Here's to the girls in the feather boas....

See overview of weekend below!


After lunch, at window of Skamania Lodge looking out from the Washington side of "The Gorge", Columbia River. From left to right is me, Al, Teresa, Cammie & Tiffany.

The next group are shots at Pheasant Valley Winery tasting room in Hood River up the river on the Oregon side of the Gorge.



Teresa & Allyson at window of hotel room back in Portland, the "morning after" looking out on a sunny Sunday on the Willamette Riverfront in downtown Portland.


The scarce few. Camera's were forgotten and disposables didn't turn out! In brief it was a cozy, but dynamic group.

A little drizzle in the car from Portland to Skamania and Hood River. Sunny for the drive back to Portland past Mulnomah Falls. Time to watch the UCLA game in the hotel getting ready for dinner.

Fantastic dinner... we had a featured round table on the 2nd floor over the entry with full windows outside to the Pearle district. The table had a lazy suzanne (sp?) which had Allyson's favorite bottle of champagne chilling upon arrival - a treat from Tania in Vancouver. Thank you! It was a beautiful spanish cava (Siqueiros xxx?) with tiny, tiny bubbles. A white feather boa draped over the center chair waited for Allyson with a white visor labeled in team colors "BRUIN BRIDE". The rest of the chairs were each draped with a hot pink boa - her personal doo-wop girls. Allyson's plate and another bottle of wine a treat from Janelle in Tucson. Thank you! Indulging dinners, pate and clam appetisers presented by our french waiter we were convinced had an accent from Russia.

Afterwards boa tails swung around our necks, we huddled together and walked a "few blocks" in the chilly night air to Andina, a saucy Peruvian restaurant for exotic drinks, dessert and live accustic music. Last stop of the night across the river to the funky Doug Fir motel lounge for a couple rounds. 1st round complementary of a couple of the musicians from Andina we coincidentally followed there! From our chats with them on travel and flamenco dancing... the rest of the night is a blur. Something about a guy declaring we were the most beautiful women ever... shortly after was thrown out by 4 bouncers! We were lost on a "Alice in Wonderland" trip of some sort in the bathroom of solid mirrors. Topped by a cabby home who loved to make the car rock and swirve. That is all I can say.

We did manage to get up the next morning for coffee before Tiffany and Cammie had to hop on their plane. The rest of us met up with a couple of other old Portland friends of Allysons at brunch. Those pictures I will post asap - they are the only survivers of the portable camera.

All in all, mission accomplished! The "Bruin Bride" finished her weekend missing one letter... now the "Ruin Bride". Yikes!

Thanks to all who called and text Allyson to properly harrass her that weekend! I'm sorry we don't have more incriminating photos to share. We will have to share with you more in person at the wedding!

Note we will keep you posted when the mosaic is complete! I might be MIA until the wedding... when it rains, it pours and it's hard-core crunch time for the next few weeks both in and outside of work for me. *pamela

Bruin Bride

Just a teaser for the pictures to come! I forgot my digital camera and had to use a disposable, so it will take a day or two to develop and upload. I also still have to correct a typo and add the signature "made by" to the mosaic to send to Nicole. Everything piled on at the end of last week and I didn't get home until later last night!

Thanks to Teresa, Cammie & Tiffany for rallying so well. The old girls still do have it... now with more style and grace. If anyone has any other fun pictures to post, I'm sure all will love to see.

*pamela

Have you called the bride lately?

The bride is in mid-air as I speak. The group has tallied to Tiffany, Cammie, Teresa, myself and Allyson of course. Michele who designed her wedding invites will join for dinner and Abigail a friend since age 13 will join breakfast.

The fabulous-5 hit the road at 9 am tomorrow morning. Off to the Gorge for lunch at Skamania Lodge, up to Hood River to hit a couple of wineries and then past Multnomah Falls on the way back into Portland. A little UCLA final four while we get ready for dinner at the Sheraton Hotel at downtown riverside. Dinner at 8:30 pm at Ten-01 with a few arrangements made to surprise. Afterwards it's off to where ever we go - martini bars and dance clubs in the Pearle or possibly across the river to the Doug Fir for music. Lots and lots and lots of pictures will be taken and posted asap on Sunday or Monday for all who are here in spirit.

If any of you have a fun, wild hair to call and leave messages, possibly even catch Al on the phone during this whirl-wind tour, please do. Her cell is 203.1495 (for safety I've left out her area code, should be easy for all of you to find as you know her home town). Mine is 646.644.8037 if anyone really wants to track her down!

Have a great weekend all. IMPORTANT: Just to clarify for all - the mosaic will not be given this weekend. So please do not spill the beans! We'll keep you posted on when it's done!

*pamela

It's amazing! I love the sepia/color mix also. I would worry about parts being obscured by grout too, so maybe we can give her the unadulterated version for record. I still think it will be beautiful no matter what; how could it not be? Kudos to the people with the ideas and talent!

Pam - That is ABSOLUTELY gorgeous!!! I agree with your choices but beyond that I am so impressed with how wonderfully it turned out. It has the perfect balance between scenery, quotes, people, places - it is truly outstanding!
I talked to Allyson this weekend and confessed to her that I was afraid to talk to her because I didnt know how much she knew about any of this! So, for the record: I didnt blow it and she will be floored when she sees this - it will be a great surprise!!!
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend with Allyson - my little bachelorette party items are on the way to Pam, but its no substitute for touring Portland with all of you!

Allyson's Bachelorette: Fantastic

It looks great! They all look beautiful. There is no clear grout option, but I’ll figure something out. Maybe I could decoupage the images on the reverse side of the frame so she could see them? I’m especially worried that portions of the quotes will become obscured. Maybe you could do a second version where in the center you say something special and list everyone who contributed? Perhaps something like: “Congratulations! We hope the future brings as many glorious memories as those we’ve shared in the past. Made with love by…” What do you think?

Fantastic

I love it! I agree with your first choice, Pam. You did an outstanding job of putting the mosaic together and the color combination is perfect.

Wow!

I can't think of anything else to say! What marvelous work. I can't imagine the time and effort that went into this. My preferences are the same as yours, Pam. I think the sepia with color is very intriguing - not as overwhelming as total color might be but has the depth and interest that the sepia and black and white alone lack. The differences in sepia and color images allow each of them to stand out but also to blend. Kudos!

Mosaic Colorway Vote!

Voila! The mosaic options are attached in order of my preference. Missing full-color option as I got carried away on a new idea combination of "sepia with color highlights". I continued my tweeking to this file as my base, so my full-color file needs to be updated. If anyone would like to see it let me know.

The sepia with highlights achieves both the antique look as well as showcases the most vibrant color photos submitted. I love the balanced but also organic arrangement of color accents. It fell into a nice z-formation direction of eye movement over the arrangement - more interesting and gives more depth. The sepia and black-n-white colorway images I find blend into each other, so the viewers eye does not catch as many details. The color highlights contrast and pull the eye to more detail and separation.

It is difficult to see the image details and font here. These are jpeg files, full size of 11.5" X 14.5". They can be easily drag-n-dropped to a pdf or doc page if you'd like to view details. I can also email the files to anyone by request. *pamela

Sepia with Color Highlights

Sepia

Black & White

Hello Everyone!
I have missed so much! Since Pam requested, I'll post my two little 'shamrocks' in this message. It doesnt look like I'm going to be able to make it to Portland (and I know that Allyson will be THRILLED to be showing everyone around her favorite stomping grounds!) but I would really like to be included in the card sending so that she knows we were thinking of her. I'll get one in the mail asap. I know that for Allyson's parent's anniversary she gave them a party in a box with cards and notes from family and friends who werent there to celebrate. Perhaps we could do the same (just add some confetti to the box and include the cards) so that she gets the feeling of celebration from us!

I LOVE the tucson photos and think that including the logos is also a great idea. I'm guessing its too late, but you might consider including an IU logo as well - if there is still time and space (of course I am quite clear on Allyson's loyalties as played out in our recent March Madness when UCLA handily defeated IU!). I'll defer the artistic decisions to those of you with more talent in that area - I have none!

Ok, here are my two guys celebrating their Irish-ness!

Kim

I'm writing for both me and Cammie - she has not yet logged in as a blogger - regarding the Portland weekend. Our vote is more wine tasting-type stuff, less physical activity! It is not just our physical laziness leading to that thought but also our packing laziness. The fewer outfit changes the better!

A little out of it...

I have been a little absent on the blog, but am glad to see life goes on without me! I love all the ideas and am excited to see the mirror layout. I believe the final decision on color will probably be made when looking at the finished layout (i.e. if it is too busy with color, etc.). I do like the idea of color in general though, so I would lean that way.
Thanks for the address, Pam. That way those of us who cannot be there can send our best wishes. If anyone is thinking of doing a 'Tucson' version, I am very interested in that. We still have a little time left...

I can't wait to see the mosaic. If you have pictures, Pam, go ahead and use whatever you think looks best. I am excited for the Portland trip and to meet new friends. Whatever is on the list, whether it is wine tasting, hiking, or visiting a favorite lodge will be great. I will get my airline ticket and send you the info. Pam. See you soon!
-Teresa

Top o' the mornin to ya!

Happy Monday Ladies. Did everyone enjoy their St. Patty's Day? Kim, thanks for sharing the fun pics of your little shamrocks! If you have time, you should post on the blog for fun!

Portland-bound crew... any feedback on the itinerary below?

No montage to post yet! I have a couple of expected additional entries to add. In the meantime an interesting idea popped into my head as a 4th alternative to the color arrangement! I will post asap - this week I expect.

Teresa, glad you like the mirror too! I stumbled on my favorite picture of you and Allyson together in Florence/Pisa centered at the front of a cobblestone palazzo that diminishes into an archway in the background. You look like sisters with your curly hair from the humidity and your beautiful Italian shoes. This would be a great add with the close-up of you two in NY. OK with you to use these two pics?

*pamela

1 vote mirror, 1 vote wine tasting, 1 vote Pearle

I love the mirror mosaic (sorry I am a little late to respond). Pam, let me know if you need more pictures. The other picture I am looking for is Allyson and I with the leaning tower of Pisa. Maybe I should just send you a picture of the leaning tower?

Anyway, onto the latest questions. I love the winetasting idea. Is there time to go to the Willamette Valley for wine tasting? My next vote is for the Pearle and for Sunday morning, I love Papa Hydens and will join those that can make it for brunch.
-Teresa

The Oregon Trail

PORTLAND TRAVELERS
Give your honest feedback and preferences!
- It's definitely warming up here, just chilly in am & eve.
- Lots of sunny days recently, could be rain though - usually refreshing, never humid.
*pamela

SATURDAY, MARCH 31ST
12 noon HIT THE ROAD! - hopefully
1 pm lunch at lodge

Option 1: Mt Hood, Timberline Lodge, www.timberline.com



Option 2: Columbia River Gorge


A: Skamania Lodge, www.skamania.com

- OR -

B: Columbia Gorge Hotel, www.columbiagorgehotel.com

3 pm - afternoon activity options, DEPENDING WEATHER CONDITIONS

Option 1: Mt Hood
A: Wine Tour, Wasson Brothers Winery, www.wassonbrotherswinery.com, $? cost tbd

- OR -

B: Snowshoe/Cross-Country Ski around Trillium Lake, www. , - $12 rental for equipment, I have extra coats, layers, pants, etc if needed.

Option 2: Columbia River Gorge
- Hike

A. Dog Mountain (steep with panaramic view of gorge, little muddy)

- OR -

B. Multnomah Falls (magestic falls,path, windows of view of gorge)

- OR -

Golf at Skamania Lodge, $? rent clubs or bring your own?

5:30 pm-6:30 pm drive back to Portland

6:30-8:00 pm get ready for eve

8:00/8:30 pm Dinner

probably at Ten 01 in NW Pearle District downtown, www.ten-01.com

AFTER DINNER...

Option 1: WANDER in the NW Pearle District downtown, www.explorethepearl.com

Drinks

ie: Olive or Twist, http://portland.citysearch.com/profile/41961761/portland_or/olive_or_twist.html

Dancing

- DJ, pi-rem, http://www.pi-rem.com/, www.http://portland.citysearch.com/profile/41928361

- HIP HOP/80's & 90'S, aura, www.auraportland.com/, http://portland.citysearch.com/profile/36208500

Option 2: A BRIEF DRIVE across the river to live music venues

- 10 pm, Storm Large and the Balls (fromRock StarSuperNova!!!), $15, Wonder Ballroom, www.stormlarge.com, www.wonderballroom.com

- 9 pm (we'd arrive late), Jupiter Hotel & Dougfir Lunge (funky renovated motel and restaurant/bar, music venue), "A special co-headline of dark, lovely orchestral rock." - Woven Hand and Calla, $12, www.dougfirlounge.com

**********************************

SUNDAY, APRIL 1 - BREAKFAST (before everyone's flights out)

8:30 am Papa Haydns, Upper NW downtown Portland, www.papahaydn.com

For the stragglers with extra time before flyingout.... SHOPPING/ROAMING after.

First, another big thanks for the hardworking Pam and Nicole. It is really wonderful of you to take on making the mosaic mirror. I guess I would vote for color photos because they (yes, including mine - and glad you like them, Pam!) have so much color in them and give a lot of life to the scenes and people in them. I am not an artist, though, so I can't picture what B&W or sepia would do to photos that are originally in color, particulaly sunsets or stained glass windows.

I think everyone is right that there are a lot of neutrals in Allyson's decor (I've never seen Bubba's) but accented by bright colors. In which case, a color mosaic may very well be able to work just about anywhere (if sofa, walls, etc. are neutral). If you also think that the mirror will be most likely hanging on a wall that is itself likely to be neutral, a color mosaic could really make a wall like that pop and be a nice accent.

Anyway, my vote is color but artist's prerogative should rule the day!

Cards and Tiles and Grout, Oh My!

Cards are definitely welcome and a great idea Tania. My address is noted below. We can pass it on to Allyson when we first all meet-up in Portland or wait for dinner that night? Love Nicole's creative ideas with varying tile and grout options.... it's like being in a candy store! I'll try to complete the mosaic this week to upload for all to see in different colorways. *p

Pamela K Butler
1940 NW Miller Rd E117
Portland, OR 97229
646 644 8037

Sending card for allyson

Thanks for all of the work on the mosaic. B&W, colour and sepia all sound good. I'm curious to see the final product.

I'd like to send a card to Allyson even though I won't be able to make it. Would that be okay? If so, who should I send it to?

Mirror Mosaic

I could go either way on color or black and white. However, black and white photos with black grout would look really pretty. Or what about sepia tones with off-white or tan grout? With color photos I would probably stick with white grout, but colored grout is still an option. Bubba's decor has been really beachy with a lot of light, neutral colors, but who knows what will happen when Allyson moves in.

Mirror Mosaic and Bachelorette Itinerary

Sounds like Nicole likes the mirror too! Thanks to everyone for the input. We'll get to work.

Nicole,
I'll work on the montage this week. I'll try to get it to you before the weekend, but at least by Sunday. Let me know if you need it by a certain day. It would be great to add pictures of your family if possible!

Everyone,
Thank you to Tiffany, Tania, Diane, Janelle and Kim for the pictures, image references and quotes! Teresa, do you want me to use the ones from NY? Late submits I can still work-in over this week everyone. Again email me at PamMelaKate@yahoo.com or post on the blog.

B&W OR COLOR?
You know, I was originally thinking a black & white arrangement would look more tasteful and give that antique look. But there are so many beautiful colors in your pictures ladies! Look at Diane's!... isn't she the trickster photographer!? Tania had a great submit of a restaurant they all dined at in Amsterdam with rich warm colors and I think a stained glass window. I'm not sure about Mike's decor style, but Allyson has a history of using bright vivid colors to accent a mostly white interior. Hmmmm... if anyone has an opinion on this let me know. I'll do the collage in color and then save another copy of the file in B&W. If there's time before Nicole needs to start the frame, I'll upload both options to the blog.

BACHELORETTE ITINERARY:
For those of you working on travel plans to Ptown, please advise your arrival and departure times for us to plan around. I've talked to Al about her preferences for activites for your visit. She's reviewing these now and I hope to get feedback to make reservations in the next day or two. Initial ideas are wine tour or hiking or snowshoeing. Bite at a lodge - either Timberline or Skamania. Then back into the city to get ready for dinner - most likely downtown in the Pearle with walking distance to many places afterwards for drinks/dancing/music. There's also the option of either of two interesting band venues I've told her about that would be a brief drive across the river. Next morning breakfast in the city for those who have time before flying out. Any questions, requests or ideas!?

Have a great week everyone! *pamela

Mirror mirror

I think we should go with the mirror. It has a larger surface area than the frames, so I think it is a good option. Plus, it's flat which will make my mosaicing life easier.

Pam - The rim is three inches wide. Are you going to send me a digital file of the photo collage? Don't worry about it fitting into a grid because I probably won't put the tiles in a simple grid formation. I'll probably use round tiles and other shapes to make sure you can see the best parts of each photo. How are we with photos? I don't have any digital ones, but I can scan a couple if you need more.

Diane's Vote

I like the meaningfulness that you attached to the mirror, Pam. And it is probably a much more practical thing to find a place for than a table. I do like the table, too, though - because it would allow for more room, depending on how many photos and quotes and things there are for the mosaic. Either one would be fine with me. Nicole and Pam, since you two are the ones ultimately putting this together...which one do you think works best with all things considered?

I couldn't find any photos of Allyson, but I have some photos of sunsets and cactus flowers that I took in Tucson that might work. I also sent you some quotes, Pam - in case any of them sound good. Alas, I don't have any pictures with Allyson in them that I can upload easily.

I will have to bow out on the Portland trip even though I would have loved to have gone. That weekend is my husband's birthday (and it is a milestone so I can't miss it). I will just have to think of something I can do with her in Tucson on my own. This way she'll have even more fun things to do. For those of you who are going, I hope you'll let her know how much I wish I could have come along. I know how much Portland means to her and I would have loved to have seen it through her eyes!

1 Mirror Vote!

Thanks again Nicole! Tough decision with great options. At first I liked the table idea, then I realized a mosaic on a horizontal surface would be more difficult to read multiple picture/word details. It seems chunks of color blocking are better on a flat surface?

If it stands or hangs vertically it will be positioned to be viewed. A framed picture might get lost in the mosaic - unless that is the intent to incorporate it? A mirror is usually hung at eye level which would be viewed more often to appreciate the details. Every time Allyson would look in that mirror, she would see her friends and memories surrounding her mirrored image. And her reflection would show her how far she's come from those memories. That's nice.

What does everyone else think? We need to decide by the end of this weekend! Please vote!
*pamela

Allyson's Bachelorette: mosaic options

mosaic options

I gave the wrong dimentions for the mirror. It's actually 14.5" x 11.5". Sorry about that.

1 vote for a frame

I'd vote for one of the frames. Hopefully it would be able to blend in with the decor of their home, even when it changes over the years?

Tania (even though it says Karen)

mosaic options

Here are some options for the mosaic. I like the table the best, and the mirror second. The plates would be a little tough because they aren't flat, but it would still be doable. Let me know what you all think.

oval plate, $48, 18.5"x15" or $38, 15"x11.5"
square plate, $22, 11"x11"

frame, $18, 12"x12"
frame, $25, 12"x12"

mirror, $40, 11.5"x8.5"
table, $60, 15.5" diameter

Portland....here we come!

Thank you, Pam, for organizing this trip. It will be extra special for Allyson to come home and I know what a special place Portland is for her. Not to mention the pre-wedding things she can accomplish while she is there - I think it will be perfect! I have been busy working on my schedule because I don't want to miss this. I am now open any of the 4 weekends mentioned. Count me in, and whichever date works best I guess wins.

Teresa

Finalizing Trip Location

Thanks Nicole! Tucson does sound really good - especially for those of us anxious to escape for some sun! And as it turns out, Tucson would really be more cost effective for the majority. Although the blog was created to be democratic, everyone has been really great about expressing the intent to make this convenient for Allyson. She did not expect such an interest for a bachelorette gathering and is thrilled.

I advised her of the group's consideration to her schedule and suggestions to piggy-back on one of her pre-existing trips. Given the 3 city options of Tucson, Portland and San Diego, she gave this her usual thoughtful consideration for everyone. The dates requested early on the blog correspond at the same general time she needs to return to Portland for her final dress fitting. You should have seen the way her face lit up about celebrating in her hometown.

I agree a surprise really would be so much fun... for us. With every weekend pre-booked with wedding preparations, unexpected visitors could really throw her off. Even if we stayed at a hotel, her generous hosting instincts might take her over. Since we asked her for the city and date range that would be the most convenient for her, I think we should stick with her answer.

I will bend over backwards to ease and enable this for anyone who wants to come! I will look for cheaper airfares through my employer's travel agency for anyone who asks. I can offer for someone to stay with me at either my apartment or my family's house. And I am happy to chauffeur as much as needed. Email me at PamMelaKate@yahoo.com for anything at all.

So what is the verdict on March 30th in Portland? This is an open forum so please continue to voice your honest thoughts everyone! My apologies for managing the direction on this. It's a dirty job, but someone has to do it!

*pamela

Allyson's Bachelorette

Allyson's Bachelorette

Hey - I don't know if you guys have already planned your bachelorette party, but have you considered surprising Alyson and doing it in Tucson. Maybe everyone who is attending could meet at the hotel where you would all stay that night. You could then pile into a limo, show up at Allyson's house, and kidnap her. I know you guys were considering going to Portland, but I think this might be easier for her. I remember how stressed I was right before my wedding and the last thing I wanted to do was plan a trip on top of planning my wedding. Plus, this way she can get wasted and not have to fly all hung over. It's just a thought. I'll send out info about the mosaic soon. I just need to download some pictures.

Hi everyone. The only weekend that will work for me is March 30th (my plan would be to fly up on the morning of the 31st and home the next day). I understand that there's no way we will be able to make it work for everyone, so just let me know what date wins. Have a great day!

Mosaic FYI & RSVP for Trip!

Can't tell you how fun it is to see new comments and pictures! The blog will be a fun gift in itself for Allyson as well.

Janelle, the mosaic idea came from Mike's sister Nicole in Austin. She has graciously offered to complete a mosaic frame, vase or other object with a collage of images, etc. The mosaic tiles will be clear. I am collecting images from everyone. It could be something that ties you to or reminds you of Allyson - of a person, place or thing. Post the image(s) on the blog or email to me at PamMelaKate@yahoo.com. I am going to create a graphic montage and enhance it to send to Nicole to apply and mosaic over. You have so much experience with co-creative projects with Allyson there in Tucson, if you have any suggestions let us know!

EVERYONE: Nicole and I have been emailing about the execution of the mosaic. She will gather more info on the options. She also had a great suggestion that QUOTES could also be added to the collage. She also suggested adding school logos and significant buildings which I've been downloading. Note you can send more then one if you want!

DEADLINE to submit images, etc: Next Friday, March 9th!

RSVP FOR TRIP! Vote for your date so everyone can start planning!

Better late than never?

Hello everyone. I am Janelle, one of Allyson's Tucson friends. I am also embarrassed it has taken me so long to get on the blog! Where did February go?

I met Allyson when we moved here for my husband to get his Master's degree. There was a group of graduate students that got together weekly for a progressive dinner that took place at people's apartments, etc. on a rotating schedule. My first memory of Allyson was she called me to invite me to a movie with the girls in the group and I remember how thoughtful that was especially since I was just a spouse and not really part of the group. But that is typical of Allyson, now that I know her well.

This picture is us working on her Save the Date cards with my four year old, Brendan. She always finds ways to include him and patiently works with him.

I am usually up for travel and have never been to Portland, so that would be great. It is also easy for me to get to San Diego, Vegas or Tucson! :) I think April 6th will be tough for me since it is Easter and my husband always has a huge tennis tournament that weekend (he is a coach) and I have to take care of my children. The last two weekends in March (24th and 31st) look best for me. I can do before the wedding too, we will be there on Thursday...

I love the mosiac idea. Are you thinking Allyson-Bubba pictures only or us with Allyson or both?

more pictures

Hello group! I'm glad the mosaic/collage idea is coming along. I'm still in search of better pictures (the ones that we took on Allyson's camera) but it may take a little more effort on my part. In the meantime, I found these three and thought I should add them to the hen's blog.

This first one is when Allyson came to visit 'the belly' when I was pregnant. She was the only person who wanted to see me instead of waiting to see the baby!

The second one (above) and this one (left) are from when Allyson & Bubba came to visit us last Memorial Day. Perhaps soon we'll be looking at pictures with their own little one in them. I have to say, Bubba's nieces and nephews have trained them both well - they were so good with Logan!

Ok, I'm looking forward to all of the other Allyson pictures you find! Thanks for posting the ones you found Teresa!

Thanks, Pam!

The girls weekend of April 6 would work best for me. I could also squeeze a trip in April 13th possibly too. I love Portland - it will be fun to visit.

Teresa

Decisions, Decisions....

Muddling through those snap shots? Can't decide? No clue? Go with your gut girls. Pick a picture to submit for the mosaic - maybe it makes you laugh, reminds you of a visit with Allyson, something/someone you know she adores, or maybe it just gives you those oh so warm fuzzy feelings. Don't hold back! Time is ticking ladies... so can you get me these by next Friday, March 9th? Upload here on the hen's den or email me at PamMelaKate@yahoo.com.

Itching for an escape? A little R&R with just the girls? Here's your opportunity. Allyson is really touched at our interest in a gathering. Her schedule does coincide with the suggested dates of late March/early April! She was already planning a trip and would love to show off Portland with the diverse range of things to do. Think of great wineries, beach, mountains, endless diverse restaurants and have you seen how beautiful and green the City of Roses is? As the unofficial poster child for P-town.... you might be tempted via one of the websites below. Any one can stay with me. Butler here at your service available as your personal chauffeur. Of course Max rail is state of the art to our top rated PDX Int'l airport - hear that down under? So which weekend works for you? Mar 23, 30 or Apr 6, 13? Majority vote wins!

http://www.portlandmonthlymag.com/this_issue/

http://www.portlandpicks.com/index2.php

http://www.oregonlive.com/

http://www.willametteweek.com/

Moving On Then!

Hello and Happy Friday! Sorry for delay in follow-up. I wanted to give everyone a chance to comment on the trip and mosaic gift idea. Also I have to check with Allyson about her travel schedule and availability. I've told her that a few are interested in Tucson/Portland/San Diego and dates mentioned. I will try to have this ready at the first of next week for those interested to start planning. That is all she knows - the rest is just between us!

As for the mosaic. It sounds like a good idea to the group? Don't be shy if you have an alternate preference! Why don't we get the ball rolling. EVERYONE WHO WANTS TO CONTRIBUTE SHOULD POST A PICTURE ON THE BLOG OR EMAIL TO ME DIRECTLY at PamMelaKate@yahoo.com. How about by Friday, March 9th? I will start working on the image collage that weekend. Nicky let me know if you have time to do the vase/frame. I will identify the mosaic options I can execute here. Thanks for such a great suggestion!

*pamela

Another thought

Hi all -

Picking up on the idea of piggybacking a bachelorette party onto one of Allyson's pre-planned trips to Portland, we could think about doing the same thing for one of her trips to San Diego. I don't know when she is going down there, but I imagine she would make at least one trip out before the wedding.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!
Tiffanny

Hi Everyone - I found some pictures from a trip to New York to visit Pam in January 2004. I love the one of Allyson showing her ballet steps for us after being inspired by seeing the ballet in NYC. The others are of Pam, Allyson and me.

Now- getting to Pam's questions. I love the mosaic idea. That sounds great. I also love the idea of getting together for a quick bachelorette trip for those who can get away. Should we have Pam check with Allyson for her schedule and preference of locations?

Hello to you all! Pam, this is a great idea! I imagine one of the best parts of this will be that Allyson can catch up on our conversations after all is said and done - she'll love that you were so sneaky!! I have to congratulate you also on getting me to do something new. Like Diane I just got a digital camera this year and I'm way behind the curve. Bubba once told my husband and I that we need to 'live in the now' - Allyson and Bubba will be very impressed that you got me to blog! I wanted to really stretch and upload a picture of Allyson too - but they're on the home computer, so for this posting I had to put one of Logan - but I'll have Allyson photos soon!

ok, the back story. Allyson and I knew each other in graduate school (seems to be a common theme) and we had one class together. Three years later, I had moved to Bloomington, Indiana and my first week there I was jogging along and Allyson pulls into a parking lot ahead of me (yes, sounds creepy until I realized who it was) and hopped out to say hello. Once we got over what an odd coincidence it was that we ended up in the same place after not having seen each other for years we made up for lost time and spent nearly every weekend together for the next three years (except of course when Allyson was off traveling!). We were lucky that Allyson and Bubba got together before she moved so we've gotten to know him over the past few years as well. They both visited last fall, met our new little baby and we had a great visit. I am so happy for them both - and also for the chance to get to 'chat' with all of you!

So, as for a bachelorette event. I love the crafts idea - the mosaic would be really nice. I put together a scrapbook for my mom's birthday last year and everyone contributed pages, but i think the mosaic might be a nicer idea because it can be displayed somewhere. I'm sure I can dig up a few pictures (although most were on Allyson's digital camera - I'll have to see what I can find!). I'd love to meet up for a bachelorette party, but like Tania I may have trouble getting away from maternal demands! Still, a trip to Tucson or Portland might be a possibility.

Allyson and I have been joking for a while that her 'destination wedding' really needed to be in Indiana. We could experience high culture (I sent her an article on a hog tying event), fine dining (tenderloin sandwiches, perhaps?), and beautiful weather (right now we are in an ice storm, for example). [Jen, when you log on - please forgive me for this!]. So, I'll just throw this out there: anyone for a wild night on the town in the heartland?

This is such a nice idea - and its great to meet you all!

Kim

Hi!

This is Diane. I went to graduate school with Allyson (and Tania, too). Allyson entered the program a couple of years after me and as you all know - once you've met her, you can't not love her! I am so fortunate to have her as a friend.

I still live in Tucson because I ended up meeting the love of my life here (also named Mike), so here I have stayed. I was never so happy as when Allyson decided to come back. As I know that will end once she and Bubba have settled, I've got to milk the time left for all it is worth! We've had the pleasure of meeting up with Bubba twice now when he's been in town and are so happy that two such nice people have found each other.

It sounds like all of us getting together somewhere to do something for her might be tricky even on the wedding weekend. I'm undergoing treatment for cancer right now, so I don't know whether I'll be able to travel - although I love to and might be able to swing it if the timing was right. One question I have about that is, if there is travel for Allyson involved, then there would be travel costs for her, no? Does she have plans to travel to Portland or any of the other locales (besides Tucson of course) that we could piggy-back on? If not, then I would be willing to pitch in for her travel if that was necessary.

I wonder if there's a way to have a "virtual" bachelorette party? I'm not the most creative of persons so I'm not sure how this would work. Maybe we could each pick an activity for her that we can arrange (or if it is in Tucson, I can arrange) or all pitch in on creating a day for her that she would enjoy? A little pampering, a little vino, some crafting, perhaps? I don't know...Or if she does have travel plans already to various places, then maybe we can create a multiple-city virtual bachelorette party?

Aside from a venue, a mosaic sounds wonderful, though - and I'm happy to contribute to any gift. I am sad to say that I don't have many pictures of us despite her years here. I'm sure this dates me, but I didn't get a digital camera until this year and haven't had a working camera for, well, a long time. I could probably come up with something, though! I am envious of you artists out there. I can't even draw a circle!

Thanks for setting up the blog, Pam. And it is great to e-meet the rest of you. I've heard lots of wonderful things about all of you.

Hi everyone!

This is Tiffanny. I am Bubba's sister and Allyson's sorority sister from UCLA. This is my first time "blogging" so I'm just figuring it out. Pam, thanks for going through all the trouble to set this up. I'm glad Nicky, who is much more creative than me, was able to come up with the mosaic idea. I would also be up for a getaway bachelorette trip. It will be a one nighter for me because that's about all my hubby can handle with our little ones. My only suggestion for the locale is that it be somewhere with minimal travel issues. For example, Portland and Tucson are probably easier than Squaw because they are close to airports while Squaw would require renting cars and driving (I think) about an hour. I am available on the weekends of March 30th and April 20th. I am not available to do anything on the wedding weekend because we are flying in Friday morning. I'm anxious to hear what every one else thinks. Talk to you all soon!

Now We're Cooking!

Great feedback ladies and glad you all like.... "the hens blog". Love to hear bits on each other and find out how we all interconnect. We'll be old friends by the time we actually meet at the wedding!

Nicole... it's Nicky right? FAN-TAS-TIC idea on the mosaic. That's exactly the sort of project I had in mind. I've never heard of the photos behind the clear tile. Black & white photos could be stunning. I'm an apparel designer with graphic art experience and can offer to do a photo montage of photos from everyone. What does everyone think about that?

Nicky, are you sure you want to take this on? There are similar workshops here I could also do this if you are too busy! To minimize the time, how does this plan sound.

1. Everyone votes on a frame & vase shape/style options. Are there mosaic shapes to the clear to pick from?
2. Everyone will email me a picture of something Mike & Allyson-esce. Either a place, people or event you share with them. ie: anything aussie, Indy 500, great memory group shots
3. I will create a photo montage, approve it with everyone, then forward to Nicky to apply and mosaic?

As far as any pregathering, if there are only a few interested we can still make an intimate trip. Of course the more the merrier! Any one else interested in Squaw or Portland late March/early April? Same with a Thursday night or Friday brunch before the wedding?

*pamela

Open Forum!

HELLO LADIES! Welcome to our own personal blog session for our dear Allyson Carter. Take advantage of this forum to share funny pictures or memories you have had with her and voice your interests in shaping her bachelorette party. Mind that Allyson does not have access to this blog yet. After the wedding though she will be given this blog address for a fun review of our sessions. So deep dark secrets just between the two of you might want to be left in the vault! Or saved for a reception dinner toast!

THE PURPOSE to this forum is to meet everyone's interests in participating in a gathering, project or present we can contribute over long distrance from each of our homes across the U.S. and Canada. We could choose one option or multiple! Please drop comments next to the introductory options listed below. I will coordinate a few progressive steps and execution of our final decision. Please note you are not obligated to comment on the blog if your world is too busy!

TO READ COMMENTS from the "View Blog" screen page scroll down to the footer of page, click on "LINKS TO THIS POST" and it will pull them onto the bottom of the page.

TO POST COMMENTS HERE, click on "sign in" at top right header bar, create a "new blogger" log-in name and password. From the "View Blog" screen page, scroll down to the footer of the page, click on either "POST A COMMENT" to see comments on this same page at bottom.

Pick yourself a pretty font color to always use on comments and remember everyone loves attached pictures!

For more information on the wedding, go to www.allysonandmike.com! Be sure to sign the guest book!

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INTRODUCTIONS: Please introduce yourself, where you are located and how you know Allyson.

• I'll go first. My name is Pamela Butler and I have been the best of friends with Allyson since junior high. We really bonded through dance initially when we were in the Nutcracker. We're similar Aquarians born 2 days apart and she loves to call me "old lady" in the 48-hour window. I'm back in Portland now and savoring all the elements of the beautiful Northwest. Something I know Allyson looks forward to sharing with everyone in Victoria BC.

OPTION 1: Coordinate gift we can each contribute to. Either a crafted piece we each offer a piece to or a joint monetary purchased gift or a project she would have to interact with. Any ideas?

• I think Allyson and Mike would really savor a gift we each put our touch on personally. I can research for an idea that would be tasteful and simple for each of us to contribute to. I can do the same research if everyone would prefer to pitch-in on a purchased gift. As far as a project possibility, it could be fun to organize her on a scavenger hunt to a spa or something! Any which way, the gift option allows everyone who can not attend the wedding to participate too!

OPTION 2: Gathering before wedding in Victoria BC. Either Thursday night May 3, after 8 pm or Friday morning brunch.

• It would be great to gather there before the wedding. I prefer the evening, but with so many attendees with kids the brunch might be a better idea? We could also try to loop in those who could not make the trip via camera or phone?

OPTION 3: Plan a rendevous somewhere in between for a day or a few.

• Travel budget would be modest. To see Allyson in Tucson might be a great winter escape? Locations between most of us could be Palm Dessert, Squaw/Tahoe or even Vegas? If anything, Allyson would love to invade her old stomping ground Portland to share all of the things she loves here.... and you all know what an amazing host she is!

Looking forward to meeting all of you! *pamela