Whale Watching Off Santa Barbara

[Maureen Souza]

I am going to start this thread EARLY so many of you can make plans for the next California POTN meet in August.

Dwight has kindly offered to host a BBQ at his home as well. (PARTY!!!)

Dwight, as soon as you & Marna pick a weekend date, we can start making plans to get time off from work. I am hoping for the first or 2nd weekend of August.

[ayotnoms]

Is the Great Blue Heron outing off the table?
Just curious...

[Maureen Souza]

Is the Great Blue Heron outing off the table?
Just curious...
No...Kevin will update us as to when the chicks are hatching....around the first of May I think. Watch for it.

[SuzyView]

August is a great idea. I have nothing going on here in VA. I may just end up on your doorstep, Maureen. :)

[Zohar]

I would love to go, to bad im 13 :(

[gjman]

I was hoping to catch a few gray whales about two weeks ago when we took the Island Packer's tour from Ventura Harbor...didn't really get much of anything except dolphins, seals and pelicans off the Channel Islands. Is August a better time to catch them? Would be be migrating back to the Arctic ocean with their new calves from Baja California? Or would it be better to get them when they are going to give birth: March-April?

[Maureen Souza]

August is a great idea. I have nothing going on here in VA. I may just end up on your doorstep, Maureen. :)
Please come, Suzie!!!
I was hoping to catch a few gray whales about two weeks ago when we took the Island Packer's tour from Ventura Harbor...didn't really get much of anything except dolphins, seals and pelicans off the Channel Islands. Is August a better time to catch them? Would be be migrating back to the Arctic ocean with their new calves from Baja California? Or would it be better to get them when they are going to give birth: March-April?
Theyt grays are easiest to spot Dec.-Feb. But the Great Blue Whales come into the Channel Islands and Monterey Bay in August. You have to go to Baja for the birthing. They don't have any rules down there...the boats go right up to the whales and the whales stick their heads up to be petted.

[grego]

Oooh!!! SB isn't too far for me!! YAY!!!

[Rumjungle]

SB is just a hop, skip, and a jump away. What kind of focal lengths do you use for "whaling"?

[calicokat]

Whale Watching, lets go fishing for Yellowtail :)

[Maureen Souza]

SB is just a hop, skip, and a jump away. What kind of focal lengths do you use for "whaling"?
Just depends on the size of the whale!:D :D

[gbpro1]

Hi
A fellow Central California person here (Visalia)... Can anyone go or is this a private trip?? Im kinda new on here.. Sorry if im intruding on the thread...

[Maureen Souza]

It is a trip for anyone who wants to come along. You are certainly welcome.
We don't have any private groups here on the forum...this place is a free-for-all, jump right in, please.

Welcome... I too live in Visalia:):)

[Maureen Souza]

I am resurrecting this thread so we can bring it to fruition! Dwight...are you still holding your word to host a BBQ at your place? I am itching to get out on a boat and see some marine life.
Can we pick a date for this??? How does Aug. 18th sound?

[Rumjungle]

Can we pick a date for this??? How does Aug. 18th sound?

Every other weekend in August works for me except that one.:lol:
But don't mind me. Plan for what works for everyone and I'll try to work around it.

[Maureen Souza]

Every other weekend in August works for me except that one.:lol:
But don't mind me. Plan for what works for everyone and I'll try to work around it.
Well, let's change it then. How about the 25th?

[Johnny Thunder]

Glad I found this thread, enjoyed the get together In Morro Bay (Wow, that was a year and a half ago?!?!)

Doing a 'real' wedding July 29th (finally getting around to having a real wedding, inviting the family, etc, only been 4 years...) Kel and I will be in Hawaii August 4-11, so after that were game!

-Johnny

[Maureen Souza]

Hey Johnny...It would be great if we could get a bunch of the original group together. We really had a fun weekend way back when.

Have fun in Hawaii and stay posted here ... I am going to send some PM's out this weekend and try to get this thing off the ground.

PS: i am in Hemet about every 3 months.....I'll let you know when I come again. My mom lives there!

[ayotnoms]

I will try to make whatever date is finally set. It would be nice to stop off and say "Hello" to some the elephant seals I made friends with back in 02/2006. :)

[Rumjungle]

The weekend of the 25th sounds fine to me. So how does this work? Are we going on a boat or something?

[Mikefromearth]

Jeez, I just may have to venture over to Dwight's in August. Hope he'll let me in!

[Johnny Thunder]

Maureen, We moved out to Hemet a few months back, found a great deal on a condo that we couldnt pass up, not really thrilled about living in Hemet, but hey, leaves more money for toys!

-Johnny

[michaelbehlen]

Is this meet still on, is there a set date? Also what focal lengths would be best>

[DwightMcCann]

Mo' just woke me up ... I'm checking with my bride ... I don't know about whales in August but there is plenty to do around here ... lots of wineries, biking, National Forest, going to Santa Barbara, Solvang, Los Olivos, the Chumash Casino Resort ... I'm sure we can find things to keep people pressing shutters.

[Maureen Souza]

I will check into the whale watching tours..... If that doesn't fly, any of the other activities Dwight mentioned sound fine. We'll have to add a poll and do it soon.

[DwightMcCann]

OK, it looks like the only weekend that will work for us is the 25th. I have two casino events each of the weeks before, Anna starts kindergarten the next week and Marna has commitments. I will be photographing UB40 on that Friday night but don't have a Saturday or Sunday event. Do we need motel/hotel information? If anyone(s) would come if they had a place to stay but can't do a motel/hotel please let me know via PM.

I have a few other things we could do as well as my small home studio with studio flash for those who haven't had the chance to try that but would like to and a biggish printer.

You must be 18 to go to the casino which is 7-1/2 miles from my house. We are about 45 minutes north of Santa Barbara on Hwy 101 at Buellton which is the intersection of Hwy 246. Our house is about two miles from downtown (this is a town of 5000.) Let me know if there is any other information you want.

[DwightMcCann]

Oh, for anyone who doesn't know, MikeFromEarth (see above) is my son!

[Maureen Souza]

Okay, then let's plan for a Buellton get together on Aug. 25th! I will set up a poll to choose an activity we can all participate in .

[DwightMcCann]

Gee, Mo', you left out wine tasting! :-)

[Belmondo]

Gee, Mo', you left out wine tasting! :-)She only does that in the Wedding Forum.

[Steve Parr]

Well, I'd be up for walking around Santa Barbara. Unfortunately, I'll be out of the country the entire second half of August...

[Belmondo]

Gee, Mo', you left out wine tasting! :-)Nice avatar, Dwight. What (who) was your inspiration?

[snedigity]

Please count my wife and I in.

[DwightMcCann]

Well, I'd be up for walking around Santa Barbara. Unfortunately, I'll be out of the country the entire second half of August...
Geez, don't wind up in Cuba, buddy!

Nice avatar, Dwight. What (who) was your inspiration?
I have my secret muse!

Please count my wife and I in.
Excellent ... for those who don't know, Scott is a local.

[Belmondo]

Please count my wife and I in.Jeez. All you have to do is hop a fence and you'e there. Some of us have to come considerably greater distances.

Lucky guy.

[Belmondo]

Geez, don't wind up in Cuba, buddy!
I hear really good things about their health care there.:rolleyes:

[dazzlebea]

Hi Maureen, thanks for the PM pointing to this thread. I'd love to come and meet you all, put some real faces to these names and posts. You guys decide and I'll see if I can make it when it gets closer to the date :)

[Belmondo]

Yikes!!

Dwight...your muse and I have to talk.:lol:

[DwightMcCann]

Yikes!!

Dwight...your muse and I have to talk.:lol:
I couldn't figure out how to draw an eye patch!

[Belmondo]

I couldn't figure out how to draw an eye patch!Simple. Ask your muse.

[Kevin]

You can count on Anne and I. What's on the Barbie Dwight, crow?

[DwightMcCann]

You can count on Anne and I. What's on the Barbie Dwight, crow?

Well, I hadn't thought of that ... but I'm guessing burgers and dogs ... we'll have to take a head count in a while ... since the vote seems to be toward going to Santa Barbara strolling there may be no one cook for! :confused: We can always make it up as we go along.

[Belmondo]

Well, I hadn't thought of that ... but I'm guessing burgers and dogs ... we'll have to take a head count in a while ... since the vote seems to be toward going to Santa Barbara strolling there may be no one cook for! :confused: We can always make it up as we go along.It's a little early to call it a sweep, but any of those options sound good to me. Lois is particularly interested in a return visit to Chumash, and Santa Barbara is always fun. They even have a train depot there.

Normally I'd travel great distances for burgers and dogs, but it's really the companionship that compels me. We'll honestly try to make it.

[DwightMcCann]

It's a little early to call it a sweep, but any of those options sound good to me. Lois is particularly interested in a return visit to Chumash, and Santa Barbara is always fun. They even have a train depot there.

Normally I'd travel great distances for burgers and dogs, but it's really the companionship that compels me. We'll honestly try to make it.


And not a word about the evolvement of my musalur avatar?

They do have a train depot and a train museum in Goleta, right next door.

[Kevin]

Well I voted for Solvang, it's close and Quaint, but Anne is always good for a trip to Chumash. Burgers and dogs sound great to me.

[thomascanty]

Santa Barbara is always fun. They even have a train depot there.

The depot has the largest fig tree in the U.S., for those who want something other than trains to take pictures of. (Bring your widest lens!)

Count me in on this one. Ashley, too.

[ayotnoms]

August is looking good so I am a 90% confirmation...just as long as I don't have to sit at the childrens table again. :lol:

[DwightMcCann]

The depot has the largest fig tree in the U.S., for those who want something other than trains to take pictures of. (Bring your widest lens!)

Count me in on this one. Ashley, too.

This one? http://www.edhat.com/site/tidbit.cfm?id=853

[thomascanty]

This one? http://www.edhat.com/site/tidbit.cfm?id=853

That would be the one... ;)

Seriously, that thing is massive. You really have to see it in person (in tree?) to appreciate how big it is. I got a few close shots of it around the base of the trunk a few years ago, but I think they've made it difficult, or even impossible, to get that close since then.

[Kevin]

August is looking good so I am a 90% confirmation...just as long as I don't have to sit at the childrens table again. :lol:
There are still two chairs avalible, one for you and one for me.;)
http://www.buzzardgraphics.com/kevin/kidstable.jpg

[Cybnew]

Anything sounds good to me. I move to SF in late Aug...and hopefully i will have my new camera before then! The darn thing is on back order!

[Maureen Souza]

Yay... I am glad to see all the positive responses here. I sent out several mass PM 's so hopefully we'll have a good turnout.

[Cybnew]

random post hoping for more discussion! How is everyone?!

[Kevin]

Nothing going on here, just waiting to taste Dwight's juicy burgers.

[DwightMcCann]

random post hoping for more discussion! How is everyone?!

Yes, so what would you like discussed? I think Mo' is looking into whether there is whale watching available in August; there seem to be several who would like to rummage through Santa Barbara; I expect a couple would like to go to the casino and/or rummage around Solvang; some might like to hit the wineries; I am hoping that everyone will want to collect Saturday late afternoon/evening at my house for a BBQ and perhaps photography explorations. I also expect some will arrive Friday night, some Saturday, and maybe some Sunday until folks take off again. As it gets closer we will likely try for commitments so we know what to expect.

[Johnny Thunder]

Im game for anything and everything, I can always find something to point a camera at!

Never whale watched before, sounds like it could be fun
its been 15+ years since I was in Solvang or Santa Barbara, fun places from what I remember
Not much of a gambler (I prefer to keep my money, not loose it to flashing lights and spinning wheels!) but theres normally more to do then gamble at casinos

-Johnny

[DwightMcCann]

Glancing at the poll I expect about half want to go to Santa Barbara/Whale Watching and half cruise Solvang and the casino (which isn't much good for anything but gambling except for the big shows ... you can check their website at http://chumashcasino.com/) and maybe the miniature horses! I think both options can be a lot of fun and will gladly give advice/details on where I would go in Santa Barbara or Solvang/Los Olivos/Santa Ynez/Buellton/ or wineries. If anyone wants to bring their bikes we also have super bicycling on the roads.

[grego]

I'm down with just walking Santa Barbara. So many good sights out there. Could make for some good competition to be creative. :)

[Cybnew]

I dont care where we go! I am just looking forward to meeting with everyone again...this time with some new gear!

[Maureen Souza]

Whatever we do, there will probably be a couple of groups to do it in. The important thing is that we all gang up at Dwight's place for food, fun and foto taking in the afternoon. We will probably drive down Friday night and stay for the weekend.

[gkuenning]

If anyone wants to bring their bikes we also have super bicycling on the roads.

Would there be a safe place to store bikes?

[Karl C]

Interesting the responses, I sort of thought more people would be interested.

Maybe they're just waiting for what is decided.

Or maybe Maureen needs to start kicking ass and taking names. You'd be amazed at the level of motivation a chainsaw can produce!

I'm kidding...no Freddy Kreuger here...

:lol:

(Disclaimer: No POTN members were injured or maimed during the making of this post. Representatives of PFTEToPOTNM* were present at all times. **People For The Ethical Treatment of POTN Members)

Yes, I have a little too much free time on my hands. Waiting for the midday sun to lessen.

[DwightMcCann]

Would there be a safe place to store bikes?
In what sense? While you are riding they should be safe. While you are partying at my house you can keep them here.

Interesting the responses, I sort of thought more people would be interested.

Maybe they're just waiting for what is decided.

Or maybe Maureen needs to start kicking ass and taking names. You'd be amazed at the level of motivation a chainsaw can produce!

I'm kidding...no Freddy Kreuger here...

:lol:

(Disclaimer: No POTN members were injured or maimed during the making of this post. Representatives of PFTEToPOTNM* were present at all times. **People For The Ethical Treatment of POTN Members)

Yes, I have a little too much free time on my hands. Waiting for the midday sun to lessen.

Well, we haven't taken names yet but will as well as collect cell phone numbers (turned out to be critical when we went to Pismo) and provide them offline. I think we have had interest from 12 or 15 families ... that's pretty good!

Strangely I was just on the phone with the band I support ... it has just had a major change of personnel, again. They owe me and one payment is playing gigs ... I'm not sure it will work out but if plans solifidy soon enough I may see they are available for the BBQ ... they are a 7 man R&B/Latin group. Heck, maybe we could all shoot PR images for them? :-)

[Maureen Souza]

Interesting the responses, I sort of thought more people would be interested.

Maybe they're just waiting for what is decided.

Or maybe Maureen needs to start kicking ass and taking names. You'd be amazed at the level of motivation a chainsaw can produce!

I'm kidding...no Freddy Kreuger here...

:lol:

(Disclaimer: No POTN members were injured or maimed during the making of this post. Representatives of PFTEToPOTNM* were present at all times. **People For The Ethical Treatment of POTN Members)

Yes, I have a little too much free time on my hands. Waiting for the midday sun to lessen.
I sent out PM's to over 40 people...now it is up to them to decide if they want to come. Personally, a group of 20 or less is more suited for a good day.....too many folks show up and people start getting lost in the shuffle:D
In what sense? While you are riding they should be safe. While you are partying at my house you can keep them here.



Well, we haven't taken names yet but will as well as collect cell phone numbers (turned out to be critical when we went to Pismo) and provide them offline. I think we have had interest from 12 or 15 families ... that's pretty good!

Strangely I was just on the phone with the band I support ... it has just had a major change of personnel, again. They owe me and one payment is playing gigs ... I'm not sure it will work out but if plans solifidy soon enough I may see they are available for the BBQ ... they are a 7 man R&B/Latin group. Heck, maybe we could all shoot PR images for them? :-)
I'm up for it...that sounds like fun.

[Maureen Souza]

I have looked into whale watching trips and although it is a little pricey, you get 4 1/2 hours on the boat with a guarantee that if you don't see any whales, you can go another day for FREE!

I would like to book this ASAP so let's decide who is going whale watching. For those folks who can't do boats, you can land rove around SB or Solvang.

I think we should all plan on meeting back at Dwight's place at 4:00 for BBQ and an evening of partying:)

Please add your name to the list if you want to go on this whale watching trip:
http://condorcruises.com/whale-watching.cfm/whale_watching/summer.cfm

[Maureen Souza]

Whale Watchers:
1.) Skip & Maureen

[DwightMcCann]

Those who are planning to come can PM me with names and cell phone so we know how many to plan for. I will PM the cell phone list a few days before the gathering. While this is NOT mandatory (we want you to come even if you didn't get around to sending a number) it would be helpful.

[Cybnew]

It is 1:15 in the morning...and I just got home. I really don't feel up to scrolling through 5 pages of text, so would it be possible Maureen, since you are still online (Please), to tell me the actual day of this get together? I am moving to SF on the 24th So hopefully it is before that! :) oh...im getting a 1d Mk3!

[Karl C]

If I'm in town that weekend, I'd be interested in SB or Solvang.

Small, rolling, pitching boats and I don't see eye-to-eye. ;)

[DwightMcCann]

It is 1:15 in the morning...and I just got home. I really don't feel up to scrolling through 5 pages of text, so would it be possible Maureen, since you are still online (Please), to tell me the actual day of this get together? I am moving to SF on the 24th So hopefully it is before that! :) oh...im getting a 1d Mk3!
August 24-26 with BBQ on 25th aroudn 4:00PM. Glad you're getting one of those new fangled bodies ... I need to see what they look like.

If I'm in town that weekend, I'd be interested in SB or Solvang.

Small, rolling, pitching boats and I don't see eye-to-eye. ;)

There will likely be a group for that.

[Cybnew]

24-26 :( I cant make it!!!!!!!!!!!! :'( I will be in my dorm room on those days!!! Oh well...i guess there is always the next POTN meet. Hope you guys have fun!

[Maureen Souza]

24-26 :( I cant make it!!!!!!!!!!!! :'( I will be in my dorm room on those days!!! Oh well...i guess there is always the next POTN meet. Hope you guys have fun!
We can always drive up to the Bay area, Matt. We get around this state quite handily.;)

[Belmondo]

I guess it's time to officially send my regrets. We're stuck in New York for the rest of this week, and probably won't be heading home till the middle of next week.

Pity, too. I was really looking forward to sinking my teeth into Dwight's juicy hamburger.:( :( :lol: :lol:

[Karl C]

I guess it's time to officially send my regrets. We're stuck in New York for the rest of this week, and probably won't be heading home till the middle of next week.

Pity, too. I was really looking forward to sinking my teeth into Dwight's juicy hamburger.:( :( :lol: :lol:

You sure you're looking at the right dates? ;)

August 24-26 with BBQ on 25th around 4:00PM.

[Belmondo]

You sure you're looking at the right dates? ;):o :o :o :o


I can be forgiven...I'm not even sure where I am right now, much less what month this is.

[Karl C]

:o :o :o :o


I can be forgiven...I'm not even sure where I am right now, much less what month this is.

No problem - I thought maybe I had the wrong dates.

I understand about not knowing time/place anymore. I have the same issue.

:D

[DwightMcCann]

:o :o :o :o I can be forgiven...I'm not even sure where I am right now, much less what month this is.No problem - I thought maybe I had the wrong dates. I understand about not knowing time/place anymore. I have the same issue.:D

Oh, Belmondo, you know we always forgive you, but you and Karl must really, really be getting old! ;)

[Karl C]

Oh, Belmondo, you know we always forgive you, but you and Karl must really, really be getting old! ;)

The sad part is I'm young enough to be Belmondo's son!

Not that I would wish that fate upon him.

[DwightMcCann]

The sad part is I'm young enough to be Belmondo's son!

Not that I would wish that fate upon him.

The sad part is that God is young enough to be Belmondo's son!

Not that I would wish that fate upon him.

[snedigity]

Dwight that is Funny!

[DwightMcCann]

Dwight that is Funny!

I admit to being a terrible person ... but sometimes it is just too much fun and I am simply overtaken by events. :lol:

[Belmondo]

The sad part is that God is young enough to be Belmondo's son!

Not that I would wish that fate upon him.God or belmondo?

[DwightMcCann]

God or belmondo?

For most of us the answer is obvious but for you I'll give an explicit answer, "Yes!"

[Belmondo]

For most of us the answer is obvious but for you I'll give an explicit answer, "Yes!"Ohhhhh.:rolleyes:

[DwightMcCann]

Ohhhhh.:rolleyes:
Good! I was beginning to think we'd never get that cleared up, sigh. ;)

[Kevin]

There is a definite resemblance here.

[DwightMcCann]

There is a definite resemblance here.

Your avatar and Belmondo's?

[Maureen Souza]

Okay Dwight...what would you & Marna like all of us to contribute to the BBQ?

Do you want us to bring food or shall we all pitch in a few bucks and you can do the shopping?

[DwightMcCann]

Aha, yes, let me check with the boss. Also, I have only about four cell phone number PMs so maybe it's time to start the "sign up" event on the thread.

[ayotnoms]

Bad news, campers.

I will be attending this gathering where every effort will be made to re-establish my bonafides as annoy-toms---as Dwight has dubbed me.

:lol:

[DwightMcCann]

OK, Marna says just get us a number and we'll shop locally! So we've got less than a month to get a list of attendees which is lightspeed for POTNers! Is everyone who answered the poll coming? Did everyone who is coming answer the poll?

Evets, I fully expect you to find some unexpected commitment at the last minute to dissuade you from coming, sigh, but we'll put up with you even if you do come.

[ayotnoms]

Evets, I fully expect you to find some unexpected commitment at the last minute to dissuade you from coming, sigh, but we'll put up with you even if you do come.

I knew I could count on you Dwight.
If it isn't too much of an imposition, have Anna throw a little sumthin' into a doggie dish and put out curbside...I'll be fine.

:lol:

[Cybnew]

LOL STEVE! Ok...so here is where I am at...i move into the dorms at SFSU on Aug 22nd..I MIGHT be able to drive back down to "pick up some more stuff" that weekend...and If i do...I will attend! if not...there is always next time!

[Maureen Souza]

Bad news, campers.

I will be attending this gathering where every effort will be made to re-establish my bonafides as annoy-toms---as Dwight has dubbed me.

:lol:
That is GOOD news for me, Steve!! I can't wait to see everyone again.

[Maureen Souza]

LOL STEVE! Ok...so here is where I am at...i move into the dorms at SFSU on Aug 22nd..I MIGHT be able to drive back down to "pick up some more stuff" that weekend...and If i do...I will attend! if not...there is always next time!


Do it, Mat... do it!!! It won't be the same without you.:D

[DwightMcCann]

Well, we have 20 in the poll. Are you all coming? Can you PM me cell phone numbers? Can we hear the love? Mo' and the Annoying One can't do it all themselves!

[thomascanty]

Well, we have 20 in the poll. Are you all coming?

I still don't know, though it's not looking very promising for me. Things are a little weird at work right now, and I don't know if I can get the weekend off. I'm definitely going to try my best, though. I'll PM you my cell phone # just in case.

[Cybnew]

Ok...im pretty sure im going to be there! I don't know about whale watching...but...ill definitely be at Dwight's For the BBQ!

[Seefutlung]

Please come, Suzie!!!

Theyt grays are easiest to spot Dec.-Feb. But the Great Blue Whales come into the Channel Islands and Monterey Bay in August. You have to go to Baja for the birthing. They don't have any rules down there...the boats go right up to the whales and the whales stick their heads up to be petted.

There is a pod of Blues just west of Catalina.

[Maureen Souza]

There is a pod of Blues just west of Catalina.
:D:D:D

Yay...they are coming in right on time!

[Maureen Souza]

For all you whale watchers who are planning on going, I called and made my reservations today. There is an 0800 tour and 1 p.m. tour so I booked the 0800 trip for Skip and I.
The guy I talked to said the Great Blue Whales are coming in in large numbers and should stick around through September. They are seeing 5-15 a day right now.

The phone # for reservations is 888-77-WHALE.

[Karl C]

As fun as the get-together sounds, I can't make a commitment yet. At the moment, I'm not exactly local to Los Angeles and don't know if I'll be in SoCal that weekend. I could be in SoCal sooner than the 25th or later than the 25th. Too many uncertainties right now. ;)

If I can make an appearance, I'll let Dwight or Maureen know.

:D

[DwightMcCann]

We would rather have you come unannounced than not come at all! Do what you can and let us know when you know. There is a special camaraderie among photographers that should transcend the rigors of rules and regulations and commitments and obligations.

[Maureen Souza]

It's August, folks!!! Please make sure you notify Dwight if you are coming to the BBQ (if you haven't done so already).

And make your whale watching reservations, too. Don't get left behind!

[Cybnew]

Maureen, do you have a price and time for the whale watching excursion?

Thanks!
Mat

[thomascanty]

Unfortunately, I won't be able to make it. I haven't even asked for the weekend off from work yet, and the way things are going there lately, I probably wouldn't get it if I did ask. I'm too busy dealing with a sick kitty right now, anyway...

Maybe next time.

[Maureen Souza]

Maureen, do you have a price and time for the whale watching excursion?

Thanks!
Mat
I posted the site and number in here... but here is the link again:
http://condorcruises.com/whale-watching.cfm/whale_watching/summer.cfm

Price is $88 for a 4 hour trip. If we don't see any whales, we get a voucher for a free tour good for one year.

[Maureen Souza]

Unfortunately, I won't be able to make it. I haven't even asked for the weekend off from work yet, and the way things are going there lately, I probably wouldn't get it if I did ask. I'm too busy dealing with a sick kitty right now, anyway...

Maybe next time.
:(:(:(:(:(

Sorry about your kitty......and even sorrier that you can't come.

[calicokat]

I am working some OT that weekend too, I owe back some time :( When is the next get together. Maybe the Bald Eagle winter trip like last year

[Johnny Thunder]

Counting down the days! The Wife and I leave for our Honeymoon (made it legal with a big ceramony and all that fun stuff) Saturday, spending a week in Maui, then its almost time to come see some of my favorite POTN'ers!

-Johnny

[Maureen Souza]

I am working some OT that weekend too, I owe back some time :( When is the next get together. Maybe the Bald Eagle winter trip like last year
Wish you could trade off a day and get your booty over there, Jim.

Counting down the days! The Wife and I leave for our Honeymoon (made it legal with a big ceramony and all that fun stuff) Saturday, spending a week in Maui, then its almost time to come see some of my favorite POTN'ers!

-Johnny
I am looking forward to it, too. It will be fun to see old friends and meet some new.

[Johnny Thunder]

forgot to add a photo!

have a 13x19 print of this hanging on the wall with messages from all the guests on it.

-Johnny

[calicokat]

Wish you could trade off a day and get your booty over there, Jim.


I am looking forward to it, too. It will be fun to see old friends and meet some new.

I wish, OT is a nightmare right now, love them budget cuts :confused:

[calicokat]

forgot to add a photo!

have a 13x19 print of this hanging on the wall with messages from all the guests on it.

-Johnny

Big congrats, she is a beautiful woman

[Johnny Thunder]

Thanks

I got extremely luck with this one. Great to look at, Great to spend time with, and the patience of a saint, and she hasnt tried to kill me (yet?)

-Johnny

[thomascanty]

forgot to add a photo!

have a 13x19 print of this hanging on the wall with messages from all the guests on it.

Congrats on making it legal and all... :) Keleigh sure looks beautiful as ever. You still look like my brother's twin, though. I just can't get over that... :lol:

[Karl C]

I won't be able to make it either. I'll be in town the week of the 14th.

Maybe next time. Thanks for the invite!

[DwightMcCann]

I am extremely sorry to hear about those who cannot make this event but I expect that if it works out well we will host something else in the future. We're pretty centrally located for Southern California plus near ocean, wineries, casino, biking, hiking, wildfires (Oh, wait, I didn't mean to mention that ... it may not be out by this event, sigh), scenery, cool evenings, Santa Barbara, Solvang, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, paintball field and any number of other wonders and treats.

Mrs. Thunder looks better than ever ... but I can't say anything about young Johnny.

[Cybnew]

So...i am definitely coming. Dont think I will go whale watching...but....i have a question. Dwight! what should i bring food wise?!!!!!!

[DwightMcCann]

So...i am definitely coming. Dont think I will go whale watching...but....i have a question. Dwight! what should i bring food wise?!!!!!!

Just bring yourself!

[Kevin]

Glad your schedule worked out Matt, see you there.

[Johnny Thunder]

Thanks for the kind words everyone, she is a special lady.

Im sitting at LAX for the next few hours, my flight was delayed 3.5 hrs, good thing they have Wifi, too bad it costs money.

-Johnny

[Kevin]

I made a reservation for two on the 8am Condor Sat morning.:D

Whale Watchers:
1.) Skip & Maureen
2.) Kevin & Anne

[DwightMcCann]

Well, a lot more folks voted on the poll than we are hearing from. I have cell phone numbers from a very limited group. I guess next week we'll have to start a list in here of those coming so we know what to plan for.

[Belmondo]

I made a reservation for two on the 8am Condor Sat morning.:D

Whale Watchers:
1.) Skip & Maureen
2.) Kevin & Anne

You seem to be sucking up to the Souzas a lot. I can't even get you to come have a sandwich down here.:p

[DwightMcCann]

You seem to be sucking up to the Souzas a lot. I can't even get you to come have a sandwich down here.:p
Well, I can't speak for Kevin, but I find beautiful beaches, hills covered with wildflowers, deer and hawks, huge vineyards with world class wineries and an ocean with whales one hell of a lot more appealing than stupefying heat and burning sand! And that's without even getting personal! :lol: But I don't know anyone who doesn't enjoy kissing up to Mo'! :cool:

[Belmondo]

Well, I can't speak for Kevin, but I find beautiful beaches, hills covered with wildflowers, deer and hawks, huge vineyards with world class wineries and an ocean with whales one hell of a lot more appealing than stupefying heat and burning sand! And that's without even getting personal! :lol: But I don't know anyone who doesn't enjoy kissing up to Mo'! :cool:Good point, Dwight. Lois and I were just commenting at lunch today that we only have two more months of stultifying heat left. Then, it will just be damned hot.

Regarding kissing up to Mo....


She's not that tall.

[DwightMcCann]

Regarding kissing up to Mo....


She's not that tall.
I was thinking of you, not me! ;)

[Kevin]

You seem to be sucking up to the Souzas a lot. I can't even get you to come have a sandwich down here.:p
Can't comment, I'm eating.

[Cybnew]

Well as it stands now...My girlfriend and I will be heading out from cambria at approximately 1:30 pm...that puts us down there a little before 3:00...plenty of time to mingle!

[Skip Souza]

Well, I can't speak for Kevin, but I find beautiful beaches, hills covered with wildflowers, deer and hawks, huge vineyards with world class wineries and an ocean with whales one hell of a lot more appealing than stupefying heat and burning sand! ........................... :cool:
A sorry Arab you would be....:rolleyes:

[DwightMcCann]

A sorry Arab you would be....:rolleyes:
Asbolutely!

Hey, Cyb, is that the 25th?

[Cybnew]

Yes...i believe so

[Johnny Thunder]

May not be able to make it, spent a little more then we were planning on our Honeymoon and the Wifes car need some unexpected repairs, so money is a little on the tight side.

-Johnny

[Cybnew]

May not be able to make it, spent a little more then we were planning on our Honeymoon and the Wifes car need some unexpected repairs, so money is a little on the tight side.

-Johnny
:cry::cry::cry::cry::cry:

[DwightMcCann]

OK, Here we go. I will put directions to my house up here and email phone numbers to those who sign up. Everyone who plans to attend should cut & paste this post and add their names and append a new post ... you can put your plans by your name if you want:

Anna, Dwight & Marna: Staying in Valley to give directions.

[Cybnew]

OK, Here we go. I will put directions to my house up here and email phone numbers to those who sign up. Everyone who plans to attend should cut & paste this post and add their names and append a new post ... you can put your plans by your name if you want:

Anna, Dwight & Marna: Staying in Valley to give directions.
Mathew and Laurel: Driving down in the afternoon of the 25th

[Maureen Souza]

OK, Here we go. I will put directions to my house up here and email phone numbers to those who sign up. Everyone who plans to attend should cut & paste this post and add their names and append a new post ... you can put your plans by your name if you want:

Anna, Dwight & Marna: Staying in Valley to give directions.

Mathew and Laurel: Driving down in the afternoon of the 25th

Skip & Mo: Driving to SB Friday night, Whale watching Sat. morning,then
to Dwight's Sat. afternoon. Staying overnight with Dwight & Marna.

[Belmondo]

My problem is that I check on this thread so seldom that I'm always behind the 8-Ball.

The barbecue is on Saturday the 25th, right? Or is it Sunday?

We are probably going to stay somewhere in the Santa Barbara area, but don't really know where and when the group activities are taking place.

I guess I'm asking for a brief synopsis so we can finalize our plans.

[Maureen Souza]

My problem is that I check on this thread so seldom that I'm always behind the 8-Ball.

The barbecue is on Saturday the 25th, right? Or is it Sunday?

We are probably going to stay somewhere in the Santa Barbara area, but don't really know where and when the group activities are taking place.

I guess I'm asking for a brief synopsis so we can finalize our plans.
The BBQ is Saturday afternoon at Dwight's. Some folks are going whale watching and some folks are going strolling through Solvang or Santa Barbara on Saturday. Then we are all going to meet at Dwight & Marna's when we get done.
The whale tour ends at noon so we will probably get to Dwight's around 1:00.

Skip and I are going to Solvang on Sunday before we drive home. We are going to wing the Friday night hotel.:D

[DwightMcCann]

I believe that Johnny Thunder and his Amazing Bride are now going to attend and have the suite across the hall from Mo' on the upper level [AKA Anna's Room.] Mo', you guys can stay Friday night if you like although it is then a very early morning.

While I expect that most will want to either whale watch or go to Solvang or Santa Barbara to touristize, Los Olivos is close by and fancies itself an 'artist colony'; the QuickSilver miniature horse ranch is open every day and will melt your heart; there are lots and lots of wineries with tasting rooms (I can probably get the tasting fee waved for my winery client whose tasting room is under a mile from my house); the casino is 7.5 miles away; the Maverick Saloon in Santa Ynez (across the street from the casino) is generally a good place to go drinking with a Western theme; AJ Spurs and other SIDEWAYS COUNTRY restaurants are a couple of miles from my house on the main drag; bicycling is excellent here. And, I am opening my small studio to all comers ... along with use of computing and printing power [my studio and office are in one wing of the mansion.]

[Maureen Souza]

I believe that Johnny Thunder and his Amazing Bride are now going to attend and have the suite across the hall from Mo' on the upper level [AKA Anna's Room.] Mo', you guys can stay Friday night if you like although it is then a very early morning.


Oh boy!!! Slumber party at the McCann's!!!;):D

[Cybnew]

Oh boy!!! Slumber party at the McCann's!!!;):D

I take it there will be a chaperon for this event....and i would like the numbers of parents just to be safe. :)

[Maureen Souza]

I take it there will be a chaperon for this event....and i would like the numbers of parents just to be safe. :)
:lol::lol::lol::lol:

Time to play when the parents are away.......;)

[Cybnew]

heheh. Im excited...my girlfriend is coming with me so I will have the pleasure of introducing her to all of you!

[DwightMcCann]

heheh. Im excited...my girlfriend is coming with me so I will have the pleasure of introducing her to all of you!

Can she stay for the pillow fights?

[Cybnew]

depends.....


This video has an interesting view of pillow fights about 5:50 into it (http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-4003747134051280456&q=demetri+martin+person&total=18&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=0)

[ayotnoms]

Are we gonna play Twister too??!! ..always a great ice breaker provided no one has eaten spicey Mexican food.
:lol:

[Cybnew]

im only good at twister when playing amputees

[Maureen Souza]

I can see we are all looking forward to next weekend. Dwight, will you PM me directions to your house?