Max, the kids, and I will be driving to Canada in June. We leave Champaign on June 14, drive to Grand Forks, SD, for the night, then on to Manitoba for a day or so. From there, we're going up toward Saskatoon for another day or so, then on to Edmonton for a day before going back toward Saskatoon for the family's Christmas in June extravaganza! Then, we head home, stopping in Bismarck on the way back.
We are planning to be in Edmonton on Thursday, June 19 around noon, staying overnight, and leaving around 9am or 10am Friday. It would be nice to meet up with BB and Neil. :)
Because we'll be driving 3800 miles in 10 days, I'm trying to find ways to make the drive itself fun and part of the vacation. So, I'm looking for suggestions of places to stop and see along that route that are worth an hour or so of our time. Anyone have any suggestions?
Quote from: merithyn on April 16, 2014, 08:40:07 AM
Max, the kids, and I will be driving to Canada in June. We leave Champaign on June 14, drive to Grand Forks, SD, for the night, then on to Manitoba for a day or so. From there, we're going up toward Saskatoon for another day or so, then on to Edmonton for a day before going back toward Saskatoon for the family's Christmas in June extravaganza! Then, we head home, stopping in Bismarck on the way back.
We are planning to be in Edmonton on Thursday, June 19 around noon, staying overnight, and leaving around 9am or 10am Friday. It would be nice to meet up with BB and Neil. :)
Because we'll be driving 3800 miles in 10 days, I'm trying to find ways to make the drive itself fun and part of the vacation. So, I'm looking for suggestions of places to stop and see along that route that are worth an hour or so of our time. Anyone have any suggestions?
Well I'll be around in June. You're only in town for less than 24 hours though, so I'm assuming you're also meeting up with Max's family. It'd be great to meet up, but I understand if you have other commitments.
Ah Highway 16, how I loathe thee. <_< Driven it many, many, many times.
I'm struggling to come up with things to do along the drive. It's pretty much just boring, flat, prairie. What are you interested in trying to do or see?
The only two things I can think of along the way:
1. Giant Roadside Attractions! You'll drive through Vegreville, come see the world largest Ukrainian Easter Egg! There's a whole website of different giant "stuff" you can see. http://www.roadsideattractions.ca/index.htm Not sure I'd fully recommend this.
2. I know you have an interest in history - how interested are you in Canadian prairie history? There are some interesting historic sites along the way. Winnipeg has Lower Fort Gary, which was the old fur trading outpost. It's nicely restored, lots of historical re-enactors walking around. I went there 2 years ago (for the first time in a long time) and found it was still very well done.
From Saskatoon, you can drive under an hour north and visit Batoche, SK, the site of the Battle of Batoche from the 1885 Northwest Rebellion. I haven't been since I visited as a kid in 1985, but I remember it being pretty well preserved.
Finally in Edmonton we have Ft. Edmonton Park. It's a crazy mish-mash - you have the old historic fur trading post (not as big as Ft Gary, but still interesting), but then you have separate re-creations of streets from 1895, 1905 and 1920. Lots of old historic buildings have been re-located here for one big history there-park.
Honestly though that's a crap-load of driving for very little payoff. Why drive all the way from Champagne to Edmonton, when you're just going to turn around and start drive back the next day?
I have no useful insight to offer on the Prairies, though; but have a good trip :hug:
It's ok. :grr: I wouldn't have made the meet anyway.
Believe me, GF, I'd rather go to Montreal than Saskatoon. :D
BB, we're actually visiting several members of Max's family along the route. I just didn't spell it out. Basically, it's two days driving, one day visiting, half-day driving, one day visiting, half-day driving, one day visiting, half-day driving, two days visiting, two days driving home. Max has a lot of family to visit. :P
Hell, that's not even half of it.
The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village near Elk Island would be right up Meri's alley. Not sure if we'll have time for it though.
Quote from: Maximus on April 16, 2014, 11:55:24 AM
Hell, that's not even half of it.
The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village near Elk Island would be right up Meri's alley. Not sure if we'll have time for it though.
"there's this place that you'd really love... but you can't go" :P
Quote from: Maximus on April 16, 2014, 11:55:24 AM
Hell, that's not even half of it.
The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village near Elk Island would be right up Meri's alley. Not sure if we'll have time for it though.
I've never been, but yeah, that would certainly fit a "historical" theme of trips and visits. You'll see it from Highway 16 though, so I'm hard pressed to see how you wouldn't have time to see it.
Western Canadian history though certainly lacks a lot of flash and glamour though (exception being Louis Riel and the two rebellions), so I wasn't as sure if that'd be Meri's thing.
Anyways, let me know what I can do to help set anything up Meri. Having lived in Winnipeg, Saskatoon and Edmonton I do know that highway all too well.
And Saskatoon is a lovely little city. :P
The museum of Man & Nature in Winnipeg was quite nice, iirc.
Quote from: Maladict on April 16, 2014, 01:54:45 PM
The museum of Man & Nature in Winnipeg was quite nice, iirc.
The Nonsuch. :wub:
Having visited briefly I'd probably give the Royal Alberta Museum a pass, at least until the new building is finished in a couple of years.
Meri could also visit the Diefenbaker Centre in Saskatoon. What could be more Canadian than that? :cool:
Quote from: Maximus on April 16, 2014, 11:55:24 AM
Hell, that's not even half of it.
The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village near Elk Island would be right up Meri's alley. Not sure if we'll have time for it though.
Half of it has been occupied by Russians.
Quote from: Ed Anger on April 16, 2014, 03:26:02 PM
Quote from: Maximus on April 16, 2014, 11:55:24 AM
Hell, that's not even half of it.
The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village near Elk Island would be right up Meri's alley. Not sure if we'll have time for it though.
Half of it has been occupied by Russians.
:secret: He meant that that wasn't even half of his family. :secret:
Quote from: merithyn on April 16, 2014, 03:56:42 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on April 16, 2014, 03:26:02 PM
Quote from: Maximus on April 16, 2014, 11:55:24 AM
Hell, that's not even half of it.
The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village near Elk Island would be right up Meri's alley. Not sure if we'll have time for it though.
Half of it has been occupied by Russians.
:secret: He meant that that wasn't even half of his family. :secret:
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fvideos.videopress.com%2FgMyXnc3e%2Fsinatra-group_2_std.original.jpg&hash=0c337fa1e208242ab2e697ebdc42482f3c78c821)
Quote from: Maladict on April 16, 2014, 04:29:37 PM
Quote from: Barrister on April 16, 2014, 02:09:13 PM
The Nonsuch. :wub:
If only it were real. :(
It is real.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/33535417@N05/5361761349/
I'm not sure why one would live in or travel through endless flat space. Is some sort of farming or ranching involved?
Quote from: OttoVonBismarck on April 16, 2014, 04:42:03 PM
I'm not sure why one would live in or travel through endless flat space. Is some sort of farming or ranching involved?
but it's not just flat. it's also cold and windy. and nearly every tree you see was planted by man
where are you staying in grand forks, meri? the canad inn is very nice. it has a water park, at least two bars, and even a restaurant! best hotel i've seen in all north dakota
now, for quality grand forks dining options, i recommend parrot's cay:
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fgrandforksgourmet.areavoices.com%2Ffiles%2F2012%2F01%2F2862429-Tiki_Bar_amid_the_Tundra_Grand_Forks.jpg&hash=1d2ff880ddad9ae3cb1126dcb48e0105df898f04)
has better wings than applebee's or even buffalo wild wings!
the boardwalk in east grand forks also offers nice atmosphere at night:
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.boardwalkentertainmentgroup.com%2Fimages%2FBoardwalk1.jpg&hash=fd80cee069f133ca9f5bedbacefa84f2d2022234)
and it's right near the river!
or for a nice burger and good beer, there's JL beers:
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi61.tinypic.com%2Fdfub2e.jpg&hash=7d72501343851f3abe1e86183c25a1cd80f74c7b)
there's something for everyone in grand forks, north dakota!
You ought to quit law school and become a travel blogger.
Quote from: Barrister on April 16, 2014, 04:34:07 PM
It is real.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/33535417@N05/5361761349/
Yes, but not the original ship.
I'm in agreement with Otto, did you lose a bet Meri?
Quote from: OttoVonBismarck on April 16, 2014, 04:42:03 PM
I'm not sure why one would live in or travel through endless flat space. Is some sort of farming or ranching involved?
I once drove through empty space in Tasmania. It was a beautiful sight. I had never seen such scenary up to that point in my life. It was a nice change from where I usually live.
Quote from: Monoriu on April 17, 2014, 04:04:34 AM
Quote from: OttoVonBismarck on April 16, 2014, 04:42:03 PM
I'm not sure why one would live in or travel through endless flat space. Is some sort of farming or ranching involved?
I once drove through empty space in Tasmania. It was a beautiful sight. I had never seen such scenary up to that point in my life. It was a nice change from where I usually live.
:rolleyes: Yeah Tasmania is famously flat.
I want to laugh at lacroix's post, but I've had some good times in Grand Forks back in the day.
Mind you they were all fraternity parties at UND so I can't really offer any suggestions for the post-university crowd. :(
Quote from: OttoVonBismarck on April 16, 2014, 04:42:03 PM
I'm not sure why one would live in or travel through endless flat space. Is some sort of farming or ranching involved?
Otto beat me to it. :(
Quote from: katmai on April 17, 2014, 03:46:36 AM
I'm in agreement with Otto, did you lose a bet Meri?
Nope, I just married Max. :D
To be honest, I'm actually looking forward to the trip. I'm trepidatious, as always, because it's to visit his family, but it will be nice to see where Max grew up. Plus, despite growing up in Iowa, I've never been to either of the Dakotas, and only to Minnesota once. And in general, I like road trips.
La Croix, thank you! That's great information to have!
Quote from: merithyn on April 17, 2014, 11:49:08 AM
La Croix, thank you! That's great information to have!
<_<
I keep throwing out suggestions without comment from you Meri. Are they helpful or not? Are you looking for different sorts of information or recommendations?
Quote from: Barrister on April 17, 2014, 11:56:35 AM
Quote from: merithyn on April 17, 2014, 11:49:08 AM
La Croix, thank you! That's great information to have!
<_<
I keep throwing out suggestions without comment from you Meri. Are they helpful or not? Are you looking for different sorts of information or recommendations?
Are you her body? No?
I am going to be in Edmonton for work again next week, Monday through Thursday.
Quote from: Berkut on April 17, 2014, 12:24:24 PM
I am going to be in Edmonton for work again next week, Monday through Thursday.
Cool! Any time for a meet up?
Are you brave enough to come over to my house and meet the kids? :ph34r:
Quote from: Berkut on April 17, 2014, 12:24:24 PM
I am going to be in Edmonton for work again next week, Monday through Thursday.
Can't you get a contract or conference in Vancouver?
Quote from: Barrister on April 17, 2014, 11:56:35 AM
Quote from: merithyn on April 17, 2014, 11:49:08 AM
La Croix, thank you! That's great information to have!
<_<
I keep throwing out suggestions without comment from you Meri. Are they helpful or not? Are you looking for different sorts of information or recommendations?
Sorry. Yes, BB, they are very helpful! :hug:
And those are exactly the kinds of things that I'm thinking of. I don't know that a battlefield will be all that exciting for teenagers (and young adults), but the kids might surprise me on that. The stuff in Edmonton is interesting, but as has been pointed out, we're only going to be there for slightly less than 24 hours, much of which will be spent with friends and family. We may check out the Ukrainian Museum, though, because that just sounds awesome!
I didn't mean to ignore you, BB. I just read your posts when I couldn't respond, and happened to catch La Croix' at the right moment.
Do you need food / restaurant advice, or strictly eating with family?
BY the way - which route are you taking?
You've mentioned Winnipeg - Saskatoon - Edmonton, which ordinarily would mean HIghway 16 (the Yellowhead) from Portage la Prairie to Edmonton, passing through Saskatoon.
Trouble with that route is almost the entire distance from Saskatoon to Portage is single lane highway. Which sucks.
You might want to consider taking the #1 TransCanada all the way from Winnipeg to Regina, then taking the (#2?) highway to Saskatoon, then the #16 to Edmonton. It should mostly be double laned highway that entire way.
When I was a teenager we went to Gettysburg and I liked it quite a bit. But that's an actual battlefield not the site of a long forgotten skirmish.
Quote from: OttoVonBismarck on April 17, 2014, 02:26:32 PM
When I was a teenager we went to Gettysburg and I liked it quite a bit. But that's an actual battlefield not the site of a long forgotten skirmish.
Batoche is no Gettysburg in terms of scale, to be sure. But it was a proper battle. Batoche was the capital of Riel's Provisional Government, so capturing it put an end to the Rebellion.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Batoche
If you're heading through the Dakotas Meri, I endorse stopping by the Custer battlefield site. And of course you have to stop at Wall Drug for free ice water. :nerd:
Try to find the missing suitcase full of money from Fargo while you're in that area. :)
This is our proposed route (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Champaign,+IL/Grand+Forks,+ND/Pine+River,+MB,+Canada/Spiritwood,+SK,+Canada/Edmonton,+AB,+Canada/Saskatoon,+SK,+Canada/Bismarck,+ND/Champaign,+IL/@46.5238762,-109.6944679,5z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m53!4m52!1m5!1m1!1s0x880cd08dde97691b:0x30f57847b475bfcf!2m2!1d-88.2433829!2d40.1164204!1m5!1m1!1s0x52c681355bbc5e25:0xb6b94d87c5f3d5a!2m2!1d-97.0328547!2d47.9252568!1m5!1m1!1s0x52e51396294bde69:0xce8ac09c19836c98!2m2!1d-100.5310949!2d51.784291!1m5!1m1!1s0x5306e4d68470b627:0xe55377ac6e650397!2m2!1d-107.5174338!2d53.3645441!1m5!1m1!1s0x53a0224580deff23:0x411fa00c4af6155d!2m2!1d-113.4909267!2d53.544389!1m5!1m1!1s0x5304f6bf47ed992b:0x5049e3295772690!2m2!1d-106.6832385!2d52.1333972!1m5!1m1!1s0x52d7831257d8e963:0xccaabd12f9bbca93!2m2!1d-100.7837392!2d46.8083268!1m5!1m1!1s0x880cd08dde97691b:0x30f57847b475bfcf!2m2!1d-88.2433829!2d40.1164204!2m1!2b1!3e0!4e1)
I say proposed because nothing is written in stone yet. We just know what places we're planning to stop at during the trip.
Restaurants that are local to the area are preferred. I'd rather avoid local chains (except Tim Horton, Max; don't panic) if at all possible. We're staying with family everywhere except Grand Forks, Edmonton, and Bismarck, so relatively nice but cheap hotels in those areas would be nice. (Again, with local flair if possible.)
Quote from: merithyn on April 17, 2014, 03:04:36 PM
This is our proposed route (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Champaign,+IL/Grand+Forks,+ND/Pine+River,+MB,+Canada/Spiritwood,+SK,+Canada/Edmonton,+AB,+Canada/Saskatoon,+SK,+Canada/Bismarck,+ND/Champaign,+IL/@46.5238762,-109.6944679,5z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m53!4m52!1m5!1m1!1s0x880cd08dde97691b:0x30f57847b475bfcf!2m2!1d-88.2433829!2d40.1164204!1m5!1m1!1s0x52c681355bbc5e25:0xb6b94d87c5f3d5a!2m2!1d-97.0328547!2d47.9252568!1m5!1m1!1s0x52e51396294bde69:0xce8ac09c19836c98!2m2!1d-100.5310949!2d51.784291!1m5!1m1!1s0x5306e4d68470b627:0xe55377ac6e650397!2m2!1d-107.5174338!2d53.3645441!1m5!1m1!1s0x53a0224580deff23:0x411fa00c4af6155d!2m2!1d-113.4909267!2d53.544389!1m5!1m1!1s0x5304f6bf47ed992b:0x5049e3295772690!2m2!1d-106.6832385!2d52.1333972!1m5!1m1!1s0x52d7831257d8e963:0xccaabd12f9bbca93!2m2!1d-100.7837392!2d46.8083268!1m5!1m1!1s0x880cd08dde97691b:0x30f57847b475bfcf!2m2!1d-88.2433829!2d40.1164204!2m1!2b1!3e0!4e1)
I say proposed because nothing is written in stone yet. We just know what places we're planning to stop at during the trip.
Restaurants that are local to the area are preferred. I'd rather avoid local chains (except Tim Horton, Max; don't panic) if at all possible. We're staying with family everywhere except Grand Forks, Edmonton, and Bismarck, so relatively nice but cheap hotels in those areas would be nice. (Again, with local flair if possible.)
Oy Vey you're hitting some shithole towns! (sorry Max!). And a lot of really bad highways.
And you're skipping Winnipeg entirely! :mad:
Local flair in hotels and motels:
Bedbugs and other creepy crawlies.
Quote from: Barrister on April 17, 2014, 03:12:46 PM
Oy Vey you're hitting some shithole towns! (sorry Max!). And a lot of really bad highways.
And you're skipping Winnipeg entirely! :mad:
I actually just adjusted it to drive through Winnipeg and go around Lake Manitoba. :)
New proposed route (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Champaign,+IL/Grand+Forks,+ND/Pine+River,+MB,+Canada/Spiritwood,+SK,+Canada/Edmonton,+AB,+Canada/Saskatoon,+SK,+Canada/Bismarck,+ND/Champaign,+IL/@51.0768304,-98.7759925,7z/data=!4m58!4m57!1m5!1m1!1s0x880cd08dde97691b:0x30f57847b475bfcf!2m2!1d-88.2433829!2d40.1164204!1m10!1m1!1s0x52c681355bbc5e25:0xb6b94d87c5f3d5a!2m2!1d-97.0328547!2d47.9252568!3m4!1m2!1d-97.100649!2d49.931047!3s0x52ea7053efcc8b0b:0x55c4b22307977d8c!1m5!1m1!1s0x52e51396294bde69:0xce8ac09c19836c98!2m2!1d-100.5310949!2d51.784291!1m5!1m1!1s0x5306e4d68470b627:0xe55377ac6e650397!2m2!1d-107.5174338!2d53.3645441!1m5!1m1!1s0x53a0224580deff23:0x411fa00c4af6155d!2m2!1d-113.4909267!2d53.544389!1m5!1m1!1s0x5304f6bf47ed992b:0x5049e3295772690!2m2!1d-106.6832385!2d52.1333972!1m5!1m1!1s0x52d7831257d8e963:0xccaabd12f9bbca93!2m2!1d-100.7837392!2d46.8083268!1m5!1m1!1s0x880cd08dde97691b:0x30f57847b475bfcf!2m2!1d-88.2433829!2d40.1164204!2m1!2b1!3e0!4e1)
Quote from: Ed Anger on April 17, 2014, 03:17:55 PM
Local flair in hotels and motels:
Bedbugs and other creepy crawlies.
We're not going to Ohio. :contract:
http://www.bedbugregistry.com/ (http://www.bedbugregistry.com/)
Quote from: merithyn on April 17, 2014, 03:19:43 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on April 17, 2014, 03:17:55 PM
Local flair in hotels and motels:
Bedbugs and other creepy crawlies.
We're not going to Ohio. :contract:
http://www.bedbugregistry.com/ (http://www.bedbugregistry.com/)
They are everywhere. :secret:
But hey, enjoy sleeping on a piss stained mattress full of bugs. :hug:
Quote from: merithyn on April 17, 2014, 03:18:51 PM
Quote from: Barrister on April 17, 2014, 03:12:46 PM
Oy Vey you're hitting some shithole towns! (sorry Max!). And a lot of really bad highways.
And you're skipping Winnipeg entirely! :mad:
I actually just adjusted it to drive through Winnipeg and go around Lake Manitoba. :)
New proposed route (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Champaign,+IL/Grand+Forks,+ND/Pine+River,+MB,+Canada/Spiritwood,+SK,+Canada/Edmonton,+AB,+Canada/Saskatoon,+SK,+Canada/Bismarck,+ND/Champaign,+IL/@51.0768304,-98.7759925,7z/data=!4m58!4m57!1m5!1m1!1s0x880cd08dde97691b:0x30f57847b475bfcf!2m2!1d-88.2433829!2d40.1164204!1m10!1m1!1s0x52c681355bbc5e25:0xb6b94d87c5f3d5a!2m2!1d-97.0328547!2d47.9252568!3m4!1m2!1d-97.100649!2d49.931047!3s0x52ea7053efcc8b0b:0x55c4b22307977d8c!1m5!1m1!1s0x52e51396294bde69:0xce8ac09c19836c98!2m2!1d-100.5310949!2d51.784291!1m5!1m1!1s0x5306e4d68470b627:0xe55377ac6e650397!2m2!1d-107.5174338!2d53.3645441!1m5!1m1!1s0x53a0224580deff23:0x411fa00c4af6155d!2m2!1d-113.4909267!2d53.544389!1m5!1m1!1s0x5304f6bf47ed992b:0x5049e3295772690!2m2!1d-106.6832385!2d52.1333972!1m5!1m1!1s0x52d7831257d8e963:0xccaabd12f9bbca93!2m2!1d-100.7837392!2d46.8083268!1m5!1m1!1s0x880cd08dde97691b:0x30f57847b475bfcf!2m2!1d-88.2433829!2d40.1164204!2m1!2b1!3e0!4e1)
I was kind of teasing about Winnipeg, though if you're stopping around there it's the logical place to stop.
Trouble with the new route is it takes you through the Interlake, which if anything is even flatter than the rest of the province (and with crappy farmland to boot).
Quote from: Ed Anger on April 17, 2014, 03:22:07 PM
Quote from: merithyn on April 17, 2014, 03:19:43 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on April 17, 2014, 03:17:55 PM
Local flair in hotels and motels:
Bedbugs and other creepy crawlies.
We're not going to Ohio. :contract:
http://www.bedbugregistry.com/ (http://www.bedbugregistry.com/)
They are everywhere. :secret:
But hey, enjoy sleeping on a piss stained mattress full of bugs. :hug:
I'm a master of staying in shitty northern hotels.
They may not have heat or a door that locks, but I've never found bed bugs, either.
They cannot survive the cold. :(
Quote from: merithyn on April 17, 2014, 03:04:36 PM(except Tim Horton, Max; don't panic)
just in luck! the whole gosh darned town went wild last december when grand fork's first tim hortons opened up! :w00t:
Tim Horton's Apple fritters. :licklips:
Quote from: LaCroix on April 17, 2014, 05:06:05 PM
Quote from: merithyn on April 17, 2014, 03:04:36 PM(except Tim Horton, Max; don't panic)
just in luck! the whole gosh darned town went wild last december when grand fork's first tim hortons opened up! :w00t:
Finally, a reason to go to North Dakota!
Quote from: merithyn on April 17, 2014, 03:04:36 PM
This is our proposed route
If you stretched it west you could hit Little Big Horn and drive north along the scenic Rockies. If you stretched it east you could check out the gorgeous Gold Coast of Minnesota. If you kept to your current plan you could go mad.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on April 17, 2014, 06:51:35 PM
Quote from: merithyn on April 17, 2014, 03:04:36 PM
This is our proposed route
If you stretched it west you could hit Little Big Horn and drive north along the scenic Rockies. If you stretched it east you could check out the gorgeous Gold Coast of Minnesota. If you kept to your current plan you could go mad.
The Rockies are a substantial distance west of anywhere she wants to go.
Look to be not too far from her end point. :hmm:
There's a lot to be said for driving through flat terrain rather than mountainous.
Quote from: LaCroix on April 17, 2014, 05:06:05 PM
Quote from: merithyn on April 17, 2014, 03:04:36 PM(except Tim Horton, Max; don't panic)
just in luck! the whole gosh darned town went wild last december when grand fork's first tim hortons opened up! :w00t:
LaCroix, do you live in Grand Forks? Will you be around on the proposed date?
Quote from: Admiral Yi on April 17, 2014, 06:51:35 PMIf you stretched it west you could hit Little Big Horn and drive north along the scenic Rockies. If you stretched it east you could check out the gorgeous Gold Coast of Minnesota. If you kept to your current plan you could go mad.
you mean something like this? (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Champaign,+IL/Thunder+Bay,+ON,+Canada/Pine+River,+MB,+Canada/Spiritwood,+SK,+Canada/Saskatoon,+SK,+Canada/Edmonton,+AB,+Canada/Butte,+Mt/Champaign,+IL/@47.1120577,-108.8495006,5z/data=!4m53!4m52!1m5!1m1!1s0x880cd08dde97691b:0x30f57847b475bfcf!2m2!1d-88.2433829!2d40.1164204!1m5!1m1!1s0x4d5921774c16e98d:0x3d0557348f1d8b74!2m2!1d-89.2476823!2d48.3808951!1m5!1m1!1s0x52e51396294bde69:0xce8ac09c19836c98!2m2!1d-100.5310949!2d51.784291!1m5!1m1!1s0x5306e4d68470b627:0xe55377ac6e650397!2m2!1d-107.5174338!2d53.3645441!1m5!1m1!1s0x5304f6bf47ed992b:0x5049e3295772690!2m2!1d-106.6832385!2d52.1333972!1m5!1m1!1s0x53a0224580deff23:0x411fa00c4af6155d!2m2!1d-113.4909267!2d53.544389!1m5!1m1!1s0x535a3f36d0ef3cd1:0xb5cd681d4d4f9799!2m2!1d-112.5347776!2d46.0038232!1m5!1m1!1s0x880cd08dde97691b:0x30f57847b475bfcf!2m2!1d-88.2433829!2d40.1164204!2m1!2b1!3e0!4e1)
yeah, that's a superior trip, at least for sightseeing. 11+ hours longer and at least a hundred dollars more expensive, though
Quote from: merithyn on April 17, 2014, 10:05:09 PMLaCroix, do you live in Grand Forks? Will you be around on the proposed date?
yes. saturday/sunday, right? i should be around
Quote from: Admiral Yi on April 17, 2014, 07:23:14 PM
Look to be not too far from her end point. :hmm:
Considering her end point is Edmonton where I live, and the Rockies are about a 4 hour drive from here...
Beebs, would love to come meet your family. I get in Monday afternoon, leave (very early) Friday am. Work until 5ish each day, of course. What evening would be best ?
Quote from: Berkut on April 17, 2014, 11:38:19 PM
Beebs, would love to come meet your family. I get in Monday afternoon, leave (very early) Friday am. Work until 5ish each day, of course. What evening would be best ?
Monday being a holiday, we're in Calgary for the long weekend, getting back some time on Monday. Despite it being a work week, we'd probably have to do Tuesday-Thursday. Warning though - three little boys under the age of four gets pretty hectic. :D
Neil - you're definitely invited (your wife too, though stag is fine too).
Neil! The time has come!
Do you want to come over to my place for supper on Wednesday or Thursday and meet up with me and Berkut?
On the 16 going thru Elk Island Park you will see Bison from the Road if you are lucky.
Can I come? :)
Quote from: The Brain on April 22, 2014, 02:58:56 PM
Can I come? :)
Sure. I'll even come and pick you up from the airport. :)
Quote from: The Brain on April 22, 2014, 03:10:36 PM
Quote from: Barrister on April 22, 2014, 03:08:57 PM
Quote from: The Brain on April 22, 2014, 02:58:56 PM
Can I come? :)
Sure. I'll even come and pick you up from the airport. :)
Great! I'll be at ARN. :)
I'll be there right away. Don't worry if I'm a few minutes late - I'll be there. Just be patient.
Quote from: Barrister on April 22, 2014, 03:16:09 PM
Quote from: The Brain on April 22, 2014, 03:10:36 PM
Quote from: Barrister on April 22, 2014, 03:08:57 PM
Quote from: The Brain on April 22, 2014, 02:58:56 PM
Can I come? :)
Sure. I'll even come and pick you up from the airport. :)
Great! I'll be at ARN. :)
I'll be there right away. Don't worry if I'm a few minutes late - I'll be there. Just be patient.
Good. Please hurry, it's a cold clear night.
Need to confer with Mrs B. More to follow.
Trip itinerary is pretty much set.
Max and I (the kids opted out, the weenies) will be traveling to:
Grand Forks, ND - around 6pm, June 14 through around 8pm, June 14 (then heading on to Winnipeg to spend the night)
Edmonton, AB - around noon, June 19 through around noon, June 20
Who is interested in meeting up? :)
Quote from: merithyn on May 13, 2014, 01:28:52 PM
Trip itinerary is pretty much set.
Max and I (the kids opted out, the weenies) will be traveling to:
Grand Forks, ND - around 6pm, June 14 through around 8pm, June 14 (then heading on to Winnipeg to spend the night)
Edmonton, AB - around noon, June 19 through around noon, June 20
Who is interested in meeting up? :)
I certainly am. That's a Thursday-Friday so I am scheduled to be working.
I know you have family commitments though, so what works for you?
If recent history is any indication, there is a 100% chance I will be there at that time.
Quote from: Barrister on May 13, 2014, 01:40:28 PM
I certainly am. That's a Thursday-Friday so I am scheduled to be working.
I know you have family commitments though, so what works for you?
Quote from: Berkut on May 13, 2014, 02:02:35 PM
If recent history is any indication, there is a 100% chance I will be there at that time.
:w00t:
Thursday night probably works best. You pick the time and place, BB. Berk, where will you be staying? Maybe we can swing a night there, too, and smuggle some board games in to play that night. :D
Also, this is our "family-free" time. The family commitments are all before and after this time-frame, so we're pretty open the whole time we're in Edmonton. Max will be contacting one of his cousins to see if he wants to come down from Red Deer, but other than that, we got nothin'.
I almost always start at the Delta Center hotel downtown.
Let me see if Mrs B wants to come.
Or if there are board games involved maybe you want to come over to our place? There are small children around, but they do go to bed eventually...
What else to do: A quick googling shows The Works Art & Design Festival is going on starting that day:
http://www.theworks.ab.ca/
Though I can't remember much about what actually goes on from past years other than they have a whole bunch of food vendors.
You might like going to Whyte Ave, which is Edmonton's historic/trendy/college-y part of town with quirky shops and restaurants.
There's always The Mall(tm), which is still the largest shopping mall in North America. I'm not really recommending that option though, but it's there if you want to see it. It does have a bunch of other attractions too.
Beeb, you do boardgaming? I should bring something on one of these trips...
Quote from: Berkut on May 13, 2014, 02:58:36 PM
Beeb, you do boardgaming? I should bring something on one of these trips...
Well certainly not on the level you do. :P
But I was a total gamer as a kid, including board games, and in the last few years MRs B and I gotten into Settlers of Cataan which we'll play with my brother and a few other people from time to time. So my wife might be interested in playing games as well, but more accessible titles.
So Berk, you relocating to Canada ?
It sure as hell feels like it.
Quote from: Berkut on May 13, 2014, 03:21:25 PM
It sure as hell feels like it.
Try and get a trip to Vancouver some time.
And how have you found your time in Edmonton? Enjoy the place? How was the whole Winter experience for you?
Quote from: PRC on May 13, 2014, 03:28:30 PM
And how have you found your time in Edmonton? Enjoy the place? How was the whole Winter experience for you?
Why assume the winter experience is over? :D
Quote from: Malthus on May 13, 2014, 03:29:59 PM
Quote from: PRC on May 13, 2014, 03:28:30 PM
And how have you found your time in Edmonton? Enjoy the place? How was the whole Winter experience for you?
Why assume the winter experience is over? :D
And think PRC was just being polite
Quote from: Malthus on May 13, 2014, 03:29:59 PM
Quote from: PRC on May 13, 2014, 03:28:30 PM
And how have you found your time in Edmonton? Enjoy the place? How was the whole Winter experience for you?
Why assume the winter experience is over? :D
Speaking for Calgary... I believe it is now over. We may have one more snow event, but it will not stick to the ground and in two weeks time tomatoes can stay outside for the night.
Quote from: Berkut on May 13, 2014, 02:47:17 PM
I almost always start at the Delta Center hotel downtown.
*runs and looks up prices*
*blanches*
Um.. we may just come visit you. :)
Quote from: Barrister on May 13, 2014, 02:57:58 PM
Let me see if Mrs B wants to come.
Or if there are board games involved maybe you want to come over to our place? There are small children around, but they do go to bed eventually...
We can do that. :) I'd love to meet the Baby BBs. :D
Quote
What else to do: A quick googling shows The Works Art & Design Festival is going on starting that day:
http://www.theworks.ab.ca/
Though I can't remember much about what actually goes on from past years other than they have a whole bunch of food vendors.
You might like going to Whyte Ave, which is Edmonton's historic/trendy/college-y part of town with quirky shops and restaurants.
There's always The Mall(tm), which is still the largest shopping mall in North America. I'm not really recommending that option though, but it's there if you want to see it. It does have a bunch of other attractions too.
This is Max's time to show me the city his way. I'll let him decide what we do. :)
Quote from: PRC on May 13, 2014, 03:35:47 PM
Speaking for Calgary... I believe it is now over. We may have one more snow event, but it will not stick to the ground and in two weeks time tomatoes can stay outside for the night.
Any chance you might come up, PRC? I know it's a healthy drive for you, but.... it's us! :D
Sounds like a fun trip, have a good time Meri and Max. :)
Quote from: merithyn on May 13, 2014, 03:56:39 PM
Quote from: Berkut on May 13, 2014, 02:47:17 PM
I almost always start at the Delta Center hotel downtown.
*runs and looks up prices*
*blanches*
Um.. we may just come visit you. :)
LOL. The funny thing is that the "bank rate", which doesn't seem like all that great of a rate to me, is for one of their rooms with a jacuzzi in the room.
Which is kind of cool I guess, but sitting in a jacuzzi by yourself is actually kind of lame.
Quote from: PRC on May 13, 2014, 03:28:30 PM
And how have you found your time in Edmonton? Enjoy the place? How was the whole Winter experience for you?
Edmonton is a fine town.
Quote from: Berkut on May 13, 2014, 04:07:48 PM
Quote from: merithyn on May 13, 2014, 03:56:39 PM
Quote from: Berkut on May 13, 2014, 02:47:17 PM
I almost always start at the Delta Center hotel downtown.
*runs and looks up prices*
*blanches*
Um.. we may just come visit you. :)
LOL. The funny thing is that the "bank rate", which doesn't seem like all that great of a rate to me, is for one of their rooms with a jacuzzi in the room.
Which is kind of cool I guess, but sitting in a jacuzzi by yourself is actually kind of lame.
that is what hookers are for duh.
Funny thing: My Canadian husband got a passport, but me, the Iowa-born American, was denied. :glare:
My copy of my divorce decree (which shows my name change back to my maiden name) wasn't signed by the judge, so it's not a valid copy. Max is now on his way up to Chicago to get a valid copy - certified - to overnight to the passport office in the hopes that I'll get my passport before we're scheduled to leave... in two weeks and two days.
Of course, we're all screwed if the copy on file isn't signed by the judge, either.... :ph34r:
Quote from: merithyn on May 29, 2014, 12:22:34 PM
Of course, we're all screwed if the copy on file isn't signed by the judge, either.... :ph34r:
I always suspected Max wanted to be a polygamist. But I think the other way around. :hmm:
It's signed! He's still stuck with me! :wub:
Glad to see our legal system is not completely incompetent. :showoff:
Quote from: Valmy on May 30, 2014, 08:53:32 AM
Glad to see our legal system is not completely incompetent. :showoff:
Not completely.
Now it's just a race through the USPS. Two weeks, guys. Can you get it to me in two weeks??
Quote from: merithyn on May 30, 2014, 12:04:24 PM
Quote from: Valmy on May 30, 2014, 08:53:32 AM
Glad to see our legal system is not completely incompetent. :showoff:
Not completely.
Now it's just a race through the USPS. Two weeks, guys. Can you get it to me in two weeks??
A passport in two weeks? Hmmmm well I hope they expedite it for you.
Quote from: Valmy on May 30, 2014, 12:34:24 PM
Quote from: merithyn on May 30, 2014, 12:04:24 PM
Quote from: Valmy on May 30, 2014, 08:53:32 AM
Glad to see our legal system is not completely incompetent. :showoff:
Not completely.
Now it's just a race through the USPS. Two weeks, guys. Can you get it to me in two weeks??
A passport in two weeks? Hmmmm well I hope they expedite it for you.
I paid enough for them to do so. :glare:
They've had my passport app for two weeks already. I just had to send them the judge's signature. I'm hoping they'll have a quick turn around time now.
You can get a passport in 48 hours here.
You normally get it in a couple of days here.
La Croix - We'll be going through Fargo on June 14th* at around 6:30-7:00pm and planning to stop for dinner. Interested in meeting up?
Barrister, Berkut, & Neil - We'll be in Edmonton on June 19th** at around 1:30pm. We're hoping to meet up with Max's cousin while we're there, but otherwise, our time is our own. Still planning on getting together for dinner/drinks/games?
If yes to either of these, I'll PM my cell number to each of you. :)
*Pending getting out of Champaign at 6:00am, which is the current plan.
**Pending getting my passport before we leave. If not, we may just take a trip around ND/Montana/SD instead.
Quote from: merithyn on June 04, 2014, 03:24:40 PM
La Croix - We'll be going through Fargo on June 14th* at around 6:30-7:00pm and planning to stop for dinner. Interested in meeting up?
Barrister, Berkut, & Neil - We'll be in Edmonton on June 19th** at around 1:30pm. We're hoping to meet up with Max's cousin while we're there, but otherwise, our time is our own. Still planning on getting together for dinner/drinks/games?
If yes to either of these, I'll PM my cell number to each of you. :)
*Pending getting out of Champaign at 6:00am, which is the current plan.
**Pending getting my passport before we leave. If not, we may just take a trip around ND/Montana/SD instead.
Meri, Max, please don't get ebola,.....
it could be the end of the vastlawyerlyconspiracyupnorth. :cry:
:P
Have a swell time. :)
You are going to visit the Lakota Nation? Say hello to Sitting Bull for me.
Passport arrived today!
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ftag-fox.com%2Fupload%2F2014%2F01%2F03%2F20140103130207-ef3302eb.gif&hash=85bfcc38ad8b7f4307df521b057b941414aa5b4c)
Sending cell numbers via PM now. :D
Have a good trip :)
I hope nobody gets stripped searched at the border.
Quote from: Valmy on June 06, 2014, 08:28:25 AM
I hope nobody gets stripped searched at the border.
Are you kidding?? Have you seen how freaking hott Canadians are??? I'm
counting on being strip searched! :perv:
Quote from: merithyn on June 06, 2014, 09:31:18 AM
Quote from: Valmy on June 06, 2014, 08:28:25 AM
I hope nobody gets stripped searched at the border.
Are you kidding?? Have you seen how freaking hott Canadians are??? I'm counting on being strip searched! :perv:
I think the fat American Feds will be more likely to do so on your trip back :ph34r:
I have to admit I have never heard somebody having such a Canadian fetish
Quote from: Valmy on June 06, 2014, 09:39:35 AM
I think the fat American Feds will be more likely to do so on your trip back :ph34r:
I have to admit I have never heard somebody having such a Canadian fetish
I'm not sure if it's a fetish or if I'm just biased. I mean, there's a chance that I got the only truly hott Canadian, but I'm guessing not. I'm going with he's the norm, however, and moving forward with that hope.
Quote from: Valmy on June 06, 2014, 09:39:35 AM
I have to admit I have never heard somebody having such a Canadian fetish
Not surprising that American women wouldnt tell their American boyfriends/husbands that they prefer Canadian men. Meri is free to admit the truth because she acted on her desires while other American women can only dream of what might be.
Quote from: merithyn on June 06, 2014, 10:21:17 AM
Quote from: Valmy on June 06, 2014, 09:39:35 AM
I think the fat American Feds will be more likely to do so on your trip back :ph34r:
I have to admit I have never heard somebody having such a Canadian fetish
I'm not sure if it's a fetish or if I'm just biased. I mean, there's a chance that I got the only truly hott Canadian, but I'm guessing not. I'm going with he's the norm, however, and moving forward with that hope.
Now I'm feeling concerned about how eager Meri is to meet me... :unsure:
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 06, 2014, 01:54:52 PM
Quote from: Valmy on June 06, 2014, 09:39:35 AM
I have to admit I have never heard somebody having such a Canadian fetish
Not surprising that American women wouldnt tell their American boyfriends/husbands that they prefer Canadian men. Meri is free to admit the truth because she acted on her desires while other American women can only dream of what might be.
They always told me it was just because Canada had the best healthcare system in the world :(
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cXGhmA921R0
Quote from: Barrister on June 06, 2014, 01:56:39 PM
Now I'm feeling concerned about how eager Meri is to meet me... :unsure:
She just needs a few shirtless pics, no big deal.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 06, 2014, 01:54:52 PM
Quote from: Valmy on June 06, 2014, 09:39:35 AM
I have to admit I have never heard somebody having such a Canadian fetish
Not surprising that American women wouldnt tell their American boyfriends/husbands that they prefer Canadian men. Meri is free to admit the truth because she acted on her desires while other American women can only dream of what might be.
:D
I was impressed with the hotties manning the immigration stations when I've gone to the Great White North. I think a part of it is, as an American you don't expect to see 18 year olds checking your passport.
Quote from: Barrister on June 06, 2014, 01:56:39 PM
Quote from: merithyn on June 06, 2014, 10:21:17 AM
Quote from: Valmy on June 06, 2014, 09:39:35 AM
I think the fat American Feds will be more likely to do so on your trip back :ph34r:
I have to admit I have never heard somebody having such a Canadian fetish
I'm not sure if it's a fetish or if I'm just biased. I mean, there's a chance that I got the only truly hott Canadian, but I'm guessing not. I'm going with he's the norm, however, and moving forward with that hope.
Now I'm feeling concerned about how eager Meri is to meet me... :unsure:
:perv:
And you're geeky enough to be really adorable, too. :wub:
Haven't you already met Valmy? Imagine him in pleats. :P
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on June 06, 2014, 10:56:20 PM
Haven't you already met Valmy? Imagine him in pleats. :P
Oh dear. That's problematic. Valmy is like a kid brother. :(
Quote from: Barrister on June 06, 2014, 01:56:39 PM
Now I'm feeling concerned about how eager Meri is to meet me... :unsure:
It is okay. It doesn't count as cheating if the other person has another nationality.
Quote from: merithyn on June 08, 2014, 11:30:29 AM
Oh dear. That's problematic. Valmy is like a kid brother. :(
Am I: bro zoned? :(
Quote from: Valmy on June 08, 2014, 03:43:10 PM
Quote from: merithyn on June 08, 2014, 11:30:29 AM
Oh dear. That's problematic. Valmy is like a kid brother. :(
Am I: bro zoned? :(
I don't know. Is it misandry to say that? :unsure:
Women speaking is misandry. :weep:
Hotels booked in Winnipeg, Edmonton, and Bismarck. We leave in ~77 hours.
I'm going to get to use my passport. :wub: :cry: :wub:
It is sad that we require a passport to go to Canada now.
The terrorists have won.
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on June 11, 2014, 12:32:22 AM
It is sad that we require a passport to go to Canada now.
Actually, you require it to get back in the US.
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on June 11, 2014, 12:32:22 AM
It is sad that we require a passport to go to Canada now.
Yep, its a shame your government put in the passport rules. I wonder if anyone did a calcuation how much US border businesses lost while all those Canadian cross border shoppers waited for their passports.
T-minus 40 hours to go time!
I soooo need this vacation.... :(
We've arrived safely in Winnipeg! :yeah:
That was a very long, very grueling 18-hour drive that we actually had fun with. We missed LaCroix in Fargo, unfortunately (something about a girlfriend coming into town or something :rolleyes: ) but had a nice picnic in the rain at a park instead.
So far, the trip's been great. Stopped in Madison, WI, St Paul, MN, and Fargo, ND. Now, overnighting in Winnipeg before pushing through the last five hours of this leg to Max's sister's place where we'll rest for a couple of days before going on to his parent's place, eight hours further north. (:bleeding:)
For now... sleep.... :zzz:
No one is ever safe in the Peg.
Quote from: merithyn on June 15, 2014, 12:05:55 AM
We've arrived safely in Winnipeg! :yeah:
That was a very long, very grueling 18-hour drive that we actually had fun with. We missed LaCroix in Fargo, unfortunately (something about a girlfriend coming into town or something :rolleyes: ) but had a nice picnic in the rain at a park instead.
So far, the trip's been great. Stopped in Madison, WI, St Paul, MN, and Fargo, ND. Now, overnighting in Winnipeg before pushing through the last five hours of this leg to Max's sister's place where we'll rest for a couple of days before going on to his parent's place, eight hours further north. (:bleeding:)
For now... sleep.... :zzz:
:cool:
Continue the fun, Meri and Max.
Quote from: merithyn on June 15, 2014, 12:05:55 AM
We've arrived safely in Winnipeg! :yeah:
That was a very long, very grueling 18-hour drive that we actually had fun with. We missed LaCroix in Fargo, unfortunately (something about a girlfriend coming into town or something :rolleyes: ) but had a nice picnic in the rain at a park instead.
S
hmm. Meeting strangers or banging his girlfriend. Hard choice there.
As I said, I understood. :P
We're holed up with the in-laws in Spiritwood now. No deaths yet but plenty of death glares. Can't wait to go to Edmonton tomorrow.
Quote from: merithyn on June 18, 2014, 11:18:04 AM
As I said, I understood. :P
We're holed up with the in-laws in Spiritwood now. No deaths yet but plenty of death glares. Can't wait to go to Edmonton tomorrow.
Why are they glaring?
Because Meri spit in God's face and then kicked him in the balls by getting divorced.
They would have prefered that she married in poligamy?
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 18, 2014, 11:55:00 AM
They would have prefered that she married in poligamy?
That would be Polyandry :P
And no they would have preferred she hug God and give him a big kiss by staying with her delightful ex.
Oh, religious people, so naive.
Actually the glares are mine to them. It's very difficult dealing with the way they treat Max because he didn't keep a lifelong promise he made at the age of 13 to their religious community.
What I need is a bottle of red wine, glss optional.
Also, GF, I already am a polygamist to them as they don't believe in divorce. Once married, you're stuck for life. These people are really not into allowing a person to admit mistakes or change your minds.
Defy the GERMANS and it's shun time, babe. :cool:
We have escaped! For 24 hours, we have absolute freedom and acceptance! Or at least as much as Neil and Barrister can muster. :P
Dinner with God and the Lawyer in approximately 3.5 hours.
Beware ethnic gaol.
Quote from: merithyn on June 19, 2014, 02:42:59 PM
Or at least as much as Neil and Barrister can muster. :P
Dinner with God and the Lawyer in approximately 3.5 hours.
May God (not the Neiliist imposter) have mercy on your soul
And if things get too unbearable remember you are only a short 14 hour drive away.
By the way, if avoiding BB and Neil was not reason enough to just keep driving, Stanley Park in Vancouver was just named the best park in the world.
http://www.vancouversun.com/travel/Stanley+Park+named+best+park+world+TripAdvisor/9950489/story.html
We have reached the furthest west we will be going on this trip. From here on out, it's only south and east.
By the way, 1900+ miles in a car together, and Max and I still like each other. :wub: It must be love.
Quote from: merithyn on June 19, 2014, 03:24:39 PM
Max and I still like each other. :wub: It must be love.
:wacko:
Quote from: merithyn on June 19, 2014, 02:42:59 PM
We have escaped! For 24 hours, we have absolute freedom and acceptance! Or at least as much as Neil and Barrister can muster. :P
Dinner with God and the Lawyer in approximately 3.5 hours.
I hope burgers and boardgames are worth the drive... :unsure:
Quote from: Barrister on June 19, 2014, 03:58:29 PM
I hope burgers and boardgames are worth the drive... :unsure:
The burgers were fantastic, the boardgames were fun, and the company was a delight. :) The adults were pretty okay, too. ;)
For the record, I'm pretty sure BB has the most adorable boys on the planet. Timothy, Neil, and I had a great time deciding how best to stack Timothy's cars/trucks/boats, and also deciding what each of them were. (Neil's still a bit flummoxed on what goes on the ferry.) Max and Neil won the games, though BB and his wife made a good showing of trying to get the other drunk. (Red Dragon Inn)
Overall, exactly the kind of evening that I needed to wind down a bit before spending the next 48 hours with Max's family. The. Whole. Family. We're talking 57 people in one place for two days. *smh*
The List:
If you've ever posted on Languish, you're probably on the list. If you've ever met BB, Neil, Max, or me, you're definitely on the list.
P.S. Valmy, BB is definitely your doppelganger; in case you were curious.
Glad you guys all had fun - Beebs kids are pretty awesome. I am sure I am their favorite Languishite though, due to my shared interest in dinosaurs. You simply cannot top that.
Quote from: merithyn on June 20, 2014, 12:32:50 AM
The List:
If you've ever posted on Languish, you're probably on the list.
:w00t:
Quote from: merithyn on June 20, 2014, 12:32:50 AM
The List:
If you've ever met BB, Neil, Max, or me, you're definitely on the list.
Yes! I've made a list.
Quote from: merithyn on June 20, 2014, 12:32:50 AM
P.S. Valmy, BB is definitely your doppelganger; in case you were curious.
My Languish bro :hug:
Are our kids doppelgangers?
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi93.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fl58%2FValmy77%2FDavidHenryandKelsey_zpsd5045b75.jpg&hash=44d24ba5ae5fa62a9d9810f761c873afcc198e1c)
Comparing with Facebook pictures posted by BB.
Both #1s look alike.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 20, 2014, 09:28:47 AM
Comparing with Facebook pictures posted by BB.
Both #1s look alike.
That's what I was going to say. Valmy, your oldest and BB's oldest could be twins. :D
Berk, yeah, it was fun, and it would have been perfect if you'd have made it, too. :hug: I will say that Neil's ability to name construction and emergency vehicles may have endeared him to Timothy quite a bit. Of course, I think Neil lost major points when he questioned Timothy's knowledge of one of his dinosaurs.
Neil puts on a good show, but you know it is just a show - at some point he will crack and smack one of the kids or tell him to STFU ALREADY!
And then it will just be me...
Quote from: merithyn on June 20, 2014, 12:32:50 AM
Quote from: Barrister on June 19, 2014, 03:58:29 PM
I hope burgers and boardgames are worth the drive... :unsure:
The burgers were fantastic, the boardgames were fun, and the company was a delight. :) The adults were pretty okay, too. ;)
For the record, I'm pretty sure BB has the most adorable boys on the planet. Timothy, Neil, and I had a great time deciding how best to stack Timothy's cars/trucks/boats, and also deciding what each of them were. (Neil's still a bit flummoxed on what goes on the ferry.) Max and Neil won the games, though BB and his wife made a good showing of trying to get the other drunk. (Red Dragon Inn)
Overall, exactly the kind of evening that I needed to wind down a bit before spending the next 48 hours with Max's family. The. Whole. Family. We're talking 57 people in one place for two days. *smh*
The List:
If you've ever posted on Languish, you're probably on the list. If you've ever met BB, Neil, Max, or me, you're definitely on the list.
P.S. Valmy, BB is definitely your doppelganger; in case you were curious.
Glad you enjoyed yourselves guys. I still feel bad we couldn't have done more to show you around or entertain - only so much we could do on a week night.
Neil - we really should get together once in a while, even if just to play a game or watch a Ravens or Jets game. We should talk again in the fall.
It was deeply weird though to remember back to meeting Max the last time. It was so long ago it was a "Paradox OT" meet-up - Languish didn't even exist. Man we got old...
Quote from: Barrister on June 20, 2014, 11:56:54 AM
It was deeply weird though to remember back to meeting Max the last time. It was so long ago it was a "Paradox OT" meet-up - Languish didn't even exist. Man we got old...
So long ago you had 'Boy' at the end of your handle. Damn that was at least 12 years ago dude.
Quote from: Valmy on June 20, 2014, 12:31:21 PM
Quote from: Barrister on June 20, 2014, 11:56:54 AM
It was deeply weird though to remember back to meeting Max the last time. It was so long ago it was a "Paradox OT" meet-up - Languish didn't even exist. Man we got old...
So long ago you had 'Boy' at the end of your handle. Damn that was at least 12 years ago dude.
My dentist came to that realisation too last week when I told him that when I come back in the Fall, I'm bringing my oldest for her first appointment.
I am one of his first patients, he was right out of school when I first started going to him. I think he felt very, very old.
Quote from: Valmy on June 20, 2014, 08:50:11 AM
Quote from: merithyn on June 20, 2014, 12:32:50 AM
P.S. Valmy, BB is definitely your doppelganger; in case you were curious.
My Languish bro :hug:
Are our kids doppelgangers?
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi93.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fl58%2FValmy77%2FDavidHenryandKelsey_zpsd5045b75.jpg&hash=44d24ba5ae5fa62a9d9810f761c873afcc198e1c)
your first kid on the left looks a lot like my friend's twins at that age :)
Quote from: Barrister on June 20, 2014, 11:56:54 AM
Neil - we really should get together once in a while, even if just to play a game or watch a Ravens or Jets game. We should talk again in the fall.
Jets-Habs game with Neil? I hope the Jets crush them mercilessly! :D
Quote from: Valmy on June 20, 2014, 08:50:11 AM
Quote from: merithyn on June 20, 2014, 12:32:50 AM
P.S. Valmy, BB is definitely your doppelganger; in case you were curious.
My Languish bro :hug:
Are our kids doppelgangers?
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi93.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fl58%2FValmy77%2FDavidHenryandKelsey_zpsd5045b75.jpg&hash=44d24ba5ae5fa62a9d9810f761c873afcc198e1c)
That is a really, really great picture.
Adorable kids, great setting, they are all smiling and happy at the same moment.
Valmy, did you go out and have a girl when I didn't realize, or is that a little neice of yours?
I could have sworn you only had two boys.
Quote from: Barrister on June 20, 2014, 02:21:22 PM
Valmy, did you go out and have a girl when I didn't realize, or is that a little neice of yours?
I could have sworn you only had two boys.
Correct! :hug:
That is my sister's daughter.
Quote
Glad you enjoyed yourselves guys. I still feel bad we couldn't have done more to show you around or entertain - only so much we could do on a week night.
Neil - we really should get together once in a while, even if just to play a game or watch a Ravens or Jets game. We should talk again in the fall.
It was deeply weird though to remember back to meeting Max the last time. It was so long ago it was a "Paradox OT" meet-up - Languish didn't even exist. Man we got old...
I'm glad we just stayed in. We were pretty done with restaurant food and the public. Plus it many we got to hang with the whole family.
I enjoyed meeting people. BB makes tasty burgers. His son knows his dinosaurs. Max is a worthy rival when it comes to games.
Quote from: merithyn on June 22, 2014, 10:50:14 AM
Quote
Glad you enjoyed yourselves guys. I still feel bad we couldn't have done more to show you around or entertain - only so much we could do on a week night.
Neil - we really should get together once in a while, even if just to play a game or watch a Ravens or Jets game. We should talk again in the fall.
It was deeply weird though to remember back to meeting Max the last time. It was so long ago it was a "Paradox OT" meet-up - Languish didn't even exist. Man we got old...
I'm glad we just stayed in. We were pretty done with restaurant food and the public. Plus it many we got to hang with the whole family.
So how has the rest of your trip gone? You were kind of uncertain about how Friday would go...
We left the family this morning, all a little sorry to say good-bye, I think.
I disagree with the Mennonite way in many regards, which can cause friction. This weekend, however, was more about family than any of that, so it went very well. I've now officially met all of Max's siblings, probably 95% of his nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and in-laws. I canoed down a river with two of his sisters-in-law, played board games with several of his siblings and siblings-in-law (and I beat his sister in Settlers of America, something that NEVER happens!), and sat and knitted with his very elderly aunt. He played board games, canoed, played frisbee golf, and sat around and chatted politics with his brothers, nephews, and brothers-in-law.
I think it's safe to say that the weekend exceeded my expectations by a long-shot. :)
Quote from: merithyn on June 22, 2014, 10:37:14 PM
We left the family this morning, all a little sorry to say good-bye, I think.
I disagree with the Mennonite way in many regards, which can cause friction. This weekend, however, was more about family than any of that, so it went very well. I've now officially met all of Max's siblings, probably 95% of his nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and in-laws. I canoed down a river with two of his sisters-in-law, played board games with several of his siblings and siblings-in-law (and I beat his sister in Settlers of America, something that NEVER happens!), and sat and knitted with his very elderly aunt. He played board games, canoed, played frisbee golf, and sat around and chatted politics with his brothers, nephews, and brothers-in-law.
I think it's safe to say that the weekend exceeded my expectations by a long-shot. :)
Very happy to hear it. :cool:
Quote from: merithyn on June 22, 2014, 10:37:14 PM
We left the family this morning, all a little sorry to say good-bye, I think.
I disagree with the Mennonite way in many regards, which can cause friction. This weekend, however, was more about family than any of that, so it went very well. I've now officially met all of Max's siblings, probably 95% of his nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and in-laws. I canoed down a river with two of his sisters-in-law, played board games with several of his siblings and siblings-in-law (and I beat his sister in Settlers of America, something that NEVER happens!), and sat and knitted with his very elderly aunt. He played board games, canoed, played frisbee golf, and sat around and chatted politics with his brothers, nephews, and brothers-in-law.
I think it's safe to say that the weekend exceeded my expectations by a long-shot. :)
That's great. :)
About 6 hours from home. Utterly exhausted. And my butt hurts from sitting so long.
Why didn't we fly, again? :P
I know why thy butt doth sting.
Finally home. Longest day of driving yet at 20 hours. I never want to get in my car again.
Heh. And we roll in at 4am to the front door wide open and every light in the house on. Run inside to check on the kids only to find them both sound asleep. Each thought the other had locked up. :frusty:
Lolz
Legally those people are adults :(
Quote from: Berkut on June 20, 2014, 01:38:25 PM
That is a really, really great picture.
Adorable kids, great setting, they are all smiling and happy at the same moment.
Thanks man :hug: they are actually really happy kids until it is bathtime.
Bluebonnet day is an annual tradition and somehow we always seem to get a great pic. Probably why we keep doing it.
Use a waterhose Val.
Quote from: Valmy on June 24, 2014, 08:23:40 AM
Quote from: Berkut on June 20, 2014, 01:38:25 PM
That is a really, really great picture.
Adorable kids, great setting, they are all smiling and happy at the same moment.
Thanks man :hug: they are actually really happy kids until it is bathtime.
Bluebonnet day is an annual tradition and somehow we always seem to get a great pic. Probably why we keep doing it.
:huh: My boys love bath time.
Highlights of trip:
* Seeing bears and moose
* Canoeing with two of my sisters-in-law
* Playing games with Max's siblings
* Meeting Barrister, Neil, and Max's cousin in Edmonton
* Going to the sheep farm
* Getting wool roving from said sheep farm
* Supper picnic by a lake with Max's sister's family
* Talking to Max during the drive
* Getting the best hugs ever from Max's nephew, Tyrin, aged five
Quote from: Barrister on June 24, 2014, 04:05:24 PM
:huh: My boys love bath time.
Your kids act so logically and mature-like. Mine love playing in the bathtub but still throw tantrums when it is time for their bath. It makes no sense but hey I like it.
Quote from: merithyn on June 24, 2014, 04:29:51 PM
Highlights of trip:
* Talking to Max during the drive
:o That must have completely blown you away!
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 24, 2014, 04:32:23 PM
Quote from: merithyn on June 24, 2014, 04:29:51 PM
Highlights of trip:
* Talking to Max during the drive
:o That must have completely blown you away!
:lol:
He talks to me, silly! He was even half-way chatty with Neil and Barrister. He's nowhere near as quiet as he used to be, though he still tends toward silence when around people he doesn't know so well. Hell, you should have seen him with his family. I could barely get a word in edgewise. ;)