The Chicago "fodorites" -- over 15 strong -- met at Cafe Iberico this afternoon over tapas, sangria and photo albums. [The skill was keeping the former two from getting into the latter] I can't remember everyone's names [I'm *well* over 50 -- that's my excuse!], but everyone had something to contribute to the conversation. But of course Richard of LaGrange Park and his lovely Marian were there Beth and I took pictures so look for those soon on a website near you! <BR> <BR>And thanks again Beth for being the "gentle organizer" -- to steal a Club Med title

I wish I could have gotten free this weekend to join in. Maybe dispel all of these misconceptions. I'll look forward to announcements of any other Chicago area get-togethers. <BR> <BR>Best wishes, <BR> <BR>Rex <BR>

Yes...thanks, Beth for organizing the 'get together'. As usual, a good time was had by all!

And one of the nicest parts about the meeting was that we discussed neither the fluctuating forums format nor forum politics. Not one peep. We talked travel, travel and more travel. It was loverly

Here's another "Thanks" to Beth. Neil and I really have enjoyed the two get togethers that we have gone to and are looking forward to the next! It is always fun to talk travel and look at everyone's pictures.

&lt;&lt;travel, travel and more travel&gt;&gt; <BR> <BR>... the only kinds of threads worth reading on ths board...

Hi midwest fodorites, glad you had a good time. Couldn't make it this time. I'm teaching a class today, but my students are currently working on a lab excercise. You can see how addicted I've become when I steal time from my teaching to jump on board. <BR>Regards <BR>Art <BR>

Hey, Art!! We missed you and your beautiful travel photos at our 'get together'!

&lt;&lt;You can see how addicted I've become when I steal time from my teaching to jump on board&gt;&gt; <BR> <BR>Been there... done that..... my bad <BR> <BR>Art we *did* miss you. Now where are the pictures of the SoCal meets?? <BR>

Thank you so much, Beth! It was a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. I loved meeting everyone, putting faces with names (Sally, Richard, Deena, etc.) and hearing about all of the terrific travel plans. <BR> <BR>p.s. Kristi, I will be in my storage boxes the weekend of May 12-13 and will have info/books on Croatia for you. Please drop me an email, as I've lost your address. And, what weekend is perogi fest, so I can put it on my calendar?

Please keep me on the list for Chicago gatherings? I am so upset that I had to miss this affair-I had really been looking forward to it.Thanks-Debbie

Thanks for organizing the get together Beth! It was lots of fun. <BR> <BR>Heather, I am emailing a link to you for Whiting's Pierogi Fest. We always have extra room for another body in the Pierogi Parade, I can save you a spot in the Babushka brigade

Hi everyone, <BR>Brian and I would also like to thank Beth for arranging another fun Fodors get-together. We can't get enough of seeing pictures and exchanging travel stories. This is really turning into a great tradition! <BR>Looking forward to the next meeting! <BR>Jeanie

I never thought I'd see my name as part of a post! Thanks for the heads up Sally! <BR> <BR>It is always my pleasure to organize. Although this time, I should have reserved room for more! We were elbow to elbow. This was the largest gathering yet of the "Midwest Friends of Fodor's" group. There were 17 of us. <BR> <BR>We had a wonderful time. There wasn't enough room on the table for all the pitchers of sangria, photo albums and food! Which is the way it should be. <BR> <BR>The conversation was lively and I would bet everyone got at least one tip for an upcoming trip from someone who's been there. There was a lot of talk about Turkey, Prague, Paris (of course!), Croatia, England, just to name a few. Many are in the planning stages, while a lucky few are within days of leaving for some wonderful trips. <BR> <BR>We did miss those of you that couldn't make it. You are on "the list" and will receive all Evite's for our next meeting. I'll be sending out an Evite poll shortly to see who is interested in joining our summer event. <BR> <BR>Although my photos were erased (long story!), I'm looking forward to seeing Sally's. <BR> <BR>It was great to see everyone. My goal is to get 25 people together for our summer event. I have a feeling that won't be too hard!! I'm already looking forward to it. <BR> <BR>Anyone reading this who would like to be added to my list for upcoming events, just shoot an email to me. I'll gladly add you on! <BR> <BR>Beth

You go BETH!!! <BR> <BR>I need to finish the roll, but I hope to get pictures up sometime next week

Hi Beth, sounds like it was great. Maybe I'll be able to get a cheap flight and join you for the next one. <BR>By the way, have you received payment from everyone for being host? Sorry, I couldn't resist that after this last weekend's posts. <BR>Regards <BR>Art <BR>

Art, <BR>Absolutely no payment necessary. That's what happens when you do something just for the sheer pleasure it brings you. I know, it sounds kind of sappy, but it is true. <BR> <BR>I missed this weekend's posts, due to incredible weather in Chicago! Couldn't bring myself to sit in front of the screen when it was 80 degrees and pure sunshine outside. My flower gardens were screaming for attention after the long winter! <BR> <BR>I do hope you can make it for our summer event. I'm hoping I can put more time in and make it a "special" event. As always, you are on the mailing list, so you'll get all the info. <BR> <BR>Beth