CHERUBS 2009 Conference???

[DanielleKessner]

Just wondering if any decision have been made yet for next years conference? I know things have been super busy but I am just checking. Myhubby asks me AT LEAST twice a week if I know what date and which city the conference will held on/in. So as soon as a decision has been made I love to know. We are 99% sure we will be coming over. We have got our spending money practically covered and once we know the dates etc we can look into securing flights. It's a long way off but we really have to be organised to cover the large costs involved.

I won't believe I am coming over until I am sitting on a plane heading towards the US :-)

[KarlaHolt]

My husband has been asking me this also as we are planning to attend...hoping for San Fran as my brother is there! We want to start planning so we can save money for the trip...it will be great when we find out the location! The goal will seem more real when we know.

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

We haven't set the date and location yet - we're waiting on some information first. Looks like TX or SF. As soon as it's decided, we'll post it! :) By November 1st at the latest! :)

[KimberlySwitzer]

Im excited, I am definately coming and can't wait to start making flight plans and everything!

[FernandaArce]

We are comming also :)

[Bethany Gillham]

I vote Texas because it's pretty close to me and I would love to come, but whatever is best for everyone else.

Hopefully no matter where it is my family and I can make next year.

[JenniferBrown]

I am definately coming too

[FernandaArce]

The more the merrier!!!

[DanielleGolding]

I'm sitting here so jealous Danielle!!! Would love to come but it's just not realistic for a few years yet. That's so great that Julian is so keen!

[Shanell Browand]

I hope we can go! I really really really want to, but the doctors told us that we can't go anywhere if their will be pollution or cigerette smoke because Ayda doesnt do good with that.

I think Seattle would be good for a conference one year. Then you all can see my part of the world. It seems I am the only one over here in the West Coast!

[PennyCampsey]

Shanell .. i love that photo of Ayda !!!
I am wondering too ... where it will be next year.
Not sure if we can make it or not, but will put %100 effort to. We would LOVE to come out west , this would give us a "REASON" to!
I definitely want to come!!

[StephanieOlivarez]

DANIELLE!!!! HOW EXCITING!!!!!!
TEXAS>>>>TEXAS>>>>>TEXAS!!!!!!

I am kidding...where ever it is..at least I will be coming.
To drive to SF would take DAYS!!!!!!!!
But I am already excited to be hearing of ALLLLLLL these members coming!!!
Oh the fun we will have!!!!!!!!

[Corin Nava]

I am already sooo excited for next years conference. I have told Nate one way or another I am going to go! Probably by myself for financial reasons :( but I will be there!!!

[FernandaArce]

Yeah, I guess it will be only me and Ernesto, but who knows....

[KimberlySwitzer]

ahh im soo excited to meet you all :) Its going to be so fun!

[Chris and TracyMeats]

Somewhere on the west coast would be great! We have been saving money for a trip to CA for a year now and we could make a family vacation and do the Cherubs conference if the dates were right and worked with Chris' work schedule. I know we couldn't do Texas. Anxious to hear where Dawn has selected and the best place to get more people to attend.

[PennyCampsey]

I am anxious to hear, too Tracy !
:)

[AmyMiles]

Ooh TX sounds like fun.

[KarlaHolt]

I'm game for either location!

[DanielleKessner]

I guess we would prefer San Fran (cost wise) but if it is Texas we will just have to work it all in. When we decided we wanted to come the Aussie vs US dollar was as good as it has been in years. It has been steadily coming down over the past month or so - we are going to put some spending money on an Travelex card before it gets too bad! I was coming a few years back back but the dollar dropped way too low - if that happens againI will wonder if I am meant to come or not!

Hopefully it will all work out!!!

[DanielleKessner]

Any news on dates and city yet? We are still planning on coming even though the Aussie dollar is TERRIBLE. We were about a week late in buying US dollars at a fantastic rate. It has rallied a little in the past week but still looking pretty sad today ($1 Aussie would buy 68 US cents). We have decided for the small amount of time we are coming over the bad exchange rate won't be a huge issue. Also hoping to get cheap flights due to the whole economic situation.

So, as soon as a decision has been made please let us know :-)

[KimberlySwitzer]

Yes, let me know too. I have a ton of places to go next summer so I really need to get things in order!!! Im super excited :)

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

I'm trying guys - a few things depend on where and when and I have to get those straight first (I'll clue you in as soon as I'm sure!). Also, I'm trying to knock out the book, cookbook, ribbons, yearbook and calendar and a newsletter right now so bear with me! I probably won't have a set date and place for a few more weeks. :(

[ShariaBrent]

How about Destin Florida, It's soooo relaxing!

[StephanieOlivarez]

Destin Florida is BEAUTIFUL!!!
Shane and I lived there when we first got married.

[Damon andSharonknott]

When I read Sharia's post I thought of you Steph and I also thought of Leigh and her gorgeous daughter Grayton.

[KateC]

yummy yummy i luv florida :)

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Who wants to volunteer to set up the conference? If we have help in a specific town, that will make a lot of difference on where we go. And I need more help with planning this year please! :)

[karahess]

Can I throw in my 2 cents? Florida????? Yeah, it's beautiful and yeah it would be relaxing, but East Coast again? That's not exactly fair to our west coasters. I'm cool with a hot weather location, but I do know of many parents that turned down the Raleigh location due to it being such a hot place. Their children suffered greatly with the stifling heat and humidity.

[ChristinaTennyson]

CA sounds good to me. (Of course I could actually drive there!) Pretty easy to combine it with a family vacation with lots to do, and usually fares and such are going to be decent. San Diego's a pretty big convention locale, too, but San Fran would be because of speakers, right? Of course, I just don't know TX that well.

[StephanieOlivarez]

I am willing to help whereever I can.

[StephanieOlivarez]

I can spell.
Where ever I can. lol

[FernandaArce]

I would fly anywhere. I would LOVE to go to San Francisco. I don't know how can I help from here... If I can, tell me ;)

[PennyCampsey]

STEPH >>> LOVE THE PIC

[PennyCampsey]

where will it be ??
Can't do the west coast, sorry guys.
Could make it to FL ...
I understand though that it is west coast time
come on Kara ... OHIO gets just as hot as NC sometimes LOL !!

[PennyCampsey]

HOW IS ADAM KARA ??? HUGS TO HIM !!

[FernandaArce]

How about in the middle?

[mariluornelas]

Dawn if the Conference takes place in Texas I 'll be glad to help!!!!!
Let me know (dancing)

[MelissaKelly]

Hey, Dawn. I'm a little late to this thread but if you're serious about Texas let me know what I can do to help. I'm in Corpus Christi but I have a couple hospital ties in Houston and some friends in Austin, too.

[KimberlySwitzer]

Im not to sure if I can help from Canada, but if there is anything I can do I will... and I will fly ANYWHERE just so ya'll know im there for sure, if the dates work with moving and such next summer!!

[StephanieOlivarez]

Can you all say INDIANA!!!!!!!!
INDIANA!!!!!!
Conference in Indiana!!!!!!!!

[mariluornelas]

I vote for Texas!!!!! jejeje

[JenniferBrown]

I voted for Boston !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Kristin Morrow]

I vote for west coast....it was on the east coast last year!! Let's change it up a bit.

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Well it's a toss up between TX and CA.... we have no CA help setting it up so far. Anyone near San Francisco willing to help set it up if we have it there? If we have it in Texas, where?

[mariluornelas]

texas, texas!!!

[MelissaKelly]

The major children's hospital is Texas Children's in Houston, but Houston itself is, in my opinion, a bit of a mess for visitors, especially in light of Ike. I know absolutely nothing about Dallas/Fort Worth (it's an eight hour drive away from me). San Antonio (Santa Rosa is their kids' hospital) is okay, I've heard Austin is nice too.

I live outside Corpus Christi. We have an amazing hospital here and I know tons of people so I'm sure I could drag some nurses and RTs over for help with whatever we need. It's on the coast so there's a nice walking area on the water downtown, the northern tip of Padre Island is 20 minutes drive away if anyone wanted to check out the beach, and there's fun stuff to do like the aquarium or the USS Lexington.

We also have an airport in town (and it's adorable, no chance of getting lost here!), and best of all...ME! =D

Dawn please feel free to call me if you need anything, I'm pretty shameless in promoting Corpus but I'll help out wherever you decide. 361-288-4698.

[MelissaKelly]

Also, one of my best buds at our hospital and two of Michael's surgeons are the co-directors of the ECMO program, I can almost certainly get at least one of them to speak if it's in CC.

I'm not above bribery.

;-)

[KarlaHolt]

I'd be happy to help with whatever I can do from the East coast!

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Well everyone it looks as though 2009 will be in Texas (city undecided) and 2010 will be in San Francisco!

So now we need to decide on where in Texas and we need volunteers and help planning and finding sponsors and pulling it off!

The doctors have suggested San Antonio, saying it's more family-friendly and has more attractions. It's also a lot better weather wise in July than say Dallas or Houston or Austin. And since it's a conference town we'll get better deals. What do you Texans think?

[mariluornelas]

yep yep... san antonio sounds great!!!
jeje (my city is too small and boring)

[KimberlySwitzer]

Im excited!! Do you have any dates in mind Dawn?

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Sometime in July, no date set yet. Will probably depend on the best rate we can get for a conference room.

[KimberlySwitzer]

I vote for anytime other than the first weekend :) I have a weekend long country concert then and Tim McGraw is going, I cannot wait!!!

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

LOL, Kim. Because of the 4th of July holiday here that's not an option for us anyway so you're safe on that weekend! :)

[KimberlySwitzer]

YAY, that makes me even more excited!!

[MelissaKelly]

Well, like I said, I know little to nothing about San Antonio other than the river walk, but I can try and help out. Let me know what you need.

Did you look at Corpus Christi at all? I guarantee it's less expensive than SA and it's smaller, which can be nicer for people traveling here. I'm being pushy, I'll admit, but I know I can deliver a lot of support from this town and I don't have any contacts in SA, medical or personal.

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Mel, we're open to different towns. :) Let's pull together and see what each place offers. Here is what we go by in selecting towns:

- CDH hospital (in case one of the cherubs get sick)
- Airport
- Tourist attractions, especially for kids (which we sorely lacked in Raleigh... won't make that mistake again!)
- A good deal on a hotel conference room
- Affordable hotel rooms (families have to pay for their own rooms)
- Non-smoking rooms (cherubs lungs are delicate - they can have smoking rooms, just far away from the cherubs please)
- Decent weather (we can't deal with 100 degree weather for some of these kids who aren't used to it)


I will admit this past conference I did not do such a hot job with the hotel! I swear when I booked them last spring they were not under construction, the pool was fine, they were much more accommodating! By summer it all went down hill and we were very disappointed. We will be much careful with the hotel for next year.

The weather and the attractions are appealing for San Antonio and Dr. Lally gave us 3 hospitals there capable of dealing with CDH kids. So that's why I was liking that town. But we are open to different towns!

Let's just decide by the beginning of the year at the latest - we have a lot of work to do! :)

[MelissaKelly]

Fair enough.

I'll grant that the tourist stuff is better in SA (they have seaworld and all that), but as I mentioned we do have the Texas State Aquarium, beaches and a nice bay front (they rent out neat family size bikes and stuff and it's not so big that it's unmanageable for little kids). We also have a baseball team (I'm really not into sports, I think they're AAA? I could find out) if people were interested in that.

We have an international airport and an awesome hospital (where Michael lived for almost his first year), and I'm very well acquainted with all six of the critical care specialists that run it, preparing them for possible cherub guests would be no problem.

All of Corpus Christi's restaurants are non-smoking and I would be happy to look into the hotels if you'd like. As far as weather, anywhere in Texas in July is going to be hot. =) CC is about the same as SA, just windier.

I'm happy to help, wherever you choose. Let me know what you need. I could take pictures of a few spots and make some calls to get ideas on pricing, if you want.

[Chris and TracyMeats]

I was bummed it was not in CA, but we will have to see what goes on in July to go to Texas. If you are going to have it in Texas, I think you should have it in a location that some members are familiar with and can help plan. I think if Mel is willing to pitch in a lot of hard work, Corpus Christi could be awesome!! I got on a Corpus Christi website and the aquarium, the USS Lexington, and the beach sounds great and good activities for the kids. My boys love aquariums and would love to see a beach!! Like Mel said, they have a great hospital, for look how well Michael is doing!! How far is San Antonio from you Mel?

I do have to ask--when is hurricane season it Texas? I am totally afraid of being caught in a natural disaster.

[MelissaKelly]

Thanks Tracy, your check is in the mail =P

Kidding.

SA is about two hours drive north of here, Houston is about four hours away.

Oh there's also an adorable zoo in Victoria (about an hour away) that I took Michael to recently. Very small, very doable for small kids but bigger kids would get bored.

Hurricane season is from June until November (or whenever we get a cold front). They are serious business, but we're very paranoid on the Gulf Coast and they start tracking them when they're barely a blip in the Caribbean. It's difficult to pinpoint *exactly* where one is going to make landfall, but there's plenty of warning. We were preparing for Ike for about eight days before it hit, for example. Granted that one moved a little slow and it blew north (for me), but they don't sneak up on people like they used to.

The beaches rock on North Padre Island, you can drive right to the water. It's fabulous for lazy people like me. Makes barbecuing on the beach simple!

[DanielleKessner]

I don't mind where in Texas it is but I do know (from my Aussie experience) that it is so much easier to organise when you have local people do all the leg work :-)

Julian (hubby) and I are very excited now that we know where it is and what month. We have our road atlas out and working out our trip. We have already talked about driving down to Mexico for a day. We have both always wanted to experience Mexico. Not sure if there are any safety issues in the towns we would have a look at or not but I will get all that info as the time draw nears.

Ethan (12 yr old mad on basketball) is already telling us what presents he wants us to bring back (mostly around basketball gear, lol).

Hopefully all hurricanes will stay away :-)

Looking forward to more info as decision are made and it becomes available. Hate to sound like I am pressuring and I understand I will have to be patient, but as soon as we know dates Jul and I can look out for flight specials and jump on them. I feel like if we get the tickets we will be 95% sure of coming over. Fingers crossed everyone that we get there!!!

I am feeling REALLY EXCITING by this. Am going to go check out the web for info on SA and CC :-)

[MelissaKelly]

Awesome, Danielle!

I've only driven to Mexico once (it's about three hours south of me), and I made it back in one piece =). Safety issues would probably depend on where exactly you wanted to go, I'm sure Fer can jump in there.

Anyways, as we get closer and decide where exactly this is happening, I can ask around and get you some more info.

[KarlaHolt]

Wow! Texas sounds fun. I was hoping for San Fran but we'll start planning for Texas!

[Corin Nava]

I will be there one way or another! Probably solo though, can't afford a family trip. So whos going to be my bunk mate :) Barb?!

[Barbara and KevinWagner]

I will if I get to go Corin! 8-)

[JenniferBrown]

Corin we should fly together how long you planning to stay. Soones we get all the info we should get together to plan this. Im praying for better year.

[Corin Nava]

Sounds good Jen! That would be great to fly out together, I hate flying alone!

[KateC]

Steve and I were thinking of going. I hope we can afford it. I don't think we can afford to fly, Corin, would you definitely be flying? If you don't we should meet up in a state on your way through PA. I know it is going to be a day and a half trip, but it should be fun. It just may be our vaca for the summer. Where exactly are we thinking about? Near a beach anywhere?? I loveee beaches!

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

I'm looking over the Corpus Christi link you sent, Mel. Also looking at the San Antonio stuff too. And the thought has been rolled around about a western style dude ranch or something to that effect. Lots of ideas to sort through, lots of things to consider. I know for many it will be their first time to the Old West so they want to experience that. Biggest worries are the heat and being near a good hospital. Liking things in several towns but sure would be a ton easier in Corpus Cristi with Mel there. We'll go through it all and decide as soon as possible.

Anyone have a bus we could start off in the Northeast and drive around and pick up everyone? We could plaster CDH awareness stuff all over it. :) Oddly enough, I used to have a big blue bus but the ex got that in the divorce (it was his band's bus). Wish I still had it, it would be great for this. ;)

[Corin Nava]

I just looked at how long it would take to drive... 32 hours!!!! Wow, thats a loooong drive!

[MelissaKelly]

Heh...Corpus is not Old West at all. At all. Honestly if you're wanting a Dude Ranch experience, July is not the time of year to do this. The heat on a ranch will absolutely be too much for the kids (and the rest of us), and the ranches will be fairly distant (20 miles or more) from the nearest hospital.

There's a place here (Mustang Island) where you can ride horses on the beach, but I hear mixed reviews so I'd have to go take a look at it in person before I could really vouch for it.

[PennyCampsey]

Dawn ....
My dad has a HORSE TRAILER he keeps nice and clean we can all load into LOL!

[karahess]

How many people can we stuff into Shane and Steph's RV?

[Corin Nava]

lol Penny! That would be interesting.... :)

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Mel, can you send an e-mail to all the TX members to see who has connections where? If any of them work for a hotel, restaurant, etc? And how many will volunteer to help?

[MelissaKelly]

Will do.

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Thank you! :)

[PennyCampsey]

OH YES !!
that would be funny !
imagine that !

[StephanieOlivarez]

We can sleep 8 in our RV!!!!
We can seat 10.
Wouldn't that be funny to have a caravan of RV's driving down the road.

I may have to come solo also.
I am in on sharing rooms--to help save on the money aspect!!!
Anyway we can all help eachother--is GREAT with me!!!

July in Texas!!!! HOT...HOT....but looking forward to the Conference!!!!!!!

[JenniferBrown]

Im also looking forward the conference !!!!!!!!!!!

[karahess]

If we're talking July, I'm out : (

[PennyCampsey]

Corpus Christi sure did spark an interest with my HUBBY!

[KimberlySwitzer]

I have never travelled by myself, let alone on a plane to the states so Im kind of worried, but super excited!! Watch me get lost in an airport or something...

[PennyCampsey]

you will do fine !
:)

[MelissaKelly]

Just as an update from my end I heard back from a couple of people, most notably a physician scientist who is currently researching the genes that cause or predispose the development of CDH and he is not only interested in attending the conference, but schedule permitting, willing to speak about his work. Very exciting, I think!

[mariluornelas]

Wow, Bravo Melissa, I am realy hoping to make it. I am due on March 23rd and depending on Juan Damian, we will be there.

[KarlaHolt]

Wow Mel! That's really exciting!

I'm so excited for this already...I can't wait!

It's for sure going to be our summer vacation.

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

We have our conference speakers - 3 of them, 3 AMAZING speakers! I'll post names when we have the conference date and location set.

Kara, we're not giving up on you attending yet!

[karahess]

We currently have July 11 - 26 booked for our east coast vacation. Also just found out that my step sister is expecting a baby the very last of July.

[PennyCampsey]

SOUNDS awesome ..
i am crossing fingers we may be able to come .. but not too sure

[DanielleKessner]

Sounds wonderful! We are very excited at the thought of attending - can't wait to meet those that will be there and listen to the guest speakers. Will I need to buy a cowboy hat and boots before I am let into the state? lol

[PennyCampsey]

oh that sounds cool danielle !
i can see you know cowgirl !

[MelissaKelly]

Nah, no boots required. You might get sand in them or trip and spill your margarita, this is a beach town =P

[PennyCampsey]

LOL
didnt think about that .. !

[karahess]

Oh no! Here we go again with the whole flip-flop thing! Y'all are killin me! Stop!

[PennyCampsey]

Ok Ya'll we have got to get KARA to wear a pair of flip flops .
Pop pop pop pop LOL!
I have em on now Kara .. and it's like 40 outside ..

[MelissaKelly]

What's the deal with Kara and flip flops? If we're taking sides, I hate them.

[karahess]

I'll let the rest of you tell Mel the flip flop story.

:ugh:

[KateC]

I talked with my younger sister today and we have a babysitter for the Conference!! I told her that I would pay for her trip as long as she volunteers to watch all the kids whenever she is needed. She is super excited. She has her Bachelors in psychology and has first responder :) Smart cookie she is! Can't wait to see you all!

[PennyCampsey]

OH KARA AND FLIP FLOPS
ok ... so the story is .. KARA can't stand the sound of flip flops, nor flip flops at all.
Penny and Corin ,, and if i'm not mistaken kate and tara LOVE flip flops ..
I think Kara would rather wear snowboots in JULY in FLORIDA than wear or hear flip flops LOL!
I still love you Kara and I STILL LOVE my flops!

[DanielleKessner]

I may be safer wearing cowboy boots and risking the sand situation rather than face Kara (if she makes it) and Mel in a pair of flip flops ;-). Are you talking all flip flops? Even the really nice leather dressy ones? Or only the cheap rubber ones (we call them thongs down under)?
Kate, that is wonderful that your sister is going to go to the conference and help with the babysitting. I can't wait to meet ya' all (is that the correct Texan way to say it? :-) )

[MelissaKelly]

Well I'm only in Texas because my husband lives here (I'm a Jersey girl), but I believe it's "y'all".

Poor Kara. I'm with you girl, I hate them. You and I can represent in real shoes.

[Donna Easley]

Sorry Mel, I'm a major flip flop person. I've gotta have every color and style possible.

I'm hoping we can make the conference or at least just me. Make room Mel.

[KarlaHolt]

Wow...gotta love the flip flops..I'm with Penny I wear them in the winter as well...I guess it's the former swimmer in me...always around a pool deck.

Kate-that's great about the babysitter!

[MelissaKelly]

You got it, girl. It's okay, I love you despite your horrible taste in footwear =P

[Donna Easley]

At least I know I'm still loved.

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Mel and Donna.... I dreamt that I met you both at the conference, with Alex and Michael. In the dream I could hear the suction machines and see the sleeve caths and feel the humid air from the boys vents come through the masks over their trachs. Very surreal dream, took me back to when Shane had all that. Must be a sign that I will see both of you and your boys next summer! :)

[MelissaKelly]

How funny! I hope you do get to meet Michael, he's being a very good boy with his ten to twelve hours per DAY off the vent lately. Meeting Alex would be fabulous, but I can't even imagine the logistics of packing that boy up to travel cross country! We go to Houston for one appointment and we look like we're going on safari. =/

One of our nurses and I were laughing the other day trying to picture Alex and Michael disassembling each others equipment. =) They are TROUBLE. I can't wait for the day we can get them in a room together.

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

8 months is a long time to vent wean.... you never know what equipment these little guys could be rid of by July. :)

[JenniferBrown]

Question guys I really want to bring Adrian should we get a oxygen tank for the plane. What you guys do with your cherubs when flighting.

[MelissaKelly]

That's something you need to take up with your doctor and the airline. Airlines don't allow you to fly with your own oxygen and even if they do provide you with some for the flight, you need to provide your own when you land. I'd start asking questions now if that's your intention.

[JenniferBrown]

Thanks Mel
Adrian doesn't use oxygen right now but I don't know if he is going to need it when we are in the air.

[karahess]

Definately consult your pediatrician or better yet your pulmonologist. There is a high altitude simulation test that they can give to Adrian to see how he would handle flying. I've never had it done on Adam and have never flown with him. Honestly, from all I've heard it's just such a hassle to deal with renting equipment, calling airlines, etc. The last I heard, certain airlines do allow you to take your own oxygen but it has to be within federal guidelines and approved by the airline before taking it on. Not all airlines will allow this, though.

[KimberlySwitzer]

Im in with the flip flop group! !I love them, I'd wear them year round if we didn't get so much snow here!!

[JenniferBrown]

Thanks Kara i'm going to talk to his Dr.

[PennyCampsey]

welcome to the flip flop club kimberly ..

[KimberlySwitzer]

YAY!! None of my friends like flip flops, I always feel like the odd one out

[Corin Nava]

lol didn't we have this discussion somewhere before.... I am the flip flop queen :) Kara loves it!

[PennyCampsey]

OH YES !! wasnt in CONFERENCE planning talk ??
LOL
must be something about conference that makes us get on this subject!
i am flip flop freak ! LOL

[KimberlySwitzer]

I am as well, I must own at least 20 pairs...they are all I wear in the summer!

[PennyCampsey]

i just went outside, freezing to turn off our christmas lights and YEP had on flip flops and SHORTS LOL!
my legs are white as COTTON this time of year.
I think it's about 30 out, i wear them instead of slippers.
Do you have or ever heard of RAINBOW brand ?? they are my FAVORITE!!

[Damon andSharonknott]

Pen,
I think you are an Aussie deep down.. shorts and thongs (flip flops)
How many lights do you have on ur house???? We have so many our house looks like The Griswalds (sp)
xx

[JenniferBrown]

I love flip flops too but just the summer.

[karahess]

I am trying very hard to keep my mouth shut . . . . . . I'm really cringing inside.

:Yuck:

[KateC]

Hahahaha Kara!

I am definitely a flip flop kinda gal :) Pen ~ I can imgaine you out there hahah

[KimberlySwitzer]

haah I took my garbage out the other day, its at the end of the parking lot, and some guy was starting his car to warm it up and he yells "a little chilly dont you think?" I totally forgot I was wearing a tank top,shorts and flip flops...my cleaning clothes.
How I hate winter!!

Pen, I have never heard of RAINBOW brand. I may have to internet search them!!

[KarlaHolt]

My favorite flip flops are Havaianas! They are the best! My friend gave all her bridesmaids a pair to wear at the reception and I've never bought anything else! Never heard of Rainbow...must check this out..

[Damon andSharonknott]

I;m with you Karla on Havaianas!!

[KarlaHolt]

They are addicting!!!

[DanielleKessner]

Kara, do you have a problem with all flip flops? Like even the dressy leather sort? Or is it only the rubber casual beach sort?

[karahess]

GOOD SHOES!


http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm236/karahess/shoe3.jpg

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm236/karahess/shoe6.jpg

BAD SHOES

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm236/karahess/shoe4.jpg

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm236/karahess/shoe5.jpg

[karahess]

It's a sound thing, too. I can't stand to hear them flipping around. That sound is so grating and right up there with listening to people chew and snap gum.

[JenniferBrown]

Lol......Kara you are too much.

[karahess]

I honestly don't understand how those shoes even stay on anyone's feet. Maybe it is just because I have such a high and long arch, but flip flops will not stay on my feet at all. I trip so much wearing them. Oh and the thingy that goes in between the toes always, always cuts me. Ever tried to put a bandaid between your toes. Doesn't work well : )

[MelissaKelly]

I HATE that toe thong. HATE IT. It hurts. And those big toe straps are just as bad.

Everyone wears flip flops everywhere here, it's gross. I wear SANDALS (very distinct from flip flops, kthnx) and sneakers.

I hate crocs, too, while we're on the subject.

[PennyCampsey]

LOL!

[karahess]

Maybe we should move this shoe discussion to a new area. We should keep this one more to the conference.

[PennyCampsey]

SORRY

[karahess]

Sorry for what? I started it! I started it; I'm redirecting it. Well, actually Mel did : )

[PennyCampsey]

oh i thought i did LOL
ok, so any more info on location of conference

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Mel, the Texas meeting guide I ordered came in today. Pretty darn cool book! www.traveltex.com, you can get 1 for free.

[MelissaKelly]

Awesome! ::coughcorpuscough:: :P

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Yeah, yeah. LOL. CC is looking pretty cool.

[JenniferBrown]

Do you have the dates yet.

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Not yet.

[PennyCampsey]

i'm going to work on scott about coming ...

[StephanieOlivarez]

I hope with the economy going where it is going..that it will not affect members from being able to attend.

Times are getting very hard for many families.

Come on SCOTT!!! YOU CAN DO IT!!! lol

[DanielleKessner]

Penny, tell him if we can make it from Australia he has to try REALLY hard to make it! Nothing like a bit of pressure, lol.

Dawn, do you think you will have a place and dates in January or will it be a bit later than that?

Mel, you are slipping. It's been a whole week without a CC plug :-)

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Definitely by January, Danielle.

[MelissaKelly]

Whoops! Time flies, thanks Danielle!

Hey Dawn I'd be happy to drive around CORPUS CHRISTI, HOME OF WHATABURGER, THE SPARKLING CITY ON THE BAY and take pictures, or call hotels or whatever. Let me know! =D

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

LOL, Mel. If you want to see if you can find us a donated conference room, that would be great. :)

[MelissaKelly]

Well I don't know about donated, but I can call around and get you some price ideas if you want. Just let me know how much space we're looking for.

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

We need a conference room for about 100 people. Needs to include chairs, 4 tables, screen and projector. In larger cities you can sometimes get a conference room donated if you book enough rooms in the hotel.

[DanielleKessner]

How exciting - get to work Mel ;-)

[KimberlySwitzer]

I ordered a travel texas package and it came today :) I am so excited I may have to travel around the state while Im there!!

[DanielleKessner]

I am waiting with baited breath for January to roll around and the final dates and location to be announced - I am trying desperately not to get too excited in case things go wrong and we don't make it. But it really feels like we will!!!

Have you had any luck with your searching Mel?

[MelissaKelly]

I'm waiting for people to get back to me from a couple places, but I'm not getting any straight answers with the limited info that I have. They're not wanting to make any promises without knowing which dates we want and how many rooms we can block, things like that, and I don't even know what city Dawn is picking.

[KarlaHolt]

Can't wait to hear the city and dates too!

[Donna Easley]

Now Kim keep in mind Texas is very very large. It could take a couple of hours just to get across one city.

[KimberlySwitzer]

Yes I know, I doubt I'll ever make it back there so I think it would be neat to spend some time travelling around.

[Corin Nava]

lol-it takes a couple of hours to get through one city in texas... and 45 minutes to get through RI the long way!!!! I love my itty bitty state.

[MelissaKelly]

I'm from NJ. I've gotten lost and wound up several states away before. I miss the tiny east coast states, Texas is ridiculously big. And FLAT! Talk about shock moving here, I grew up with a view of the Catskills.

[Donna Easley]

That was the one thing I still can't get over is how FLAT it is there.

[KateC]

LOL Corin!

[JenniferBrown]

Corin I know RI is so small.

[MelissaKelly]

Okay, it's a new year! Where's it going to be?

[mariluornelas]

jajaja it's been on the plannign since last year!!!!! :)

[KimberlySwitzer]

I dont care about the where, WHEN is it going to be? :D LOL

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Ummmmm.... can I have a few days to at least be able to call people and have them in their offices and not still on holiday vacation? Pushy, pushy.... ROFL.

Seriously, give me next week so I can call and actually make some progress and I have 15 other projects going on too so please know that this conference and the CDH Awareness Trademark (we start court proceedings in 2 weeks) are the highest priorities on my list.... but I am swamped and so I am slow right now.

As for a date - how is June 25-27? Is that ok with everyone?

As for where - either Corpus Christi or San Antonio. Right now most have told me they want it in San Antonio, but our TX Rep (Mel) is in Corpus Christi so it would depend on how much begging everyone does with Mel to get her to want to help out with it if it's in San Antonio. ;) It's harder, I know... our Raleigh conference was an hour and a half from my house and I did a whole lot of driving and calling to put it together. But ultimately, it depends one where we get the best rates for a hotel and conference hall.

[MelissaKelly]

Did you get my email on 12/22 asking for more info? As I've said, I'd be more than happy to call around and get rates but no one is able to give me anything without more information (specifically dates, times we need the conference rooms, what style of room ie. reception, theater, or board room, etc., how many rooms we'd be blocking, that sort of thing, whether we'd need meal service).

It's not a question of begging me to help if it's in SA, I simply won't be able to do anything. Michael is not the kind of child you can drop off with a sitter so you can drive two hours away to hang out for a day, and I know you know what that's like, Dawn. I want to help, but realistically I will not be able to. If the masses want it in San Antonio, that's great! Go for it! This is a CHERUBS conference, not a Mel conference, I'm sure you guys would have a great time if the conference was on the moon. =) I'm just letting you know up front that what I can do to help is limited by geography and what my child is doing healthwise, I don't want anyone to have any false expectations.

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

I 100% completely understand, Mel! Been there, done that! :) Really, any help at all would be very appreciated - we've never had a State Rep help with a conference at all before so any help is welcomed, even just a phone call! :) Besides, this conference is my responsibility, I don't want anyone thinking this thing is falling in your lap.... we're just so happy to have ANY conference help.... you just don't know! LOL. This year was the first year I'd had help and don't know what I would've done without the conference committee making calls. Even though I lived nearby, working another job and doing all our other admin stuff made it really hard to run around to get things done. This is a team effort and our conference committee is really going to have to rev up to pull this off. But we can do it! :)

And no, didn't get an e-mail... I think.... will check my spam folder.... (I really don't like Vista mail!)

[KateC]

I thought it was going to be in July?

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

A lot are saying they can't do July. I can do either. Should I set up voting? Date and town?

[Chris and TracyMeats]

I think voting for dates and town is a good idea.

[FernandaArce]

Whenever and wherever I'll be there ;)

[KarlaHolt]

Me too Fer!

[StephanieOlivarez]

I think a vote would be a good thing.

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Ok, voting is set up! http://www.cdhsupport.org/members/viewtopic.php?p=38939#38939

Voting deadline is January 10th!

[DanielleKessner]

Will discuss this with Julian and submit our vote. Very excited about it all!!!

[andrea2005]

CANADA!! CANADA! HEHHE...ok so where was it decided? if bas was all good would love to travel....

[KimberlySwitzer]

Its in texas, either San Antonio or Corpus Christi, there is a new thread where we are voting on dates and a location if you want to take part, I think the link is on the page before this one.

[Dawn Torrence Ireland]

Info finally posted!!!

http://cdhsupport.org/members/viewtopic.php?t=2823&highlight=