eyes envelope on desk*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*idly wonders if the jatraqueros gathering in Toronto will run into the group from another board, also gathering this weekend in Toronto*
*wonders if either would notice*
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I know of another group (from another board I frequent) that is getting together this weekend -- part of the time in London, but they're going to Toronto one day, I think.
I just find it incredibly amusing that the two groups could potentially meet. Or more likely, walk blithely past each other.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
In a city of four million people, I suspect it's unlikely. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Don't deflate my silly fantasies! Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
My meeting got out early.
twinky, it's actually a long-sleeved hooded t-shirt, but I didn't want to be confusing.
Asta, I couldn't remember if you had said dark or light, so I got 71%. Hope you like it.
Now I have 38 minutes left at work...
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
"Long-sleeved hooded t-shirt"
o_O
...okay. O_o
38 minutes?!? That's less time than *I* have left. I have 65 minutes. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Yeah, but I have to check in 2 hours in advance of my flight. That whole different-country thing. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Mmmmmmmmm. Chocolate. The darker the better in my opinion, but it's all chocolatey goodness to me. Did I mention you rock? I think I did, but I'll mention it again. Hey, Eljay! You rock!
It's going to be a long 38 minutes from the sounds of it! Me, I've got 3 hours of studying left for this exam. I really don't feel like doing it anymore. (Honestly, I don't know what I'm doing studying more than an hour before an exam anyway. I'm totally destroying all my traditions.)
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
(*bouncebouncebouncebouncebounce*)
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
5 minutes left! Have a nice flight, ElJay!
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I still have to wait through 34 minutes of "work..." *bounces impatiently*
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Thanks, Astaril! *huge grin*
See ya soon, twinky!
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm leaving now. I'll see you people tomorrow! Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Have a nice flight, and have fun tonight! Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Have fun, kids. Take pictures!
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Hey Teshi, I have a bunch of bathing suits here that you could borrow for the weekend... (1-piece, 2-ppiece etc) if you want!
*bouncebouncebouncebouncebounce
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Bye!
So, who's left here?
EDIT: Des, although I might fit your bathing suits and I really appreciate your offer I'll be fine .
[ April 21, 2005, 04:29 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
I'm still here. Studying like you.
Only...17.5 hours 'til I leave!! Somehow that's just not as exciting as "5 minutes" was for them.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I"m still here... doing homework. And watching TV. And doing stuff with Sachi.
I'm so bored.
Teshi, are you sure? I own about 10 bathing suits, so it's not like I'll miss it.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
If we didn't swim on Friday, how would I return it to you? You're only coming on Friday, right?
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Right. Whoops.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Thanks for offering though! I'm sure I'll find a use for myself while everyone else is frolicking in the pool!
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Anyone still home? I don't know how to find folks yet.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Friday night: Outside the ROM At 5.
Have dinner, travel back tot the ROM.
Only strictly planned/timed day. twinky is the big planner, and he left a while ago. They'll figure out a place to meet you when/if you come.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Well, I am officially finished university (I hope). What a weird feeling. And tomorrow will be my first guilt-free-from-school day in a year and a half! Let the fun begin!!!!
Edit: Whoa! And I think this is like the 6th page in this thread where I've had the top post. Also weird. (Though I guess there *is* only about 8 of us posting in it...)
[ April 21, 2005, 08:18 PM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by Ryuko (Member # 5125) on :
Have fun you guys!
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
grrrrr. I just went on a bike ride that was supposed to last an hour. I end up going down to lakeshore (which we were supposed to do), and trying to go back up the Humber River. Somehow, we end up circling grenadier pond, and get all muddy, and just get home. And it's DARK! It was 3 HOURS!!!
But it was my fault... Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Edit: I was sick at 5:30am when I wrote this, but now I'm better so I'm still coming. (Don't worry, it's not contagious!) My, but the last 12 hours were more confusing than they should have been!
See you soon.
[ April 22, 2005, 09:37 AM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by Arthur (Member # 4026) on :
we have arrived. we are in roon 256
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
they're still out on the town... but Sachi and I are home. We had a great time at the ROM, looking at 1125 million-year old eggs that look like beans. And confusasours. And ElJay in leather pants. (KIDDING!) I had a really great time meeting you guys, and I wish I was here tomorrow and the next day to see you again!
Dinner at the Brownstone was absolutly divine. Yum Yum. Polly had "pizza," Victoria had kebobs, twinky had a greek salad, EL had pasta, Brenton had pizza, and Sachi and I had salad.
<-- me sad I had to leave, but happy to have met you all.
Pictures are uploading at the moment.
And twinky, you are now officially my idol for being so good-natured through all the jokes that I aimed at you. And plus, you have a cool shirt. I liked Liza's as well.
Being real feels funny. I think I like it.
EDIT: I now have some alts... anyone want to guess? There is the obvious, but there are some others that will come out in due time.
[ April 22, 2005, 11:04 PM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Well, I'm home now too. Thanks for a fun day, everyone! It was great to meet you all and I'm glad I made it. Hope the rest of the weekend is even more fun. I expect to hear stories!
Oh, and Des, I happened to meet up with and sit next to a philologist-in-training friend of mine on the bus home, and we figured that the Bambi might be related to the Italian bambino (child), so the whole name could mean "child-snatcher" and not be Disney-fied at all.
And yes, I have to agree that twinky *was* pretty good-natured, what with the whole pizza thing and all too...
Thanks for getting me back on the bus as well. Now, I'm off to sleep while you're all dancing your hearts out (ie. showing off your new skills, Teshi) or playing cards at the hotel, or whatever you're doing.
Happy rest of the weekend!
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
*cough*
*shifty eyes*
I didn't dance, but had a great time .
...Twinky and ElJay did though .
Tick, Arthur et al, we're meeting at the Science Centre at Noon tomorrow, although I'm sure Twinky and ElJay will get in contact with you. Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
psh... no matter what they say, *I* still say it was named after bambi.
EDIT:: That was FUNNY! the whole pizza thing...
[ April 23, 2005, 07:16 AM: Message edited by: Desdemona ]
Posted by Polly's Pizza (Member # 7875) on :
I was funny, wasn't I? I mean, twinky was so embarrassed. It made me laugh. still does, actually. Feel that tingly felling in your stomach, Polly? That's me laughing.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Oh, is that what that feeling was all night!? And here I thought it was just indigestion. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Everyone has now dispersed. Rei and ElJay left from Terminal 2 and I'm here on a lame internet terminal. I'll head over to Terminal 1 in a bit but I have all kinds of time so it's no big deal.
Aweseome weekend.
Des, great pics!
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Woo, what a great weekend. I am home, and exhausted!
Safe travelling, everyone!
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
EDIT: Actually, nevermind.
[ April 24, 2005, 08:06 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
it's all over... Anyone who has pics, put them up! I'm so excited to see all them.
And if anyone wants to do a little research, and figure out conclusivly if there is a different fork for cesear (I can't spell that!) salad, regular salad, and dinner, I am still curious.
EL, glad you're home okay How was Satuday, and Sunday, everyone? I was at my cottage yesterday and today (and it poured rain. I'm afriad Sachi now hinks that it always rains in Canada)
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I'm working on pictures/commentary, which should be up... well, when it's done.
I expect the others are still either in the air or driving .
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
well, HURRY! I got MINE up quickly.
I'm still giggling about that whole night. You jatraquero/a's are funny.
EDIT: oh, and Teshi, do you have AIM/MSN/Yahoo?
[ April 24, 2005, 10:00 PM: Message edited by: Bambiraptor ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I am TeshiEvans on AIM, but I cannot talk right now, or you'll never get the pictures!
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
We are home. Thomas and Mommy slept most of the way and are zonked out now also. Lots of fun had, pictures and more details tomorrow (later tonight maybe for the pictures, we've got a few fun ones).
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I'm home!
A huge mega-thanks again to EL for getting me to the airport... it turned out my flight was cancelled, but they got me on the 5:30 one instead that they were holding back because of the 7:30 cancellation. They stopped switching tickets for it while I was still standing at the counter getting my boarding pass printed, so that was incredible timing. Otherwise I would have been at the airport for another 4 or 5 hours.
I'll post more later... just wanted to let y'all know I made it. And had SUCH a wonderful time! So glad to meet all of you! You're fabulous!
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I just got home. I'll change the thread title in a minute, but I think a more substantive (and coherent) post will have to wait until tomorrow.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Oh, and
quote:Bambiraptor
So awesome.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I'm glad people are getting home safely, despite hiccups .
I swear I'm working on the pictures!
*battles with html*
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
I'll have mine up in a few minutes. If anyone needs hosting, I've got an album set up for pictures.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Can't wait to see more pictures! Des, your's are fun!
[ April 25, 2005, 12:17 AM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
A few minutes! Gosh, I guess I'll just have to stay up then. Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Well, what convenient timing to get home and check Hatrack. Hi everybody! How was the rest of the weekend?
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
Others can fill in some of the other events, but it's a start. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
This one is just too cool for words. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
I must be really tired because I posted this in the wrong thread!
Anyway: Pictures. It's crude, but it works, except for the "next picture" option, and the video links. Eh.
Any complaints about spelling and grammar, muddled details, missed details, unintentional insults, terrible photography (it was terrible, no idea why!) and other such things will be dealt with in the morning.
Sorry about any html glitches etc. it's NOT my strong point!
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
I'm glad you got pictures of the stuff we missed. I'm heading to bed, as soon as I put more clothes in to wash. Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
yay for pictures! I'll try to get mine up early this week when I get my head in one place for the most part. But thanks to everyone, it was a spectacular weekend! Posted by Pod (Member # 941) on :
You made this thread hard enough to find Twink Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Yeah, you'd think I like being difficult or something. Great pics, everyone!
[ April 25, 2005, 07:25 AM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Great pics, everyone! Teshi, I love your commentary, too! Worth the wait. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Pod, I thought you took way more pics than that. Are the others redundant? Did they not turn out well? I don't imagine it's a hosting issue because you were saying that you've got massive amounts of bandwidth and storage, but on the off chance it is I have plenty of space at the moment and I never go near my site's bandwidth limits.
Miriya, I'm sorry we missed you. There just wasn't much time between when I realized you lived in Toronto (on the map thread) and when I left for the gathering (and thus went incommunicado). Next time we will give you more notice. Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Nice pictures, everyone! Teshi, your commentary is great. I had actually almost forgotten about the bird attack... So I guess I'm the only one who has to wait until they finish their film, and get it developed in the old-fashioned way, eh? I'll try to find someone with a scanner afterwards so I can post them. I only took a few anyway.
Glad the rest of the weekend was fun! True to my word, I thought about you all several times while sitting in the lab Saturday and Sunday and wondering what antics you were up to just then. Next time I'll come for the whole thing if I'm still around!
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Yay! Pictures!
My favourite of yours, Pod, is the stairwell one .
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
Glad everyone's home safely.
I wish that I got more pictures...
Teshi, I look very odd in the one picture you have of me... Feel free to take any of my photos to add them to your album.
Hopefully this is an annual event! Excited for next year already! Eljay, you may want to book plane tickets now...
And, for the record, I got a few stares, as I randomly started laughing in class thinking about that whole night... I laugh just thinking about you guys.
I think I like Hatrackers. Thay're funny.
[ April 25, 2005, 12:43 PM: Message edited by: Bambiraptor ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
For people who weren't there, here is a synposis of what happened on Friday:
ElJay and I set out from the Crowne Plaza to meet Teshi and Astaril downtown. After some confusion over which way was which, we got ourselves onto a bus going the wrong way, which took us to the wrong subway station. From the wrong subway station we were able to make our way to the right subway station. Unfortunately, from the right subway station I boldly led us off in the wrong direction. The net result was that we were 20 minutes late and arrived to find Astaril attempting to teach Teshi how to juggle. We found some food (at the most inept Tim Horton's ever), went through Union station, walked by the CN tower, and came back along the waterfront. We paused at a small stage on the waterfront to teach Teshi basic jive/swing dancing technique. She caught on to ElJay's lessons very quickly. Then we made our way to the appointed meeting place, with a quick detour into a Chapters. We saw two people looking like they were looking for people, and as it turned out they were Rei and EL. Very convenient. Then we stood around and chatted while waiting for Desdemona and Sachi to arrive -- this was when Teshi was nearly dive-pooped by an aggressive bird. We were a clump of six by this stage, so Des and Sachi spotted us easily when they emerged from the nearby subway station. After introductions, we set off to have dinner at the restaurant Teshi had kindly scoped out for us in advance (cf. restaurant discussion on page 11). The place was pretty neat -- simple, but fun décor.
One would think that procuring and consuming food, when one is seated in a restaurant, ought to be a relatively simple task. However, two factors conspired against me (everyone else had no problems): first, certain appetizers were half price if you also ordered a drink from the bar. The second factor was Astaril's veganness. She expressed an interest in having cheeseless, meatless pizza (that is to say, crust and tomato sauce), and in order to save her from paying full price, it was suggested that since I was already sipping my pint of tasty beer I could order this strange un-pizza on her behalf. I obliged, with the end result that 1) the waitress thought I was a very special boy, 2) the Greek salad that I ordered for myself did not appear, 3) everyone else thought this was uproariously funny, and 4) Astaril got her un-pizza, which she claims was quite tasty.
Thankfully, once the waitress realized her mistake, my salad arrived promptly. Rei was nice enough to offer me a slice of his very real, cheese-and-meat-laden pizza since he was unable to consume the entire dish. That was awfully nice of him and the pizza was very good. After dinner we made our way back to the Royal Ontario Museum to take in the flying dinosaur exhibit as planned. The exhibit was neat but sadly brief. Since general admission is free on Friday nights, though, we went upstairs to look at the normal Middle Eastern and ancient Egyptian exhibits. Des and Sachi had to leave shortly thereafter, so we said our goodbyes and the remaining six (Rei, EL, ElJay, Teshi, Astaril, me) escorted Astaril back to the bus terminal so she could catch the bus back to Kitchener-Waterloo. Further goodbyes ensued. Then, after some brief discussion, we headed for the Reservoir Lounge, a small venue I heard about on another forum. Sadly there was a cover, but everything else about the place was (IMO, at least) wonderful. We scored a great booth, too, as pictured in Teshi's photography. Shortly after we arrived, a live band got started up. The singer had a great gravelly growly voice and milked it for all it was worth. They didn't play anything really danceable, at least not initially, so we sat about talking and laughing and having tasty drinks while enjoying the band. After their break, they came back on stage and started into a few more danceable songs. ElJay challenged me to a dance and I assented. My memory of the jive figures I once knew has faded, but it was still a lot of fun. Apparently once we started with the spinning everyone else got off the dance floor (which was admittedly a little small to be doing those sorts of figures, but we didn't really care). ElJay is a good dancer, as Teshi had established in the afternoon.
By this point it was getting a bit late. Rei and EL needed to get to Union station to catch the GO train back to Burlington, so we left as a group. Then Teshi, ElJay and I went into the subway area of the station and caught trains going in opposite directions.
Somewhere in there we arranged to meet at the Science Centre at noon the next morning. I don't quite remember where… oh, right. The initial plan was to meet there at eleven, but by the time we got to Union station it was clear nobody would be interested in getting up that early, so we revised the plan.
And that was Friday. Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
I'm so sorry that we were late... Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
You were late? No, EL and Rei were early. We'd said between 5 and 5:30 PM, right? You and Sachi arrived before 5:30. Posted by Noemon (Member # 1115) on :
I'm a big fan of this picture.
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
really? I thought it was 5, and tried so hard to get there on time, but the subway only goes so fast...
I'm glad we werent late
[ April 25, 2005, 02:09 PM: Message edited by: Bambiraptor ]
Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
That's a good summary, Raja, but you forgot to include the weeping, gnashing of teeth, and general flesh-rending that occured once it became clear that I was not giong to be there. Don't ruin this for me.
Sorry I didn't show, sounds like there was a good time had by all.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
quote: I'm a big fan of this picture.
I know! It's such a shame that I didn't pause for a bit to get a proper picture, but then ElJay wasn't exactly happy about having it taken so there wasn't very much time.
Posted by Noemon (Member # 1115) on :
And that is a very cool shirt twink is wearing in some of the shots (the black T Shirt).
The whole gathering sounds like it was a lot of fun. One of these days I'm going to have to make it to a con.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
It's hard to tell, but the shirt (with the zilla on the front) is actually navy blue. I only mention it to avoid confusion, since later on in the con I did in fact wear a black t-shirt.
BtL, you'll just have to come to the next one. You were certainly asked after.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
quote: ElJay challenged me to a dance and I assented.
I wouldn't say I exactly challenged you. When I suggested we wheelchair race on Saturday, now that was a challenge.
BtL, I was indeed quite distraught that you did not show. Hopefully next time.
Noemon: <- Please note tongue is no longer blue.
[ April 25, 2005, 03:17 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by Annie (Member # 295) on :
Sweet! It looks like you had a fantabulous time.
Also; I find it slightly disturbing that Teshi looks exactly as I'd pictured her.
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
I asked Sachi if she could read twinky's shirt, and she said that she didn't get a good look at it.
((everyone who was there)) I can't say enough how much of a good time I had... Thanks to you all Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Oh! I also meant to say that twink is a very good dancer as well, and an excellent lead. I was a bit nervous, since we had learned pretty different dance styles, but it wasn't a problem at all.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Des, if she can't read it from Teshi's pictures, here is a very clear picture. I'd be really curious to know what it says, since I have no idea!
My only regret about the dancing was that the band didn't play more suitable music. Then we could have dragged Teshi out onto the floor, and maybe even EL and Rei.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Oh, and it's chilly and rainy here today... apparently the weather was beautiful here while I was in Toronto, but now it's just like it was there all weekend.
But I still had fun. Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
It snowed here this weekend. Boy was I surprised when I got off the plane. I was still wearing my shorts. That sucked. It's nice now, though.
I'm glad you had fun. I wouldn't want to be accused of breaking my promise.
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
She says that she doesn't know- her English is not the best, so it is hard for her to translate what she read into English. Sorry!
EDIT: oh, and Twinky- snow is better than wat Sachi and I had this weekend at my cottage...
[ April 25, 2005, 05:00 PM: Message edited by: Bambiraptor ]
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
quote: twink is . . . an excellent lead.
I'd like to agree, but I wouldn't know. Apparently I kept trying to do that myself by the harbour... (What can I say? I was born not to follow!)
And it rained in TO all weekend? You mean you guys missed the snow?? That's too bad. We had an inch or two when we woke up Sunday morning here. It was great! I was hoping you got it too, just to make it a real Canadian vacation.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
It's OVER and I missed it.
Sadly I spent the entire weekend looking after a very sick Miriya-ling with whooping cough. I'm glad you all had a good time! Maybe next time.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Des: That's okay. Thank her for trying!
Astaril: No snow in Toronto -- well, it did snow very briefly on Saturday night but that turned to rain quickly so no snow lingered.
Miriya: That sucks!
[ April 25, 2005, 05:01 PM: Message edited by: twinky ]
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
You people post too fast.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I was just thinking that. Ordinarily I like it when threads move at a decent pace ("ordinarily" being when I'm bored at work), but the last five minutes have just been absurd. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
quote: I find it slightly disturbing that Teshi looks exactly as I'd pictured her.
Well that's a comforting thing to know! But perhaps you saw my picture on foobonic before?
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
I maintain that if I didn't see the snow, it didn't happen. Especially not in April. On that note, it is presently 23 degrees in the shade at my house and the rhodos are in bloom.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Granted, I'm new so haven't had time to get to know most of you on here yet let alone in real life, but I have to say that out of everyone I met, you were actually the closest to what I'd imagined you'd be like too, Teshi. (Not just looks; I mean you in general.)
And Rei, snow isn't surprising until May. Be glad the con wasn't in my hometown - they got nearly a foot overnight Saturday! (Personally, *I* still think you're crazy for liking being wet in the rain).
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Does that "out of everyone" include me, too?
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
EDIT: Astaril, did you have any idea what I would look like? Any of you? (well, fter you saw my pics that would negate any ideas)
Asta didn't look anything like I pictured her to be like. I had lookeed throough foo for the rst of you, so I had a prettygood idea of what you were like.
Well, here is my story.
So, Sachi and I get home from school. At 4:30. 15 minutes late. So I tell her we will leave very soon. Then I find out that my jeans are in the wash. I run and put them in the dryer. 20 nerve-wracking minutes later, we are finally ready. (This is 4:50) It takes us 10 minutes to walk to the subay station, and get on the eastbound train. We could have goone to Old Mill subway station, ad it would only have taken us fiven minutes, but apparently some girl was abducted there in the 70's and so my mom doesn't like us going there.
So, back on track, we are on the subway. I open up my phone to see if anyone had called me to chew me out about being late. Forgot that there is no cell signal underground. got anoyed at phone. Spent next 20 minutes looking at watch, trying to see if we would get there in time (and also trying to figure out how to read the stupid thing {the face is square, so it's quite difficult}) We get to Museum, finally, and I go the wrong way. We come out on the other side of the street. We go back under, and go out the righ side, wrong exit. We go BACK under, and end up at the right one. We see a clump of people on the steps, obviously waiting. I recognise ElJay. She points at us. I see her say "I think that's them" or something like that. I wave. We walk towards the museum. They think that we're going to come up the stairs. We go up the ramp. I am feeling awfully embarrassed at being late. Have a nagging feeling in my stomach that they're not going to like me. Introductions ensue, and I promptly forget everyone's name. (or maybe just Brenton's). Walk ensues.
I talk to Brenton most of the way to the restaurant. We wonder if Teshi actually knows where she is going. I try to avoid calling him by name (as I have forgotten it already). We finally get to the restaurant. It is somewhat cold, but not raining. I like the rain. I am sad. I think I have made a favourable impression on them. So far.
Restaurant time. Very nice place, we order food. Hilarity ensues, as twinky tries to order Polly's pizza. We get into discussions about photo ID, currencies, forks, and other things. I will not let the pizza thing die. I think I am making a somewhat good impression- I make them laugh a few times. After dinner (and me sneaking into the men's washroom because I was tired of waiting). I chose to wear the blue shirt, if anyone was wondering.
So, now we walk back to the museum. I talk with Liza about random topics. We then get into a horticultural discussion with Brenton. It is raining.
Okay, so now we're at the museum. We buy tickets. I get angry because we don't get stamped. I call my parents- then we go into the flying bird/dinosaur exhibit. I fall in love with that narrator bird, who looks like me, and we're off to the races. We find a 125 million year old egg. We then try to figure out how they get the fossils out of the rock. Then we got CONFUSED about the CONFUSASAUR. Twinky asks me why they named it the confusasaur- I say it was because they confused it with something else. We find a four-winged ird for ElJay's shoulder, and then find some cute, small fossils, and twinky thinks that a posterboard enlarged photo of a fossil was a rock hanging on the wall. I tell him it is not so. We then see big dinosaurs, and how they relate to birds. THen we find the highlight of the night.... BAMBIRAPTOR! It is immediatly my new Hatrack sn, and we laugh for a while about it. A long while.
The exhibit is almost over, and so we go upstairs to visit Ancient Egypt (because it's almost time for Sachi and I to go home.) Everyone is slow, and we don;t get to egypt befre Sachi and I have to leave. Hugs all around, and then we go. Turns out woe could have stayed a bit later, but oh well. I fell that I didn't screw up too badly, and htey may actually like me! I made someone laugh! Sachi and I run back to the subway, and go home. I immediatly register 3 new sn's, and post on Hatrack. My photos go up, and I post them too.
I then fall asleep laughing at our antics.
Thanks for a great night, everyone!
[ April 25, 2005, 05:40 PM: Message edited by: Bambiraptor ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm glad you had such a good time. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
quote: We wonder if Teshi actually knows where she is going.
You people have no faith!
quote: you were actually the closest to what I'd imagined you'd be like too, Teshi.
Do I project the image of a very quiet, somewhat oblivious, somewhat mixed up person all that much? because that's the image I felt I was projecting all weekend!
Also: The "confusedasaur" (Confusasaurus, or whatever the real name is) was named after Confucius, was it not?
Posted by Annie (Member # 295) on :
quote:But perhaps you saw my picture on foobonic before?
Maybe. I've been known to have entire conversations and repeat them a couple months later, completely oblivious of the original.
At least I'm consistent. Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I had faith, Teshi! And I didn't think you came across as oblivious.
And yes, one of the wall signs said the dinosaur was named in honor of Confucius.
Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
Twinky: It does include you, which is kind of funny, given that I'd probably heard more about you than anyone else. I mean, none of you were particularly far off what I thought you'd be like, but Teshi was exactly on.
Des: Glad you had fun too! I had seen some of your pictures before so I did know what you'd look like. Oh, and I wouldn't worry too much about whether people will like you in the future - you're pretty likable altogether. I'm waiting to see this third alt though...
Edit: Teshi, I had faith as well. You'll notice I never once tried to say which direction to go! Also, I never let on exactly how relieved I was when you guys offered to get me back to the bus station...
And no, you weren't oblivious, or mixed up. Quiet, maybe, but it's not a bad thing. I was probably louder that day than I normally am anyway.
[ April 25, 2005, 05:58 PM: Message edited by: Astaril ]
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Well... perhaps not oblivious, exactly. I was searching for the correct word. Sort of fluffily muddled (?).
Ah well. One day I'll be suave and well-spoken, but that is not this day.
EDIT: Yes, well quiet I am, although usually after a while (say, a year or so ), I'll be louder. At least you people actually sort of talk about things I'd have a clue about!
[ April 25, 2005, 06:03 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
But you'd already met me, Astaril. Posted by Astaril (Member # 7440) on :
For about two seconds one day! I need to know people at least ten minutes before I can be expected to know what they're like, see. I'm slow to pick up on things like that. Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
you'll know it's me... it's a bit obvious, considering my long narrative up ^there somewhere. About hte alt.
Teshi, you weren't that confused, from what I saw of you. We didn't really talk that much, though. For some reason, I talked to the men the most
EDIT: has anyone else noticed the glut of toungy smilies?
[ April 25, 2005, 06:14 PM: Message edited by: Bambiraptor ]
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
*decides that the next con will include some place that I can wear my new high-heeled sandals and skirt* Decides that it will be later in the year, and therefore warmer* *smiles aat the thought of meeting everyone again*
Posted by digging_holes (Member # 6237) on :
*is really sorry I missed this one*
*hopes not to miss next one*
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
Where do you live? (in a non-creepy, non-stalker-ish way)
Posted by digging_holes (Member # 6237) on :
Ottawa.
I could have made it had my finances not been so tight.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
That stinks. Well, If I have any say in it, the next Hatrack.ca will be somewhat soon.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Des, you don't need to worry. Everyone feels like that. (I think. Right guys?) And eevryone has a great time.
I know I had a blast getting to know everyone, and I'm really glad ElJay made her plane on time. More or less.
heehee... bambiraptor...
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
... going back to that sn soon.
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Thanks to Des, I've got links to the planning thread and the commentary thread for the first Hatrack.ca gathering in the summer of 2003.
And now I am going to bed. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Pictures! Yay!
Looks like y'all had a great time.
twinky wears glasses? And Pod is TALL!
Rei, you never told me you were gorgeous!
The rest of you look pretty much as I expected. ElJay looks exactly as I expected. Blue tongue and all.
[ April 26, 2005, 02:38 AM: Message edited by: rivka ]
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
quote: Rei, you never told me you were gorgeous!
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
quote:ElJay looks exactly as I expected. Blue tongue and all.
Ha-ha.
So, we still need pics from Rei and Asta, right? And Asta's are non-digital, so they will take awhile.
It totally sucked to be working yesterday... I miss you guys! It was so much fun!
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Looks like you guys had a wonderful time!
Hatrack gatherings are the best!
Farmgirl
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
quote: And Pod is TALL!
I wouldn't say Pod was especially tall. If you're going from my picture where his head is up by the ceiling, he was standing on a table or a chair at the time.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
That one yes, but wasn't there also a group shot where he towered over everyone?
Maybe all the rest of you are just short. Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Maybe you are thinking of Twinky, who is indeed, very tall.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Could be.
Tall, skinny guys with glasses all look the same, right?
Twinky is the one who is towering at the back. Pod is in front with the "Tokyo" sweater.
Also: I'm actually taller than that but I had to squish down a bit to make way for ElJay and EL.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Actually, I think it may have been a different group shot, but that one works.
You people need to caption your pictures better. Or I need to get more sleep.
Or both . . .
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Well, it doesn't help that both Twinky and Pod wore a "Tokyo" sweater or t-shirt during the weekend (although not on the same day).
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*nod* I'd like to blame that for my confusion, although probably it's a minor factor.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Edited 'cause I shouldn't be objectifying my fellow hatrackers. *ashamed*
[ April 26, 2005, 12:06 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
LOL. I leave for one second and I miss a juicy post.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
(and somebody tell me if i misattributed a handle please)
And man... i'm getting so many more hits for that set of photos than i have for the rest of my flickr collection
[ April 26, 2005, 12:31 PM: Message edited by: Pod ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I looked at some of the rest of your photos, and made a note to go back and look at more when I had more time.
But some of the hits to the hatrack ones are probably repeats... I know I looked at them twice, and then again now when you said you'd labled them. I really, really, like the stairwell one. It's fun!
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I'm only writing this 'cause I want the 1000th post in the thread, and to bump it to page 21. I'm such an awful person. Posted by Pod (Member # 941) on :
I just labeled the first one, since that is the point of entry, and thus can serve as an index.
I like the trapazoidal one too.
And yes, you're a horrible person. as indicated by your tongue color
[ April 26, 2005, 12:42 PM: Message edited by: Pod ]
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Hmmmm. My tongue is not blue anymore, does that mean I'm good again?
Added: Oh, and "Mrs. Tick's" handle is Arthur.
[ April 26, 2005, 12:57 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by Pod (Member # 941) on :
Fixed.
And i'm still wondering what you said Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
I'm standing on a stair in that first group shot. Slouched a bit, but still on a stair. I'm not *that* much taller than everyone (6'3").
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
I love the one looking down through the staircase opening, Pod. That is really cool.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
"Six-three" and "not that much taller" are mutually exclusive, twink.
Pod, the frames/names are awesome. Thanks!
And I love the stair shot as well.
[ April 26, 2005, 02:55 PM: Message edited by: rivka ]
Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Heh, well, I'm not head and shoulders above the rest the way it looks in that picture, anyway.
Posted by Desdemona (Member # 7100) on :
I noticed how tall twinky was... he was the only one who had to bend down to hug me. And I'm pretty tall.
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
<-- Because of its size and gentle appearance they christened it Bambiraptor feinbergi, after the familiar Disney movie character and the surname of the wealthy family who bought and donated the specimen to the new Graves Museum of Natural History in Florida.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
That's great .
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
My apologies for its lateness, but here are the pictures I took, including two of the sunset that I got to watch for well over two hours.
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Ahahahahaha I didn't realise you got a picture of that!
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
what is that???
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yes, and why does it make twinky grin so?
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Oh, right. I drew a person on Ticklet's little magnetic thing and erased half of him. Someone suggested it was somewhat grusome and that I should draw entrails. I attempted to, but failed. Twinky had a go and this was the result. The stars (the black dots all around) are a reference from Calvin and Hobbes. Something to do with pain and suffering.
EDIT: I assume that's why Twinky is grinning.
[ April 26, 2005, 08:02 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
*giggles* it was too good not to take a photo of it
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
... next time, I'm running away from home and staying with you guys. Really. Or at least spending the whole weekend with you.
Posted by ReikoDemosthenes (Member # 6218) on :
hey Pod, I'd like to have copies of your pictures on my computer, but that site won't let me save them. Could you send them to me via e-mail, maybe?
Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
Rei: click on "different sizes", on the right, and it gives you the option to download.
edit: including at the very large original resolutions.
I highly recommend people use flickr for photosharing: basically unlimited space, free, and lots of useful features. Much superior to places like photobucket.
[ April 26, 2005, 08:32 PM: Message edited by: fugu13 ]
Posted by Jaiden (Member # 2099) on :
You need an account to do that though RD- I just found that out Posted by twinky (Member # 693) on :
Cool pics, Rei.
Pod kindly located the pictures from the first Hatrack Canada gathering in the summer of 2003! Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
Nice glasses, twink.
*drums fingers*
I am BORED over here. Hatrack is slow, and I don't WANT to do all the homework that I have piling up. Someone entertain me! aim is alleyesonme0024
Posted by Pod (Member # 941) on :
But I've already DONE that.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
The 2003 pictures are awesome! I wish it'd been nice enough to find a playground this time around! *bounce* So when are we doing this again? Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
When it's nice
(I wish)
Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
You know what's ironic? It's back to being tolerable weather now.
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
weather gods.
Posted by Pod (Member # 941) on :
Well, while i wasn't terribly fond of the cold, i'm actually quite fond of wet weather. As indicated by the rainbow photos in my flickr collection Posted by Teshi (Member # 5024) on :
Well if it had been warm and rainy, that would have also been tolerable. Cold and rainy, however, is not.
EDIT: I am in the "rain is cool" camp too, but sometimes... it's just bad timing!
[ April 26, 2005, 10:32 PM: Message edited by: Teshi ]
Posted by Bambiraptor (Member # 7874) on :
^^what teshi said.
Next time, we should hold it in some other month. April is just nasty. I like September. Or June. Sometime warm.
or we could have it when it snows.. like December or January... but the in-between, cold, rainy months annoy me.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
What's amazing is how long that simple child's toy kept the group entertained. I wish you guys had seen Thomas while he was feeling better. He talked non-stop on the way to Grandma's today.
![[Smile]](smile.gif)
![[Hail]](graemlins/hail.gif)
![[Big Grin]](biggrin.gif)
.
![[Eek!]](eek.gif)
![[Wink]](wink.gif)
We were actually in Burlington a few weeks ago for an Ikea trip.
![[ROFL]](graemlins/rofl.gif)
![[Cool]](cool.gif)
![[Group Hug]](graemlins/grouphug.gif)
![[Razz]](tongue.gif)
I'm sure we can come up with neater things to do, though. Like, seeing the dinosaurs at the ROM. *cough cough*
![[Frown]](frown.gif)
.
![[Evil Laugh]](graemlins/evillaugh.gif)
![[Dont Know]](graemlins/dontknow.gif)
![[Grumble]](graemlins/grumble.gif)
![[Angst]](graemlins/angst.gif)
*runs screaming from thread*
![[Evil]](graemlins/evil.gif)
![[Kiss]](graemlins/kiss.gif)
![[Blushing]](graemlins/blushing.gif)
![[Laugh]](graemlins/laugh.gif)
![[Mad]](mad.gif)
![[Party]](graemlins/party.gif)
![[No No]](graemlins/nono.gif)
![[Roll Eyes]](rolleyes.gif)
![[Embarrassed]](redface.gif)
They weren't sure it was me, because I'd cut all my hair off, so they debated for a while and then came and asked me if I was me as I was waiting in line to use the payphone to call them. ![[Cry]](graemlins/cry.gif)
![[Monkeys]](graemlins/monkeys.gif)
![[Sleep]](graemlins/sleep.gif)
now ![[Wave]](graemlins/wave.gif)
![[Confused]](confused.gif)
.![[The Wave]](graemlins/thewave.gif)
![[Wall Bash]](graemlins/wallbash.gif)