Post by: NinetyFour on October 19, 2022, 09:14:42 AM
UPDATE: Looking at October 6 - 13, 2023
This is the campground we will use. (https://www.sunoutdoors.com/utah/sun-outdoors-moab-downtown)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52428586662_7a080a9b15_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52429372354_66b6eada45_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52428586362_eed16d10f6_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52429546215_4508573aad_4k.jpg)
Post by: oldladystache on October 19, 2022, 09:36:52 AM
Post by: NinetyFour on October 19, 2022, 09:59:13 AM
Planning on it. Thank you for doing this.
That’s great news! And you’re welcome!! :)
Post by: oneday on October 20, 2022, 12:10:05 AM
2022's camp was so much fun; I'm still enjoying the afterglow.
Post by: NinetyFour on October 20, 2022, 08:34:59 AM
PTF :)
2022's camp was so much fun; I'm still enjoying the afterglow.
Me, too! Afterglow mixed with a bit of sadness. But it will all happen again in approximately 339 days!!! :D
This (https://www.paddlemoab.com/labyrinth-canyon) is something I’d be interested in doing either before or after our meetup…
This (https://www.paddlemoab.com/canyoneering) (specifically the Medieval Chamber) looks fun, too!!
Post by: driftwood on October 20, 2022, 10:48:51 AM
Post by: NinetyFour on October 21, 2022, 09:42:00 AM
Definitely want to attend again next year!
Awesome! Hope you can stay for a whole week next time! 🚵
Post by: Chaplin on October 21, 2022, 11:53:21 AM
Post by: NinetyFour on October 21, 2022, 12:16:55 PM
PTF. 2022 was great so if I can make it for 2023 I will.
Woo hoo!!! I’m so glad! :D
Post by: Embok on October 22, 2022, 07:20:31 PM
94, you have inspired Mr. Embok, who said (without prompting): “wouldn’t it be great to do some walking and hiking so we could maybe keep up with 94 on the Delicate Arch trail next year?” For which I thank you — he doesn’t particularly like any form of exercise, other than biking, so this is great mental progress, and I give you credit for inspiring him to think hiking might be both possible and fun!
Post by: shadowmoss on October 22, 2022, 10:01:34 PM
Post by: Dicey on October 23, 2022, 12:54:31 PM
Post by: elledub on October 23, 2022, 05:10:45 PM
Post by: FIFoFum on October 23, 2022, 09:51:28 PM
Post by: Dicey on October 23, 2022, 11:17:41 PM
Maybe 2023 will be the year my stars align for a magical Moab. PTF.The stars are definitely in Moab.
Post by: the_fixer on October 24, 2022, 07:58:27 PM
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: NinetyFour on October 30, 2022, 09:38:57 AM
We are in, work and health allowing.
94, you have inspired Mr. Embok, who said (without prompting): “wouldn’t it be great to do some walking and hiking so we could maybe keep up with 94 on the Delicate Arch trail next year?” For which I thank you — he doesn’t particularly like any form of exercise, other than biking, so this is great mental progress, and I give you credit for inspiring him to think hiking might be both possible and fun!
I very much hope to hike to Delicate Arch next year with both Emboks!! :D
Posting to follow the plans. I'll be there, life events allowing.
Oh, hell yes!
PTF
YAY!!!
Maybe 2023 will be the year my stars align for a magical Moab. PTF.
I sure hope so! It would be great to meet you!
We are going to do our best to make it!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Awesome! I’d be up for more SUPing and biking!!
Post by: NinetyFour on October 30, 2022, 10:13:58 AM
Who knows, folks with a bit of extra time might want to spend a few days there (you can camp in the Needles campground, or reserve one or more backcountry sites). If you do plan to stay there overnight, you’ll need to make reservations ahead of time (6 months ahead for Loop B of the campground; 4 months ahead for backcountry sites). There are also some BLM campgrounds outside of the park, and I think they are first come first served. There is a bit of dispersed camping but not much. There is a privately owned campground called Needles Outpost just outside of the park.
Resources:
https://www.nps.gov/cany/planyourvisit/needles.htm
https://www.nps.gov/cany/planyourvisit/camp-need.htm
https://www.nps.gov/cany/planyourvisit/upload/NeedlesTrailsandRoads2022_WSupdate_forWeb.pdf
https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675315
https://needlesoutpost.com/
(There is also a sweet little campground between Moab and Needles, called Windwhistle Campground (https://www.blm.gov/visit/windwhistle-campground). First come first served. There is some dispersed camping nearby, too.)
Please let me know if you have any questions! I have hiked most of the Needles trails, am familiar with the campground, and have stayed in several of the backcountry sites.
For now, here are some photos (which are also posted in my journal):
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464653196_a27020aa12_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464151152_b178a4cb1f_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464652986_9424f3dd7b_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52465116165_40993001e1_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464935479_669f1c645d_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52465201338_f15885f3be_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52465207643_5eeab3e540_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464940689_b7aeecfd94_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464658296_cfbca28265_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464156952_594461aadb_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52465202688_e559dc7e3b_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464935899_76599ce127_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464935129_472e5d3ef1_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464934689_fbd3f82c78_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464935134_7f0510e0e6_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52465201378_2afb772cd0_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52465116065_c420d12630_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52465201638_45fc6418d0_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464151787_b76cb971ae_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464157062_1ac055ff92_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52465180290_ecc8454e44_4k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52464658231_fe0c7fe086_3k.jpg)
Post by: oneday on October 30, 2022, 11:39:39 AM
Post by: Dicey on October 30, 2022, 03:34:10 PM
Post by: NinetyFour on November 27, 2022, 04:34:13 PM
Post by: Chaplin on November 27, 2022, 09:56:07 PM
Sun Outdoors (the company that runs the campground we use for the Moab Meetup) is having a Black Friday sale, ending tomorrow. I think it’s a 40% discount—not too shabby!! I’m going to guess that we will be there at about the same time we were this year, so I am going to book a site for Oct 6 - 13. See you there!!!
I took advantage of this deal to make a booking. Thanks for the heads up!
Post by: the_fixer on November 28, 2022, 06:53:01 AM
She (my wife) who still needs to join and pick a name actually came in from work all excited and asked me to book a site. I had already booked it without asking if she wanted to go again… glad she was excited :)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Dicey on November 28, 2022, 07:00:40 AM
Post by: the_fixer on November 28, 2022, 07:07:11 AM
Somehow I missed this (though I did catch the spammer the other day), so I think it's too late, but y'all are worth paying full price for.The discount is still going on it ends 11/28 at midnight
So ~17 hours remaining
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Post by: Dicey on November 28, 2022, 07:11:38 AM
Woo-hoo, thanks!Somehow I missed this (though I did catch the spammer the other day), so I think it's too late, but y'all are worth paying full price for.The discount is still going on it ends 11/28 at midnight
So ~17 hours remaining
Post by: ixtap on November 28, 2022, 07:40:42 AM
Post by: NinetyFour on November 28, 2022, 08:27:13 AM
PTF. After being gone more than home over the last six months, we haven't made any 2023 travel plans just yet.
Cool! You might want to take advantage of this Black Friday sale (through today) to book yourself a site. They have a very generous cancellation policy in case it doesn’t work out for you. (But don’t just take my word for it—make sure you read the fine print!) :)
Post by: NinetyFour on November 28, 2022, 08:44:22 AM
And, thanks to Dicey’s great idea—I also booked site G8. This is so that we will have a gathering spot for general hanging out, campfires, storing the camp chairs and hula hoops, etc.
A couple other random thoughts:
* There is a nice pavilion right below the playground. Covered area with lots of picnic tables, an area to play horseshoes, and a big fire pit. We might want to take advantage of that one evening and have a meal together down there.
* And I’d like to do a better job of celebrating Thanksgiving with any Canadians who might happen to be in attendance. Last time, one Canuck expressed an interest in getting a turkey sub at Subway on that holiday. We can do better than that next year!!! Also, I should celebrate it since I have 🇨🇦 citizenship!
* Oh, and I really really really want to take a group down to Needles (Canyonlands) this time. We’d have to get up early and drive 1.75 hours to get there, do a long hike (~10 miles) with breaks for snacks/lunch, then drive back. So be thinking about whether that would appeal to you. (Also, once there, we could split up into two groups: one for the long hike, and another for a shorter one.)
* Also, I would like to grab a group camping site at Needles for October 13 - 17, for an “after party”. The site I want (Dutch Oven) is pretty hard to get. I will have to be sitting at my computer on the morning of April 13. I might want to enlist other volunteers to help me try to secure it. It might take a team of us at our computers…
Only 312 days until we gather in Moab!!!! 🐪
Post by: oldladystache on November 28, 2022, 10:34:01 AM
Post by: Dicey on November 28, 2022, 11:29:56 AM
I went ahead and booked my site but i don't think the discount applied. It looks like this place is not one of the participating campgrounds. I hope I'm wrong.Oh, please try again. Use promo code 22BLKFRIDAY at checkout. You can then cancel the first one.
We booked site 101 for October 4-11. The code saved us $126. Also, If you're not sure, you can make your reservation with a 50% deposit, so less risky. Although, as others have pointed out, their cancellation policy is fairly generous.
By booking the adjacent site, we should be able to drag our table over to site 100 for communal use. Having a separate site for gatherings means we can use the fire ring at 100 (they're not allowed in sites with RV's). If it works for anyone, grabbing site 99 would let us create an awesome Mustachian HQ at the campground.
And is it just me, or have the rates soared there in the last few years? Yeesh! Good thing it's so conveniently located and versatile.
Squee! Let the anticipation begin!
Post by: oldladystache on November 28, 2022, 12:17:40 PM
I went ahead and booked my site but i don't think the discount applied. It looks like this place is not one of the participating campgrounds. I hope I'm wrong.Oh, please try again. Use promo code 22BLKFRIDAY at checkout. You can then cancel the first one.
OK, I called and the nice lady said she would send a refund to my card. THANK YOU!
Post by: NinetyFour on November 28, 2022, 01:09:24 PM
I went ahead and booked my site but i don't think the discount applied. It looks like this place is not one of the participating campgrounds. I hope I'm wrong.Oh, please try again. Use promo code 22BLKFRIDAY at checkout. You can then cancel the first one.
OK, I called and the nice lady said she would send a refund to my card. THANK YOU!
Yay—I’m glad that worked out for you!!
Post by: NinetyFour on November 28, 2022, 01:13:59 PM
We booked site 101 for October 4-11.
By booking the adjacent site, we should be able to drag our table over to site 100 for communal use. Having a separate site for gatherings means we can use the fire ring at 100 (they're not allowed in sites with RV's). If it works for anyone, grabbing site 99 would let us create an awesome Mustachian HQ at the campground.
Actually—I had intended to camp at site #100 and use G8 for the communal gathering spot. But I suppose it doesn’t really matter. We could see what makes the most sense when we get there! We might play musical campsites…
Post by: Dicey on November 28, 2022, 03:49:11 PM
I'm up for whatever works, too. I just groaned inwardly when we selected the site and the photos showed a roaring campfire. Of course the fine print says "No campfires".
We booked site 101 for October 4-11.
By booking the adjacent site, we should be able to drag our table over to site 100 for communal use. Having a separate site for gatherings means we can use the fire ring at 100 (they're not allowed in sites with RV's). If it works for anyone, grabbing site 99 would let us create an awesome Mustachian HQ at the campground.
Actually—I had intended to camp at site #100 and use G8 for the communal gathering spot. But I suppose it doesn’t really matter. We could see what makes the most sense when we get there! We might play musical campsites…
Post by: oldladystache on November 28, 2022, 05:28:12 PM
Post by: NinetyFour on November 28, 2022, 06:28:54 PM
I'm up for whatever works, too. I just groaned inwardly when we selected the site and the photos showed a roaring campfire. Of course the fine print says "No campfires".
We booked site 101 for October 4-11.
By booking the adjacent site, we should be able to drag our table over to site 100 for communal use. Having a separate site for gatherings means we can use the fire ring at 100 (they're not allowed in sites with RV's). If it works for anyone, grabbing site 99 would let us create an awesome Mustachian HQ at the campground.
Actually—I had intended to camp at site #100 and use G8 for the communal gathering spot. But I suppose it doesn’t really matter. We could see what makes the most sense when we get there! We might play musical campsites…
I’m pretty sure they don’t enforce that rule. I mean, it doesn’t really make much sense to restrict fires there and not at the G sites, where someone’s truck camper (like mine) has a propane tank. 🤷
And I stopped in to the campground about a month ago and they told me that campfires ARE allowed at the cabins. (I think some of us were under the impression they weren’t allowed there.)
They have extended the sale for one more day.
Yay!!! Thanks for that info!
Post by: StashingAway on November 29, 2022, 08:14:45 AM
Post by: NinetyFour on November 29, 2022, 09:03:17 AM
Y'all booking the arches or the canyonlands campsite?
Oops—sorry, I hadn’t yet posted this info. Here it is (https://www.sunoutdoors.com/utah/sun-outdoors-moab-downtown).
I also updated the first post in this thread.
Post by: NinetyFour on December 03, 2022, 02:35:06 PM
Post by: Purple_Crayon on December 06, 2022, 04:09:49 PM
I'm in! Can't wait to meet and spend time with all you wise souls. Once we know what dates the majority will be there for (and nearish what sites), I'll get mine booked. Currently, I'm leaning toward the 6th through the morning of the 10th.
Post by: lhamo on December 06, 2022, 08:55:59 PM
I cannot recommend this experience highly enough. I made a very last minute decision to go, was only there for the latter half, and it was easily one of the highlights of my year. So if you are on the fence -- don't be!
Post by: Purple_Crayon on December 07, 2022, 09:59:45 AM
Not 100% certain I can make it (depends on how DD's college transition and some related things work out) but I booked both a cabin and one of the G camp sites with a power plug to snag the discount -- I most likely will be able to "sublet" one or the other to people who need to make plans later.
Is the discount still available? I assumed it was long over.
Post by: lhamo on December 07, 2022, 10:03:10 AM
But there is probably still at least one option for someone to get a site at the discounted rate via "subletting" from me closer to the date. It'll be a few months before my plans solidify....
Post by: Purple_Crayon on December 07, 2022, 10:50:46 AM
No -- it is over. Just catching up and PTF this thread.
But there is probably still at least one option for someone to get a site at the discounted rate via "subletting" from me closer to the date. It'll be a few months before my plans solidify....
Rights of first refusal, please!
Post by: oldladystache on December 10, 2022, 10:02:39 AM
I just read a few articles about it, and I learned that it definitely applies to me. I don't have it as strongly as some people do, but I have it for sure. I had a nice time with all the people there but I could only pick two or three out of a lineup, and that's if I could see the whole person, not just their face.
I hope nametags are a thing again next year.
Here's an interesting article, in case you're interested. https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/magazine/wp/2019/08/21/feature/my-life-with-face-blindness/
Post by: Dicey on December 11, 2022, 11:23:32 AM
It was so nice this past time to have (almost) everyone wearing name tags. I had sort of heard of face blindness, and sort of thought it applied to me, but I never really looked into it.I struggle with this, hence the name tags. Unless requested otherwise, they will definitely be happening again in 2023. I hope the Class of '22 is saving their lanyards for re-use.
I just read a few articles about it, and I learned that it definitely applies to me. I don't have it as strongly as some people do, but I have it for sure. I had a nice time with all the people there but I could only pick two or three out of a lineup, and that's if I could see the whole person, not just their face.
I hope nametags are a thing again next year.
Here's an interesting article, in case you're interested. https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/magazine/wp/2019/08/21/feature/my-life-with-face-blindness/
Post by: oneday on December 11, 2022, 06:05:49 PM
It was so nice this past time to have (almost) everyone wearing name tags. I had sort of heard of face blindness, and sort of thought it applied to me, but I never really looked into it.I struggle with this, hence the name tags. Unless requested otherwise, they will definitely be happening again in 2023. I hope the Class of '22 is saving their lanyards for re-use.
I just read a few articles about it, and I learned that it definitely applies to me. I don't have it as strongly as some people do, but I have it for sure. I had a nice time with all the people there but I could only pick two or three out of a lineup, and that's if I could see the whole person, not just their face.
I hope nametags are a thing again next year.
Here's an interesting article, in case you're interested. https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/magazine/wp/2019/08/21/feature/my-life-with-face-blindness/
Mine is on a hook in the closet. Just need to remember to bring it!
Post by: NinetyFour on December 12, 2022, 06:37:34 AM
Post by: Tasse on December 12, 2022, 08:26:35 AM
Post by: 2Birds1Stone on December 12, 2022, 09:04:46 AM
Post by: NinetyFour on December 12, 2022, 09:47:27 AM
I've been spying on these meet-ups virtually the last two years, and I'm gonna go ahead and commit early this year. I'm only a few hour drive from Moab so if you fine peeps can get out there, I certainly better be able to.
I'm in! Can't wait to meet and spend time with all you wise souls. Once we know what dates the majority will be there for (and nearish what sites), I'll get mine booked. Currently, I'm leaning toward the 6th through the morning of the 10th.
Awesome! So glad you are planning to join us!
PTF, though date conflicts with some European adventures.
Europe Shmurop!! :-)
I’m glad you have some interest in joining us—it would be great to meet you!
Post by: NinetyFour on December 12, 2022, 09:53:15 AM
Hey, next year I will both live in driving distance and not be writing a thesis...
I have found that it is always good to NOT be writing a thesis. ;-)
When do you suggest people commit by?
The day before!
Haha, but only half kidding.
I suggest that you make a reservation at the campground (the info is up at the beginning of this thread) soonish, as October is pretty busy for them. Plus, you might have a better chance of getting a site close to/far away from (whatever your preference is!) other MMMers. They have a generous cancellation policy (although it could always change, so be sure to read the fine print), so you don’t really have to “commit” until the date dictated by that policy.
In any case, I sure hope you can join us!
Post by: Chaplin on December 12, 2022, 10:29:31 AM
PTF, though date conflicts with some European adventures.
Come on! We'll go mountain biking!
Post by: Dicey on December 12, 2022, 11:18:54 AM
I had a dream last night that I forgot to bring it to the meetup. Sorry.You could always do what I'm doing: leave it in the rig. It also serves as a trigger for excellent memories.
Post by: oldladystache on December 12, 2022, 11:44:41 AM
Post by: Dicey on December 13, 2022, 12:26:58 PM
I put mine in a safe place where I'll be sure to be able to find it next year. I've already forgotten where that safe place is. Maybe if I start looking for it now I'll find it before then. But where should I put it if I find it?And that's exactly why I left ours in the rig. You are among friends here.
Post by: oldladystache on December 13, 2022, 03:29:51 PM
I put mine in a safe place where I'll be sure to be able to find it next year. I've already forgotten where that safe place is. Maybe if I start looking for it now I'll find it before then. But where should I put it if I find it?And that's exactly why I left ours in the rig. You are among friends here.
I thought about leaving it in my car, but I'm hoping to have a new car by then. An embarrassingly unmustachian Fisker Ocean One. They started up the assembly line a couple weeks ago, and I have one of the first 5,000 reserved. If all goes well I should have mine by April or May. But when does all go well?
Post by: lhamo on December 14, 2022, 08:16:23 AM
When do you suggest people commit by?
The day before!
Haha, but only half kidding.
I am proof positive that @NinetyFour is correct. By the time I decided I was actually going, most people were already there. I left on Sunday morning from Seattle and arrived Monday afternoon. While I missed the weekend fun and some of the folks who only came for the first half, the few days I did have were AMAZING. And if you have a tent or a car you can sleep in it is pretty easy to find an extra corner in somebody's site to crash in -- @deborah generously allowed me to share her cabin the first night, I pitched a tent next to @shadowmoss the second night, and then with help from @Dicey I got my own cabin the last night (had a long drive to Denver the next day and needed to be well-rested -- the website said I couldn't book just one night but Dice helped me sweet talk them into an exception).
So, by all means book a site in advance if you can, but not having a reservation isn't really a barrier to joining the fun -- join the chat group and most likely somebody will be able to squeeze you in.
Post by: NinetyFour on December 18, 2022, 10:27:38 AM
I put mine in a safe place where I'll be sure to be able to find it next year. I've already forgotten where that safe place is. Maybe if I start looking for it now I'll find it before then. But where should I put it if I find it?And that's exactly why I left ours in the rig. You are among friends here.
I thought about leaving it in my car, but I'm hoping to have a new car by then. An embarrassingly unmustachian Fisker Ocean One. They started up the assembly line a couple weeks ago, and I have one of the first 5,000 reserved. If all goes well I should have mine by April or May. But when does all go well?
My lanyard and name tag are now in my rig. As usual, great suggestion from @Dicey !
@oldladystache If you put yours in your current car now, surely you’ll grab it (and any other items that live in your car) if/when you switch to your new car, right?
I do hope you get your new car when you want it! :)
Post by: oldladystache on December 18, 2022, 12:56:16 PM
(https://64.media.tumblr.com/ce8d0ce71b81cfd67236e056bdafaeb4/8d87d6b23e569fe3-9b/s1280x1920/f622d46403d79cb2fa4ed288130ecd889319c35c.jpg)
Post by: Dicey on December 18, 2022, 03:07:11 PM
I looked in all the likely safe places and didn't find it. However, I did find Whitey's Santa Claus costume. Poor patient puppy.Awww, what a cutie!
(https://64.media.tumblr.com/ce8d0ce71b81cfd67236e056bdafaeb4/8d87d6b23e569fe3-9b/s1280x1920/f622d46403d79cb2fa4ed288130ecd889319c35c.jpg)
Please expend no more energy on this quest. Surely we will have new participants in 2023, so more will be made. I have a secret slush fund to cover the purchase of another batch of lanyards.
Post by: meadow lark on December 20, 2022, 02:55:35 PM
Anyone want to rent this 6 bedroom / 2 bath house for $260/night with us? Who wants to “camp” with a mattress and a kitchen? We can have a big spaghetti dinner for everyone one night!
(No pets are allowed).
Post by: oldladystache on December 20, 2022, 03:53:58 PM
Post by: monarda on December 20, 2022, 06:43:02 PM
We might be in Massachusetts next October,
and then again, we might not!
Post by: MonkeyJenga on December 24, 2022, 01:47:36 AM
Post by: Dicey on December 24, 2022, 02:04:55 AM
HI I AM STRONGLY CONSIDERING THIS.WOULDN'T THAT BE SOMETHING? MAKE IT SO, MJ.
Post by: NinetyFour on December 24, 2022, 06:38:05 AM
HI I AM STRONGLY CONSIDERING THIS.
Plenty of time to study the state capitals before then!
Post by: oneday on December 24, 2022, 09:48:13 AM
HI I AM STRONGLY CONSIDERING THIS.
Plenty of time to study the state capitals before then!
The U.S.: State Capitals - Map Quiz Game] (https://www.geoguessr.com/seterra/en/vgp/3063)
HI I AM STRONGLY CONSIDERING THIS.
Plenty of time to study the state capitals before then!
The U.S.: State Capitals - Map Quiz Game (https://www.geoguessr.com/seterra/en/vgp/3063)
Post by: Chaplin on December 24, 2022, 09:58:25 AM
The U.S.: State Capitals - Map Quiz Game (https://www.geoguessr.com/seterra/en/vgp/3063)
54% in 5:03 as a Canadian. But seriously, I had never heard of "Pierre" and a few others.
Post by: Dicey on December 24, 2022, 10:00:03 AM
That's pretty 8mpress8ve for a first try. Plenty of time before October.The U.S.: State Capitals - Map Quiz Game (https://www.geoguessr.com/seterra/en/vgp/3063)
54% in 5:03 as a Canadian. But seriously, I had never heard of "Pierre" and a few others.
Erm, @oneday, is there a Canadian version?
Post by: Chaplin on December 24, 2022, 10:04:45 AM
Erm, @oneday, is there a Canadian version?
There are lots of quizzes on the same site, including Canadian ones.
Post by: Dicey on December 24, 2022, 10:10:17 AM
Right. On it. Thanks to you both. We're taking Miss Rigby to my brother's house for a couple of days. We'll have fun with this on the drive.Erm, @oneday, is there a Canadian version?
There are lots of quizzes on the same site, including Canadian ones.
Post by: oneday on December 24, 2022, 10:25:52 AM
Right. On it. Thanks to you both. We're taking Miss Rigby to my brother's house for a couple of days. We'll have fun with this on the drive.Erm, @oneday, is there a Canadian version?
There are lots of quizzes on the same site, including Canadian ones.
Thanks Chaplin!
Dicey, 94 posted this site on her journal a while ago and I've been having a blast learning all the countries of the world. Also capitals for US, Central America (there are only 7) and Europe.
Post by: oneday on December 24, 2022, 10:34:49 AM
The U.S.: State Capitals - Map Quiz Game (https://www.geoguessr.com/seterra/en/vgp/3063)
54% in 5:03 as a Canadian. But seriously, I had never heard of "Pierre" and a few others.
Haha, I just got 54% on Canadian territories & provinces!
Post by: Chaplin on December 24, 2022, 11:36:40 AM
The U.S.: State Capitals - Map Quiz Game (https://www.geoguessr.com/seterra/en/vgp/3063)
54% in 5:03 as a Canadian. But seriously, I had never heard of "Pierre" and a few others.
Haha, I just got 54% on Canadian territories & provinces!
Try the capitals of the provinces and territories! Yes, this thing is addictive, or at least hard to stop once you start.
Post by: MonkeyJenga on December 24, 2022, 12:28:01 PM
HI I AM STRONGLY CONSIDERING THIS.
Plenty of time to study the state capitals before then!
Oh no...
Post by: MonkeyJenga on December 25, 2022, 03:10:54 PM
Post by: Purple_Crayon on January 03, 2023, 01:44:06 PM
Post by: NinetyFour on January 16, 2023, 12:09:38 PM
As usual my travel plans are going to be chaotic and underprepared. Does anyone have a tent and/or sleeping bag that I could borrow for the trip? And maybe would want to share a campsite?
I’m actually
I can lend you a sleeping bag, and maybe a tent. Not sure that my campsite can accommodate my big truck as well as a tent.
I'm booked in one of the tent spots for Oct 6 through the morning of the 10th. Looking forward to it!
Awesome!!! So glad you will be joining us!
Post by: NinetyFour on January 16, 2023, 12:12:59 PM
The U.S.: State Capitals - Map Quiz Game (https://www.geoguessr.com/seterra/en/vgp/3063)
54% in 5:03 as a Canadian. But seriously, I had never heard of "Pierre" and a few others.
Haha, I just got 54% on Canadian territories & provinces!
Try the capitals of the provinces and territories! Yes, this thing is addictive, or at least hard to stop once you start.
I’m glad so many of you folks are enjoying these quizzes! And now that I have learned a fair bit of world geography, I have added Worldle, Globle, and Statele to my morning routine!
Post by: oneday on January 16, 2023, 03:31:07 PM
The U.S.: State Capitals - Map Quiz Game (https://www.geoguessr.com/seterra/en/vgp/3063)
54% in 5:03 as a Canadian. But seriously, I had never heard of "Pierre" and a few others.
Haha, I just got 54% on Canadian territories & provinces!
Try the capitals of the provinces and territories! Yes, this thing is addictive, or at least hard to stop once you start.
I’m glad so many of you folks are enjoying these quizzes! And now that I have learned a fair bit of world geography, I have added Worldle, Globle, and Statele to my morning routine!
I'm now learning all the counties in California. There seems to be no end to this rabbit hole :)
Post by: NinetyFour on January 21, 2023, 09:07:18 AM
I'm now learning all the counties in California. There seems to be no end to this rabbit hole :)
Impressive! Good luck!
Post by: NinetyFour on January 21, 2023, 09:09:59 AM
https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/map/2023-october-14
Post by: Dicey on January 21, 2023, 10:55:22 AM
Pretty sure you are correct on the counties thing, Spartana.You mean there are separate counties here? I thought it was just one-half of the state is LA and the other half is San Francisco.The U.S.: State Capitals - Map Quiz Game (https://www.geoguessr.com/seterra/en/vgp/3063)
54% in 5:03 as a Canadian. But seriously, I had never heard of "Pierre" and a few others.
Haha, I just got 54% on Canadian territories & provinces!
Try the capitals of the provinces and territories! Yes, this thing is addictive, or at least hard to stop once you start.
I’m glad so many of you folks are enjoying these quizzes! And now that I have learned a fair bit of world geography, I have added Worldle, Globle, and Statele to my morning routine!
I'm now learning all the counties in California. There seems to be no end to this rabbit hole :)
I know ALL the state capitals by heart. I might not be able to remember to tie my shoes but I know where Helena is!!
Basicly PTF. I have no idea where I'll be then but you never know.
Post by: oneday on January 21, 2023, 07:57:54 PM
You mean there are separate counties here? I thought it was just one-half of the state is LA and the other half is San Francisco.The U.S.: State Capitals - Map Quiz Game (https://www.geoguessr.com/seterra/en/vgp/3063)
54% in 5:03 as a Canadian. But seriously, I had never heard of "Pierre" and a few others.
Haha, I just got 54% on Canadian territories & provinces!
Try the capitals of the provinces and territories! Yes, this thing is addictive, or at least hard to stop once you start.
I’m glad so many of you folks are enjoying these quizzes! And now that I have learned a fair bit of world geography, I have added Worldle, Globle, and Statele to my morning routine!
I'm now learning all the counties in California. There seems to be no end to this rabbit hole :)
I know ALL the state capitals by heart. I might not be able to remember to tie my shoes but I know where Helena is!!
Basicly PTF. I have no idea where I'll be then but you never know.
Haha, but have you been to Helena? :)
Post by: shadowmoss on January 21, 2023, 08:04:43 PM
Post by: Cherry Lane on January 21, 2023, 09:49:43 PM
I know ALL the state capitals by heart. I might not be able to remember to tie my shoes but I know where Helena is!!Yup. State capitals may be the only thing I remember from 5th grade.
Post by: Dicey on February 11, 2023, 03:05:37 PM
What I didn't mention is that DH wanted to do a hike rated "Difficult". I was googlng for more info and came across this tale, courtesy of YouTube via Reddit...[I can't make the link work. Look for "Adam Walks Around Episode 47".] It's about Bill Ewasko, a hiker who disappeared in Joshua Tree.
SCAREDTHE SHIT OUT OF ME, so we agreed to stick with shorter hikes for our first 2023 adventure.
I haven't been to JTNP since I was a teen. I had heard that there was damage when the government shut down a few years ago and some hoolligans entered the park with destructive intent. I wanted to revisit the park, but not be stupid.
Anyway, we did the equivalent of going to Arches and doing all the loops accessible from the main road. We had a blast, returning to our home base exhilarated and safe.
In the comments of Episode 47, Adam mentioned that he was putting the finishing touches on Episode 48, wherein he wraps up the story of Bill Ewasko. We were on pins and needles, checking every day until it dropped. It was a moving epiphany to a guy who seemed smart, fit, experienced and reasonably well prepared. Well, except that hiking in the Desert in July is never a good idea IMO, but people do it.
Conclusion: Mother Nature is incredibly beautiful and welcoming, but is also relentlessly trying to kill you.
See y'all in Moab, where there are so many cool mustachians that no one ever has to adventure alone.
Post by: Le Poisson on February 11, 2023, 06:16:09 PM
I was not aware that @MonkeyJenga was contemplating camping.
I'll pack the cowbell.
On a more serious note, I am pumped to do this as a road trip this year. It's a long ways off, but the plan looks roughly like...
Toronto to Detroit after work on Friday
Detroit to about Lincoln NE on Saturday
Lincoln to Grand Junction on Sunday
Spend a couple days around Grand Junction, then head to Moab For a week.
Repeat in reverse to come home.
If anyone wants to arrange to meet along the way and convoy, let me know.
Post by: Dicey on February 11, 2023, 06:29:50 PM
I just caught up on this thread.Wow, that sounds so good I wish I was going too...oh, wait!
I was not aware that @MonkeyJenga was contemplating camping.
I'll pack the cowbell.
On a more serious note, I am pumped to do this as a road trip this year. It's a long ways off, but the plan looks roughly like...
Toronto to Detroit after work on Friday
Detroit to about Lincoln NE on Saturday
Lincoln to Grand Junction on Sunday
Spend a couple days around Grand Junction, then head to Moab For a week.
Repeat in reverse to come home.
If anyone wants to arrange to meet along the way and convoy, let me know.
We're taking a different, slightly shorter route, (from an entirely different direction) but looking forward to seeing you and Momma again in Moab. If your return was via NorCal, we'd happily join the convoy.
Post by: oneday on February 12, 2023, 10:35:56 AM
Post by: Dicey on February 18, 2023, 08:57:16 AM
This item will be perfect for Moab, and guaranteed to make y'all laugh. Or roll your eyes, or something. When you see it, you'll know it's me/us. Squeeeeeee!
Post by: srrb on February 18, 2023, 09:48:16 AM
This area is on our bucket list and attending a MMM meet is something I'd really like to do.
Post by: StashingAway on February 23, 2023, 11:20:09 AM
Post by: Dicey on February 23, 2023, 11:43:52 AM
Site is booked for mid-week, we'll be towing a 2 and 3 year old in as well.Did you notice the cool playground? Our grandkids loved it. We deliberately chose a site close to it for us (RV) and for them (tent). It was worth paying to lock in those sites.
For those of you who don't remember seeing us with grandkids, you're not wrong. We stayed over and they joined us after the meetup. There is also an excellent park nearby and the WabiSabi Thrift Store sells kids clothes by the bagful. Don't get me wrong, everything is neatly hung and tagged, but everything that fits in the bag is a flat price (IIRC < $5). Sweet deal.
Add: the park is called, rather unimaginatively, "Rotary Park". But those fine Rotarians deserve to be damn proud of what they created. It's also close to some easy-ish trails. I'll dig up some photos and post them later. Oh, and the library's great. You might see if any storytime activities are happening while you're there.
Finally, City Market is thisclose. It's Kroger owned, is a full-on grocery store and the prices are shockingly reasonable for a resort community. If you forget something, they'll have it. It takes the pressure off of having to remember to pack/prep every last thing.
Post by: Dicey on February 23, 2023, 11:41:57 PM
Here is a link for Rotary Park. The city's website seriously undersells it. Trip Advisor has better photos but doesn't really do it justice either.
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60724-d3369651-Reviews-Rotary_Park-Moab_Utah.html
Post by: catbend on February 26, 2023, 09:11:30 AM
Post by: Cannot Wait! on February 26, 2023, 04:01:25 PM
Post by: BicycleB on March 17, 2023, 08:30:24 AM
MOAB would be my first MMM meetup more than 10 miles from home. Can't think of a better way to see such a beautiful place for the first time.
H/t to Dicey for mentioning this to me (thanked her directly in journal).
Post by: MrGreen on March 22, 2023, 05:52:07 PM
Post by: MrGreen on March 23, 2023, 10:04:56 AM
Post by: Dicey on March 23, 2023, 10:16:59 AM
We're in! Airbnb is booked. I'm SUPER excited about this!Woo-hoo!
Post by: Dicey on March 25, 2023, 05:46:13 PM
Post by: oneday on March 28, 2023, 03:08:12 PM
I also acquired the knowledge of which Costco locations in the area do not carry this item, lol!
Post by: vector on March 29, 2023, 02:43:34 PM
My current options are to fly in DEN or SLC and renting a car there. If I can get around the parks without renting a car, flying to CNY may worth consideration.
V
Post by: deborah on March 29, 2023, 03:56:17 PM
Post by: Dicey on March 29, 2023, 06:19:32 PM
Question for those in the know: is flying into Canyonlands airport a reasonable or a dumb idea? Are there any shuttle buses from Moab to the parks, or a rental is a must?Not Denver, way too far, IMO. Check out Grand Junction. Probably even easier than SLC.
My current options are to fly in DEN or SLC and renting a car there. If I can get around the parks without renting a car, flying to CNY may worth consideration.
V
Post by: shadowmoss on March 29, 2023, 06:56:31 PM
Post by: StashingAway on March 30, 2023, 01:15:13 PM
Question for those in the know: is flying into Canyonlands airport a reasonable or a dumb idea? Are there any shuttle buses from Moab to the parks, or a rental is a must?Not Denver, way too far, IMO. Check out Grand Junction. Probably even easier than SLC.
My current options are to fly in DEN or SLC and renting a car there. If I can get around the parks without renting a car, flying to CNY may worth consideration.
V
Montrose airport is another option. Has some flights that Grand Junction doesn't support (Southwest, for example).
Post by: Dicey on March 30, 2023, 10:22:50 PM
I think some folks flew into Moab airport and were picked up.
i think it was @deborah and @happy. Their fantastic chauffeur/tour guide was @NinetyFour. However, it looks like were going to be a big group.Tthere may be other ride sharing/carpooling options.
@Stashing Away, hmmm, which route would you take from Montrose to Moab? GJ seems much easier.
Post by: happy on March 31, 2023, 03:21:58 PM
I think some folks flew into Moab airport and were picked up.
i think it was @deborah and @happy. Their fantastic chauffeur/tour guide was @NinetyFour. However, it looks like were going to be a big group.Tthere may be other ride sharing/carpooling options.
@Stashing Away, hmmm, which route would you take from Montrose to Moab? GJ seems much easier.
It was Deborah and I who flew into Canyonlands airport and out again from Denver. United and Delta seemed to be both operating. We flew in a CRJ200 jet....I'm sure most Americans would think this a small plane, but its much bigger than most Australian regional planes at 50 seats.
The best part about flying was the views over the entire Arches/Moab area. Absolutely incredible. We were in a bit of a holding pattern (I think due to the Delta flight) coming in and hence flew at relatively low altitude around the place for quite a while. No need to book a scenic flight! If you do it, be sure to get a window seat.
Post by: vector on April 01, 2023, 11:58:50 AM
I may settle for Denver and add an extra week in the area for good measure :-). My options are either going South to Durango/Pagosa Springs or North to Estes Park/Rocky Mountains NP. Can anybody recommend one over the other? I don't want to pollute the thread with my plans, please let me know if this is too OT.
Thanks again,
V
Post by: NinetyFour on April 19, 2023, 08:39:20 AM
Post by: MrGreen on April 22, 2023, 12:31:24 PM
Post by: MrGreen on April 22, 2023, 01:16:18 PM
I'd been dragging my feet on our reservation because I wasn't quite sure what our schedule was going to look like. Finally pulled the trigger. We'll be in G9 for the week. Didn't pay the site lock fee though since there were only 2 other camping sites on that side of the river left. Definitely have to get in on the black Friday sale for 2024. $60 a night all in for a tent site is a bit spicy!
Post by: oldladystache on April 22, 2023, 01:32:39 PM
Hi neighbor. I'll be right nextdoor in G10.I'd been dragging my feet on our reservation because I wasn't quite sure what our schedule was going to look like. Finally pulled the trigger. We'll be in G9 for the week. Didn't pay the site lock fee though since there were only 2 other camping sites on that side of the river left. Definitely have to get in on the black Friday sale for 2024. $60 a night all in for a tent site is a bit spicy!
Post by: BicycleB on April 22, 2023, 01:58:53 PM
I'd been dragging my feet on our reservation because I wasn't quite sure what our schedule was going to look like. Finally pulled the trigger. We'll be in G9 for the week. Didn't pay the site lock fee though since there were only 2 other camping sites on that side of the river left. Definitely have to get in on the black Friday sale for 2024. $60 a night all in is a bit spicy!
Is this a metaphor, or a real thing? If real, how does it work / where do I find the usual details?
-hoping to join in '24
Post by: MrGreen on April 22, 2023, 02:20:49 PM
Post by: Dicey on April 22, 2023, 07:24:38 PM
Thanks all for the suggestions, I didn't know there are so many airports around Moab. I also found about the regional air companies!The goal is for everyone to have a great time. If you have a question, someone else is probably wondering the same thing, or knows the answer. FIRE away. (Hee!)
I may settle for Denver and add an extra week in the area for good measure :-). My options are either going South to Durango/Pagosa Springs or North to Estes Park/Rocky Mountains NP. Can anybody recommend one over the other? I don't want to pollute the thread with my plans, please let me know if this is too OT.
Thanks again,
V
Post by: Chaplin on April 22, 2023, 09:55:17 PM
Post by: Dicey on April 23, 2023, 11:10:34 AM
It looks like July 1 is going to be an important day to mark on our calendars:
https://www.nps.gov/arch/planyourvisit/timed-entry-reservation.htm
ETA: This link has more info:
https://www.nps.gov/arch/learn/news/news12162022.htm
Post by: lhamo on April 23, 2023, 11:18:25 AM
It is about a 20 minute drive from the campsite to the park in the morning so you don't even need to be up THAT early to beat the 7am gate.
Post by: Dicey on April 23, 2023, 11:23:23 AM
For those who are concerned about the timed entry system, the easy way around it is to go early or late (no ticket required for those entering before 7am or after 4pm). I went for sunrise on my two days in the park and it was fabulous -- cool, very few people/cars (means you can find parking, which is one of the biggest challenges as the park fills up, and beautiful views. Not to mention absolutely fabulous company!Oh, hell no! Even if we're FIRE, we're still on vacation! OTOH, I admired that you did so last year and were successful at recruiting other early birds. There are some workarounds, as noted better in the second link.
It is about a 20 minute drive from the campsite to the park in the morning so you don't even need to be up THAT early to beat the 7am gate.
Post by: MrGreen on April 23, 2023, 10:59:57 PM
Post by: Le Poisson on April 24, 2023, 09:56:30 AM
Post by: the_fixer on April 24, 2023, 06:48:23 PM
Heading out early does have it’s benefits.For those who are concerned about the timed entry system, the easy way around it is to go early or late (no ticket required for those entering before 7am or after 4pm). I went for sunrise on my two days in the park and it was fabulous -- cool, very few people/cars (means you can find parking, which is one of the biggest challenges as the park fills up, and beautiful views. Not to mention absolutely fabulous company!Oh, hell no! Even if we're FIRE, we're still on vacation! OTOH, I admired that you did so last year and were successful at recruiting other early birds. There are some workarounds, as noted better in the second link.
It is about a 20 minute drive from the campsite to the park in the morning so you don't even need to be up THAT early to beat the 7am gate.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230425/b51600fe9fb19565d91e8c599263c904.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230425/660114da3a6c91815f58c3c9c2d7f2bf.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Dicey on April 24, 2023, 07:31:01 PM
Post by: MrGreen on April 24, 2023, 07:55:00 PM
We visited Arches for the first time in April 2019 during our first big westward journey. We were on the long trail around the Devil's Garden, more than halfway around the loop past Private Arch, when a storm popped up. There's a spot where you have to decend a steep rock face that is probably 30 feet tall and the rain made the sandstone unbelievably slick. Scary slick. A fall probably guaranteed a trip to the hospital. As we're trying to figure out if there's a safe way down more people are arriving on the trail. I think in all there may have been a dozen or so people that showed up. Someone produces a rope from a backpack and we manage to help everyone down this rock face so they can complete their hike. I am not a fan of heights at all but there were a few people who were REALLY scared, like shaking, trying to keep it together as they're being guided down step by step. It was a really cool moment that bolsters your faith in humanity.
The last picture is my wife and I messing around with funny camera perspectives. We found a tiny arch and tried to make it look like I was a giant.
Post by: oneday on April 25, 2023, 12:23:48 AM
The trick to arches is to tag along with @Embok . She's a great tour guide, and the feast is spectacular! ;)
Truth.
The last picture is my wife and I messing around with funny camera perspectives. We found a tiny arch and tried to make it look like I was a giant.
Success!
Post by: Dicey on April 25, 2023, 01:41:11 AM
The trick to arches is to tag along with @Embok . She's a great tour guide, and the feast is spectacular! ;)Another is to stay longer than the Embok's and have a refrigerator. Their leftovers were excellent!
Post by: vector on April 27, 2023, 11:07:33 AM
Thanks all for the suggestions, I didn't know there are so many airports around Moab. I also found about the regional air companies!The goal is for everyone to have a great time. If you have a question, someone else is probably wondering the same thing, or knows the answer. FIRE away. (Hee!)
I may settle for Denver and add an extra week in the area for good measure :-). My options are either going South to Durango/Pagosa Springs or North to Estes Park/Rocky Mountains NP. Can anybody recommend one over the other? I don't want to pollute the thread with my plans, please let me know if this is too OT.
Thanks again,
V
Thanks!
We intend to spend a couple of days in Rocky Mountain NP on our way from Denver to Moab, and 4 days in the Durango/Pagosa Springs on our way back to Denver. Is it reasonable? Ar we trying to do too much in a single trip?
If anybody is familiar with Rocky Mtn NP, some specific questions:
- is the beginning of October too late for hiking there? From my research the main road is likely still open, but the Old Fall River Rd may be closed. Variable weather doesn't scare us, but if the snow is already high it may not be too fun...
- any recommendations for 2 days of hiking in the park?
V
Post by: lhamo on April 27, 2023, 07:56:50 PM
Post by: the_fixer on April 27, 2023, 08:56:28 PM
When Fall River road is closed you can still walk or ride a bike up it without cars make for a fun bike ride.Thanks all for the suggestions, I didn't know there are so many airports around Moab. I also found about the regional air companies!The goal is for everyone to have a great time. If you have a question, someone else is probably wondering the same thing, or knows the answer. FIRE away. (Hee!)
I may settle for Denver and add an extra week in the area for good measure :-). My options are either going South to Durango/Pagosa Springs or North to Estes Park/Rocky Mountains NP. Can anybody recommend one over the other? I don't want to pollute the thread with my plans, please let me know if this is too OT.
Thanks again,
V
Thanks!
We intend to spend a couple of days in Rocky Mountain NP on our way from Denver to Moab, and 4 days in the Durango/Pagosa Springs on our way back to Denver. Is it reasonable? Ar we trying to do too much in a single trip?
If anybody is familiar with Rocky Mtn NP, some specific questions:
- is the beginning of October too late for hiking there? From my research the main road is likely still open, but the Old Fall River Rd may be closed. Variable weather doesn't scare us, but if the snow is already high it may not be too fun...
- any recommendations for 2 days of hiking in the park?
V
October 22nd at the visitor center
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230428/53016f6e68cca22598d1c67d66fc9463.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: ws on April 28, 2023, 02:16:52 PM
Post by: Purple_Crayon on May 08, 2023, 09:49:21 AM
Hey all! Newbie here, just booked site #98 for 11/6-11/13. Looking forward to meeting everyone and exploring Moab! I'll be driving in from Denver and would be happy to give someone a ride.
Just in case! I believe the bulk of us are going in October. Did you mean to say you booked for November?
Post by: Dicey on May 08, 2023, 10:02:11 AM
Good catch! Let's try a batsignal to @ws for good measure. It's way too cold there in November for this CA sissy.Hey all! Newbie here, just booked site #98 for 11/6-11/13. Looking forward to meeting everyone and exploring Moab! I'll be driving in from Denver and would be happy to give someone a ride.
Just in case! I believe the bulk of us are going in October. Did you mean to say you booked for November?
Post by: ws on May 13, 2023, 11:15:22 PM
Good catch! Let's try a batsignal to @ws for good measure. It's way too cold there in November for this CA sissy.Hey all! Newbie here, just booked site #98 for 11/6-11/13. Looking forward to meeting everyone and exploring Moab! I'll be driving in from Denver and would be happy to give someone a ride.
Just in case! I believe the bulk of us are going in October. Did you mean to say you booked for November?
I assumed replies would email me or show up in my messages, sorry I'm just now seeing this! Just double checked, my reservation is in October- phew!
Post by: Dicey on May 14, 2023, 11:05:09 AM
Yay! The more, the merrier, IMO.Good catch! Let's try a batsignal to @ws for good measure. It's way too cold there in November for this CA sissy.Hey all! Newbie here, just booked site #98 for 11/6-11/13. Looking forward to meeting everyone and exploring Moab! I'll be driving in from Denver and would be happy to give someone a ride.
Just in case! I believe the bulk of us are going in October. Did you mean to say you booked for November?
I assumed replies would email me or show up in my messages, sorry I'm just now seeing this! Just double checked, my reservation is in October- phew!
Post by: Le Poisson on May 17, 2023, 02:11:48 PM
Video for inspo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4kMxgYF-7o
Post by: lost_in_the_endless_aisle on May 21, 2023, 08:22:52 PM
WeatherThanks all for the suggestions, I didn't know there are so many airports around Moab. I also found about the regional air companies!The goal is for everyone to have a great time. If you have a question, someone else is probably wondering the same thing, or knows the answer. FIRE away. (Hee!)
I may settle for Denver and add an extra week in the area for good measure :-). My options are either going South to Durango/Pagosa Springs or North to Estes Park/Rocky Mountains NP. Can anybody recommend one over the other? I don't want to pollute the thread with my plans, please let me know if this is too OT.
Thanks again,
V
Thanks!
We intend to spend a couple of days in Rocky Mountain NP on our way from Denver to Moab, and 4 days in the Durango/Pagosa Springs on our way back to Denver. Is it reasonable? Ar we trying to do too much in a single trip?
If anybody is familiar with Rocky Mtn NP, some specific questions:
- is the beginning of October too late for hiking there? From my research the main road is likely still open, but the Old Fall River Rd may be closed. Variable weather doesn't scare us, but if the snow is already high it may not be too fun...
- any recommendations for 2 days of hiking in the park?
V
Late September/early October is actually often the very best time in RMNP, as long as there isn't an early snowstorm (~15% chance, and 2017 (https://www.nohrsc.noaa.gov/interactive/html/map.html?ql=station&zoom=&loc=40.572+N%2C+105.886+W&var=ssm_depth&dy=2017&dm=10&dd=3&dh=0&snap=1&o9=1&o12=1&o13=1&lbl=m&o7=1&mode=pan&extents=us&min_x=-105.95833333333&min_y=40.116666666663&max_x=-105.1&max_y=40.591666666663&coord_x=-105.52916666666499&coord_y=40.354166666663005&zbox_n=&zbox_s=&zbox_e=&zbox_w=&metric=0&bgvar=dem&shdvar=shading&width=800&height=450&nw=800&nh=450&h_o=0&font=0&js=1&uc=0) is the only year in recent history with significant snow that early). Expect possibly a dusting of snow above treeline and/or morning frost. By October, there are no more thunderstorms, which are an almost-daily problem during much of the summer. In spite of the lack of storms, it's best to start early anyway if you want to avoid crowds (no later than sunrise). Just before sunrise is also the best time to enjoy Trail Ridge Road, since it's the only way to avoid the tourons (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Touron) up there.
Park Entry
Another advantage to going early is you can get into the park free. I'm not sure what time they start charging fees (which is whenever the entry stations are first manned in the morning), but if you're in before 7AM, you should be good. Note that if you want to enter the park later in the day, you will have to navigate the timed entry restrictions/permitting process (https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/timed-entry-permit-system.htm).
Hikes
Peaks
1) If you want to hit some of the higher peaks without a ~16 mi r/t slog, CCY (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/ypsilon-chiquita-and-chapin) is excellent (if Fall River Road is open)
2) Another option is Ida (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/mount-ida-trail) (if Trail Ridge is still open)
3) For a slightly easier option, Twin Sisters (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/twin-sisters-peak-trail) is a very nice trail with excellent views from the summit; however, it's below treeline most of the way, so the views are sporadic most of the way
Lakes
1) Chasm (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/chasm-lake) is a standout and by October the summer conditions on Longs should mean the trailhead parking area is not a zoo
2) Bluebird Lake (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/bluebird-lake-trail) out of the Wild Basin area is relatively secluded and as nice as the very heavily trafficked Sky Pond (Bear Lake area)
3) my favorite lakes are the Lion Lakes + Snowbank (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/lion-lake-trail) (also out of Wild Basin), and you might not see anyone out there most of the day
Other
1) Glacier Gorge/Bear Lake area is nice but overrated and very crowded unless you start in the dark w/ headlights to beat the crowds, which you would have to do (before 5AM) if you wanted to go there without a timed entry permit
2) For wildlife viewing, pre-sunrise is typically the best time (notice the running theme that you want to get started early for the best experience)
3) The western half of the park isn't as crowded and has some excellent hikes, but many of the better options are longer approaches (can suggest stuff on that side if interested; as you can probably tell, I've done a lot of miles in the front range)
Post by: NinetyFour on May 22, 2023, 05:32:57 AM
Basicly PTF. I have no idea where I'll be then but you never know.
Sparty, we would be honoUred if you'd stop by and spend some time with us!!
See y'all in Moab, where there are so many cool mustachians that no one ever has to adventure alone.
Love this!! :)
I just caught up on this thread.
I was not aware that @MonkeyJenga was contemplating camping.
I'll pack the cowbell.
MJ--yes, please! Cowbell--no, thank you!!
On a more serious note, I am pumped to do this as a road trip this year. It's a long ways off, but the plan looks roughly like...
Toronto to Detroit after work on Friday
Detroit to about Lincoln NE on Saturday
Lincoln to Grand Junction on Sunday
Spend a couple days around Grand Junction, then head to Moab For a week.
Repeat in reverse to come home.
If anyone wants to arrange to meet along the way and convoy, let me know.
I wish I could join you--sounds like a fun road trip. But I will be in Portugal until 10/3, then trying to recover and pack before heading over to Moab!
In other news, I worked my regular shift at the thrift shop this week. At the very end of the day I spied something that made me LMAO for $4.00. Some know I made last year's nametags and related identifiers, and plan to do so again.
This item will be perfect for Moab, and guaranteed to make y'all laugh. Or roll your eyes, or something. When you see it, you'll know it's me/us. Squeeeeeee!
I love how you find fun things for cheap laughs!! Can't wait to see this mystery item!
ptf
This area is on our bucket list and attending a MMM meet is something I'd really like to do.
Awesome--we'd love to have you!!
Site is booked for mid-week, we'll be towing a 2 and 3 year old in as well.
Wonderful!!
I'm interested in joining this camping / meetup adventure. Husband and I are 8 years from fatFI. We will exit at 57/50 so are interested to hear from others who have crossed the FI threshold and are living well. Hope to make this work!
Sounds great! I FIREd at age 56, and am happy to share my not very exciting story. :)
I'm penciling this in. Thanks for organizing 94.
Would be great to see you again!!
Hi @NinetyFour and magical MOAB peeps, this event sounds wonderful. I'm currently planned to be out of the country until '24, but would love to attend in '24 if more magic happens. Until then, hoping you have a wonderful time this year.
MOAB would be my first MMM meetup more than 10 miles from home. Can't think of a better way to see such a beautiful place for the first time.
H/t to Dicey for mentioning this to me (thanked her directly in journal).
I'll look forward to meeting you in October 2024, if not sooner!!
We are close to pulling the trigger on a Denver suburb Airbnb for mid-Aug to mid-Sept. If we do we will attend the meetup enroute to my wife's grandparents house in southern AZ. I'm excited at the prospect of getting back to the West for the first time since our daughter was born and my hip surgery.
We're in! Airbnb is booked. I'm SUPER excited about this!
YES!!!!! It will be great to see you again!!!
I have a reservation for the 6th to the 13th. I'm currently planning to leave on the morning of the 9th (silly me, I took a fun FIRE job). There's room for another tent while I'm there and someone could take over my spot completely once I'm gone - I would just cancel otherwise.
So you'll only get two full days of biking in??? Dang.
Hopefully I'll have a new bike to show off to you by that time!
Heading out early does have it’s benefits.For those who are concerned about the timed entry system, the easy way around it is to go early or late (no ticket required for those entering before 7am or after 4pm). I went for sunrise on my two days in the park and it was fabulous -- cool, very few people/cars (means you can find parking, which is one of the biggest challenges as the park fills up, and beautiful views. Not to mention absolutely fabulous company!Oh, hell no! Even if we're FIRE, we're still on vacation! OTOH, I admired that you did so last year and were successful at recruiting other early birds. There are some workarounds, as noted better in the second link.
It is about a 20 minute drive from the campsite to the park in the morning so you don't even need to be up THAT early to beat the 7am gate.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230425/b51600fe9fb19565d91e8c599263c904.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230425/660114da3a6c91815f58c3c9c2d7f2bf.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Great photos!!!
Story time!
We visited Arches for the first time in April 2019 during our first big westward journey. We were on the long trail around the Devil's Garden, more than halfway around the loop past Private Arch, when a storm popped up. There's a spot where you have to descend a steep rock face that is probably 30 feet tall and the rain made the sandstone unbelievably slick. Scary slick. A fall probably guaranteed a trip to the hospital. As we're trying to figure out if there's a safe way down more people are arriving on the trail. I think in all there may have been a dozen or so people that showed up. Someone produces a rope from a backpack and we manage to help everyone down this rock face so they can complete their hike. I am not a fan of heights at all but there were a few people who were REALLY scared, like shaking, trying to keep it together as they're being guided down step by step. It was a really cool moment that bolsters your faith in humanity.
Yep--that is a tricky spot even when completely dry! I'm glad that story had a happy ending!
Hey all! Newbie here, just booked site #98 for11/6-11/1310/6-10/13. Looking forward to meeting everyone and exploring Moab! I'll be driving in from Denver and would be happy to give someone a ride.
Awesome!! :)
Is anyone else thinking about bringing a vehicle capable of some of the lighter 4WD trails while in Moab? I'm really hoping to have someone I can head out with.
Video for inspo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4kMxgYF-7o
Um.....
@lost_in_the_endless_aisle That's great info for RMNP--thanks!!!
Post by: NinetyFour on May 22, 2023, 05:51:48 AM
(I know some of you aren't 100% sure of attending, but I thought I'd throw a list together)
NinetyFour
@oneday
@Dicey
@Le Poisson
@oldladystache
@driftwood
@the_fixer
@Chaplin
@Embok
@shadowmoss
@plugging away
@FIFoFum
@Fru-Gal
@AlexK
@ixtap
@StashingAway
@lilkidjesus
@lhamo
@Tass
@2Birds1Stone
@meadow lark
@MonkeyJenga
@monarda
@spartana
@Cherry Lane
@srrb
@catbend
@Cannot Wait!
@BicycleB (if the stars align)
@vector
@ws
@deborah
@happy
@lost_in_the_endless_aisle
@Mr. Green (I can't get this batsignal to work...)
@MoseyingAlong
@TheGrimSqueaker
WOW!!
Last year we had peep from 7 different states, 2 provinces, and 3 countries. Wonder if we can do even better this time!
Post by: NinetyFour on May 22, 2023, 06:20:34 AM
A couple of my favoUrite moments from last year were mountain biking with TTM and her DH, and paddle boarding with them, too!
I sure hope @the_fixer and his DW want to paddle board again!!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52429546215_4508573aad_4k.jpg)
Post by: 2Birds1Stone on May 22, 2023, 06:37:52 AM
Post by: Ladychips on May 22, 2023, 07:00:23 AM
Post by: meadow lark on May 22, 2023, 07:11:54 AM
Total is $260/night with 6 bedrooms and 19 beds. If every room is used it will be $44/night per room, some rooms have several bunk beds.
https://www.lazylizardhostel.com/la-casa.php
Post by: BicycleB on May 22, 2023, 10:18:06 AM
I need to start keeping track of who is staying with me at La Casa, a very basic house we are renting from the hostel. Please remind me if you are planning on staying with me and what dates. We have it from the 6-13th. Not sure of the cost, but definitely less than a hotel!
Total is $260/night with 6 bedrooms and 19 beds. If every room is used it will be $44/night per room, some rooms have several bunk beds.
https://www.lazylizardhostel.com/la-casa.php
Like 2Birds, I will be abroad this year, but in my case am planning to attend in '24. Something like La Casa would be wonderful next year. Best wishes for '23!!
Post by: vector on May 22, 2023, 12:08:56 PM
Weather
Late September/early October is actually often the very best time in RMNP, as long as there isn't an early snowstorm (~15% chance, and 2017 (https://www.nohrsc.noaa.gov/interactive/html/map.html?ql=station&zoom=&loc=40.572+N%2C+105.886+W&var=ssm_depth&dy=2017&dm=10&dd=3&dh=0&snap=1&o9=1&o12=1&o13=1&lbl=m&o7=1&mode=pan&extents=us&min_x=-105.95833333333&min_y=40.116666666663&max_x=-105.1&max_y=40.591666666663&coord_x=-105.52916666666499&coord_y=40.354166666663005&zbox_n=&zbox_s=&zbox_e=&zbox_w=&metric=0&bgvar=dem&shdvar=shading&width=800&height=450&nw=800&nh=450&h_o=0&font=0&js=1&uc=0) is the only year in recent history with significant snow that early). Expect possibly a dusting of snow above treeline and/or morning frost. By October, there are no more thunderstorms, which are an almost-daily problem during much of the summer. In spite of the lack of storms, it's best to start early anyway if you want to avoid crowds (no later than sunrise). Just before sunrise is also the best time to enjoy Trail Ridge Road, since it's the only way to avoid the tourons (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Touron) up there.
Park Entry
Another advantage to going early is you can get into the park free. I'm not sure what time they start charging fees (which is whenever the entry stations are first manned in the morning), but if you're in before 7AM, you should be good. Note that if you want to enter the park later in the day, you will have to navigate the timed entry restrictions/permitting process (https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/timed-entry-permit-system.htm).
Hikes
Peaks
1) If you want to hit some of the higher peaks without a ~16 mi r/t slog, CCY (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/ypsilon-chiquita-and-chapin) is excellent (if Fall River Road is open)
2) Another option is Ida (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/mount-ida-trail) (if Trail Ridge is still open)
3) For a slightly easier option, Twin Sisters (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/twin-sisters-peak-trail) is a very nice trail with excellent views from the summit; however, it's below treeline most of the way, so the views are sporadic most of the way
Lakes
1) Chasm (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/chasm-lake) is a standout and by October the summer conditions on Longs should mean the trailhead parking area is not a zoo
2) Bluebird Lake (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/bluebird-lake-trail) out of the Wild Basin area is relatively secluded and as nice as the very heavily trafficked Sky Pond (Bear Lake area)
3) my favorite lakes are the Lion Lakes + Snowbank (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/lion-lake-trail) (also out of Wild Basin), and you might not see anyone out there most of the day
Other
1) Glacier Gorge/Bear Lake area is nice but overrated and very crowded unless you start in the dark w/ headlights to beat the crowds, which you would have to do (before 5AM) if you wanted to go there without a timed entry permit
2) For wildlife viewing, pre-sunrise is typically the best time (notice the running theme that you want to get started early for the best experience)
3) The western half of the park isn't as crowded and has some excellent hikes, but many of the better options are longer approaches (can suggest stuff on that side if interested; as you can probably tell, I've done a lot of miles in the front range)
Thanks for the detailed answer, I now have lots of pointers for my research! I may follow up with questions after I do some more reading.
Regards,
V
Post by: MonkeyJenga on May 22, 2023, 01:36:01 PM
Post by: lost_in_the_endless_aisle on May 22, 2023, 03:51:34 PM
Sure, feel free to PM me. This is the one thing I really geek out about. I'm actually headed to Estes Park Wednesday for 4 days :)Weather
Late September/early October is actually often the very best time in RMNP, as long as there isn't an early snowstorm (~15% chance, and 2017 (https://www.nohrsc.noaa.gov/interactive/html/map.html?ql=station&zoom=&loc=40.572+N%2C+105.886+W&var=ssm_depth&dy=2017&dm=10&dd=3&dh=0&snap=1&o9=1&o12=1&o13=1&lbl=m&o7=1&mode=pan&extents=us&min_x=-105.95833333333&min_y=40.116666666663&max_x=-105.1&max_y=40.591666666663&coord_x=-105.52916666666499&coord_y=40.354166666663005&zbox_n=&zbox_s=&zbox_e=&zbox_w=&metric=0&bgvar=dem&shdvar=shading&width=800&height=450&nw=800&nh=450&h_o=0&font=0&js=1&uc=0) is the only year in recent history with significant snow that early). Expect possibly a dusting of snow above treeline and/or morning frost. By October, there are no more thunderstorms, which are an almost-daily problem during much of the summer. In spite of the lack of storms, it's best to start early anyway if you want to avoid crowds (no later than sunrise). Just before sunrise is also the best time to enjoy Trail Ridge Road, since it's the only way to avoid the tourons (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Touron) up there.
Park Entry
Another advantage to going early is you can get into the park free. I'm not sure what time they start charging fees (which is whenever the entry stations are first manned in the morning), but if you're in before 7AM, you should be good. Note that if you want to enter the park later in the day, you will have to navigate the timed entry restrictions/permitting process (https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/timed-entry-permit-system.htm).
Hikes
Peaks
1) If you want to hit some of the higher peaks without a ~16 mi r/t slog, CCY (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/ypsilon-chiquita-and-chapin) is excellent (if Fall River Road is open)
2) Another option is Ida (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/mount-ida-trail) (if Trail Ridge is still open)
3) For a slightly easier option, Twin Sisters (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/twin-sisters-peak-trail) is a very nice trail with excellent views from the summit; however, it's below treeline most of the way, so the views are sporadic most of the way
Lakes
1) Chasm (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/chasm-lake) is a standout and by October the summer conditions on Longs should mean the trailhead parking area is not a zoo
2) Bluebird Lake (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/bluebird-lake-trail) out of the Wild Basin area is relatively secluded and as nice as the very heavily trafficked Sky Pond (Bear Lake area)
3) my favorite lakes are the Lion Lakes + Snowbank (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/lion-lake-trail) (also out of Wild Basin), and you might not see anyone out there most of the day
Other
1) Glacier Gorge/Bear Lake area is nice but overrated and very crowded unless you start in the dark w/ headlights to beat the crowds, which you would have to do (before 5AM) if you wanted to go there without a timed entry permit
2) For wildlife viewing, pre-sunrise is typically the best time (notice the running theme that you want to get started early for the best experience)
3) The western half of the park isn't as crowded and has some excellent hikes, but many of the better options are longer approaches (can suggest stuff on that side if interested; as you can probably tell, I've done a lot of miles in the front range)
Thanks for the detailed answer, I now have lots of pointers for my research! I may follow up with questions after I do some more reading.
Regards,
V
Post by: oneday on May 22, 2023, 04:56:05 PM
Post by: deborah on May 22, 2023, 05:52:13 PM
Post by: happy on May 26, 2023, 11:54:16 PM
Post by: monarda on May 27, 2023, 08:36:44 AM
We alternate, driving east one year, west the next.
See you in 2024?!
And we need to be back home in late October to dogsit for our (recently retired) friend who is going to Antarctica!
She just returned from the Galapagos yesterday!
Post by: Exflyboy on May 27, 2023, 04:48:37 PM
Yes I am allowed to come!.. Then I saw what they are charging for a campsite!
I see there are number of free dispersed campsites around Moab on BLM land.. Any reason I can't use one of those and come visit you all??
Post by: Le Poisson on May 27, 2023, 06:22:39 PM
Hmm.. let me talk to HRH (AkA: The Social Director) and see if I can come..:)
Yes I am allowed to come!.. Then I saw what they are charging for a campsite!
I see there are number of free dispersed campsites around Moab on BLM land.. Any reason I can't use one of those and come visit you all??
No reason at all. Folks are spread out all over town.
Post by: Exflyboy on May 27, 2023, 06:30:37 PM
Hmm.. let me talk to HRH (AkA: The Social Director) and see if I can come..:)
Yes I am allowed to come!.. Then I saw what they are charging for a campsite!
I see there are number of free dispersed campsites around Moab on BLM land.. Any reason I can't use one of those and come visit you all??
No reason at all. Folks are spread out all over town.
Great!.. I'll be on my own so creature comfort can be sacrificed on the alter of cheap..:)
Post by: ixtap on May 27, 2023, 08:22:54 PM
Post by: Exflyboy on May 27, 2023, 09:16:00 PM
While I would love to meet you lovelies, we will not be able to make it out to Moab this year. I need to plan and budget for DH's 40th a few months later.
You could tell him this IS his 40th celebration..:)
Post by: ixtap on May 28, 2023, 09:08:53 AM
While I would love to meet you lovelies, we will not be able to make it out to Moab this year. I need to plan and budget for DH's 40th a few months later.
You could tell him this IS his 40th celebration..:)
If it were just a random something nice, I would. But he has specific requests.
Post by: Exflyboy on May 28, 2023, 11:11:23 AM
Nothing gets the creative juices flowing in the engineering mind more than being able to optimise something. In this case its "get the maximum value for the least amount of cash".
If cost is "zero" then value divided by cost is infinite.. Which makes me happy.... But, even I draw the line at sleeping under a park bench so I will drive our ridiculous SUV to the event and sleep in it.
This is why IMHO in Dave Ramsey's study of millionaires, the number one profession represented in self made millionaires is "engineer". They have simply figured that Max Optimisation = Max money/working the fewest years possible.
Post by: Exflyboy on May 28, 2023, 01:11:52 PM
^^^Well I'm a self made multi-hundredthousandaire ;-). I'd likely be staying in a tent in one of the regular campsites myself - or if I have a rental (currently carless) can sleep in that. I think I'd still like the campground amenities so I guess, like the forums, I'm getting soft too.
I hope you can come as it would be nice to meet you IRL..:)
Post by: elledub on May 28, 2023, 02:28:12 PM
Post by: Dicey on May 28, 2023, 02:34:34 PM
But, even I draw the line at sleeping under a park bench so I will drive our ridiculous SUV to the event and sleep in it.Hmmm, I think we might be ahead of you in the "ridiculous" vehicle cavalcade.
Also, @Le Poisson's Mister Jones is planning on making his Moab debut.
Post by: ysette9 on May 28, 2023, 08:39:44 PM
I have been to Moab (we pronounce it “mobe” as an inside joke between my husband and I) once. We did a long-ish hike, and despite hat and sunglasses and water and sunblock I got the most excruciating migraine from the heat and glaring sun. I had to give the driving over to him for the rest of the day as I laid back in the car and tried gamely not to barf. That really colored my impression of the whole place. Exposed dessert landscapes and I just don’t mix, it seems.
Now if there is a meetup in a nice forest somewhere, do let me know
.
Post by: Exflyboy on May 28, 2023, 11:21:41 PM
As much as it sounds delightful to meet up with mustachians…..
I have been to Moab (we pronounce it “mobe” as an inside joke between my husband and I) once. We did a long-ish hike, and despite hat and sunglasses and water and sunblock I got the most excruciating migraine from the heat and glaring sun. I had to give the driving over to him for the rest of the day as I laid back in the car and tried gamely not to barf. That really colored my impression of the whole place. Exposed dessert landscapes and I just don’t mix, it seems.
Now if there is a meetup in a nice forest somewhere, do let me know
As Western PNWer I support this message.. I love trees..:)
Post by: Le Poisson on May 29, 2023, 05:26:52 AM
As much as it sounds delightful to meet up with mustachians…..
I have been to Moab (we pronounce it “mobe” as an inside joke between my husband and I) once. We did a long-ish hike, and despite hat and sunglasses and water and sunblock I got the most excruciating migraine from the heat and glaring sun. I had to give the driving over to him for the rest of the day as I laid back in the car and tried gamely not to barf. That really colored my impression of the whole place. Exposed dessert landscapes and I just don’t mix, it seems.
Now if there is a meetup in a nice forest somewhere, do let me know
Camp Mustache Toronto (FIREscape) is about a month before Moab. :)
Post by: Le Poisson on May 29, 2023, 05:28:49 AM
But, even I draw the line at sleeping under a park bench so I will drive our ridiculous SUV to the event and sleep in it.Hmmm, I think we might be ahead of you in the "ridiculous" vehicle cavalcade.
Also, @Le Poisson's Mister Jones is planning on making his Moab debut.
Mr. Jones takes umbrage at this comment. He is not ridiculous at all. (OK, he is, but also, meh, whatever.)
We're planning on pulling the pop-up trailer out there and spending about a week before the main meetup crown land camping.
Post by: Purple_Crayon on May 30, 2023, 12:16:43 PM
Post by: shadowmoss on June 01, 2023, 03:45:18 PM
Post by: Embok on June 02, 2023, 02:12:52 PM
Post by: NinetyFour on June 03, 2023, 07:32:58 AM
A SoCal beach bum who hates the sun (it burnssss usss preciousss) and the desert in general but Moab is something special. Still I'd prefer going there in the winter Or early spring.As much as it sounds delightful to meet up with mustachians…..
I have been to Moab (we pronounce it “mobe” as an inside joke between my husband and I) once. We did a long-ish hike, and despite hat and sunglasses and water and sunblock I got the most excruciating migraine from the heat and glaring sun. I had to give the driving over to him for the rest of the day as I laid back in the car and tried gamely not to barf. That really colored my impression of the whole place. Exposed dessert landscapes and I just don’t mix, it seems.
Now if there is a meetup in a nice forest somewhere, do let me know
As Western PNWer I support this message.. I love trees..:)
How true!! Yes, it's sometimes hot and often very dry in Moab and the Jeeps sometimes overtake the whole area, but it's still a really special place, I think. And as @Le Poisson will hopefully find, there are lots of wonderful spots within ~70 miles where one can escape the Jeeps and all the peeps.
I'll be there. Already approved the PTO from Megacorp.
Awesome!! I'm glad you got the PTO approval!
DH and I are in, at least for the first half of the Moab trip. Booked a hotel because we are creaky in the morning, and will have to miss the last half of the week due to a lender conference immusattend. Not at my computer, so will post our dates a bit later.
This is great news! :) Sorry, though, that you won't be able to stay as long as usual. :-/
Post by: NinetyFour on June 08, 2023, 12:50:48 PM
And it's great news that you can probably join the Moab ensemble in October! We will roll out the red carpet for you!
Note to self: ask @Dicey to keep an eye out for a red carpet remnant in her thrift store....
Post by: Exflyboy on June 09, 2023, 10:13:13 AM
Wow--congrats on the Big Bear cabin!! Sounds like I'll need to stop and see you the next time I venture out to Yosemite or Joshua Tree! ;-)I'm not worthy of the discount thrift store red carpet but a free one they're throwing out will be fine :-). I'll do my little turn on the catwalk. On the cat walk. I'll do my little turn on the free trashed thrift store red carpet catwalk. (Sorry heard that song today and now its stuck in my head). If I can't make it to Moab then you guys can come visit me. Maybe by then I'll be acclimized to a high altitude and won't actually, you know, die when hiking abo've 25 foot elevation :-).
And it's great news that you can probably join the Moab ensemble in October! We will roll out the red carpet for you!
Note to self: ask @Dicey to keep an eye out for a red carpet remnant in her thrift store....
ETA but seriously once I get settled in if you guys are passing thru (as @Dicey often does) give me a shout). Dearly departed BF might be back from Hawaii then and living there too (we'll see) but he's a super mushtashian so fits right in with everyone here.
OK now you've done it.. "I'm too sexy for my cat, too sexy for my cat, what d'ya think about that?"
Post by: Le Poisson on June 09, 2023, 10:19:00 AM
Post by: Exflyboy on June 09, 2023, 02:18:57 PM
Post by: Sailor Sam on June 09, 2023, 06:53:18 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/Pra1XE0.jpg)
Post by: Exflyboy on June 09, 2023, 07:23:25 PM
How the heck do you stand to be in those things for more than 5 milliseconds out of the water before overheating?
Post by: Exflyboy on June 09, 2023, 07:32:59 PM
Most?.. Sure about that?..:)Well I would say all but there are the drunk blind ones I didn't count ;-).
How the heck do you stand to be in those things for more than 5 milliseconds out of the water before overheating?
I like the gloves on Sam's hands. And of course the adorable curls (running out of shooting range.....).
I guess you'd call 'em "Birth control suits" eh?..:)..
Post by: Sailor Sam on June 09, 2023, 07:57:30 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/eLo005I.jpg)
Or the yellow one? The neoprene one? Or the old skool stripy one?? We have so much sexy headgear…
Post by: Sailor Sam on June 09, 2023, 09:02:16 PM
Post by: happy on June 10, 2023, 03:59:29 AM
You called?Iy Yi Yi!, straight off Coast Guard Alaska! I thought you didn't do that rescue swimmer stuff. Don't you just steer the boat?
(https://i.imgur.com/Pra1XE0.jpg)
Post by: Le Poisson on June 23, 2023, 07:54:28 AM
Does anyone know of a site that is a like a 4x4 trail guide to the area?
Post by: Le Poisson on June 23, 2023, 10:09:53 AM
https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/10088426/ticket/10088427
Set a reminder in your calendar if you plan on getting one!
Post by: NinetyFour on June 23, 2023, 10:51:24 AM
How does one go about researching jeep trails in Moab? Last night while watching youtubers do youtube things, we saw some pretty fun looking trails, but googling the trail names brought up things like hotels in Bangkok. I'd love to go to Bangkok, but it would mean missing Moab.
Does anyone know of a site that is a like a 4x4 trail guide to the area?
How about this? https://www.discovermoab.com/4-wheeling/
Post by: NinetyFour on June 23, 2023, 10:52:54 AM
https://www.rr4w.com/Trails-Home.cfm
Post by: Le Poisson on June 23, 2023, 12:28:38 PM
Post by: Dicey on June 23, 2023, 12:47:40 PM
You're the best 94. I want to be just like you if I grow up!Don't ever change. We love you just teh way you are.
Post by: Dicey on June 23, 2023, 12:55:12 PM
How does one go about researching jeep trails in Moab? Last night while watching youtubers do youtube things, we saw some pretty fun looking trails, but googling the trail names brought up things like hotels in Bangkok. I'd love to go to Bangkok, but it would mean missing Moab.This link might be helpful. Pay very close attention at about the 4 minute mark. Do not blink.
Does anyone know of a site that is a like a 4x4 trail guide to the area?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHxMkGYSE3s&t=277s
Post by: Le Poisson on June 23, 2023, 12:59:38 PM
How does one go about researching jeep trails in Moab? Last night while watching youtubers do youtube things, we saw some pretty fun looking trails, but googling the trail names brought up things like hotels in Bangkok. I'd love to go to Bangkok, but it would mean missing Moab.This link might be helpful. Pay very close attention at about the 4 minute mark. Do not blink.
Does anyone know of a site that is a like a 4x4 trail guide to the area?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHxMkGYSE3s&t=277s
I'm not sure what I'm supposed to see there?? The proximity of the cliff edge to the trail? The trail ratings and difficulty is why I'm looking for resources now! I gotta figure what is within Mr. Jones' capability... and what's not.
Post by: NinetyFour on June 23, 2023, 01:25:27 PM
Post by: Exflyboy on June 23, 2023, 08:41:11 PM
Post by: Le Poisson on June 24, 2023, 02:03:35 PM
DW (AKA HRH) has made it very clear I am not to take HER SUV 4 wheelin'. Even though there is one Youtuber that does exactly that with his Honda Passport! The mind boggles.
I'll need a spotter EFB! You can copilot.
Post by: Exflyboy on June 24, 2023, 02:43:26 PM
DW (AKA HRH) has made it very clear I am not to take HER SUV 4 wheelin'. Even though there is one Youtuber that does exactly that with his Honda Passport! The mind boggles.
I'll need a spotter EFB! You can copilot.
Sue I'm up for that.. It looks like fun..:)
Post by: Le Poisson on June 24, 2023, 05:30:47 PM
DW (AKA HRH) has made it very clear I am not to take HER SUV 4 wheelin'. Even though there is one Youtuber that does exactly that with his Honda Passport! The mind boggles.
I'll need a spotter EFB! You can copilot.
Sue I'm up for that.. It looks like fun..:)
Shirley you didn't just call me Sue!
Post by: Exflyboy on June 24, 2023, 05:43:02 PM
DW (AKA HRH) has made it very clear I am not to take HER SUV 4 wheelin'. Even though there is one Youtuber that does exactly that with his Honda Passport! The mind boggles.
I'll need a spotter EFB! You can copilot.
Sue I'm up for that.. It looks like fun..:)
Shirley you didn't just call me Sue!
I did!.. There's a song about it..:)
Post by: NinetyFour on June 24, 2023, 06:23:05 PM
What could go wrong??
Post by: Dicey on June 24, 2023, 11:15:48 PM
Um.Literally laughing out loud. In the bathroom, no less.
What could go wrong??
Post by: Exflyboy on June 24, 2023, 11:52:53 PM
Um.Literally laughing out loud. In the bathroom, no less.
What could go wrong??
I have a feeling @Le Poisson and I might the subject of some humour.. But I have no idea why?..:)
Post by: MrGreen on June 25, 2023, 10:58:11 PM
Post by: Dicey on June 26, 2023, 11:34:10 AM
What are others thinking of doing for the timed entry tickets? Are folks just trying to pick a day or two and get what they can? There are no group plans for the week correct? I'm not really an early bird but I'm wondering if it wouldn't be worth it just to drive in before the first morning time.Dunno yet. We don't wanna get up early, but we might be persuaded to do it...once. I'm thinking we'll do something wasteful like buy tickets for a few days in an row and see which ones get used. There is also the option of going in later in the day, as there are still a few solid hours of daylight left when tickets aren't necessary. Happily, there is so much to do in the area that missing Arches wouldn't be the worst thing ever.
Post by: the_fixer on June 27, 2023, 06:20:06 PM
How does one go about researching jeep trails in Moab? Last night while watching youtubers do youtube things, we saw some pretty fun looking trails, but googling the trail names brought up things like hotels in Bangkok. I'd love to go to Bangkok, but it would mean missing Moab.
Does anyone know of a site that is a like a 4x4 trail guide to the area?
I have done the ones listed below in my defender with a 2” lift on 32’s and a discovery with a 2” lift and 32’s
Onion creek
Fins n things
Dome plateau
Gemini bridges
Hells revenge (skip hells gate and Mickey’s hot tub to keep it less spicy)
Poison spider mesa
Top of the world (kind of meh till the view)
Do your research and base it off skill and vehicle.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Dicey on June 27, 2023, 07:36:41 PM
Shoutout to Mr. Dicey for adding the info in the edits.
Post by: NinetyFour on June 28, 2023, 07:26:21 AM
What are others thinking of doing for the timed entry tickets? Are folks just trying to pick a day or two and get what they can? There are no group plans for the week correct? I'm not really an early bird but I'm wondering if it wouldn't be worth it just to drive in before the first morning time.Dunno yet. We don't wanna get up early, but we might be persuaded to do it...once. I'm thinking we'll do something wasteful like buy tickets for a few days in an row and see which ones get used. There is also the option of going in later in the day, as there are still a few solid hours of daylight left when tickets aren't necessary. Happily, there is so much to do in the area that missing Arches wouldn't be the worst thing ever.
I highly recommend a hike up to Delicate Arch just before sunset. Or sunrise, for the early birds. :)
Post by: Le Poisson on June 28, 2023, 08:30:03 AM
How does one go about researching jeep trails in Moab? Last night while watching youtubers do youtube things, we saw some pretty fun looking trails, but googling the trail names brought up things like hotels in Bangkok. I'd love to go to Bangkok, but it would mean missing Moab.
Does anyone know of a site that is a like a 4x4 trail guide to the area?
I have done the ones listed below in my defender with a 2” lift on 32’s and a discovery with a 2” lift and 32’s
Onion creek
Fins n things
Dome plateau
Gemini bridges
Hells revenge (skip hells gate and Mickey’s hot tub to keep it less spicy)
Poison spider mesa
Top of the world (kind of meh till the view)
Do your research and base it off skill and vehicle.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
The bolded were all on my short list. Especially Gemini. We could drop off Momma at the trailhead to hike in, and I could drive it and meet her at the arch. Do you think the lift is needed? I'm stock height.
Another conversation we had the other night was whether to bring the paddleboard, canoe, or both. I'm thinking both, assuming someone in camp would be willing to run a vehicle shuttle.
Post by: NinetyFour on June 28, 2023, 08:37:44 AM
Post by: Dicey on June 28, 2023, 09:50:31 AM
THE MOAB MEETUP IS LESS THAN FOUR MONTHS AWAY!!!!!!!!!And you have so many exciting things to do before then!
Post by: 314159 on June 29, 2023, 07:48:20 PM
We currently own no camping gear, as given our storage limitations we have always been happy to pay the extra $ to rent a temp/sleeping bag/cooking gear. We can definitely do that (either rent here in SF and bring it on the plane, or rent in Utah), but if fellow Mustachians have spare gear, we could put it to use.
Similarly, we have no campsite booked, do we need one? Do we need cooking gear? Suddenly I realized I have a bunch of questions!
Post by: shadowmoss on June 30, 2023, 03:49:57 PM
Post by: the_fixer on June 30, 2023, 08:34:08 PM
Not sure what you drive? Larger tires / lift might be needed for most other than onion creek, chicken corners and Gemini bridges.How does one go about researching jeep trails in Moab? Last night while watching youtubers do youtube things, we saw some pretty fun looking trails, but googling the trail names brought up things like hotels in Bangkok. I'd love to go to Bangkok, but it would mean missing Moab.
Does anyone know of a site that is a like a 4x4 trail guide to the area?
I have done the ones listed below in my defender with a 2” lift on 32’s and a discovery with a 2” lift and 32’s
Onion creek
Fins n things
Dome plateau
Gemini bridges
Hells revenge (skip hells gate and Mickey’s hot tub to keep it less spicy)
Poison spider mesa
Top of the world (kind of meh till the view)
Do your research and base it off skill and vehicle.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
The bolded were all on my short list. Especially Gemini. We could drop off Momma at the trailhead to hike in, and I could drive it and meet her at the arch. Do you think the lift is needed? I'm stock height.
Another conversation we had the other night was whether to bring the paddleboard, canoe, or both. I'm thinking both, assuming someone in camp would be willing to run a vehicle shuttle.
Some stock off-road vehicles (rubicon, cruiser, Bronco) could probably take on some of the others.
Search the web / YouTube + Moab and the type of vehicle you have and I am sure you will find trails people have done in that vehicle.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: NinetyFour on July 01, 2023, 06:17:27 AM
I decided I might like to go on a bit of a whim. I asked my partner if she wanted to come and she took very little convincing. We now have tickets booked to Salt Lake! We'll drive all or most of the way to Moab on Friday (10/6) evening. Then we'll leave on the afternoon of Tuesday the 10th.
We currently own no camping gear, as given our storage limitations we have always been happy to pay the extra $ to rent a temp/sleeping bag/cooking gear. We can definitely do that (either rent here in SF and bring it on the plane, or rent in Utah), but if fellow Mustachians have spare gear, we could put it to use.
Similarly, we have no campsite booked, do we need one? Do we need cooking gear? Suddenly I realized I have a bunch of questions!
If you want to stay at the campground, you should probably try to book a site. (Or ask in this thread if anyone thinks they would have room to share their site with you.) The campground also has a few cabins.
I have some gear I can lend you. When we get closer, maybe you can post a list here of what you think you'll need. Of feel free to PM me.
So glad you and your partner will be joining us!
Post by: meadow lark on July 11, 2023, 04:37:56 AM
Post by: Tasse on July 11, 2023, 08:39:23 AM
Post by: Le Poisson on July 11, 2023, 01:11:25 PM
We still have room at La Casa, a house we are renting at Lazy Lizard. 6 bedrooms, 2 baths.
Can we just book time to have a shower and a poop in private?
Post by: oldladystache on July 11, 2023, 02:20:33 PM
The campground has a good bathroom with showers. I haven't been in the men's room but the ladies has nice big shower stalls and toilet stalls.We still have room at La Casa, a house we are renting at Lazy Lizard. 6 bedrooms, 2 baths.
Can we just book time to have a shower and a poop in private?
Post by: MrGreen on July 13, 2023, 08:01:46 PM
Post by: Le Poisson on July 21, 2023, 07:39:16 AM
Post by: mm1970 on July 25, 2023, 10:47:41 AM
I came today to check dates and...DH is going to be out of town for his mom's 80th birthday, but only for the end part. Maybe I can come for the first weekend? Hmm...so many choices, including hotels and sleeping in the car (Matrix). But it's a 2 day drive...huh.
Let me noodle on this.
Post by: Le Poisson on July 25, 2023, 11:06:34 AM
Now that all the mechanicals are done I think the camper is ready to go! Just need to settle on our schedule and travel plans, and we are all systems go!
Post by: Dicey on July 25, 2023, 05:20:25 PM
Ack, last year I said I'd go this year. Because: I can totally leave DH with the kids, and I have a lot of PTO.We plan on arriving on the 4th. We may have to leave a few days early, so I added a few on the front end when I made the reservation.
I came today to check dates and...DH is going to be out of town for his mom's 80th birthday, but only for the end part. Maybe I can come for the first weekend? Hmm...so many choices, including hotels and sleeping in the car (Matrix). But it's a 2 day drive...huh.
Let me noodle on this.
Post by: lhamo on July 26, 2023, 08:21:54 AM
Ack, last year I said I'd go this year. Because: I can totally leave DH with the kids, and I have a lot of PTO.
I came today to check dates and...DH is going to be out of town for his mom's 80th birthday, but only for the end part. Maybe I can come for the first weekend? Hmm...so many choices, including hotels and sleeping in the car (Matrix). But it's a 2 day drive...huh.
Let me noodle on this.
I decided to drive 2 days from Seattle last year and only hit the last half of the week -- it was totally worth it! Stayed at a cheap hotel in Twin Falls ID the first night. On the way back (after a side trip to CO) I slept in the back of my Ford CMax one night using an Exped mattress I picked up at REI on the recommendation of folks at camp who had one -- they are expensive but FABULOUS.
https://www.rei.com/product/113719/exped-megamat-10-sleeping-pad?redirect-pup=false
Post by: mm1970 on July 28, 2023, 12:03:53 PM
Ack, last year I said I'd go this year. Because: I can totally leave DH with the kids, and I have a lot of PTO.
I came today to check dates and...DH is going to be out of town for his mom's 80th birthday, but only for the end part. Maybe I can come for the first weekend? Hmm...so many choices, including hotels and sleeping in the car (Matrix). But it's a 2 day drive...huh.
Let me noodle on this.
I decided to drive 2 days from Seattle last year and only hit the last half of the week -- it was totally worth it! Stayed at a cheap hotel in Twin Falls ID the first night. On the way back (after a side trip to CO) I slept in the back of my Ford CMax one night using an Exped mattress I picked up at REI on the recommendation of folks at camp who had one -- they are expensive but FABULOUS.
https://www.rei.com/product/113719/exped-megamat-10-sleeping-pad?redirect-pup=false
Okay, so now I'm really seriously thinking about it, since I'm still thinking about it 3 days later.
So, Rustic tent site or front tent site?
There are only 2 front tent sites left for the 3 days, and one is G9, which is confusing because isn't @Mr. Green in that site? But maybe not 7-10th?
And do I need hiking poles?
And timed entry what?
Nevermind.
Step 1. Pick a campsite and book it.
Step 2. Book a hotel for the trip out/back, thinking about Cedar City instead of Vegas. So, 8hr +4h and 4hr + 8hr, instead of 6+6 hr each way.
Step 3. Figure out the timed entry/ Arches hullaballoo...
Post by: MrGreen on July 28, 2023, 12:19:03 PM
Post by: mm1970 on July 28, 2023, 12:30:34 PM
I was in G9 until a couple days ago. We moved to a rustic site after talking to @lhamo. With an 18 month old along for the ride we decided it was going to be too close to the action. Didn't want to have problems trying to get her to sleep while everyone else is having fun.That totally makes sense. Thanks for releasing the spot. I took it. Whee!! Step 1 done.
Post by: GreenToTheCore on July 31, 2023, 07:04:34 PM
It would be lovely to meet you folks and Moab is always a great place to roll around. No concrete dates yet, but fingers crossed the timing works out!
Post by: Dicey on July 31, 2023, 10:53:49 PM
Hiking poles are a definite plus. I have an extra pair and will bring them along.I was in G9 until a couple days ago. We moved to a rustic site after talking to @lhamo. With an 18 month old along for the ride we decided it was going to be too close to the action. Didn't want to have problems trying to get her to sleep while everyone else is having fun.That totally makes sense. Thanks for releasing the spot. I took it. Whee!! Step 1 done.
Post by: Dicey on August 01, 2023, 07:35:28 AM
https://www.outsideonline.com/health/training-performance/trekking-pole-research-2023/
Post by: mm1970 on August 01, 2023, 10:15:08 AM
Because I typed the words "hiking poles", Google fed me this:That was really fascinating!
https://www.outsideonline.com/health/training-performance/trekking-pole-research-2023/
I also booked a hotel for the way there, since it's an 11-13 hour drive. Probably should download some podcasts or audio books.
Post by: Le Poisson on August 01, 2023, 03:54:42 PM
Looks like Mr. Jones will be driving from Toronto to Colorado, then spending a week bumming around the great expanse west of Denver for a week. We'll pull into Moab on the 6th, stay until the 13th and then do the long drive home.
@GreenToTheCore - excited to meet a new face. I hope you have much fun this year as we had in our first time out there last year.
We'll be in the pop-up trailer in site 107, right next to the high school, just in case there's a football game to watch (we find American Football fascinating from a cultural perspective). Come over for a beer and to share lies sometime!
Post by: Le Poisson on August 02, 2023, 09:49:19 AM
Post by: mm1970 on August 02, 2023, 11:15:40 AM
Post by: Cherry Lane on August 03, 2023, 10:19:14 AM
Also, for folks thinking about doing the Colorado River, we are planning on bringing at least one Canoe (maybe 2) and an inflatable SUP (possibly a rigid SUP as well, but the jury is out on that ATM). If anyone wants to raise their hand to help with vehicle shuttles, we may be able to run our own river tours. If folks want to borrow the gear we just ask that you not sink the boats, and always wear lifejackets/carry the provided safety gear.
Someone (not me) is also planning to bring a mess of tubes for floating. Lifejackets are required on this stretch of the Colorado River, so if anyone has spares they can bring that would help out the flying folks (like me).
Post by: Le Poisson on August 03, 2023, 10:36:30 AM
Someone (not me) is also planning to bring a mess of tubes for floating. Lifejackets are required on this stretch of the Colorado River, so if anyone has spares they can bring that would help out the flying folks (like me).
We will have at least 4. One will be youth size though.
Post by: Dicey on August 09, 2023, 03:49:34 PM
I'll keep an eye out at my favorite thrift shop.Also, for folks thinking about doing the Colorado River, we are planning on bringing at least one Canoe (maybe 2) and an inflatable SUP (possibly a rigid SUP as well, but the jury is out on that ATM). If anyone wants to raise their hand to help with vehicle shuttles, we may be able to run our own river tours. If folks want to borrow the gear we just ask that you not sink the boats, and always wear lifejackets/carry the provided safety gear.
Someone (not me) is also planning to bring a mess of tubes for floating. Lifejackets are required on this stretch of the Colorado River, so if anyone has spares they can bring that would help out the flying folks (like me).
Post by: lhamo on August 12, 2023, 08:20:43 AM
Post by: oldladystache on August 17, 2023, 03:22:54 PM
I have a lovely space reserved at the campground Oct 6 - Oct 13, 2023 (7 nights) Front Tent Site G10. I paid $352.73 for it, and if anyone wants it I'll let them have it for what I paid. If nobody wants it I'm pretty sure I can get my money back.
Post by: Dicey on August 17, 2023, 07:13:09 PM
I told you "probably" a while ago. let me change it to a yes, definitely.I'm confused. Are you coming (hope so), or are you giving up your site because you can't make it?
I have a lovely space reserved at the campground Oct 6 - Oct 13, 2023 (7 nights) Front Tent Site G10. I paid $352.73 for it, and if anyone wants it I'll let them have it for what I paid. If nobody wants it I'm pretty sure I can get my money back.
Post by: Dicey on August 17, 2023, 07:17:27 PM
One of the things I love about volunteering at a thrift shop is that if you put the word out, people will watch for things for you. I mentioned that I was looking for life jackets and someone offered to give me some that they don't use any longer. Squee! I'll snap photos once I get them and post them here.Also, for folks thinking about doing the Colorado River, we are planning on bringing at least one Canoe (maybe 2) and an inflatable SUP (possibly a rigid SUP as well, but the jury is out on that ATM). If anyone wants to raise their hand to help with vehicle shuttles, we may be able to run our own river tours. If folks want to borrow the gear we just ask that you not sink the boats, and always wear lifejackets/carry the provided safety gear.
Someone (not me) is also planning to bring a mess of tubes for floating. Lifejackets are required on this stretch of the Colorado River, so if anyone has spares they can bring that would help out the flying folks (like me).
Update: That person's husband decided he's not ready to let them go, but there's a happy ending to the story below. (Reply #260)
Post by: oldladystache on August 17, 2023, 10:17:43 PM
I told you "probably" a while ago. let me change it to a yes, definitely.I'm confused. Are you coming (hope so), or are you giving up your site because you can't make it?
I have a lovely space reserved at the campground Oct 6 - Oct 13, 2023 (7 nights) Front Tent Site G10. I paid $352.73 for it, and if anyone wants it I'll let them have it for what I paid. If nobody wants it I'm pretty sure I can get my money back.
Oops. I didn't make it clear I was replying to Meadowlark's request about who's staying at her house. I'm definitely coming, but not using my site. Now I don't see it. Did I make it up? Did it get deleted? Have I lost my mind? Was it in another thread?
Post by: Dicey on August 17, 2023, 10:46:06 PM
Post by: oldladystache on August 17, 2023, 10:54:23 PM
It's reply #252. Whew, glad you're coming!
I'm afraid we're talking past each other. My reply was 252, right where I left it. But I was replying to Meadowlark's post, which seems to have vanished. I'm sure she posted that she wanted to know who was planning to stay in her house that she had reserved for the meetup. But now I don't see her post.
Post by: mm1970 on August 18, 2023, 10:39:52 AM
@oldladystache did you end up getting into the cabin/ rental? So many cabins. I'm just curious because I'm in G9, right next to G10, so wondering who will be my neighbor. (I'm arriving on the 7th)
Post by: oldladystache on August 18, 2023, 11:26:51 AM
@oldladystache did you end up getting into the cabin/ rental? So many cabins. I'm just curious because I'm in G9, right next to G10, so wondering who will be my neighbor. (I'm arriving on the 7th)
I'm assuming I'll be staying at the place Meadowlark has reserved. I haven't heard back from her yet to absolutely verify it. Meanwhile, I'm thinking about keeping my G10 space if nobody comes forward to take it, and offering it as a headquarters place for the group.
Post by: Dicey on August 20, 2023, 10:38:15 AM
I've been watching for vests at the Thrift Shop where I volunteer. The one on the right has been there for over a week, which is forever in Thrift Shop Time. It had a somewhat hefty price tag on it, so I was waiting for it to get marked down. The manager just announced a 40% off everything sale next Tuesday and Wednesday, except I will be out of town. I asked if I could come in at the end of the day Saturday (the last day we're open before the sale) and grab it at the sale price. She agreed, so I swung by at closing. To my delight, someone had just donated the one on the right, and she let me buy it at the sale price as well. So now I have an Adult Medium and Adult XL, in very condition, to bring to Moab for water fun use. They're from West Marine, so I think they'll fulfill their purpose for anyone who wants to play on the water.
I'll keep looking for more; one never knows what the Thrift Shop Gods will offer up.
Post by: Sandi_k on August 20, 2023, 11:53:20 PM
LMK if you want to borrow any! (We also have wet suits, water shoes, tents, foam futon trifold bed, tarps, camp stove, etc). Happy to loan out our equipment if you're in need.
Post by: Exflyboy on August 21, 2023, 03:39:25 PM
If you count "buying poop bags off Amazon the week before" then I guess yes it is a step up..:)
Post by: Le Poisson on August 27, 2023, 05:14:20 PM
1. Where we should fill our water tanks before heading into the mountains?
2. Where there are some good dispersed campsites that Mr. Jones could reach while pulling a pop-up trailer.
If #2. is a top secret thing, please message us - I know a lot of folks don't like sharing their secret spots. I promise we'll only use it once.
We are hoping to find a dispersed camp that offers us fun day outings either hiking, sightseeing, or canoeing.
Post by: lhamo on August 28, 2023, 10:31:04 AM
Alternatively, maybe there are others who would be interested in sharing the cost of the site to ensure we have a dedicated spot for hanging out and/or last minute arrivals?
Post by: Dicey on August 28, 2023, 10:45:27 AM
Is anybody still interested in an enhanced tent campsite? I locked one in for Oct 6-13 (G6, pretty much in the middle of where we had the MMM gathering areas last year -- has a power port) at the reduced Black Friday rate, but no longer need it (going to be staying in a cabin instead). Total is $353 for the week, including the lock fee. Let me know if anyone is interested in taking the spot over at the reduced rate.I hope someone grabs it, as the current price is significantly higher. IIRC, 94 has secured a site to be our designated gathering space this year.
Alternatively, maybe there are others who would be interested in sharing the cost of the site to ensure we have a dedicated spot for hanging out and/or last minute arrivals?
Post by: Le Poisson on August 28, 2023, 12:53:01 PM
Our sites have green dots on them.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53148796925_dcaa707498_k.jpg)
Post by: Dicey on August 28, 2023, 09:14:44 PM
Post by: lhamo on August 28, 2023, 09:42:49 PM
Soooooo looking forward to this trip!
Post by: Dicey on August 29, 2023, 01:27:49 AM
Yes, will be in MOab Oct 6-13. Doing a few days in Yellowstone on the way there, then two weeks in Longmont after with my friend/her husband (who I hope will be overlapping in Moab so y'all can meet them, along with my sister who will be sharing my cabin). Then train back to SLC to meet my sister (who is doing a side trip to SW parks while I hang with my friend in CO).Yay!
Soooooo looking forward to this trip!
Post by: StashingAway on August 29, 2023, 10:38:58 AM
Post by: elledub on August 29, 2023, 10:53:18 AM
Is anybody still interested in an enhanced tent campsite? I locked one in for Oct 6-13 (G6
Hi lhamo,
I’m interested in taking over your site. I sent you a message.
Post by: MrGreen on August 29, 2023, 01:39:44 PM
Post by: Dicey on August 29, 2023, 02:37:15 PM
We're in one of the "rustic" tent sites across the creek to ensure a more quiet sleep arrangement for our toddler. We didn't pay the site lock fee either. Super pumped about meeting everyone!Woo-hoo! There is a back staircase from the rustic campsites to the enclosed playground. I suspect you'll be getting quite a bit of use out of it. I'm pretty sure I posted pictures of it upthread. Our grandkids loved it.
Post by: StashingAway on August 31, 2023, 04:52:19 AM
We're in one of the "rustic" tent sites across the creek to ensure a more quiet sleep arrangement for our toddler. We didn't pay the site lock fee either. Super pumped about meeting everyone!
Not sure why I didn't think of that; we might switch to do the same if it's available.
Post by: Le Poisson on August 31, 2023, 07:00:09 AM
We're in one of the "rustic" tent sites across the creek to ensure a more quiet sleep arrangement for our toddler. We didn't pay the site lock fee either. Super pumped about meeting everyone!
Not sure why I didn't think of that; we might switch to do the same if it's available.
I think quiet is subjective here. Are you familiar with the term "BEEEP - BEEEP - BEEEP. You May Now Drive Forward?"
Post by: Chaplin on August 31, 2023, 09:57:24 PM
We're in one of the "rustic" tent sites across the creek to ensure a more quiet sleep arrangement for our toddler. We didn't pay the site lock fee either. Super pumped about meeting everyone!
Not sure why I didn't think of that; we might switch to do the same if it's available.
I think quiet is subjective here. Are you familiar with the term "BEEEP - BEEEP - BEEEP. You May Now Drive Forward?"
If you know, you know.
Post by: Le Poisson on September 01, 2023, 06:56:29 AM
We're in one of the "rustic" tent sites across the creek to ensure a more quiet sleep arrangement for our toddler. We didn't pay the site lock fee either. Super pumped about meeting everyone!
Not sure why I didn't think of that; we might switch to do the same if it's available.
I think quiet is subjective here. Are you familiar with the term "BEEEP - BEEEP - BEEEP. You May Now Drive Forward?"
If you know, you know.
Yup - we may be able to make space available in the camper for afternoon naps if night time doesn't go well. Not that the camper is much quieter than any other place.
Post by: NinetyFour on September 01, 2023, 11:21:29 AM
I have site G8 booked (and locked) for Oct 7 - Oct 13. It can serve as the Magical MOAB Meetup HQ. We can use that as a place to gather for morning coffee, afternoon chats, and evenings campfires!
And I will be in site 100 Oct 6 - 13.
Looking forward to it!
Post by: mm1970 on September 01, 2023, 12:24:21 PM
Hi All--As long as y'all aren't too loud late at night (I'm in G9!) I'll bring my earplugs fo sho!
I have site G8 booked (and locked) for Oct 7 - Oct 13. It can serve as the Magical MOAB Meetup HQ. We can use that as a place to gather for morning coffee, afternoon chats, and evenings campfires!
And I will be in site 100 Oct 6 - 13.
Looking forward to it!
Post by: LifeHappens on September 01, 2023, 01:05:10 PM
Can confirm is it a wild and crazy party. You'll need those earplugs ;)Hi All--As long as y'all aren't too loud late at night (I'm in G9!) I'll bring my earplugs fo sho!
I have site G8 booked (and locked) for Oct 7 - Oct 13. It can serve as the Magical MOAB Meetup HQ. We can use that as a place to gather for morning coffee, afternoon chats, and evenings campfires!
And I will be in site 100 Oct 6 - 13.
Looking forward to it!
Post by: Dicey on September 01, 2023, 01:51:55 PM
Ha Ha HA, we will all be too exhausted from the myriad of daytime activities we'll be partaking in.Can confirm is it a wild and crazy party. You'll need those earplugs ;)Hi All--As long as y'all aren't too loud late at night (I'm in G9!) I'll bring my earplugs fo sho!
I have site G8 booked (and locked) for Oct 7 - Oct 13. It can serve as the Magical MOAB Meetup HQ. We can use that as a place to gather for morning coffee, afternoon chats, and evenings campfires!
And I will be in site 100 Oct 6 - 13.
Looking forward to it!
Post by: Le Poisson on September 01, 2023, 01:53:37 PM
Ha Ha HA, we will all be too exhausted from the myriad of daytime activities we'll be partaking in.Can confirm is it a wild and crazy party. You'll need those earplugs ;)Hi All--As long as y'all aren't too loud late at night (I'm in G9!) I'll bring my earplugs fo sho!
I have site G8 booked (and locked) for Oct 7 - Oct 13. It can serve as the Magical MOAB Meetup HQ. We can use that as a place to gather for morning coffee, afternoon chats, and evenings campfires!
And I will be in site 100 Oct 6 - 13.
Looking forward to it!
I plan to be too exhausted from night time activities to wake up for daytime activities.
Post by: elledub on September 01, 2023, 07:38:39 PM
Post by: oldladystache on September 01, 2023, 08:31:46 PM
Oct 6 - Oct 13, 2023 (7 nights)
I have site G10 reserved and locked. I won't be needing it because I'll be staying at @meadow lark's house.
I can get a full refund if I cancel by September 21, so if anyone wants it please let me know before then.
Nightly/Weekly Stays: For all guests with stays shorter than 30 nights ("short-term guests") (i) cancellations may be made for a full refund of your deposit up to the date that is 14 days prior to your scheduled check-in date.
Post by: Dicey on September 01, 2023, 08:35:19 PM
Always the rebel.Ha Ha HA, we will all be too exhausted from the myriad of daytime activities we'll be partaking in.Can confirm is it a wild and crazy party. You'll need those earplugs ;)Hi All--As long as y'all aren't too loud late at night (I'm in G9!) I'll bring my earplugs fo sho!
I have site G8 booked (and locked) for Oct 7 - Oct 13. It can serve as the Magical MOAB Meetup HQ. We can use that as a place to gather for morning coffee, afternoon chats, and evenings campfires!
And I will be in site 100 Oct 6 - 13.
Looking forward to it!
I plan to be too exhausted from night time activities to wake up for daytime activities.
Post by: meadow lark on September 01, 2023, 09:03:42 PM
Post by: Cannot Wait! on September 02, 2023, 08:07:52 PM
Post by: lhamo on September 03, 2023, 08:17:58 AM
I'm thinking of staying with friends in town and visiting/hiking during the days. I see dogs are allowed at the campsite; how do people feel about a dog joining us on hikes? Also does anyone know if there is a day use fee?
Last year most folks were fine with well behaved dogs -- but pets are not allowed on trails in Arches and you definitely need to plan for the sun/heat if you are going to leave them anywhere during the day.
https://www.nps.gov/arch/planyourvisit/regulations.htm
Technically Sun Outdoors requires a day-use fee and a pass for all cars parking there. But I didn't realize that and never paid it and only paid for my own cabin my last night there -- crashed with MMM friends (thanks again @deborah and @shadowmoss) the other nights. They do have the right to tow your car if you don't have a pass. I think the pass is $10/day or something like that. There is a Kroger supermarket nearby where you could park your car and walk over.
Post by: Dicey on September 03, 2023, 10:28:23 AM
Your dog's safety is also a huge consideration. Despite the October date, it can still get wicked hot.
I'm fairly certain the dog who attended last year was actually a well-trained human in a fuzzy dog suit. His trail manners were impeccable, as were with his manners everywhere else. I don't think I heard him bark once. He even has his own screen name.
His human went out of his way to prioritize his dog's needs and they were an amazing team to watch. I hope they return.
Post by: NinetyFour on September 03, 2023, 12:47:51 PM
Who | When | Where
MMoabM HQ | Oct 7 - 13 | G8 (locked)
NinetyFour | Oct 6 - 13 | 100 (locked)
@Dicey | Oct 4 - Oct 11? | 101
@lhamo | Oct 6 - 13 | cabin
@StashingAway | Oct 7 - 10 | 108 (unlocked)
@mm1970 | Oct 7 - 10 | G9
@elle dub | Oct 6 - 13 | G6
@Le Poisson et al | Oct 6 - 13 | 107
@Chaplin | Oct 6 - 9 | ??
@lilkidjesus | Oct 6 - 10 | tent site
@ws | Oct 6 - 13 | 98
@Mr. Green et al | Oct 6 - 13 | tent site
@Cannot Wait! | ?? | with friends
@Exflyboy | ?? | on BLM land
@314159 | Oct 6 - 10 | ??
@Embok and Mister | ?? | hotel
@meadow lark | Oct 6 - 13 | hostel house
@oldladystache | Oct 6 - 13 | hostel house
@shadowmoss | Oct 6 - 13 | hostel house
And I'm not sure about these others, but I hope they can all attend!
@GreenToTheCore
@Cherry Lane
@spartana
@vector
@ToTheMoon
@the_fixer
@driftwood
@Fru-Gal
@AlexK
@srrb
@catbend
@FIFoFum
My apologies if I missed anyone!!
Feel free to post any corrections or additional info.
That said, if you would rather not post your exact dates or location where you plan to lay your head, that's OK, too! :)
See you all in about 5 weeks!!!
Post by: elledub on September 03, 2023, 01:13:46 PM
Post by: the_fixer on September 03, 2023, 01:38:57 PM
We have site G2 locked (deluxe with power) and will cancel it unless someone wants it soon.
We will miss you all but look forward to the next time we see each one of you.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: MrGreen on September 03, 2023, 01:54:25 PM
Post by: the_fixer on September 03, 2023, 02:08:53 PM
Are any of the Moab crowd coming in from Denver? If so can you advise us...I have a campsite reserved that we are not going to use, beautiful place, great paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing and one of the hardest reservations to get in Colorado. If the dates work let me know and we can get it transferred
1. Where we should fill our water tanks before heading into the mountains?
2. Where there are some good dispersed campsites that Mr. Jones could reach while pulling a pop-up trailer.
If #2. is a top secret thing, please message us - I know a lot of folks don't like sharing their secret spots. I promise we'll only use it once.
We are hoping to find a dispersed camp that offers us fun day outings either hiking, sightseeing, or canoeing.
Sept 29th - Oct 1st
Dowdy lake
——-
If we are in town you are welcome to fill water at our place near Boulder if you are going more the I-70 direction for camping.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: meadow lark on September 03, 2023, 02:59:52 PM
Unfortunately we are going to have to skip it this year my better half is scheduled for a new knee and just got it scheduled for mid October.
No. Just no. Can you let her know that I am absolutely not okay with her not coming. And I think she is amazing and I hope her surgery is very helpful and she heals quickly.
Post by: lhamo on September 03, 2023, 05:02:21 PM
Unfortunately we are going to have to skip it this year my better half is scheduled for a new knee and just got it scheduled for mid October. We need the time to prep our house and take care of some stuff and getting mobility back is priority one since we have big plans for 2024.
We have site G2 locked (deluxe with power) and will cancel it unless someone wants it soon.
We will miss you all but look forward to the next time we see each one of you.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
That's a bummer! I'll be in your area the 14-26th ish and would love to see you and introduce you to my friends who live there. Maybe we can bring you dinner one night?
Post by: 314159 on September 03, 2023, 06:03:08 PM
Post by: Dicey on September 03, 2023, 06:10:03 PM
Post by: 314159 on September 03, 2023, 06:33:22 PM
Post by: Log on September 03, 2023, 07:21:37 PM
I'm trying to get @Log to come along as well, we'll see if my persuasion campaign works out!
Count me convinced! I've booked a refundable flight just in case something comes up, but I'm hoping to make it.
I've been traveling loads for education/work opportunities in the last few years, but I don't think I've taken a 100% "for pleasure" trip since family vacations as a child, so this is momentous! Haha
Same dates as @314159, and I'll be one more for the hostel house (:
Post by: meadow lark on September 04, 2023, 06:36:25 AM
Post by: NinetyFour on September 04, 2023, 07:58:42 AM
Who | When | Where
Magical Moab Meetup HQ | Oct 7 - 13 | G8 (locked)
NinetyFour | Oct 6 - 13 | 100 (locked)
Diceys | Oct 4 - Oct 11 | 101 (locked)
lhamo | Oct 6 - 13 | cabin
StashingAway | Oct 7 - 10 | 108 (unlocked)
mm1970 | Oct 7 - 10 | G9
elle dub | Oct 6 - 13 | G6
Le Poisson and other assorted fish| Oct 6 - 13 | 106
Chaplin | Oct 6 - 9 | G something
ToTheMoon + 3 | Oct 10 - 13 | G something
driftwood + 2 | ?? | ??
lilkidjesus | Oct 6 - 10 | tent site
ws | Oct 6 - 13 | 98
Mr. Green et al | Oct 6 - 13 | tent site
Cherry Lane | Oct 6 - 13 | cabin
FIFoFum & Muppet | Oct 6 - 13 | cabin
shadowmoss | ?? | G3 (locked)
Cannot Wait! | ?? | with friends
Exflyboy | Oct 6 - 13 | on BLM land
Embok and Mister | ?? | hotel
meadow lark | Oct 6 - 13 | hostel house
oldladystache | Oct 6 - 13 | hostel house
314159 | Oct 6 - 10 | hostel house
Log | Oct 6 - 10 | hostel house
Post by: Cherry Lane on September 04, 2023, 08:28:07 AM
Post by: shadowmoss on September 04, 2023, 10:11:41 AM
Post by: Dicey on September 04, 2023, 10:50:51 AM
There is easy street parking in the vicinity.Squee! I see my wish has been granted! Hooray!
Your dog's safety is also a huge consideration. Despite the October date, it can still get wicked hot.
I'm fairly certain the dog who attended last year was actually a well-trained human in a fuzzy dog suit. His trail manners were impeccable, as were with his manners everywhere else. I don't think I heard him bark once. He even has his own screen name.
His human went out of his way to prioritize his dog's needs and they were an amazing team to watch. I hope they return.
Post by: 10dollarsatatime on September 04, 2023, 11:10:48 AM
Anyway, I don't know that it's been brought up in the thread yet, but the path of the Annular eclipse goes right through Utah on the morning of the 14th. Not over Moab, but within an hour drive. I know it's after the official dates, but may be worth hanging around Utah for an extra night. We take a drive down to the cheese factory in Beaver once a year or so just for kicks and giggles. We might just schedule the trip for the 14th so we can catch it.
(https://assets.earthdiver.com/uploads/canyon/images/Annular%20Eclipse%202023-2.jpg)
Post by: Dicey on September 04, 2023, 11:14:46 AM
Post by: 10dollarsatatime on September 04, 2023, 11:22:03 AM
@10dollarsatatime, we drive through the area 4-6 times/year. We look for fun things to do along the way. Please tell me more about the cheese factory in Beaver. I love cheese!
https://thecreameryutah.com/
It's far more touristy and overpriced than it used to be, but I have a lot of nostalgia for the place. Our family always stopped on our way to or from southern Utah for cheap cheese. That's not a thing anymore. We still buy cheese curds, a few kinds of fancy cheese, and some ice cream after eating at the restaurant. Also, it's one of the first awkward dates that DH and I went on, before we considered what we were doing as dating.
Post by: Dicey on September 04, 2023, 11:30:43 AM
Hmmm, kind of reminds me of this one: https://www.hilmar.com/visitor-center/ No deals there either, but fun to do once.@10dollarsatatime, we drive through the area 4-6 times/year. We look for fun things to do along the way. Please tell me more about the cheese factory in Beaver. I love cheese!
https://thecreameryutah.com/
It's far more touristy and overpriced than it used to be, but I have a lot of nostalgia for the place. Our family always stopped on our way to or from southern Utah for cheap cheese. That's not a thing anymore. We still buy cheese curds, a few kinds of fancy cheese, and some ice cream after eating at the restaurant. Also, it's one of the first awkward dates that DH and I went on, before we considered what we were doing as dating.
Still, it might be a fun way to break up the drive. Thanks!
Post by: NinetyFour on September 04, 2023, 12:42:45 PM
Since you’ll all be in SE Utah anyway, I thought I’d invite you to stay just a bit longer so you can see this!!!
https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/map/2023-october-14
I plan to stay in the SE Utah area to see this. Anyone else?
Thanks for the reminder, @10dollarsatatime !
Post by: NinetyFour on September 04, 2023, 12:47:14 PM
Thx @NinetyFour for putting together the roll call. I’m at the campground Oct 6-13. I may stay in the area longer if the weather is nice to visit more spots.
That's great. Not sure what my plans are after the 13th, but I might hang out in the area for a bit longer as well. Definitely want to get to a scenic and quiet spot for the eclipse.
@NinetyFour Thanks for the roll call—we'll be in the hostel house with @meadow lark and the gang!
Got it--thanks!
I'm trying to get @Log to come along as well, we'll see if my persuasion campaign works out!
Count me convinced! I've booked a refundable flight just in case something comes up, but I'm hoping to make it.
I've been traveling loads for education/work opportunities in the last few years, but I don't think I've taken a 100% "for pleasure" trip since family vacations as a child, so this is momentous! Haha
Same dates as @314159, and I'll be one more for the hostel house (:
Sounds great--looking forward to meeting you!
FFF, Muppet, and I are cabining this year, Oct 6-13.
Great--thanks!
Shadowmoss is locked into G3. I just.kept.reminding folks about @meadow lark having the house.
Got it--thanks!
Post by: NinetyFour on September 04, 2023, 12:52:32 PM
@NinetyFour we are there the whole week of the meetup. 6-13.
Got it--thanks!
Unfortunately we are going to have to skip it this year my better half is scheduled for a new knee and just got it scheduled for mid October. We need the time to prep our house and take care of some stuff and getting mobility back is priority one since we have big plans for 2024.
We have site G2 locked (deluxe with power) and will cancel it unless someone wants it soon.
We will miss you all but look forward to the next time we see each one of you.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Aww this is definitely unfortunate!! :( However, I think I remember you saying that she needed a knee replacement at some point, so it's good that she is getting it done. We will sure miss you, though!!
I'm also curious about your "big plans for 2024"!! Hope they involve lots of fun and not very much work! :) And of course, I hope to see you in Moab next October!
Post by: Chaplin on September 04, 2023, 01:30:53 PM
Anyway, I don't know that it's been brought up in the thread yet, but the path of the Annular eclipse goes right through Utah on the morning of the 14th. Not over Moab, but within an hour drive. I know it's after the official dates, but may be worth hanging around Utah for an extra night. We take a drive down to the cheese factory in Beaver once a year or so just for kicks and giggles. We might just schedule the trip for the 14th so we can catch it.
Thanks for mentioning that! I took my son to the planetarium in Vancouver for the last eclipse around here (2017?) and it was a very cool experience. I still have my viewing glass (shade 14 welding glass in a cardboard frame). I was already thinking about shifting my dates around a bit...
Post by: Dicey on September 04, 2023, 01:42:21 PM
Post by: oldladystache on September 04, 2023, 01:42:51 PM
When I left a few hours later it was bumper to bumper, stop and go - mostly stop for miles and miles and miles. I don't remember the time I left but it was early in the day. By the time it got dark it was still bumper to bumper and I was getting really tired. After a couple hours driving in the dark I managed to see a spot off the road that had space to pull into and get out of traffic. I slept in the car that night, but not well.
All night the traffic was like that and finally around mid-morning it began to clear out. It was still heavy for the next 50 miles or so, but at least it was moving.
This time I have a room reserved in Saint George Utah for the night before, on my side of the eclipse. I'll drive 40 miles or so into the area to see it from the road, then be the first one out of there when it's over. I hope there aren't too many thousands with the same idea. Saint George is outside the area, and there are still some rooms available there.
Post by: NinetyFour on September 04, 2023, 02:01:12 PM
Post by: Cherry Lane on September 04, 2023, 02:25:00 PM
Post by: Le Poisson on September 04, 2023, 02:34:32 PM
Are any of the Moab crowd coming in from Denver? If so can you advise us...I have a campsite reserved that we are not going to use, beautiful place, great paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing and one of the hardest reservations to get in Colorado. If the dates work let me know and we can get it transferred
1. Where we should fill our water tanks before heading into the mountains?
2. Where there are some good dispersed campsites that Mr. Jones could reach while pulling a pop-up trailer.
If #2. is a top secret thing, please message us - I know a lot of folks don't like sharing their secret spots. I promise we'll only use it once.
We are hoping to find a dispersed camp that offers us fun day outings either hiking, sightseeing, or canoeing.
Sept 29th - Oct 1st
Dowdy lake
——-
If we are in town you are welcome to fill water at our place near Boulder if you are going more the I-70 direction for camping.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Wow! THanks for the tiP - unfortunately, we are planning on rolling in to town either late on Sunday or early Monday - unless we get tired on teh highway and arrive on Tuesday...
When we get close, we';ll reach back about that offer to fill water in your driveway. Someone on Reddit suggested looking at the municipal waste treatment plant in Denver as they have a flush/fill station there that's free too. I think the language used was, it stinks, but it's free :).
Post by: elledub on September 04, 2023, 02:41:24 PM
Post by: Exflyboy on September 04, 2023, 08:30:50 PM
Post by: NinetyFour on September 05, 2023, 06:28:25 AM
Planning on 6 till 13th on BLM land. But as I missed the last total eclipse that went right over my house and I wasn't there, I'm definitely interested in seeing one (no wonder tickets TO Ireland were cheap!).
Great--looking forward to seeing you again!
Post by: ToTheMoon on September 05, 2023, 07:47:51 AM
We will have our kids DS13 and DS11, but not the dog as we have decided to leave her with a friend (sob) for the six months we will be gone.
No bikes this time as we are space constrained, but hoping to hit a couple 4x4 trails with @Le Poisson, and lookin forward to hiking & campfire time with everyone!
Post by: NinetyFour on September 05, 2023, 08:52:44 AM
Who | When | Where
Magical Moab Meetup HQ | Oct 7 - 13 | G8 (locked)
NinetyFour | Oct 6 - 13 | 100 (locked)
Diceys | Oct 4 - Oct 11 | 101 (locked)
lhamo | Oct 6 - 13 | cabin
StashingAway | Oct 7 - 10 | 108 (unlocked)
mm1970 | Oct 7 - 10 | G9
elle dub | Oct 6 - 13 | G6
Le Poisson and other assorted fish| Oct 6 - 13 | 106
Chaplin | Oct 6 - 12? | 113
ToTheMoon + 3 | Oct 10 - 13 | 113
driftwood + 1 | Oct 6 - 11 | G7 (unlocked)
driftwood's sister | Oct 6 - 11 | ??
lilkidjesus | Oct 6 - 10 | tent site
ws | Oct 6 - 13 | 98
Mr. Green et al | Oct 6 - 13 | tent site
Cherry Lane | Oct 6 - 13 | cabin
FIFoFum & Muppet | Oct 6 - 13 | cabin
shadowmoss | ?? | G3 (locked)
Cannot Wait! | ?? | with friends
Exflyboy | Oct 6 - 13 | on BLM land
Embok and Mister | ?? | hotel
meadow lark | Oct 6 - 13 | hostel house
oldladystache | Oct 6 - 13 | hostel house
314159 | Oct 6 - 10 | hostel house
Log | Oct 6 - 10 | hostel house
Post by: Cherry Lane on September 05, 2023, 09:03:36 AM
Hike info here: https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/left-fork-subway-bottom-up.htm (https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/left-fork-subway-bottom-up.htm)
Post by: Purple_Crayon on September 05, 2023, 09:18:11 AM
Post by: Chaplin on September 05, 2023, 09:29:17 AM
Post by: mm1970 on September 05, 2023, 11:09:34 AM
Post by: Le Poisson on September 05, 2023, 12:12:11 PM
If anyone wants to take our site on Friday Night, it's already paid, and you'll be saving us from losing the weekly rate discount. We will boot you off "our" site on Saturday though.
Fire me a message if you want that one night. It is an RV/Electric & water site. Maybe @Unleash Hell could use one night in town to take pressure off from scoping out BLM spots? I dunno.
Post by: deborah on September 05, 2023, 02:23:02 PM
It looks like we won't be arriving until Saturday the 7th, late in the day.Do you mean @Exflyboy ?
If anyone wants to take our site on Friday Night, it's already paid, and you'll be saving us from losing the weekly rate discount. We will boot you off "our" site on Saturday though.
Fire me a message if you want that one night. It is an RV/Electric & water site. Maybe @Unleash Hell could use one night in town to take pressure off from scoping out BLM spots? I dunno.
Post by: Le Poisson on September 05, 2023, 03:18:27 PM
It looks like we won't be arriving until Saturday the 7th, late in the day.Do you mean @Exflyboy ?
If anyone wants to take our site on Friday Night, it's already paid, and you'll be saving us from losing the weekly rate discount. We will boot you off "our" site on Saturday though.
Fire me a message if you want that one night. It is an RV/Electric & water site. Maybe @Unleash Hell could use one night in town to take pressure off from scoping out BLM spots? I dunno.
Of course that's who I mean. Or UH if he wants to come.
Post by: Dicey on September 05, 2023, 03:22:36 PM
So I'm not the only one who thought they were the same person? Have they ever been seen in the same place at the same time?It looks like we won't be arriving until Saturday the 7th, late in the day.Do you mean @Exflyboy ?
If anyone wants to take our site on Friday Night, it's already paid, and you'll be saving us from losing the weekly rate discount. We will boot you off "our" site on Saturday though.
Fire me a message if you want that one night. It is an RV/Electric & water site. Maybe @Unleash Hell could use one night in town to take pressure off from scoping out BLM spots? I dunno.
Of course that's who I mean. Or UH if he wants to come.
Post by: Exflyboy on September 05, 2023, 04:02:21 PM
Post by: Dicey on September 05, 2023, 04:03:51 PM
We are definitely not the same person, although we do come from the same country..:)We may require proof.
Post by: Exflyboy on September 05, 2023, 04:11:59 PM
We are definitely not the same person, although we do come from the same country..:)We may require proof.
Well if we both look like that guy making like a sleeping bat then you'll know the truth is not with me..:)
Post by: NinetyFour on September 05, 2023, 08:51:43 PM
In other news, I just ordered A LOT of eclipse eyeglasses. Should be enough for everyone at the Magical Moab Meetup!
Post by: Exflyboy on September 05, 2023, 11:05:46 PM
I have met both of these gentlemen. Can confirm they are 2 different people, who both talk funny... But it sure would be fun to get them in the same place at the same time! Maybe midway between Oregon and Florida...??
In other news, I just ordered A LOT of eclipse eyeglasses. Should be enough for everyone at the Magical Moab Meetup!
Cool, I was going too bring a welding helmet, now I don't have to..:)
Post by: Dicey on September 06, 2023, 12:30:31 AM
You still can.I have met both of these gentlemen. Can confirm they are 2 different people, who both talk funny... But it sure would be fun to get them in the same place at the same time! Maybe midway between Oregon and Florida...??
In other news, I just ordered A LOT of eclipse eyeglasses. Should be enough for everyone at the Magical Moab Meetup!
Cool, I was going too bring a welding helmet, now I don't have to..:)
Post by: meadow lark on September 06, 2023, 07:39:16 AM
Canadian roll call - how many will be there on Monday the 9th and want Thanksgiving dinner?
How many (of any nationality) who want to come over for gumbo? Is Monday good?
We can also do a Spaghetti dinner or something else (I think there is an outside grill).
If you want to come and are vegetarian, let me know.
Post by: Le Poisson on September 06, 2023, 08:06:52 AM
I was planning on making a turkey dinner for Canadian Thanksgiving, but it sounds like a lot of the Canadians won’t be there on Monday.
Canadian roll call - how many will be there on Monday the 9th and want Thanksgiving dinner?
How many (of any nationality) who want to come over for gumbo? Is Monday good?
We can also do a Spaghetti dinner or something else (I think there is an outside grill).
If you want to come and are vegetarian, let me know.
Hmmm. We have half a turkey in the freezer. I wonder if we could keep it edible on the road for a week.
We will be there for Thanksgiving Monday, but you don't need to accommodate us. We will be fine. :)
Post by: Exflyboy on September 06, 2023, 01:43:25 PM
I was planning on making a turkey dinner for Canadian Thanksgiving, but it sounds like a lot of the Canadians won’t be there on Monday.
Canadian roll call - how many will be there on Monday the 9th and want Thanksgiving dinner?
How many (of any nationality) who want to come over for gumbo? Is Monday good?
We can also do a Spaghetti dinner or something else (I think there is an outside grill).
If you want to come and are vegetarian, let me know.
Seeing as my cooking equipment consists of a tiny backpacking stove I will be delighted to help eat any kind of food that you are kind enough to prepare.. I will even volunteer to wash the dishes..:)
Post by: MrGreen on September 06, 2023, 02:11:07 PM
Post by: oldladystache on September 06, 2023, 02:55:50 PM
Post by: mm1970 on September 06, 2023, 04:54:40 PM
I might not even have that...I was thinking of just all cold food!I was planning on making a turkey dinner for Canadian Thanksgiving, but it sounds like a lot of the Canadians won’t be there on Monday.
Canadian roll call - how many will be there on Monday the 9th and want Thanksgiving dinner?
How many (of any nationality) who want to come over for gumbo? Is Monday good?
We can also do a Spaghetti dinner or something else (I think there is an outside grill).
If you want to come and are vegetarian, let me know.
Seeing as my cooking equipment consists of a tiny backpacking stove I will be delighted to help eat any kind of food that you are kind enough to prepare.. I will even volunteer to wash the dishes..:)
Post by: Dicey on September 06, 2023, 06:48:47 PM
Not on our watch.I might not even have that...I was thinking of just all cold food!I was planning on making a turkey dinner for Canadian Thanksgiving, but it sounds like a lot of the Canadians won’t be there on Monday.
Canadian roll call - how many will be there on Monday the 9th and want Thanksgiving dinner?
How many (of any nationality) who want to come over for gumbo? Is Monday good?
We can also do a Spaghetti dinner or something else (I think there is an outside grill).
If you want to come and are vegetarian, let me know.
Seeing as my cooking equipment consists of a tiny backpacking stove I will be delighted to help eat any kind of food that you are kind enough to prepare.. I will even volunteer to wash the dishes..:)
Post by: Cherry Lane on September 06, 2023, 07:58:49 PM
@Cherry Lane how hard is it to get a Subway permit? I would potentially be interested. It's on my bucket list!
I don't actually know. There were more applications than permits for my day, so chances of getting one are something less than one.
I'd love to have you along if my date works out for you.
Post by: Chaplin on September 06, 2023, 08:24:36 PM
I was planning on making a turkey dinner for Canadian Thanksgiving, but it sounds like a lot of the Canadians won’t be there on Monday.
Canadian roll call - how many will be there on Monday the 9th and want Thanksgiving dinner?
How many (of any nationality) who want to come over for gumbo? Is Monday good?
We can also do a Spaghetti dinner or something else (I think there is an outside grill).
If you want to come and are vegetarian, let me know.
You're incredibly sweet! I plan to be there and will be happy to partake and help in any way I can.
Post by: shadowmoss on September 07, 2023, 10:28:26 AM
Also, EFB, I have a large enough site to accomodate 2 vehicles as I sleep in my small car. It even has electricity onsite. If you want to park there one or more nights, your are welcome to do so.
Post by: Exflyboy on September 07, 2023, 10:46:46 AM
I'm up for some real food cooked by someone else. I might even get it together to help EFB with the dishes this time.
Also, EFB, I have a large enough site to accomodate 2 vehicles as I sleep in my small car. It even has electricity onsite. If you want to park there one or more nights, your are welcome to do so.
Sweet, always good to have options.. Thankyou!..:)
Post by: Dicey on September 07, 2023, 11:21:17 AM
What we do is gather for a campfire every night. Everyone is invited, no matter where they're staying. This year, 94 has reserved a dedicated site for our evening gatherings. Someone named Dicey (and sometimes others, but that is not a requirement - I always bring too much) contributes supplies for S'mores every night, including vegan marshmallows, so that can be relied upon. (NOTE: fancy dark chocolate doesn't work as well as plain old Hershey's milk chocolate due to differences in melting points. Lots of scientific experimentation has been conducted.)
Having said all that, I'd be up for hosting (or co-hosting) a taco bar one night. We're traveling in a fancy pants (but 10+ years old and purchased used, haha) rig, so I have some ability to bring along communal stuff.
One of the reasons Mr. Dicey and I are going in early (besides the fact that we have to leave early, boo!) is to look at organizing the campsites to be as mustachian-friendly as possible, such as connecting sites to create a shortcut to the bathrooms, dishwashing sinks, etc. Also high on our list is figuring out ways we can gather without being a nuisance to neighboring campers. The sites here are [tiny]. For example, if several people are assigned adjacent cabins, and they're amenable to it, we could slide a couple of picnic tables together to create a communal dining space. A family group did that a couple of years ago. They moved the tables together, put down tablecloths, and added string lights. It worked great.
Ninety Four is off to CM*TO (sob) and has another cool trip right after that. Just about the time she returns, we'll be heading for Moab. Because of our schedules, I'm going to be posting some Meetup-related stuff. She is still our Supreme Organizer, I'm just helping out with some of the logistics.
Keep in mind that a cornerstone of the Magical Moab Meetup is that There Are NO Strict Schedules! Everyone can come and go as they please. Part of the fun is seeing what kind activities people come up with each day.
Coming soon, I'll have a couple more announcements/questions, so stay tuned for more Magical Moab Meetup information.
Post by: mm1970 on September 07, 2023, 12:44:25 PM
I make a pretty mean salad, not gonna lie. And muffins. I make good muffins!Not on our watch.I might not even have that...I was thinking of just all cold food!I was planning on making a turkey dinner for Canadian Thanksgiving, but it sounds like a lot of the Canadians won’t be there on Monday.
Canadian roll call - how many will be there on Monday the 9th and want Thanksgiving dinner?
How many (of any nationality) who want to come over for gumbo? Is Monday good?
We can also do a Spaghetti dinner or something else (I think there is an outside grill).
If you want to come and are vegetarian, let me know.
Seeing as my cooking equipment consists of a tiny backpacking stove I will be delighted to help eat any kind of food that you are kind enough to prepare.. I will even volunteer to wash the dishes..:)
Post by: Dicey on September 07, 2023, 02:11:48 PM
Of course you do, you live in California! I used to joke that in CA, we eat all the "A" foods, not just apples. Artichoke, asparagus, avocado, alfalfa sprouts, etc. All fresh, of course.I make a pretty mean salad, not gonna lie. And muffins. I make good muffins!Not on our watch.I might not even have that...I was thinking of just all cold food!I was planning on making a turkey dinner for Canadian Thanksgiving, but it sounds like a lot of the Canadians won’t be there on Monday.
Canadian roll call - how many will be there on Monday the 9th and want Thanksgiving dinner?
How many (of any nationality) who want to come over for gumbo? Is Monday good?
We can also do a Spaghetti dinner or something else (I think there is an outside grill).
If you want to come and are vegetarian, let me know.
Seeing as my cooking equipment consists of a tiny backpacking stove I will be delighted to help eat any kind of food that you are kind enough to prepare.. I will even volunteer to wash the dishes..:)
Post by: oldladystache on September 07, 2023, 02:32:31 PM
Site G10 available! $352.73
Oct 6 - Oct 13, 2023 (7 nights)
I have site G10 reserved and locked. I won't be needing it because I'll be staying at @meadow lark's house.
I can get a full refund if I cancel by September 21, so if anyone wants it please let me know before then.
Nightly/Weekly Stays: For all guests with stays shorter than 30 nights ("short-term guests") (i) cancellations may be made for a full refund of your deposit up to the date that is 14 days prior to your scheduled check-in date.
Is anyone considering taking over this site? If not I'll cancel it fairly soon. If I wait until the last minute to cancel something could come up to make me forget.
Post by: Dicey on September 07, 2023, 02:42:26 PM
That's the Black Friday Screaming Special rate, isn't it?Site G10 available! $352.73
Oct 6 - Oct 13, 2023 (7 nights)
I have site G10 reserved and locked. I won't be needing it because I'll be staying at @meadow lark's house.
I can get a full refund if I cancel by September 21, so if anyone wants it please let me know before then.
Nightly/Weekly Stays: For all guests with stays shorter than 30 nights ("short-term guests") (i) cancellations may be made for a full refund of your deposit up to the date that is 14 days prior to your scheduled check-in date.
Is anyone considering taking over this site? If not I'll cancel it fairly soon. If I wait until the last minute to cancel something could come up to make me forget.
Post by: oldladystache on September 07, 2023, 03:46:06 PM
It was a really good discount but I'm seeing ads for good discounts now too. Doesn't much matter how much it costs if nobody wants it.That's the Black Friday Screaming Special rate, isn't it?Site G10 available! $352.73
Oct 6 - Oct 13, 2023 (7 nights)
I have site G10 reserved and locked. I won't be needing it because I'll be staying at @meadow lark's house.
I can get a full refund if I cancel by September 21, so if anyone wants it please let me know before then.
Nightly/Weekly Stays: For all guests with stays shorter than 30 nights ("short-term guests") (i) cancellations may be made for a full refund of your deposit up to the date that is 14 days prior to your scheduled check-in date.
Is anyone considering taking over this site? If not I'll cancel it fairly soon. If I wait until the last minute to cancel something could come up to make me forget.
Post by: Dicey on September 07, 2023, 06:56:55 PM
Agreed, but every time I dig into those discount emails in hopes of sharing them with others, most, if not all of our dates are excluded. Probably because bookings are strong for that week ;-). Folks, this is a great deal.It was a really good discount but I'm seeing ads for good discounts now too. Doesn't much matter how much it costs if nobody wants it.That's the Black Friday Screaming Special rate, isn't it?Site G10 available! $352.73
Oct 6 - Oct 13, 2023 (7 nights)
I have site G10 reserved and locked. I won't be needing it because I'll be staying at @meadow lark's house.
I can get a full refund if I cancel by September 21, so if anyone wants it please let me know before then.
Nightly/Weekly Stays: For all guests with stays shorter than 30 nights ("short-term guests") (i) cancellations may be made for a full refund of your deposit up to the date that is 14 days prior to your scheduled check-in date.
Is anyone considering taking over this site? If not I'll cancel it fairly soon. If I wait until the last minute to cancel something could come up to make me forget.
Post by: shadowmoss on September 08, 2023, 12:30:19 PM
Post by: Dicey on September 08, 2023, 08:07:51 PM
Thanks for the bat signal up thread @NinetyFour . Definitely NOT going to make it to Moab this year as decided to continue on with a longer bike/road trip and won't be in the area or at home by then. Will pm you if I pass thru So. Colo on my return. Have fun everyone!Hope you're having a blast!
Post by: Dicey on September 08, 2023, 09:36:49 PM
Here's what I need to know via PM. Do you want your screen name and your real first name as implied in the photo? If you're bringing mini-mustachians, do you want them to have nametags? (Sorry, I don't think Miss Green is big enough to wear a nametag on a lanyard safely, but we can make one for her baby album, if you wish.)
If you came last year and your tag was okay, you don't need to do anything. I need a response from the following folks asap. If your name is on this list, and you were there last year, it's because you have more people coming.
This does not imply that the list is closed. If you add on later, send me a PM. Deadline for nametags is September 27th, which is when we plan to start moseying toward Moab.
@314159, @Cannot Wait!, @driftwood (for your +1), @Lilkidjesus, @Log, @mm1970, @Mr. Green, @Stashing Away, @ws. @Le Poisson and @ToTheMoon, please let me know about your minis. I don't want anyone to feel left out, even if they decide not to wear them.
ETA: Everyone is getting a 2023 name tag and lanyard (collect 'em all!). I just need info from the folks who did not attend last year.
Post by: Dicey on September 09, 2023, 05:50:19 PM
Moab is definitely a Spring or Fall type of place. Hope your travels continue to take you to cool green places. Except for the Colorado River or Green River, not a whole lot else in and around Moab is green. Plenty of other spectacular colors, just not a lot of green.Thanks! Figured I'd take advantage of having a longer term house sitter and a covid-free (ish) world and explore a bit longer (in cooler greener places) while I can. Although now I want a mustashe name tag ;-).Thanks for the bat signal up thread @NinetyFour . Definitely NOT going to make it to Moab this year as decided to continue on with a longer bike/road trip and won't be in the area or at home by then. Will pm you if I pass thru So. Colo on my return. Have fun everyone!Hope you're having a blast!
ETA: Came home for a bit to drop off vehicle and am off again with a friend headed NE then to Europe but did go thru Moab quickly on the way back and OMG beautiful but soooo hot and crowded. Hope it's cooler and less crowded for all ya all in Oct.
Post by: Dicey on September 09, 2023, 05:54:55 PM
Are we going to use the WhatsApp this year? I promise not to make any video calls.I would expect we will continue using WhatsApp this year. That's 94's area of expertise, not mine. I'm just happy when mine works, lol.
(Who made video calls? Asking for a friend.)
I was going to post about this soon, but now you have it. We use WhatsApp to communicate with each other while in Moab...and beyond. Details will follow when @NinetyFour returns from her travels. I don't know nothin' about no video calls.
Post by: Dicey on September 09, 2023, 06:20:18 PM
Thought I’d post a bit of a packing list. Obviously, your needs will vary depending on the accommodations you chose and your method of travel.
Water bottle/hydration system (I can’t stress enough how important it will be for you to stay hydrated, especially if you are coming from a lower elevation (Moab is at about 4000 feet))
Various sorts of clothes—mid-October Moab weather can be hot, cool, wet, windy! Here (https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.5733&lon=-109.5492#.Yz2gSS1MGfA) is a good weather site to check. Right now, things are looking very nice out there!
Towels
Headlamp
National Park Pass if you have one
Swimsuit, plus Life Jacket or PFD*
Charger(s) for your electronics
Masks - Very optional. Do whatever you feel comfortable doing. No judgement.
Sunscreen
Maybe it’s just me, but I’ll be bringing flip flops to wear in the campground shower
Coffee/tea travel mug
Ear plugs
Sunglasses (w/ leash for water play)
I will be bringing...extra camp chairs, extra camping lights, my camp stove and fuel pots (if anyone needs this), extra utensils, and an axe and a hatchet.
In case you are wondering, there are electrical outlets at the G tent sites (at least at some of them). Also, the cabins have electricity, and I bet those staying in cabins wouldn’t mind if you wanted to use one of their outlets for occasional charging.
Again, if you are driving, and if you have room, please consider bringing an extra camp chair or two. I’m pretty sure we will need them. Thanks!
Any other questions, please ask! :)
Woo hoo!!!
*As for PFD's - If you go on a boat ride (spendy, but v. fun!) or rent a SUP, the outfitter typically provides them. If you bring your own floatation devices, bring PFD's too, if you can. I have a couple of adult life vests I'm bringing along to share.
I will bring a power strip for multiple chargers.
Post by: lhamo on September 09, 2023, 07:40:49 PM
Another suggestion if you are driving and have the space -- a power strip. Helps ensure you always have plenty of room to charge your stuff (plus room for other friends' stuff)
I can't recall if this has been mentioned already, but at least one night last year those with musical talents who had brought their instruments led a campfire singalong. So if you have something you like to play and have room, bring that!
Post by: Cassie on September 09, 2023, 08:30:32 PM
Post by: Dicey on September 09, 2023, 09:38:09 PM
It sounds like so much fun. I will have to look at the driving distance between Reno and there.It's about eleven hours without stops. Probably easier to split it into two days.
Post by: lhamo on September 10, 2023, 07:28:10 AM
It sounds like so much fun. I will have to look at the driving distance between Reno and there.
You should come, Cassie! It would be so great to meet you. I made the decision to go last year after things were already happening -- I left Seattle on Sunday, spent one night outside Twin Falls Idaho, and arrived in Moab in time to join folks for dinner on Monday evening. It was a long drive (especially the first day), but not overwhelming. I only had three days with everybody but it was SOOOOOO worth it. Hence going for the full week this time, and also dragging my sister along (and hoping my friend/her husband will join for the last few days)
I'm pretty sure there are people flying in to Salt Lake and renting cars/driving from there. If you stopped in Salt Lake for the night you might be able to find somebody to ride with you/share driving and gas costs. IIRC I left the Costco just outside Provo (good place to stock up and observe suburban Utah culture -- so many huge families (use the self checkout) around 1pm and I think I was at the campsite by 4-4:30?
Post by: shadowmoss on September 10, 2023, 11:13:45 AM
Post by: NinetyFour on September 10, 2023, 12:35:31 PM
Anyway, I think I created a new WhatsApp group for this year’s Magical Moab Meetup. Once I test it out on a couple of Guinea pigs, I will PM all of the attendees with a link to the chat…so stay tuned…!
Post by: Cassie on September 10, 2023, 11:26:49 PM
It sounds like so much fun. I will have to look at the driving distance between Reno and there.
You should come, Cassie! It would be so great to meet you. I made the decision to go last year after things were already happening -- I left Seattle on Sunday, spent one night outside Twin Falls Idaho, and arrived in Moab in time to join folks for dinner on Monday evening. It was a long drive (especially the first day), but not overwhelming. I only had three days with everybody but it was SOOOOOO worth it. Hence going for the full week this time, and also dragging my sister along (and hoping my friend/her husband will join for the last few days)
I'm pretty sure there are people flying in to Salt Lake and renting cars/driving from there. If you stopped in Salt Lake for the night you might be able to find somebody to ride with you/share driving and gas costs. IIRC I left the Costco just outside Provo (good place to stock up and observe suburban Utah culture -- so many huge families (use the self checkout) around 1pm and I think I was at the campsite by 4-4:30?
Thanks Lhamo for the encouragement!! I would love to meet you also. I have to first check with my dog sitter to see if she’s available. I have 2 Maltese so need someone to stay in my house with them.
Post by: NinetyFour on September 11, 2023, 07:34:22 AM
If you are coming to the meetup and do not yet have the link to the WhatsApp group, please let me know. Also, I will be traveling tomorrow and the next day, so apologies if I don't respond right away.
Post by: vector on September 11, 2023, 11:58:03 AM
V
Sent from my Pixel 6 using Tapatalk
Post by: Cherry Lane on September 12, 2023, 06:21:29 AM
In addition to the available tent site I also hear there's a cabin to spare that was procured in the fall sale. @FIFoFum knows more about that.
Post by: SnakesintheGrass on September 12, 2023, 01:11:20 PM
Still have plenty of room at La Casa if more people want to stay in a house. Planning on at least one night inviting everyone over for dinner.
Hi Meadowlark. If this offer is still on the table, I'd be interested. Arni
Post by: oldladystache on September 12, 2023, 02:07:22 PM
Post by: Le Poisson on September 12, 2023, 02:17:34 PM
Still have plenty of room at La Casa if more people want to stay in a house. Planning on at least one night inviting everyone over for dinner.
Hi Meadowlark. If this offer is still on the table, I'd be interested. Arni
Man! They'll let ANYONE come to this thing.
Post by: meadow lark on September 12, 2023, 05:27:09 PM
Hi Meadowlark. If this offer is still on the table, I'd be interested. Arni
Man! They'll let ANYONE come to this thing.
[/quote]
Haha! Come on down! Still have room at La Casa. Just let me know the dates. Planning to make a Thanksgiving Dinner on the 9th for everyone. Not sure how traditional it will be, yet.
https://www.lazylizardhostel.com/la-casa.php For info on the house. We are just dividing up the $260/night fee per person. Depending on the night we may have 9 or so people.
@94, can you add AxeCleaver to the house for 9-12th, please.
Post by: lhamo on September 12, 2023, 05:55:52 PM
Hi Meadowlark. If this offer is still on the table, I'd be interested. Arni
Man! They'll let ANYONE come to this thing.
Haha! Come on down! Still have room at La Casa. Just let me know the dates. Planning to make a Thanksgiving Dinner on the 9th for everyone. Not sure how traditional it will be, yet.
https://www.lazylizardhostel.com/la-casa.php For info on the house. We are just dividing up the $260/night fee per person. Depending on the night we may have 9 or so people.
@94, can you add AxeCleaver to the house for 9-12th, please.
[/quote]
Seriously? You hooked a whopper there! Look forward to finally meeting the Axe man in person.
Post by: Exflyboy on September 13, 2023, 12:28:06 AM
Post by: StashingAway on September 13, 2023, 06:55:51 PM
Last call for my tent site. If nobody contacts me I'll cancel it tomorrow.
@oldladystache might be too late here (this week got BUSY). I am considering switching from a RV site to a tent site. If you still have it pm me and we can work it out tomorrow.
Thanks-
Post by: Chaplin on September 13, 2023, 10:24:14 PM
@Axecleaver is coming?.. Awesome..:)
Seriously! That's what's so fun about this event - meeting people who are simultaneously legendary and perfectly normal, down-to-earth folks (I feel confident assuming he's normal and down-to-earth...).
Post by: oldladystache on September 14, 2023, 02:16:25 PM
It's still available. I sent pm.Last call for my tent site. If nobody contacts me I'll cancel it tomorrow.
@oldladystache might be too late here (this week got BUSY). I am considering switching from a RV site to a tent site. If you still have it pm me and we can work it out tomorrow.
Thanks-
Post by: Exflyboy on September 14, 2023, 02:21:32 PM
@Axecleaver is coming?.. Awesome..:)
Seriously! That's what's so fun about this event - meeting people who are simultaneously legendary and perfectly normal, down-to-earth folks (I feel confident assuming he's normal and down-to-earth...).
Yeah, I'm more on the "legendary" side of things myself. Humility is also my greatest strength!..:)
Post by: Le Poisson on September 14, 2023, 02:35:14 PM
@Axecleaver is coming?.. Awesome..:)
Seriously! That's what's so fun about this event - meeting people who are simultaneously legendary and perfectly normal, down-to-earth folks (I feel confident assuming he's normal and down-to-earth...).
Yeah, I'm more on the "legendary" side of things myself. Humility is also my greatest strength!..:)
For you, settling for legendary shows your humble side.
Post by: Log on September 14, 2023, 05:15:45 PM
I'm trying to get @Log to come along as well, we'll see if my persuasion campaign works out!
Count me convinced! I've booked a refundable flight just in case something comes up, but I'm hoping to make it.
I've been traveling loads for education/work opportunities in the last few years, but I don't think I've taken a 100% "for pleasure" trip since family vacations as a child, so this is momentous! Haha
Same dates as @314159, and I'll be one more for the hostel house (:
I may mull it over for another day or two before officially cancelling, but I'm feeling this is not the year for me. I've got some work travel scheduled for October and however much fun this seems, I think this trip will be a little too much for my schedule and my wallet. ):
Post by: NinjaSue on September 14, 2023, 06:41:46 PM
Post by: GreenToTheCore on September 15, 2023, 12:20:24 AM
Thought I'd take a stab at a roll call...
...
And I'm not sure about these others, but I hope they can all attend!
Good News: The bike shop dude's schedule was free and we picked up my dream bike over the weekend!
Bad News: That means we aren't making a second trip out to Moab.
I'm sorry to miss meeting all you fine folks.
We're keeping this on the radar for future years. In the meantime, if anyone is coming through Flagstaff, AZ we'd be more than happy to meet up/have some tasty beverages on the porch.
Post by: 2Birds1Stone on September 16, 2023, 12:33:02 AM
DW and I are planning on road trippin' through the PNW and CA in late August -> Sept and the timing would work for such an event if it were to take place during a similar time of year/location.
Post by: Chaplin on September 16, 2023, 12:36:24 AM
This is probably way too early.......but are there plans for a Moab 2024?
DW and I are planning on road trippin' through the PNW and CA in late August -> Sept and the timing would work for such an event if it were to take place during a similar time of year/location.
I almost hate to throw this idea out there, but I'm interested in plans for Moab 2024 too. I was inspired by Cherry Lane's train trips to get to Moab 2022, and while I drove to 2022 and plan to drive to 2023, I aspire to do something different for 2024.
Post by: BicycleB on September 16, 2023, 04:03:17 AM
This is probably way too early.......but are there plans for a Moab 2024?
DW and I are planning on road trippin' through the PNW and CA in late August -> Sept and the timing would work for such an event if it were to take place during a similar time of year/location.
For the record, I repeat my intent to attend in ‘24. @2Birds1Stone, likely that’s where we’ll finally meet in IRL. Totally thrilled!
Post by: lhamo on September 16, 2023, 07:54:58 AM
IIRC last year we picked the dates at or shortly after the event. Stay tuned!
Post by: Cannot Wait! on September 16, 2023, 01:14:45 PM
Post by: Exflyboy on September 16, 2023, 01:26:39 PM
Check out the BLM land for next year too - you don't need reservations and it's more Mustachian!
Thats where I'm staying.. Unless alcohol is involved then I will be squatting in @shadowmoss 's extra vehicle spot..:)
With rent paid of course.
Post by: shadowmoss on September 16, 2023, 02:53:27 PM
Post by: Dicey on September 16, 2023, 11:11:52 PM
This is probably way too early.......but are there plans for a Moab 2024?Early October is kind of a sweet spot. Smaller crowds, lower temperatures, plus it used to be just after the reservation requirements at Arches were lifted. Alas, that is no longer the case.
DW and I are planning on road trippin' through the PNW and CA in late August -> Sept and the timing would work for such an event if it were to take place during a similar time of year/location.
Post by: 2Birds1Stone on September 16, 2023, 11:30:40 PM
This is probably way too early.......but are there plans for a Moab 2024?Early October is kind of a sweet spot. Smaller crowds, lower temperatures, plus it used to be just after the reservation requirements at Arches were lifted. Alas, that is no longer the case.
DW and I are planning on road trippin' through the PNW and CA in late August -> Sept and the timing would work for such an event if it were to take place during a similar time of year/location.
So you and Mr. Dicey will be there next year? Asking for a friend :D
Post by: SnakesintheGrass on September 17, 2023, 08:39:26 AM
@vector and Andrei will be in Moab Oct 6-11. We'll be in a hotel but hope to spend a lot of time with all of you.
V
Sent from my Pixel 6 using Tapatalk
I'm afraid I am too lazy to see if there are any previous posts about carpooling... I can always rent a car but I'd rather travel with good people (or bad people - just not psychopaths because two of us would be nuts)... Smiley face (and not really a psychopath)...
Post by: Dicey on September 17, 2023, 09:48:35 AM
As always, it depends on the dates. This event is sandwiched between two important events in my community. We're skipping one this year. I play a larger role in the other, so I'm madly frontloading work now, leaving Moab a bit early, and doing a hard drive home, which I hate to do. I am hopeful we can both make it next year, and the next, and the next...This is probably way too early.......but are there plans for a Moab 2024?Early October is kind of a sweet spot. Smaller crowds, lower temperatures, plus it used to be just after the reservation requirements at Arches were lifted. Alas, that is no longer the case.
DW and I are planning on road trippin' through the PNW and CA in late August -> Sept and the timing would work for such an event if it were to take place during a similar time of year/location.
So you and Mr. Dicey will be there next year? Asking for a friend :D
BTW, DH is kind of weird about not wanting to go to the same place twice. "There's so much to see", which is a pretty good argument. He makes an exception for Moab, because there is so much to see and do, plus cool people to see and do things with.
Post by: Le Poisson on September 17, 2023, 07:19:49 PM
@vector and Andrei will be in Moab Oct 6-11. We'll be in a hotel but hope to spend a lot of time with all of you.
V
Sent from my Pixel 6 using Tapatalk
I'm afraid I am too lazy to see if there are any previous posts about carpooling... I can always rent a car but I'd rather travel with good people (or bad people - just not psychopaths because two of us would be nuts)... Smiley face (and not really a psychopath)...
You need to be more exact. With the loose nature of the event, the different airports fly into and the different vehicles coming in you could end up on the rack of a bicycle being ridden up from Arizona or in the back of a limo coming in from Omaha.
Weare driving from Toronto, pulling a camper but our schedule likely matches no one's, and our car is already full of boys. If you'd like to make a convoy and follow us down, we'd be happy to talk.
Post by: Dicey on September 17, 2023, 07:51:55 PM
Last year I made nametags for everyone, which came in handy mostly around the campsite, when there were lots of us together, and it was hard to keep track of so many names. Also, we discovered some of us don't actually answer to our screen names, because no one ever calls us by them IRL. I've attached examples from last year.Thanks for all nice notes from everyone who has responded. The list is getting long, squee!
Here's what I need to know via PM. Do you want your screen name and your real first name as implied in the photo? If you're bringing mini-mustachians, do you want them to have nametags? (Sorry, I don't think Miss Green is big enough to wear a nametag on a lanyard safely, but we can make one for her baby album, if you wish.)
If you came last year and your tag was okay, you don't need to do anything. I need a response from the following folks asap. If your name is on this list, and you were there last year, it's because you have more people coming.
This does not imply that the list is closed. If you add on later, send me a PM. Deadline for nametags is September 27th, which is when we plan to start moseying toward Moab.
@mm1970, @Mr. Green, @Stashing Away, @ws.
@Le Poisson and @ToTheMoon, please let me know about your minis. I don't want anyone to feel left out, even if they decide not to wear them.
ETA: Everyone is getting a 2023 name tag and lanyard (collect 'em all!). I just need info from the folks who did not attend last year.
If your name is on the list above, I remain (im)patiently waiting for your info. @LePoisson gets a pass, because he's been kinda busy lately. Same for anyone who was at CM*TO with them.
If I have sent you a PM with a question and you haven't responded, pleasepleaseplease do.
If you are @Axecleaver or @SnakesintheGrass, this is a very gentle first request. So glad you're joining us!
If you are bringing folks, please provide their info, if you haven't already. If your guest isn't a forum member, typically I will reference your screen name so people don't ask them the tough mustachian questions around the campfire (hee), and then I'll add the name they answer to below. (see photo in quoted post)
Options might be Mr./Mrs./Ms.[Forum Member] or [Forum Member]SO/GF/BF/Pal/Friend. Don't forget about your kids, if they're coming along. I don't want anyone to feel left out. My all time favorite nametag (so far) is "Mary's Friend Mary". My husband thinks being called "Mr. Dicey" is freaking hilarious.
If you're coming and haven't been pinged or batsignaled and you didn't attend last year, please let me know.
I can't wait to see/meet everyone, new friends and old.
Post by: Le Poisson on September 17, 2023, 07:54:25 PM
Post by: Exflyboy on September 17, 2023, 09:09:36 PM
I give you carte blanche to put whatever you want on my name tag. Momma on the other hand, well, just don't piss her off. She makes me cookies, and I don't wanna go without.
I promise not to piss her off too, but you might have to tie me to a chair and force cookies (otherwise known as biscuits in the civilised world) down my throat..:)
Post by: FIFoFum on September 18, 2023, 07:27:11 AM
In addition to the available tent site I also hear there's a cabin to spare that was procured in the fall sale. @FIFoFum knows more about that.
This is correct! Anyone want a spare cabin available from Saturday Oct 7 to Friday Oct 13?
Total cost would be $568 (or $618 if you have to pay a $50 pet fee - this is a pet-friendly cabin).
I have to cancel by Friday (Sept 22) for a full refund. This is extra, as Muppet & I will be sharing CL's cabin instead of using this one.
Please let me know if you'd like to take it off my hands instead! I'd love for it to go to someone in our group.
Post by: FIFoFum on September 18, 2023, 07:32:30 AM
I'm afraid I am too lazy to see if there are any previous posts about carpooling... I can always rent a car but I'd rather travel with good people (or bad people - just not psychopaths because two of us would be nuts)... Smiley face (and not really a psychopath)...
My current plan is to rent a car in SLC in the morning on Friday Oct 6 & return to SLC by mid/late afternoon on Oct 13.
Muppet & I fly in the late the night before (Oct 5) & fly out in the evening on Oct 13.
Happy to carpool one or both ways with other travelers.
Post by: Dicey on September 18, 2023, 09:12:41 AM
I give you carte blanche to put whatever you want on my name tag. Momma on the other hand, well, just don't piss her off. She makes me cookies, and I don't wanna go without.Did I piss her off last year? I don't think so. Dicey and Momma got along just fine. I like cookies, too.
What I do need from you is the data for the boy fishies. They don't have to wear them (nobody does), but I'm not going to leave them out of the fun.
About your nametag: Don't tempt me.
Post by: mm1970 on September 18, 2023, 10:02:49 AM
I swear I sent you a message, but it's not showing up in my sent mail, so maybe I don't understand the messaging...Anyway, I tried again- or, let me know if you can see my name in the WhatsApp? Ping me if you still need my info.Last year I made nametags for everyone, which came in handy mostly around the campsite, when there were lots of us together, and it was hard to keep track of so many names. Also, we discovered some of us don't actually answer to our screen names, because no one ever calls us by them IRL. I've attached examples from last year.Thanks for all nice notes from everyone who has responded. The list is getting long, squee!
Here's what I need to know via PM. Do you want your screen name and your real first name as implied in the photo? If you're bringing mini-mustachians, do you want them to have nametags? (Sorry, I don't think Miss Green is big enough to wear a nametag on a lanyard safely, but we can make one for her baby album, if you wish.)
If you came last year and your tag was okay, you don't need to do anything. I need a response from the following folks asap. If your name is on this list, and you were there last year, it's because you have more people coming.
This does not imply that the list is closed. If you add on later, send me a PM. Deadline for nametags is September 27th, which is when we plan to start moseying toward Moab.
@mm1970, @Mr. Green, @Stashing Away, @ws.
@Le Poisson and @ToTheMoon, please let me know about your minis. I don't want anyone to feel left out, even if they decide not to wear them.
ETA: Everyone is getting a 2023 name tag and lanyard (collect 'em all!). I just need info from the folks who did not attend last year.
If your name is on the list above, I remain (im)patiently waiting for your info. @LePoisson gets a pass, because he's been kinda busy lately. Same for anyone who was at CM*TO with them.
If I have sent you a PM with a question and you haven't responded, pleasepleaseplease do.
If you are @Axecleaver or @SnakesintheGrass, this is a very gentle first request. So glad you're joining us!
If you are bringing folks, please provide their info, if you haven't already. If your guest isn't a forum member, typically I will reference your screen name so people don't ask them the tough mustachian questions around the campfire (hee), and then I'll add the name they answer to below. (see photo in quoted post)
Options might be Mr./Mrs./Ms.[Forum Member] or [Forum Member]SO/GF/BF/Pal/Friend. Don't forget about your kids, if they're coming along. I don't want anyone to feel left out. My all time favorite nametag (so far) is "Mary's Friend Mary". My husband thinks being called "Mr. Dicey" is freaking hilarious.
If you're coming and haven't been pinged or batsignaled and you didn't attend last year, please let me know.
I can't wait to see/meet everyone, new friends and old.
Post by: Dicey on September 18, 2023, 11:04:40 AM
A few weeks ago, we received a check to our address for an Unknown Person. Mr. Dicey googled the name, found a nearby house and went there to deliver it. Woman who answered the door said, "Never heard of this Unknown Person." Upon further scrutiny, we determined that the check was probably for a certain mustachian who had stayed with us prior to Moab last year. Said person was required to get an expensive Covid test prior to a cruise (that happened after the visit to our area and before they got to Moab), and was charged a pretty penny for it. Turns out the check was a partial refund for the rip-off Covid test.
I contacted said mustachian, who lives in the Land Down Under. They decided it was too much hassle to deal with a check in US Dollars, especially one that was actually still in the US. A plan was hatched. Mr. Dicey was pretty sure he could cash the check, because our address was on it (don't think about this too deeply). He was successful.
The brilliant plan is to use the money to host an Ice Cream Social during the meetup. The check was for a whopping $185. That will buy lots of ice cream and a metric fuck-ton of sprinkles. At that time, everyone can raise a cone, bowl, or spoon to our very own Deborah. She won't be there in person, but she sure will be there in spirit.
Thank you, @deborah!
Post by: MrGreen on September 18, 2023, 11:33:56 AM
Post by: Exflyboy on September 18, 2023, 03:35:26 PM
She is an awesome person and I shall very much enjoy eating an ice cream in her honour. Thankyou!..:)
Post by: Dicey on September 18, 2023, 06:23:13 PM
@deborah I knew you were a fine upstanding Mustacian! For those that don't know, Debs drove 7.5 hours to meet up with me in a little town outside of Melbourne when I was visiting OZ on an extended business trip. She even took me to the zoo. We had a great time.What, she didn't leave you there?
She is an awesome person and I shall very much enjoy eating an ice cream in her honour. Thankyou!..:)
Post by: Exflyboy on September 18, 2023, 06:40:58 PM
@deborah I knew you were a fine upstanding Mustacian! For those that don't know, Debs drove 7.5 hours to meet up with me in a little town outside of Melbourne when I was visiting OZ on an extended business trip. She even took me to the zoo. We had a great time.What, she didn't leave you there?
She is an awesome person and I shall very much enjoy eating an ice cream in her honour. Thankyou!..:)
Most of the white population there is descended from convicts from the UK.. I think they have plenty of examples of the likes of me running around already..:)
Post by: Le Poisson on September 18, 2023, 06:55:54 PM
@deborah I knew you were a fine upstanding Mustacian! For those that don't know, Debs drove 7.5 hours to meet up with me in a little town outside of Melbourne when I was visiting OZ on an extended business trip. She even took me to the zoo. We had a great time.What, she didn't leave you there?
She is an awesome person and I shall very much enjoy eating an ice cream in her honour. Thankyou!..:)
Most of the white population there is descended from convicts from the UK.. I think they have plenty of examples of the likes of me running around already..:)
If you don't stand by your convictions, who will?
Post by: Exflyboy on September 18, 2023, 07:59:39 PM
@deborah I knew you were a fine upstanding Mustacian! For those that don't know, Debs drove 7.5 hours to meet up with me in a little town outside of Melbourne when I was visiting OZ on an extended business trip. She even took me to the zoo. We had a great time.What, she didn't leave you there?
She is an awesome person and I shall very much enjoy eating an ice cream in her honour. Thankyou!..:)
Most of the white population there is descended from convicts from the UK.. I think they have plenty of examples of the likes of me running around already..:)
If you don't stand by your convictions, who will?
Convictions or convicts..:)
Post by: deborah on September 18, 2023, 10:47:16 PM
Less than 20%@deborah I knew you were a fine upstanding Mustacian! For those that don't know, Debs drove 7.5 hours to meet up with me in a little town outside of Melbourne when I was visiting OZ on an extended business trip. She even took me to the zoo. We had a great time.What, she didn't leave you there?
She is an awesome person and I shall very much enjoy eating an ice cream in her honour. Thankyou!..:)
Most of the white population there is descended from convicts from the UK.. I think they have plenty of examples of the likes of me running around already..:)
If you don't stand by your convictions, who will?
Convictions or convicts..:)
Post by: Exflyboy on September 19, 2023, 01:10:31 PM
I'm kinda surprised somebody actually did a study on percentage of convict descendants, in America we just make up your own facts, saves all that pesky research and getting an education etc...
Post by: Le Poisson on September 19, 2023, 01:19:51 PM
@deborah Apologies for my hyperbole!.. No ice cream for me then..:)
I'm kinda surprised somebody actually did a study on percentage of convict descendants, in America we just make up your own facts, saves all that pesky research and getting an education etc...
Here they just rounded up orphans and street urchins to use as farm labour (slaves) and underage brides. Someone had to colonize the frozen north, and it would be inhumane to send criminals.
https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/people-and-stories/british-home-children - the whitewashing is strong here.
https://www.tfcg.ca/filles-du-roi - again, glorifying an ugly past. We are all the offspring of greatness.
Post by: deborah on September 19, 2023, 03:35:39 PM
But child migration was happening much earlier here - if a child was sickly, it was sent to a warmer climate. My great great grandmother was sent to Australia by herself as a seven year old in 1857. She worked as a shop assistant. She’s the one ancestor who we’ve never been able to trace back past her immigration.
Post by: Exflyboy on September 19, 2023, 03:58:45 PM
We had British child immigrants too. When I’ve read about it, most of the organisations concerned were operating in both Australia and Canada. But child migration was happening much earlier here - if a child was sickly, it was sent to a warmer climate. My great great grandmother was sent to Australia by herself as a seven year old in 1857. She worked as a shop assistant. She’s the one ancestor who we’ve never been able to trace back past her immigration.
Sent halfway round the world on your own at 7?!!! I couldn't imagine what that must have felt like!
Post by: Dicey on September 20, 2023, 10:11:57 AM
We have decided to frontload our trip to Moab with a visit to our kids and grandkids (Squee!) in Colorado. This means we're leaving in one week - Eeks!
The lanyards arrived yesterday. I'm going to be working furiously on the nametags in the in-between-spaces. I still need first-name info for @Axecleaver and Mrs. Green. If anyone can provide this info in a timely manner, please PM me or use the chat. I don't think Axe checks in here often, alas.
I also have eleventy-million things to wrap up for my community event, so I have to stay on top of these details, even though is seems like there's plenty of time.
Thanks!
Post by: Le Poisson on September 20, 2023, 11:43:51 AM
Back on topic -
We have decided to frontload our trip to Moab with a visit to our kids and grandkids (Squee!) in Colorado. This means we're leaving in one week - Eeks!
The lanyards arrived yesterday. I'm going to be working furiously on the nametags in the in-between-spaces. I still need first-name info for @Axecleaver and Mrs. Green. If anyone can provide this info in a timely manner, please PM me or use the chat. I don't think Axe checks in here often, alas.
I also have eleventy-million things to wrap up for my community event, so I have to stay on top of these details, even though is seems like there's plenty of time.
Thanks!
What are your Colorado dates? Maybe we can convoy in together! (and Mr. @Dicey can lend a hand putting skid plates on Mr. Jones before Mr. @ToTheMoon helps me scratch them up)
Post by: Dicey on September 20, 2023, 01:00:08 PM
Tentative plan is to leave CA on Sept 27 or 28, likely the latter.Back on topic -
We have decided to frontload our trip to Moab with a visit to our kids and grandkids (Squee!) in Colorado. This means we're leaving in one week - Eeks!
The lanyards arrived yesterday. I'm going to be working furiously on the nametags in the in-between-spaces. I still need first-name info for @Axecleaver and Mrs. Green. If anyone can provide this info in a timely manner, please PM me or use the chat. I don't think Axe checks in here often, alas.
I also have eleventy-million things to wrap up for my community event, so I have to stay on top of these details, even though is seems like there's plenty of time.
Thanks!
What are your Colorado dates? Maybe we can convoy in together! (and Mr. @Dicey can lend a hand putting skid plates on Mr. Jones before Mr. @ToTheMoon helps me scratch them up)
Since we're getting to Moab early, could the plate thing happen just before the meetup or at the very beginning? Mr. Dicey is very good at making and fixing things. I hear Frank is, too. If you need us to bring any (small-ish tools), LMK. Miss Rigby doesn't have huge amounts of storage space. Good thing she's pretty.
Post by: Exflyboy on September 20, 2023, 02:43:13 PM
I assume skid plate mounting is simple nut and bolt stuff.. Assuming the bolt holes actually line up!
I am tentatively (but flexibly) leaving on the 4th and arriving sometime on the 6th.
Post by: Le Poisson on September 20, 2023, 02:49:42 PM
Tentative plan is to leave CA on Sept 27 or 28, likely the latter.Back on topic -
We have decided to frontload our trip to Moab with a visit to our kids and grandkids (Squee!) in Colorado. This means we're leaving in one week - Eeks!
The lanyards arrived yesterday. I'm going to be working furiously on the nametags in the in-between-spaces. I still need first-name info for @Axecleaver and Mrs. Green. If anyone can provide this info in a timely manner, please PM me or use the chat. I don't think Axe checks in here often, alas.
I also have eleventy-million things to wrap up for my community event, so I have to stay on top of these details, even though is seems like there's plenty of time.
Thanks!
What are your Colorado dates? Maybe we can convoy in together! (and Mr. @Dicey can lend a hand putting skid plates on Mr. Jones before Mr. @ToTheMoon helps me scratch them up)Two and a halfAlmost three days to slog to chichi Colorado Mountain Town. Hang out with grandkids and possibly work like ranch hands at the, uh, ranch. Head back to Moab (~4 hours) on Oct. 3rd or morning of the 4th. Leaving Moab at the crack of dawn on the 11th, because we have to be home by first thing Friday morning, 10/12. Miss Rigby is pretty, but she is slow as molasses.
Since we're getting to Moab early, could the plate thing happen just before the meetup or at the very beginning? Mr. Dicey is very good at making and fixing things. I hear Frank is, too. If you need us to bring any (small-ish tools), LMK. Miss Rigby doesn't have huge amounts of storage space. Good thing she's pretty.
Maybe we'll see you at the Uh, Ranch. Which is an unusual name for a ranch, but hey, America seems to specialize in the unusual. It's what makes it special. Will have to plan offline or something.
Now I could bring welding gear but I suspect the park hosts might have something to say about steel fabrication!..:)
I assume skid plate mounting is simple nut and bolt stuff.. Assuming the bolt holes actually line up!
I am tentatively (but flexibly) leaving on the 4th and arriving sometime on the 6th.
Aye - prop up plate, put screw in hole. Repeat. Nothing hard about it. I may get bored and do it before we even leave Colorado. I can likely do it on my own with the assistance of a couple chunks of lumber to act as a holder-upper, but what's teh fun in that.
Post by: Dicey on September 20, 2023, 05:11:14 PM
Of course, I only ordered 48 lanyards. I have one leftover from last year and Miss Rigby has been safely storing ours, so I actually know where they are. That brings the grand total to 51. See the challenge?
IF you still have yours from last year and can easily put your hands on it, will you please toss it in with your Moab gear? Do not make yourself crazy trying to find it. Just a few extra would relieve the pressure.
BTW, our fearless leader, @NinetyFour is [temporarily, I hope] locked out of the forum, which explains the radio silence. Well, that and the fact that she's in Portugal!
*There are also some small humans attending. I have no wish for them to be strangled by a lanyard. They will love the stickers I have ordered for them.
Post by: Cherry Lane on September 20, 2023, 07:22:19 PM
IF you still have yours from last year and can easily put your hands on it, will you please toss it in with your Moab gear? Do not make yourself crazy trying to find it. Just a few extra would relieve the pressure.
You mean this one? Just stuck it in my kit. And if I add the new tag to this it will be double sided and I won't have to concern myself about flip flopping.
Post by: Exflyboy on September 20, 2023, 08:44:25 PM
Post by: Dicey on September 21, 2023, 07:41:31 AM
@Cherry Lane, hooray, that helps. I also realized that I had Muppet on the list. He has politely telegraphed that he has no intention of wearing a nametag, because everyone will just know who he is. And so they shall, lol.
Note to all: Don't let a tiny shortage of lanyards deter you from jumping aboard at the last minute. IIRC, @lhamo did that last year and suffered no ill effects. In fact, I'm pretty sure she had a fantastic time ;-)
Post by: lhamo on September 21, 2023, 08:58:51 AM
IIRC, @lhamo did that last year and suffered no ill effects. In fact, I'm pretty sure she had a fantastic time ;-)
Only regret was arriving a few days late and missing the folks who only came for the first part! Hence this year arriving on Day 1 (though perhaps a bit later in the day, as we are coming down from Yellowstone)
Post by: Dicey on September 21, 2023, 09:27:32 AM
And there will be nametags ready for you when you arrive, lol.IIRC, @lhamo did that last year and suffered no ill effects. In fact, I'm pretty sure she had a fantastic time ;-)
Only regret was arriving a few days late and missing the folks who only came for the first part! Hence this year arriving on Day 1 (though perhaps a bit later in the day, as we are coming down from Yellowstone)
Post by: Le Poisson on September 21, 2023, 09:33:39 AM
Post by: Dicey on September 22, 2023, 01:18:06 AM
I'll ask Momma if we can pack a dozen of her seventy-billion lanyards.Damn, she must have a much more reasonable source than I do. I could only afford 48.
Interestingly, I went back to my dark source, and placed the same order as last year. If you recall, last year's lanyards were strong primary colors. The "same" order has completely different colors this time. Much softer tones and way too many pinks and purples, ugh. Moral of the story: if you liked the color you had last year, try a little harder to remember where you stashed it, or ask Momma v-e-r-y nicely.
Seriously, I think we'll be okay, but it's going to be very close. I hate running out of anything, because I don't want anyone to feel left out.
Post by: Le Poisson on September 22, 2023, 09:17:36 AM
I'll ask Momma if we can pack a dozen of her seventy-billion lanyards.Damn, she must have a much more reasonable source than I do. I could only afford 48.
Interestingly, I went back to my dark source, and placed the same order as last year. If you recall, last year's lanyards were strong primary colors. The "same" order has completely different colors this time. Much softer tones and way too many pinks and purples, ugh. Moral of the story: if you liked the color you had last year, try a little harder to remember where you stashed it, or ask Momma v-e-r-y nicely.
Seriously, I think we'll be okay, but it's going to be very close. I hate running out of anything, because I don't want anyone to feel left out.
We'll bring 10 for you. They won't match. It is possible that they will be branded for some weird thing.
Post by: MrGreen on September 22, 2023, 09:48:31 AM
Post by: mm1970 on September 22, 2023, 11:28:43 AM
At least, by this time 2 weeks from now, I'll hopefully be 4 hours into my first day's drive. Can you tell I'm excited??
But totally not ready. Like, I really gotta dig up the camping gear and stuff. And you know what? If the first night I sleep like shit with my tent/ cot+ mattress, etc., I've got MONEY. Also need to get the oil changed in the old Matrix.
I need a break. I've been taking care of sick people at home for 3 weeks, and now the DS17 has another cold. Ugh. I've already warned work I'll be going radio silent for the time. NO computer. "But you'll have a phone right?" Yes...but I won't answer it.
Anyhoo, work has bit quite the shit show lately, so I'm excited for the break.
@Dicey I LOVE PINK
What happens if the government shuts down? I guess, no national parks?
Post by: Dicey on September 22, 2023, 11:50:22 AM
I hear you on the MONEY! One of the most unexpected benefits of reaching FIRE is that anything that can be solved by spending a few bucks is no longer a problem. OMG, the freedom that comes with that is so exhilarating!
T-Minus SIX Days for us. Ack! We are also excited, but I have so much shit to get done before we leave!
When the lanyards arrived, they were a wrinkled mess. I was trying to MacGyver something to de-scrunch them. I did a shift at my favorite thrift shop yesterday and found a cool stand from which hang them for a mere $2.00! As you see, there are several pink and purple options.
Post by: NinetyFour on September 22, 2023, 01:59:32 PM
I have been keeping an eye on this thread, and am so grateful for @Dicey for answering people's questions and for jumping into the Name Tag Project!! Dicey--you are amazing!!!
I will return to Colorado on 10/3......then will drive to Moab on 10/6 to meet all you people! Very exciting!!! :D
Post by: 314159 on September 22, 2023, 06:04:28 PM
Thanks @deborah, @Dicey, and @NinetyFour for ice cream, name tags, organizing, and all that :-)
Post by: Embok on September 22, 2023, 07:43:45 PM
I am so sorry but Mr. Embok and I will not be able to come to Moab this year after all. I have an injured foot that is simply healing very slowly, and an ongoing deal where my clients, who are rather unsophisticated, are likely to have a bunch of movement on their deal during exactly the week of Moab — and they could lose a lot of money if I’m unavailable to handle the problems likely to arise on a fast turn around basis.
We will both miss you all, a lot. We’re grateful we got to see a lot of you at CM*TO, and hope we can come to Moab in 2024.
All the best,
Embok
Post by: Dicey on September 22, 2023, 11:02:00 PM
@NinetyFour, @Dicey and all:Oh, no. Sad, sad, sad. We will miss you like crazy and hope the stars will align next year. I hope your clients realize how lucky they are to have you.
I am so sorry but Mr. Embok and I will not be able to come to Moab this year after all. I have an injured foot that is simply healing very slowly, and an ongoing deal where my clients, who are rather unsophisticated, are likely to have a bunch of movement on their deal during exactly the week of Moab — and they could lose a lot of money if I’m unavailable to handle the problems likely to arise on a fast turn around basis.
We will both miss you all, a lot. We’re grateful we got to see a lot of you at CM*TO, and hope we can come to Moab in 2024.
All the best,
Embok
Post by: Dicey on September 23, 2023, 10:35:49 AM
https://www.deseret.com/utah/2023/9/22/23885837/moab-off-roading-new-blm-plan-could-close-gemini-bridges-labyrinth-canyon
It also underscores the point that there is much to do in Moab on land that isn't Federally owned. There are amazing hikes on privately owned land that are completely free. Kind of unexpected in this day and age.
Which makes a point I wanted to mention. It may seem like I'm doing a lot to organize this meetup, but that's because @NinetyFour is out of the country, and the stuff I do is mostly frontloaded. 94 is The Source when it comes to what to do in and around Moab. She has a phenomenal memory and has hiked huge swaths of the area.
This is so important that it needs its own paragraph: If you're a fiirst-timer, you should know Moab is the just-for-fun meetup. We have no planned speakers or seminars. People stay in different places and do entirely different (mostly spontaneous) things during the day. The constant is the evening campfire. Everyone is invited, and that's where plans get made, frequently over S'mores. There are still lots of good financial discussions, but they tend to happen organically, whilst doing other amazing activities. There is literally something for everyone, it's just not formally outlined. Moab is so spectacular, it provides all the structure, or relaxation, one could hope for.
Post by: Dicey on September 24, 2023, 12:11:51 PM
In other news, I am done finished printing nametags. I'll stuff them into the holders during the endless drive to Moab.
If you're on the fence about coming, you have two days to change your mind and still get a printed nametag. Otherwise, I will bring supplies to hand make them, if any are needed. (You'll have to make your own, as my handwriting is illegible, hence the creation of printed tags.)
Since I have no desire to hang around the campground all day, I've devised a system for anyone to pick up their lanyards/nametags at our gathering site.
Also, I've tried to be really mindful of the way your screen name is punctuated. In a couple of cases, using lower case made it almost unreadable, so I used caps occasionally. If this is not to your liking, LMK now! (@lhamo, @lilkidjesus, and @Yearofsue come to mind, but I worked on them into the wee hours last night; there could be others.)
Finally, please say something, anything, y'all! I'm frontloading a couple of big projects, so I have to get all this stuff done early. We will also be off the grid for most of the week before Moab, so please ask your questions now!
One more tidbit: I purchased 30 edible ice cream bowls and 200 cones yesterday. The MMM Ice Cream Social could go on for days, thanks to @deborah's generosity! BTW, props to @FIFoFum and @Cherry Lane, who hosted an awesome one last year, and served (snirt) as the inspiration for how best to spend deborah's unexpected windfall. BTW, if you have room, please toss an ice cream scoop in with your gear. I've been scouring the thrift stores, to no avail, and I only own one. Hundreds of cones and one scoop is a potentially dangerous situation.
Post by: Cherry Lane on September 24, 2023, 01:55:14 PM
I don't recall if you were able to source lifejackets? I think you found a few?
Post by: elledub on September 24, 2023, 03:55:01 PM
Post by: Dicey on September 24, 2023, 07:39:59 PM
Good news is the ice cream melts quickly so spoons worked well last year. Glad the ice cream social is now a tradition!I did. They're already packed, along with my single ice cream scoop.
I don't recall if you were able to source lifejackets? I think you found a few?
Post by: Dicey on September 24, 2023, 07:40:33 PM
[mention]Dicey [/mention] Ice cream scoop added to the packing listThank you!
Post by: oldladystache on September 24, 2023, 09:18:23 PM
Post by: Dicey on September 24, 2023, 11:13:59 PM
I just found an ice cream scoop that I haven't used in many years, if ever. It's with the walkie-talkies I'm planning to bring. The time is getting closer!Teamwork, for the ice cream win!
Post by: mm1970 on September 25, 2023, 11:10:58 AM
@Embok bummer - you're the person coming that I've actually met in person!!@NinetyFour, @Dicey and all:Oh, no. Sad, sad, sad. We will miss you like crazy and hope the stars will align next year. I hope your clients realize how lucky they are to have you.
I am so sorry but Mr. Embok and I will not be able to come to Moab this year after all. I have an injured foot that is simply healing very slowly, and an ongoing deal where my clients, who are rather unsophisticated, are likely to have a bunch of movement on their deal during exactly the week of Moab — and they could lose a lot of money if I’m unavailable to handle the problems likely to arise on a fast turn around basis.
We will both miss you all, a lot. We’re grateful we got to see a lot of you at CM*TO, and hope we can come to Moab in 2024.
All the best,
Embok
Post by: Embok on September 25, 2023, 05:44:58 PM
Post by: Dicey on September 25, 2023, 07:48:28 PM
@mm1970: you will have a great time. The folks who have come the last couple of years have been really terrific. I’m bummed we can’t be there, but there’s too much at stake for this client for me to be out of town.I'm bummed, too. I had already made your nametags, boo-hoo-hoo. Very adult of you to take care of business. I hope your client realizes that you're giving up to be there for them.
Post by: Embok on September 25, 2023, 08:50:54 PM
Post by: Embok on September 25, 2023, 08:52:02 PM
Post by: FrugalZony on September 26, 2023, 01:53:25 PM
TDA and I have been toying with the idea to attend for a few weeks (strongly encouraged in discussions with both @meadow lark and @Cannot Wait!
.....hmmmm
Getting there is not such an issue, as we are currently in NM. My problem is that I have stuff to take care of in TX in early October that would be delayed by at least 2 weeks if we decide to attend. Because there's a date overlap and getting back from Moab means 6-7 travel days for us (we limit driving to 3 hours a day because of the kitties).
But, but but....I'm really tempted....I've been really really tempted for weeks now...and have been secretly lurking in this thread....but I also didn't want to post and then backpaddle when I can't make it work....
In any case I am trying to figure stuff out and will hopefully make a decision by this weekend....so I wanted to warn y'all, just in case.....
We're not sure if we want to stay at the campground, might possibly boondock outside of town or on a friends property nearby....but who knows...
In any case, I wanted to post to let you all know that this is a strong possibilty but not a certainty yet.... don't say I didn't say I didn't warn ya!
Post by: Cannot Wait! on September 26, 2023, 02:20:00 PM
I'm already here, plenty of room and good company!
Apparently 50+ people will attend - that many peeps can't be wrong ... 😁
Post by: lhamo on September 26, 2023, 04:49:05 PM
Would love it if you could come. Been wanting to meet y'all in person for years...
Post by: Dicey on September 26, 2023, 05:03:54 PM
There is one RV site left at a discount if you check in on Oct 6 and out on Oct 14 -- just sayin!Amen to that!
Would love it if you could come. Been wanting to meet y'all in person for years...
If you even think you might make it, PM me your info and I'll make up nametags for you asap. We're leaving tomorrow, so get a move on! I'd rather make one you don't use (this year) than the reverse. A nametag and the secret handshake are required for admission to the nightly campfire. Also @Exflyboy is planning to camp on BLM land, so he may have some thoughts.
Whoops! Better send up a bat signal: Paging @FrugalZony!!! Come on down!
Post by: lhamo on September 26, 2023, 05:27:30 PM
Nametags are great but they are NOT required for satisfactory campfire attendance. I showed up late last year, no nametag, and I still got smores. And ice cream. And tons of great conversations with old and new friends alike.
Anybody thinking of coming on short notice just DO IT! You will not regret it.
Post by: FrugalZony on September 26, 2023, 07:00:20 PM
Dicey, I sent you a message for nametags, thanks so much for offering.
I really hope we can make it happen!! Looking forward to meeting you all!!
Post by: Dicey on September 26, 2023, 09:49:37 PM
Clarification:What lhamo said. I've already packed extra lanyards, card stock and sharpies. No one will be left out. My handwriting's crap, so you'll have to DIY your own if you want it to be legible, lol.
Nametags are great but they are NOT required for satisfactory campfire attendance. I showed up late last year, no nametag, and I still got smores. And ice cream. And tons of great conversations with old and new friends alike.
Anybody thinking of coming on short notice just DO IT! You will not regret it.
Dang it, I went to Grocery Outlet to get S'more stuff, but they had nothing! Fortunately, there will be plenty of shopping opportunities before we get to Moab. I read somewhere that old marshmallows toast better. I haven't had time to investigate this, but I do have some left from last year, so I'll bring them along, in the name of scientific research. Don't worry, the graham crackers, chocolate, and the other marshmallows will be as fresh as I can find. I usually bring along some Vegan marshmallows. Fingers crossed that I find some along the way.
Post by: Exflyboy on September 27, 2023, 01:00:33 AM
Also @Exflyboy is planning to camp on BLM land, so he may have some thoughts.
Ummm.. nope crickets!
I don't even know where the BLM land is yet, but its somewhere near there I know that. I also have an SUV I intend to sleep in with decent ground clearance, so I should be good for a Walmart parking lot or a fairly rough off road trail and anything in-between..:)
Post by: Exflyboy on September 27, 2023, 01:09:35 AM
It maybe there are other extra vehicle spots available that folks might want to sub let. Heck for that matter @shadowmoss might want to kick me out if somebody can offer to buy more days than my notoriously frugal self is prepared to cough up for.
I mean Capitalism... Money talks..:)
Post by: Le Poisson on September 27, 2023, 07:32:50 AM
OK one sensible thought. I am (at least for the first night and possible others) am planning to squat in @shadowmoss 's extra vehicle spot.. Yes and pay my half.. I'm cheap but not THAT cheap..:)
It maybe there are other extra vehicle spots available that folks might want to sub let. Heck for that matter @shadowmoss might want to kick me out if somebody can offer to buy more days than my notoriously frugal self is prepared to cough up for.
I mean Capitalism... Money talks..:)
Our spot is available on October 6th . We arrive sometime late afternoon on the 7th after a long drive from Denver. I booked the site for an extra day, so if anyone needs a spot to get settled on Friday, and wants to check in for us, please go ahead.
Just let us know so we don't have to call the camp to hold our spot.
Post by: mm1970 on September 27, 2023, 10:54:55 AM
I have old marshmallows, or should I say, marshmallow. It's one big mass now. No, I will not be bringing them...er, it.Clarification:What lhamo said. I've already packed extra lanyards, card stock and sharpies. No one will be left out. My handwriting's crap, so you'll have to DIY your own if you want it to be legible, lol.
Nametags are great but they are NOT required for satisfactory campfire attendance. I showed up late last year, no nametag, and I still got smores. And ice cream. And tons of great conversations with old and new friends alike.
Anybody thinking of coming on short notice just DO IT! You will not regret it.
Dang it, I went to Grocery Outlet to get S'more stuff, but they had nothing! Fortunately, there will be plenty of shopping opportunities before we get to Moab. I read somewhere that old marshmallows toast better. I haven't had time to investigate this, but I do have some left from last year, so I'll bring them along, in the name of scientific research. Don't worry, the graham crackers, chocolate, and the other marshmallows will be as fresh as I can find. I usually bring along some Vegan marshmallows. Fingers crossed that I find some along the way.
Post by: mm1970 on September 27, 2023, 11:00:59 AM
Post by: Dicey on September 27, 2023, 11:22:24 AM
@Dicey: you may be amused by this— at CM*TO, Mr. Embok filled in his pronouns on his name tag with “Stop Talking “.Curious, was that a reminder to himself or a directive to others? Asking for a friend.
Post by: Embok on September 27, 2023, 02:35:05 PM
Post by: meadow lark on September 27, 2023, 03:54:34 PM
If the first night I sleep like shit with my tent/ cot+ mattress, etc., I've got MONEY.
Still have empty beds in La Casa, just in case anyone doesn’t enjoy camping!
Post by: shadowmoss on September 27, 2023, 06:54:45 PM
Post by: MrGreen on September 28, 2023, 12:51:43 PM
Anyone in the know have any suggestions for other stops between Denver and Moab?
Post by: Le Poisson on September 28, 2023, 01:15:06 PM
https://youtu.be/eQAJVgdVN0Q?t=426
Post by: Exflyboy on September 28, 2023, 02:37:21 PM
Hey @Exflyboy - you still up for spotting me on this?
https://youtu.be/eQAJVgdVN0Q?t=426
Absolutely! I mentioned this to my Wife and she told me in no uncertain terms that I was NOT to use her new car...:)
It looks fun and something I have wanted to try out.
Post by: StashingAway on September 28, 2023, 03:11:47 PM
We have 3 open days from leaving our Airbnb in Denver and the first day of the meetup. We're up in the air on plans. Originally we'd thought of driving through Salida-Gunnison-Montrose-Silverton. We did that two years ago though so it would not be a new experience. Still a beautiful drive though! We might come to Moab 3 days early. Not sure.
Anyone in the know have any suggestions for other stops between Denver and Moab?
Uh, only the biggest city on the western slope; Grand Junction! Been my home for over a year now, although it feels like I've lived here for 15. Lots of Moab-y things to do here (hiking, biking, etc), plus a free room if you're looking for one and don't mind sharing a house with two toddlers.
Post by: monarda on September 28, 2023, 06:46:09 PM
We have 3 open days from leaving our Airbnb in Denver and the first day of the meetup. We're up in the air on plans. Originally we'd thought of driving through Salida-Gunnison-Montrose-Silverton. We did that two years ago though so it would not be a new experience. Still a beautiful drive though! We might come to Moab 3 days early. Not sure.
Anyone in the know have any suggestions for other stops between Denver and Moab?
Before last year's meetup, I spent a week in Paonia at a friend's place. It's a sweet little town, convenient to Black Canyon of Gunnison.
We also camped a night in Fruita. Great place for biking.
Post by: Chaplin on September 28, 2023, 08:50:07 PM
Hey @Exflyboy - you still up for spotting me on this?
https://youtu.be/eQAJVgdVN0Q?t=426
Absolutely! I mentioned this to my Wife and she told me in no uncertain terms that I was NOT to use her new car...:)
It looks fun and something I have wanted to try out.
I'll throw my hat in the ring for spotting services, should the opportunity present itself. In a previous life I got a tiny bit of experience 4x4ing in Colorado. Mostly I was amazed by a climbing partner's ability to get her jeep up a road I never would have tried, plus doing a drive myself in a Subaru that I thought was pretty tough and then finding a 1990's Honda Civic at the trailhead. ToTheMoon's DH would be the fellow to take I imagine.
Post by: Dicey on September 28, 2023, 09:44:15 PM
We have 3 open days from leaving our Airbnb in Denver and the first day of the meetup. We're up in the air on plans. Originally we'd thought of driving through Salida-Gunnison-Montrose-Silverton. We did that two years ago though so it would not be a new experience. Still a beautiful drive though! We might come to Moab 3 days early. Not sure.Others will have suggestions, but be sure to take Baby Green to see the Breckenridge Troll.
Anyone in the know have any suggestions for other stops between Denver and Moab?
Well be arriving in Moab on the 4th, FWIW.
Post by: FrugalZony on September 28, 2023, 10:57:23 PM
Also @Exflyboy is planning to camp on BLM land, so he may have some thoughts.
Ummm.. nope crickets!
I don't even know where the BLM land is yet, but its somewhere near there I know that. I also have an SUV I intend to sleep in with decent ground clearance, so I should be good for a Walmart parking lot or a fairly rough off road trail and anything in-between..:)
no WM in Moab fyi
Most dispersed camping closer to town has a bit rougher roads and wasn't suitable for us. Might be ok in an SUV though.
With our camper we had good luck on La Salle Loop Rd, which is also slightly higher elevation.
That may be getting a bit chilly in October though and is a bit of a drive into town.
Some of the close to town BLM spots that used to be free, are paid areas now, so you might actually be better off with your shared tentsite ;)
Post by: MrGreen on September 28, 2023, 11:02:00 PM
Post by: FrugalZony on September 28, 2023, 11:05:41 PM
We have 3 open days from leaving our Airbnb in Denver and the first day of the meetup. We're up in the air on plans. Originally we'd thought of driving through Salida-Gunnison-Montrose-Silverton. We did that two years ago though so it would not be a new experience. Still a beautiful drive though! We might come to Moab 3 days early. Not sure.
Anyone in the know have any suggestions for other stops between Denver and Moab?
If you are open to a little more detour, Crestone, Great Sand Dunes NP and then via Mesa Verde and Canyon of the Ancients and Hovenweep to Moab.
Post by: Exflyboy on September 28, 2023, 11:50:58 PM
@Exflyboy the popular BLM spots just north of Arches became Utahraptor State Park last year. Not sure if that's where you were thinking of camping. I think it's $15 a night there now. They're supposed to be developing some facilities like bathrooms but I'm not sure if that work is done yet.
Here is the website (which I have not read yet) that lists the free BLM camping spots.. Assuming its up to date of course.
I will rent @shadowmoss 's spare spot for a day or two while I figure out the free spots.
Post by: Chaplin on September 29, 2023, 12:13:09 AM
I didn't get out on any group hikes last time but hope to this year. Four or five mountain bike rides are mandatory (Slick Rock and Captain Ahab for sure, others TBD). Campfires, greasy spoon breakfasts, ice cream socials - YES PLEASE! Maybe a SUP trip and a 4x4 bash would be fun too.
Post by: lhamo on September 29, 2023, 07:45:17 AM
@Exflyboy the popular BLM spots just north of Arches became Utahraptor State Park last year. Not sure if that's where you were thinking of camping. I think it's $15 a night there now. They're supposed to be developing some facilities like bathrooms but I'm not sure if that work is done yet.
Here is the website (which I have not read yet) that lists the free BLM camping spots.. Assuming its up to date of course.
I will rent @shadowmoss 's spare spot for a day or two while I figure out the free spots.
Dude, you do you, but you are at a sub 1% SWR. Maybe leave the free spots to people who are more financially constrained and give yourself the freedom to enjoy a beer or two around the campfire with your MMM peeps! I'll buy the first round.
Post by: Le Poisson on September 29, 2023, 02:49:09 PM
Post by: Dicey on September 29, 2023, 03:37:11 PM
Post by: lhamo on September 29, 2023, 04:59:23 PM
Does anybody have an extra seat in a car heading back toward Denver (or even better, Longmont) on Oct 13? I'd be happy to help pay for gas and even do some of the driving if it is a smaller car (not confident driving a big truck or RV).
If that doesn't work I could also use a ride as far as Green River, where I can get a bus to Denver (departs at around 11am).
Post by: MrGreen on September 29, 2023, 09:40:16 PM
Post by: Dicey on September 29, 2023, 10:00:42 PM
Looking like the plan is to close the national parks, lock gates, etc. The concern is a repeat of the kind of damage that was done to parks during the last shutdown. Sucks but I'd rather see the parks protected than trashed since people seem to have forgotten their manners.They absolutely should lock everything up tight.
As I mentioned before, there is plenty of non-federal land to explore in and around Moab.
Post by: FrugalZony on September 29, 2023, 10:35:45 PM
I posted to the What's App group but not sure everybody is on that yet.
Oooh, I have been wondering if there's something like a FB messenger chat or Whatsapp group for people that are actually attending.
I messaged you my phone number, would you please kindly add me to whatever channels there are, @lhamo ?
Thank you!
Post by: Exflyboy on September 30, 2023, 12:21:17 AM
@Exflyboy the popular BLM spots just north of Arches became Utahraptor State Park last year. Not sure if that's where you were thinking of camping. I think it's $15 a night there now. They're supposed to be developing some facilities like bathrooms but I'm not sure if that work is done yet.
Here is the website (which I have not read yet) that lists the free BLM camping spots.. Assuming its up to date of course.
I will rent @shadowmoss 's spare spot for a day or two while I figure out the free spots.
Dude, you do you, but you are at a sub 1% SWR. Maybe leave the free spots to people who are more financially constrained and give yourself the freedom to enjoy a beer or two around the campfire with your MMM peeps! I'll buy the first round.
Haha.. I think perhaps you misunderstand my motivation. Its not about saving money.. its a game of optimisation.. I.e to maximise enjoyment while spending the least amount of cash.
Does that make any kind of sense? I actually really don't care if end up spending $100 a night in a hotel. But.. the the thrill of getting something for "nothing".. i.e sleeping in my car is more optimal... Not perfect, otherwise I wouldn't be driving 2000 miles in a gas guzzling SUV to sleep in..:).
Post by: NinetyFour on September 30, 2023, 05:42:31 AM
I posted to the What's App group but not sure everybody is on that yet.
Oooh, I have been wondering if there's something like a FB messenger chat or Whatsapp group for people that are actually attending.
I messaged you my phone number, would you please kindly add me to whatever channels there are, @lhamo ?
Thank you!
@FrugalZony --I sent you a PM regarding the Whatsapp group chat.
Post by: FrugalZony on September 30, 2023, 03:28:51 PM
I posted to the What's App group but not sure everybody is on that yet.
Oooh, I have been wondering if there's something like a FB messenger chat or Whatsapp group for people that are actually attending.
I messaged you my phone number, would you please kindly add me to whatever channels there are, @lhamo ?
Thank you!
@FrugalZony --I sent you a PM regarding the Whatsapp group chat.
Thank you, just joined!
Looks like we're rolling in late tomorrow.
Most likely leaving on 10/11
So excited!!
Post by: mm1970 on October 02, 2023, 10:10:17 AM
@Exflyboy the popular BLM spots just north of Arches became Utahraptor State Park last year. Not sure if that's where you were thinking of camping. I think it's $15 a night there now. They're supposed to be developing some facilities like bathrooms but I'm not sure if that work is done yet.
Here is the website (which I have not read yet) that lists the free BLM camping spots.. Assuming its up to date of course.
I will rent @shadowmoss 's spare spot for a day or two while I figure out the free spots.
Dude, you do you, but you are at a sub 1% SWR. Maybe leave the free spots to people who are more financially constrained and give yourself the freedom to enjoy a beer or two around the campfire with your MMM peeps! I'll buy the first round.
Haha.. I think perhaps you misunderstand my motivation. Its not about saving money.. its a game of optimisation.. I.e to maximise enjoyment while spending the least amount of cash.
Does that make any kind of sense? I actually really don't care if end up spending $100 a night in a hotel. But.. the the thrill of getting something for "nothing".. i.e sleeping in my car is more optimal... Not perfect, otherwise I wouldn't be driving 2000 miles in a gas guzzling SUV to sleep in..:).
I LOLd.
Post by: shadowmoss on October 02, 2023, 10:14:45 AM
Post by: Exflyboy on October 02, 2023, 02:43:27 PM
Free camping is not always a budget move. The cost of the equipment needed, including the vehicle of an appropriate size, means that for folks who don't 'camp' often a hotel or campsite with electricity and water is more economical. The BLM free sites in that area are, I'm assuming, used mostly by folks with overland vehicles and/or big boy toys like off-road vehicles along with the actual camping stuff. The access to running water and the bath houses at the campground make life much easier.
Indeed.. In fact we bought a $35,000 SUV (limited off road capability) to avoid $30/night camping fees.. Clearly a superb ROI there..:)
Funny story, Tech that worked for me a few years back borrowed a friends motor home.. Think $500,000 luxury bus. The thing AVERAGED 6 miles per gallon. He took it to Southern Oregon from Portland and concluded that it was cheaper to stay in $200/night hotels!
Not to mention the fun of driving one of those things over mountain passes... :)
Post by: driftwood on October 03, 2023, 08:50:02 AM
Post by: Dicey on October 03, 2023, 08:52:37 AM
*Did we buy it used? Check
Did we earn the $$$ from a side gig? Check
Is it worth more than we paid for it? Check
Do we do our own repairs? Check
Did the purchase occur post-FI? Check
OTOH, do we stay at KOAs or fancy RV resorts? Hell no!
Do we eat out along the way? Hell no!
Do we use GasBuddy to suss out the cheapest fuel? Heck yah, we do!
Complete paradox.
Note to EFB: Maybe what we're really saying is we want to see more of you while you're here.
Post by: Exflyboy on October 03, 2023, 09:49:57 AM
I think you will be seeing MORE than enough of me after a week. I will be booking into Shadowmoss's site (G3) on Friday.
Actually I had better start planning my route and packing as I leave tomorrow morning.. Woohoo.:)
Post by: mm1970 on October 03, 2023, 10:49:29 AM
Alas, we are out of bar soap at home, but he found a hotel shower gel. It's probably at least 4 years old, ha. But it will work. Do I need to plan for every contingency? No.
Do I have so much more space in the car with only one human and not 4 + dog? Yes.
Now I just need to get the oil changed.
Post by: Exflyboy on October 03, 2023, 11:26:35 AM
Yesterday's game was: I need mini shampoo and soap for camping. But I didn't want to buy it at CVS (see my journal for reasons, besides the mini shampoos being fancy and $4). So dh found a mostly empty hotel shampoo bottle and added our own shampoo.
Alas, we are out of bar soap at home, but he found a hotel shower gel. It's probably at least 4 years old, ha. But it will work. Do I need to plan for every contingency? No.
Do I have so much more space in the car with only one human and not 4 + dog? Yes.
Now I just need to get the oil changed.
Awesome.. I assume you will be changing your own oil too?
Post by: shadowmoss on October 03, 2023, 11:49:09 AM
I posted on the app, but I won't be there on Friday evening as I had planned. I drive a shuttle for a guy up here in my small town part time as something to do and make a bit of money. Mostly we do shuttles for weddings as folks stay in local Air B&B's and we take them to and from the wedding site. He has a big wedding to do Friday and I am his usual (only) week day driver. He offered me double wages and begged me to help him. Soooo. I'll be arriving Saturday afternoon instead. EFB will check into the site for me.
Post by: mm1970 on October 03, 2023, 01:49:13 PM
No. We used to, but we def started picking our own battles around the time kid #2 was born (he's 11). It's just easier to let Jiffy Lube dispose of the old oil.Yesterday's game was: I need mini shampoo and soap for camping. But I didn't want to buy it at CVS (see my journal for reasons, besides the mini shampoos being fancy and $4). So dh found a mostly empty hotel shampoo bottle and added our own shampoo.
Alas, we are out of bar soap at home, but he found a hotel shower gel. It's probably at least 4 years old, ha. But it will work. Do I need to plan for every contingency? No.
Do I have so much more space in the car with only one human and not 4 + dog? Yes.
Now I just need to get the oil changed.
Awesome.. I assume you will be changing your own oil too?
Post by: Exflyboy on October 03, 2023, 03:34:08 PM
Post by: Dicey on October 03, 2023, 09:35:17 PM
Post by: Cherry Lane on October 04, 2023, 08:59:55 AM
Post by: Exflyboy on October 04, 2023, 09:28:07 AM
Lots of cool things to do on the way. You could spend a night at Goblin Valley SP. Awesome BLM camping there. You're retired, you can move at a leisurely pace.
Indeed and if HRH was coming then I probably would have, but we get an extra day together this way..:)
Post by: mm1970 on October 04, 2023, 10:34:15 AM
He misinterpreted my "they didn't have anything" - I meant "they didn't have anything worth buying", not "they were totally out".
He's so sweet.
I'm of course bringing the shampoo he bought.
Post by: meadow lark on October 05, 2023, 04:02:25 AM
Post by: Embok on October 05, 2023, 09:21:18 AM
Post by: monarda on October 05, 2023, 09:35:32 AM
Enjoying reading along as I can’t be there. Hope all of you have a terrific time together!
Me, too. Enjoy!
Post by: Exflyboy on October 05, 2023, 09:46:49 AM
Post by: Cassie on October 05, 2023, 09:51:24 AM
Post by: Dicey on October 05, 2023, 11:11:20 AM
If and only if you have not responded on WhatsApp - who is coming to Thanksgiving Dinner? I’m up to 38 of us! They sell turkey in October, right? Right?Since we're already here, shall we check the local markets? City Market probably has a system to order one, if we give them enough lead time.
Post by: stacheasaurus on October 06, 2023, 12:02:10 PM
Post by: BicycleB on October 06, 2023, 04:10:59 PM
Post by: StashingAway on October 07, 2023, 08:06:50 PM
Post by: NinetyFour on October 07, 2023, 09:52:48 PM
Post by: Purple_Crayon on October 11, 2023, 10:51:29 AM
I was planning on staying one more day, but DW called about our water heater dying. I've been dragging it along since 2006, so it wasn't a surprise. However, the quote to get it replaced was that and then some.
I got quotes from three different plumbing companies that came in anywhere from $2200 to $4100. One of them had a $700 charge just to pick up the water heater from Home Depot (that is five minutes from my house). Feeling disgusted by said quotes, I ended up yanking the old one and installing the new one myself to the tune of $791.13. I have hot water again.
Being back at MegaCorp after spending time with you all definitely makes the first day back even harder than it is after any vacation!
Post by: MrGreen on October 11, 2023, 01:34:17 PM
Post by: Exflyboy on October 11, 2023, 04:22:32 PM
Post by: NinetyFour on October 11, 2023, 08:27:00 PM
* Mill Creek Hike
* Professor Creek Hike
* La Sal Mountain Loop drive
* Canadian Thanksgiving Feast and Celebration
* Druid Arch hike (Canyonlands Needles)
* Arches sunrise hikes, including Delicate Arch
* Canyonlands (Island in the Sky) sunrise at Mesa Arch
* Hunter Canyon hike
* Canoeing on the Colorado
* Tubing/SUPing/Packrafting on the Colorado
* Portal Trail hike
* 4WDing at Sand Flats Recreation Area
* Taco Tuesday
* Ice Cream Sundaes on Sunday
* Cruiser biking in Moab and up 128
* Evening campfires
* Mountain biking (including Captain Ahab)
* and several other things I'm probably forgetting--sorry!
So much fun, and such wonderful folks!!
Post by: 314159 on October 11, 2023, 11:10:13 PM
@Purple_Crayon so glad to have met you at the meetup! I thoroughly enjoyed our conversations. Sorry about the water heater, but nice job saving those $$$. And I like your new new username!
While I'm posting here—somebody (I'm 90% sure it was @Le Poisson ) asked for the cranberry cake upside down cake recipe. Here it is! (https://www.lottieanddoof.com/2008/11/cranberry-upside-down-cake/) For the meetup I made it with boxed yellow cake mix*, but I usually follow the recipe for the scratch cake as written (though I often skip whipping the egg whites and just add the whole eggs at once). And I doubled it for a 9x13 pan instead of a single round 8" or 9" cake pan/cast iron skillet. I love this recipe! It's a delicious combo of tart and sweet and has a beautiful red color.
*We used milk instead of water in the box cake mix, and added an extra egg yolk for richer texture. I also added some orange juice since we had extra.
Being back at MegaCorp after spending time with you all definitely makes the first day back even harder than it is after any vacation!
Boy did I feel that today too!
Post by: 2Birds1Stone on October 12, 2023, 05:39:14 AM
Quick summary of activities so far...
* Mill Creek Hike
* Professor Creek Hike
* La Sal Mountain Loop drive
* Canadian Thanksgiving Feast and Celebration
* Druid Arch hike (Canyonlands Needles)
* Arches sunrise hikes, including Delicate Arch
* Canyonlands (Island in the Sky) sunrise at Mesa Arch
* Hunter Canyon hike
* Canoeing on the Colorado
* Tubing/SUPing/Packrafting on the Colorado
* Portal Trail hike
* 4WDing at Sand Flats Recreation Area
* Taco Tuesday
* Ice Cream Sundaes on Sunday
* Cruiser biking in Moab and up 128
* Evening campfires
* Mountain biking (including Captain Ahab)
* and several other things I'm probably forgetting--sorry!
So much fun, and such wonderful folks!!
You have to one-up this list next year when DW and I attend :)
Post by: Dicey on October 12, 2023, 01:18:29 PM
Lol. No, we don't. You will not be NOT be disappointed.Quick summary of activities so far...
* Mill Creek Hike
* Professor Creek Hike
* La Sal Mountain Loop drive
* Canadian Thanksgiving Feast and Celebration
* Druid Arch hike (Canyonlands Needles)
* Arches sunrise hikes, including Delicate Arch
* Canyonlands (Island in the Sky) sunrise at Mesa Arch
* Hunter Canyon hike
* Canoeing on the Colorado
* Tubing/SUPing/Packrafting on the Colorado
* Portal Trail hike
* 4WDing at Sand Flats Recreation Area
* Taco Tuesday
* Ice Cream Sundaes on Sunday
* Cruiser biking in Moab and up 128
* Evening campfires
* Mountain biking (including Captain Ahab)
* and several other things I'm probably forgetting--sorry!
So much fun, and such wonderful folks!!
You have to one-up this list next year when DW and I attend :)
Post by: Fru-Gal on October 12, 2023, 01:32:04 PM
Post by: Dicey on October 12, 2023, 01:54:43 PM
First things first -- what a fantastic group of Mustachians! I had such a good time getting to know you, and was sad I couldn't stay longer. Y'all also convinced me to pick a name that actually means something to me, so I did.OMG, I consumed books like krill as a kid. I adored the Harold books! I had thought they were forgotten to the annals of time. I walked into a brand-new mega bookstore a few years ago and was utterly gobsmacked to see the entrance of the children's section outlined by a larger-than-life Harold, with his purple crayon. Obviously, I love the new name! Thanks for coming to Moab!
I was planning on staying one more day, but DW called about our water heater dying. I've been dragging it along since 2006, so it wasn't a surprise. However, the quote to get it replaced was that and then some.
I got quotes from three different plumbing companies that came in anywhere from $2200 to $4100. One of them had a $700 charge just to pick up the water heater from Home Depot (that is five minutes from my house). Feeling disgusted by said quotes, I ended up yanking the old one and installing the new one myself to the tune of $791.13. I have hot water again.
Being back at MegaCorp after spending time with you all definitely makes the first day back even harder than it is after any vacation!
Post by: mm1970 on October 13, 2023, 10:32:34 AM
My DH is like "I'm trying to figure out how I can go next year, but: DS11." Yep. But you know, I told him that if it aligns with a long weekend at the school, then we could possibly fly instead of drive and stay at a La Casa-type place - that decreases the time spent traveling and increases the time spent having fun. (Plus: I don't think the rest of the family enjoys the camping/ road trip aspect as much as I do.)
I don't like to pull my kids out of school, but they each missed 20, 25 days last year due to illness, and the world did not stop spinning...
Post by: FrugalZony on October 13, 2023, 08:07:31 PM
I wish I could have spent more time with the group, but considering that this was a last minute thing for us, I am very grateful for the time I got to spend at the FIRE and La Casa!
Hope you all had a safe trip home.
We are en route to Houston TX, spending the night in Muleshoe, TX
Looking forward to next year!
Post by: Exflyboy on October 14, 2023, 03:30:43 PM
I'm still basking in the post-MOAB 2023 glow.
Thats good cus I just got home and realise how much I miss everyone!
I even enjoyed the 1018 mile drive. For a boy that never spent more than 3 hours in a car (maybe 5 hours if there was traffic) getting from one side of the Island to the other, thats saying something!
Sleeping at a rest stop.. new experience, didn't get murdered.. All interesting stuff!
Post by: 2Birds1Stone on October 15, 2023, 01:15:07 AM
Lol. No, we don't. You will not be NOT be disappointed.Quick summary of activities so far...
* Mill Creek Hike
* Professor Creek Hike
* La Sal Mountain Loop drive
* Canadian Thanksgiving Feast and Celebration
* Druid Arch hike (Canyonlands Needles)
* Arches sunrise hikes, including Delicate Arch
* Canyonlands (Island in the Sky) sunrise at Mesa Arch
* Hunter Canyon hike
* Canoeing on the Colorado
* Tubing/SUPing/Packrafting on the Colorado
* Portal Trail hike
* 4WDing at Sand Flats Recreation Area
* Taco Tuesday
* Ice Cream Sundaes on Sunday
* Cruiser biking in Moab and up 128
* Evening campfires
* Mountain biking (including Captain Ahab)
* and several other things I'm probably forgetting--sorry!
So much fun, and such wonderful folks!!
You have to one-up this list next year when DW and I attend :)
My sarcasm did not come through strongly enough =D
It's an epic list!! Can't effin wait.
Post by: NinetyFour on October 16, 2023, 01:29:00 PM
AZ
CA
CO
LA
NC
NJ
OR
PA
UT
VA
WA
BC
ON
Did I miss any?
Can we do even better next year??
Post by: Exflyboy on October 16, 2023, 02:01:47 PM
Germany, Hungary, Peoples Republic of Canuckistan and UK..:)
Post by: Le Poisson on October 16, 2023, 02:23:31 PM
We did:
ON
MI
IN
IL
IA
NE
CO
UT
CO
KS
MO
IL
IN
OH
MI
ON
Post by: iluvzbeach on October 16, 2023, 02:44:08 PM
Post by: Exflyboy on October 16, 2023, 02:49:27 PM
I want to join next year. It sounds like SO MUCH FUN!
Yes and our Honda Passports are SOOO comfy on a long drive. It even steers round the corners by itself..:)
Post by: iluvzbeach on October 16, 2023, 02:54:36 PM
I want to join next year. It sounds like SO MUCH FUN!
Yes and our Honda Passports are SOOO comfy on a long drive. It even steers round the corners by itself..:)
We took my Passport on a drive to Glacier National Park last year and it was a very nice upgrade from my previous beloved Honda (a 2005 Pilot with 200K+ miles.)
We could find a meet up spot somewhere along the way and have a little Honda Passport caravan for the remainder of the drive. :)
Post by: Dicey on October 16, 2023, 02:58:03 PM
I think state lines crossed would be fun to do as well.We were slackers:
We did:
ON
MI
IN
IL
IA
NE
CO
UT
CO
KS
MO
IL
IN
OH
MI
ON
CA, NV, UT, CO. Of course, the CO part was an add-on (pre-amble?) but if we're keping score, I'm counting it.
Post by: NinetyFour on October 16, 2023, 03:54:59 PM
@NinetyFour You could argue that at least 4 foreign countries were represented as well..:)
Germany, Hungary, Peoples Republic of Canuckistan and UK..:)
And Romania!
And I forgot to say that I'm not sure which state/province/country @Cannot Wait! and @FrugalZony call home!
Post by: Le Poisson on October 16, 2023, 04:26:56 PM
I'm sorry. And none of it was intentional. But also, we are almost out of Salted Caramels and Nut Bars. If you need another ride...
Post by: Cannot Wait! on October 16, 2023, 04:34:27 PM
@NinetyFour You could argue that at least 4 foreign countries were represented as well..:)
Germany, Hungary, Peoples Republic of Canuckistan and UK..:)
And Romania!
And I forgot to say that I'm not sure which state/province/country @Cannot Wait! and @FrugalZony call home!
Home is where we park it... presently on a beach in San Felipe, Mexico...
Post by: deborah on October 16, 2023, 05:32:55 PM
I think state lines crossed would be fun to do as well.This had me looking at how many different states I crossed last year when I went to Moab. More than half.
We did:
ON
MI
IN
IL
IA
NE
CO
UT
CO
KS
MO
IL
IN
OH
MI
ON
Post by: lhamo on October 17, 2023, 12:16:24 PM
Our poor guest on the drive back to Denver is likely re-evaluating their life choices right now. At one point I joked that hitching a ride with us was like being trapped in the back of a polka band's truck for a trek across America on Christmas. And then our playlist (we listen to a few spotify playlists that we've downloaded since we don't have a US data plan) kept playing song after song that could be interpreted as targeted... (Both sides now, Life after love, 50 ways to leave your lover, etc.) until the goofy songs came up on the play list wherewith our guest was serenaded by J1 singing about stuck trucks and half crazed Mississippi squirrels, and Potatoes.
I'm sorry. And none of it was intentional. But also, we are almost out of Salted Caramels and Nut Bars. If you need another ride...
For the record, this hitchhiking guest was much amused by the musical selections. And pleased to not have been on a greyhound bus for 8-9 hours.
Costco would not let me inside with my luggage, though -- I was supposed to have a car to put it in and they did not like my explanation that the one I just got out of was on the way to Canuckstan and the one that was picking me up was stuck in traffic. They did let me sit next to the big Toyota in the entry way and play sudoku while I waited, though.
Note to the wiser than me: do not attempt to have your friends pick you up between 4-5 pm on a Friday at the busiest Costco in the greater Denver area. Especially when the parking lot design is so poorly thought out that it takes them 30 extra minutes to make it back after they missed one of the two entrances....
Post by: BicycleB on October 17, 2023, 06:09:07 PM
States and Provinces represented this year:
AZ
CA
CO
LA
NC
NJ
OR
PA
UT
VA
WA
BC
ON
Did I miss any?
Can we do even better next year??
Yes. Planning to rep IL. :)
Post by: Le Poisson on October 17, 2023, 06:57:03 PM
Whenever someone was struggling on this camp - whether with a hike or setting up a tent, or pretty much anything they were right there.
Momma is a slow hiker, but these two always had her back, without being put out, with endless patience, with energy to be leading, but with the caring to stay back.
And when things went sideways (oh man, did I make things go sideways!) they never complained - instead they were right there to get things back on track, do their part to make things right again, and to move on without blaming anyone or moaning about the situation.
Guys, I think you're both super classy. Thanks for everything you did all week long.
Post by: FrugalZony on October 17, 2023, 09:48:06 PM
@NinetyFour You could argue that at least 4 foreign countries were represented as well..:)
Germany, Hungary, Peoples Republic of Canuckistan and UK..:)
And Romania!
And I forgot to say that I'm not sure which state/province/country @Cannot Wait! and @FrugalZony call home!
Yep, what Cannot Wait said! Home is where we park it!
But I also feel adequately represented by AZ and Germany.
Changing to TX in the next few weeks though...so we can add that to the list next year.
Post by: Purple_Crayon on October 18, 2023, 11:02:59 AM
- No one wanted or needed anything from anyone else other than shared experience -- this makes it pretty natural to be at ease
- Almost no phones -- I made mental notes of this a lot because it's something I ask of my family and friends with little success
- No whininess -- Most places I find myself are perpetuated with complaints. I found that most people were often complimenting one another, laughing, and sharing stories. Even when hard times were recounted, they were done from a place of gratitude or perspective.
- Camaraderie and cooperation -- It seemed every time drivers or food preparers were needed, many people raised their hands. During hikes or other outings, people were happy to help those with less experience or ability.
- General impressiveness -- I'll be honest: It's really refreshing to be around a group of people who have their shit together. Everyone I got the pleasure of chatting with was bright, humble, easy to laugh, and seemingly self-sustaining (independent, accountable for one's own self-actualization, willing to work).
Just wanted to send out a second thanks to the group for putting a bit of wind in some sails and giving me reason to brag about my vacation.
Post by: Exflyboy on October 18, 2023, 03:36:16 PM
Hi Friends. I've been talking (bragging) about the meetup ever since I got back home. I was trying to figure out why I enjoyed it so much (apart from the obvious). This is where I landed:
- No one wanted or needed anything from anyone else other than shared experience -- this makes it pretty natural to be at ease
- Almost no phones -- I made mental notes of this a lot because it's something I ask of my family and friends with little success
- No whininess -- Most places I find myself are perpetuated with complaints. I found that most people were often complimenting one another, laughing, and sharing stories. Even when hard times were recounted, they were done from a place of gratitude or perspective.
- Camaraderie and cooperation -- It seemed every time drivers or food preparers were needed, many people raised their hands. During hikes or other outings, people were happy to help those with less experience or ability.
- General impressiveness -- I'll be honest: It's really refreshing to be around a group of people who have their shit together. Everyone I got the pleasure of chatting with was bright, humble, easy to laugh, and seemingly self-sustaining (independent, accountable for one's own self-actualization, willing to work).
Just wanted to send out a second thanks to the group for putting a bit of wind in some sails and giving me reason to brag about my vacation.
I agree especially about the people being bright. I suspect the group average IQ (if such a thing actually is measurable) is well above the national average. The diversity of backgrounds was very interesting although I really enjoyed the odd "nerdfest" with the engineering types.. Youngs Modulus.. Heaven!..:)
Post by: 314159 on October 19, 2023, 12:10:08 AM
I also thought it had the perfect blend of daytime activity (hiking etc) and evening socializing around the fire. Everyone could spend their days as they wanted, yet we were all here together and could enjoy each other's company.
You mentioned wind in your sails, appropriate given your username:
(http://goingonabookhunt.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/purple-crayon.jpg)
Post by: NinjaSue on October 24, 2023, 10:54:15 PM
Post by: Dicey on October 24, 2023, 11:04:34 PM
Well said @Purple_Crayon - totally agree. We immensely enjoyed the experience and hope to be back in future years!Ooh, two new names that I quite like, lol!
Post by: NinetyFour on October 26, 2023, 05:40:37 PM
Won't be at campsite or anything but will be riding navajo rocks mtb trail (~~3hr ride from the road going up to canyonlands, woul consider it a blue square rating) if anyone wants to join tomorrow morning
I don't think I got to meet you--hope you had fun on the trails! See you at next year's meetup?? :)
Have fun, ya'll!
We did! See you next year?? :)
I am here and with bike. Monday morning ride?
Sorry I didn't get to talk with you much in Moab. Hope you enjoyed your time in Canyonlands. Would love to have you back next year!
First things first -- what a fantastic group of Mustachians! I had such a good time getting to know you, and was sad I couldn't stay longer. Y'all also convinced me to pick a name that actually means something to me, so I did.
I was planning on staying one more day, but DW called about our water heater dying. I've been dragging it along since 2006, so it wasn't a surprise. However, the quote to get it replaced was that and then some.
I got quotes from three different plumbing companies that came in anywhere from $2200 to $4100. One of them had a $700 charge just to pick up the water heater from Home Depot (that is five minutes from my house). Feeling disgusted by said quotes, I ended up yanking the old one and installing the new one myself to the tune of $791.13. I have hot water again.
Being back at MegaCorp after spending time with you all definitely makes the first day back even harder than it is after any vacation!
I'm so very glad you joined us and enjoyed it! Sure hope you come back next year.
And nice mustachian move with the water heater DIY!! I'm impressed!
Thanks to all attendees and to our organizers! We had tons of fun exploring the area with you and we loved talking about Mustachianism with you.
So glad you and your fiancée joined us! Would love to have you return next year for more fun!
Quick summary of activities so far...
* Mill Creek Hike
* Professor Creek Hike
* La Sal Mountain Loop drive
* Canadian Thanksgiving Feast and Celebration
* Druid Arch hike (Canyonlands Needles)
* Arches sunrise hikes, including Delicate Arch
* Canyonlands (Island in the Sky) sunrise at Mesa Arch
* Hunter Canyon hike
* Canoeing on the Colorado
* Tubing/SUPing/Packrafting on the Colorado
* Portal Trail hike
* 4WDing at Sand Flats Recreation Area
* Taco Tuesday
* Ice Cream Sundaes on Sunday
* Cruiser biking in Moab and up 128
* Evening campfires
* Mountain biking (including Captain Ahab)
* and several other things I'm probably forgetting--sorry!
So much fun, and such wonderful folks!!
You have to one-up this list next year when DW and I attend :)
YAY--so glad you are planning on it!! I already know that it is going to be awesome. :)
I’m so glad you all are having fun! Hope to be back next year.
I'll keep pestering you until you commit. :D
Post by: NinetyFour on October 26, 2023, 06:16:35 PM
I'm still basking in the post-MOAB 2023 glow.
My DH is like "I'm trying to figure out how I can go next year, but: DS11." Yep. But you know, I told him that if it aligns with a long weekend at the school, then we could possibly fly instead of drive and stay at a La Casa-type place - that decreases the time spent traveling and increases the time spent having fun. (Plus: I don't think the rest of the family enjoys the camping/ road trip aspect as much as I do.)
I don't like to pull my kids out of school, but they each missed 20, 25 days last year due to illness, and the world did not stop spinning...
Great to meet you in Moab!! So glad you are planning to return and are trying to find a way to bring the family! :)
It was so nice to finally meet all of you! It's always great to put a face to a forum name.
I wish I could have spent more time with the group, but considering that this was a last minute thing for us, I am very grateful for the time I got to spend at the FIRE and La Casa!
Hope you all had a safe trip home.
We are en route to Houston TX, spending the night in Muleshoe, TX
Looking forward to next year!
Meeting you was definitely one of the highlights of the meetup for me. You are even more wonderful in person than I had imagined!! Sure hope to see you next year in Moab, and perhaps earlier if we cross paths at some point this winter!
I'm still basking in the post-MOAB 2023 glow.
Thats good cus I just got home and realise how much I miss everyone!
I even enjoyed the 1018 mile drive. For a boy that never spent more than 3 hours in a car (maybe 5 hours if there was traffic) getting from one side of the Island to the other, thats saying something!
Sleeping at a rest stop.. new experience, didn't get murdered.. All interesting stuff!
I'm so very glad you joined us this year, EFB! And not only because spent hours fixing things on my camper!! Hopefully we will see you next year, and maybe your DW, too!!
I want to join next year. It sounds like SO MUCH FUN!
YESSSS!!! It is fun. But also relaxing. Really, it's whatever you want it to be. In a beautiful place. :)
I want to join next year. It sounds like SO MUCH FUN!
Yes and our Honda Passports are SOOO comfy on a long drive. It even steers round the corners by itself..:)
We took my Passport on a drive to Glacier National Park last year and it was a very nice upgrade from my previous beloved Honda (a 2005 Pilot with 200K+ miles.)
We could find a meet up spot somewhere along the way and have a little Honda Passport caravan for the remainder of the drive. :)
Hmm...it could be that two caravans to Moab are in the works: one from BC/PNW and another from Ontario.....very cool!!
I have been thinking a lot about @vector and his brother. I'd like to nod in their general direction for being amazing on the trail and around camp.
Whenever someone was struggling on this camp - whether with a hike or setting up a tent, or pretty much anything they were right there.
Momma is a slow hiker, but these two always had her back, without being put out, with endless patience, with energy to be leading, but with the caring to stay back.
And when things went sideways (oh man, did I make things go sideways!) they never complained - instead they were right there to get things back on track, do their part to make things right again, and to move on without blaming anyone or moaning about the situation.
Guys, I think you're both super classy. Thanks for everything you did all week long.
Glad you took the time to write this up, Mr. Fish. These guys are both awesome. Watching them was a great reminder to me of how people should treat each other. :)
Hi Friends. I've been talking (bragging) about the meetup ever since I got back home. I was trying to figure out why I enjoyed it so much (apart from the obvious). This is where I landed:
- No one wanted or needed anything from anyone else other than shared experience -- this makes it pretty natural to be at ease
- Almost no phones -- I made mental notes of this a lot because it's something I ask of my family and friends with little success
- No whininess -- Most places I find myself are perpetuated with complaints. I found that most people were often complimenting one another, laughing, and sharing stories. Even when hard times were recounted, they were done from a place of gratitude or perspective.
- Camaraderie and cooperation -- It seemed every time drivers or food preparers were needed, many people raised their hands. During hikes or other outings, people were happy to help those with less experience or ability.
- General impressiveness -- I'll be honest: It's really refreshing to be around a group of people who have their shit together. Everyone I got the pleasure of chatting with was bright, humble, easy to laugh, and seemingly self-sustaining (independent, accountable for one's own self-actualization, willing to work).
Just wanted to send out a second thanks to the group for putting a bit of wind in some sails and giving me reason to brag about my vacation.
That's a great list, PC. Thanks for sharing those thoughts with us. It really was a wonderful group of people.
Great list @Purple_Crayon, I agree on every point. And with Exflyboy's too, it was quite enjoyable to chat with people I would never have met otherwise and who have totally different backgrounds.
I also thought it had the perfect blend of daytime activity (hiking etc) and evening socializing around the fire. Everyone could spend their days as they wanted, yet we were all here together and could enjoy each other's company.
This is great feedback, Pi! I'm glad that blend worked well for you.
Well said @Purple_Crayon - totally agree. We immensely enjoyed the experience and hope to be back in future years!
So glad you enjoyed it--really hope to see you next year!! :)
Post by: 2Birds1Stone on October 28, 2023, 12:55:23 PM
Post by: Dicey on October 30, 2023, 04:04:29 PM
2024 Days?Not yet. We try to avoid masses of people on Fall Breaks. It's a bit of a dice throw, but @NinetyFour's gotten pretty good at it over the years.
Post by: NinetyFour on November 06, 2023, 08:30:07 AM
I arrived on Friday, October 6th. Was able to greet some folks, eat a couple of sandwiches, and chat a bit before I succumbed to exhaustion and leftover jet lag from my recent return from Portugal.
Was still tired the next morning, but managed to rally and join the Mill Creek Trail hike--organized by @Cherry Lane . It was a great hike, which involved some surprise swimming. :) We also managed to get to an arch (what was it called??) which I had never seen, so that was awesome. A few pics:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280166124_8c7cc430b2_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280166654_c638d9e6f6_b.jpg)
Cool rock. (We really need a geologist to join our meetup!! @Glenstache ??)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53278924162_d21ba87a64_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53279812371_d64b9fdf79_k.jpg)
On Sunday, about 10 of us hiked up the Portal Trail. I was excited to go farther on this trail than I had before. We got up to the "top" and intersected with the Poison Spider Trail. We tried to find "Little Arch", and we probably could have with more time. I hope to get out there and find it before the next meetup so that I'll be able to take people to see it. A few pics:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53279819761_c60cd795fe_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53278931282_a79cf7388f_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280175834_fc53a6becc_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53279822941_9450268be1_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280116073_c1db2d571d_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53279833161_e96f98fc15_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53278983822_5a9a46603b_k.jpg)
If you look closely, you can see our group perched at an overlook:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280331890_a5f6f94ff9_4k.jpg)
We were rewarded later that afternoon/evening with an Ice Cream Social, thanks to @Dicey and @deborah !!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53278985437_4480bbdb20_k.jpg)
On Monday, I got to do some surfing! In a canoe! On the Colorado River! I don't have any pictures of the trip...maybe @Le Poisson or @vector do?
And we got to celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving that evening, thanks to @meadow lark and Stingray and a bunch of other helpers!
This is the only picture I have of the holiday. :) Can you find the poutine??
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280248564_4fa4218950_h.jpg)
On Tuesday, two cars full of us drove to the Needles District of Canyonlands to hike out to Druid Arch. It was awesome. A few pics:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280229929_714c72d7fe_b.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280341720_632411c4d9_b.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53278988787_16dc022f43_b.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280341755_5d613fb3c4_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53279881011_a0b58aeb35_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280346615_a3e2ea69bc_b.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53278994717_6e3539424d_b.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53313824023_f9610a2851_4k.jpg)
To be continued....
Post by: NinetyFour on November 06, 2023, 09:21:36 AM
On Wednesday, I was able to add a little diversity to the 4WD outing. :) Specifically, I was in a vehicle with The Fish and the two J's. We followed (mostly successfully) @ToTheMoon 's DH and his crew. It wasn't something that I will take up as a hobby, but it was actually quite interesting to see what the vehicles and the operators could do! A few pics:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53279895296_9798ede98a_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53279004262_ca6cfe42a9_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280244694_eaae0aa020_b.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53313951543_9578bcec75_h.jpg)
On Thursday, all of us who were still there (sadly, some folks had already left us) did the Bowtie and Corona Arches hike...and we also did the spur trail over to the lovely Pinto Arch. Seemed like everyone enjoyed the hike and the amazing arches. Nice way to wrap up the week.
Here are a couple pics of Bowtie Arch, and one of part of Corona Arch.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280361605_5cde72317f_b.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280179428_67d8ea9718_b.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53280183018_6afe3d95de_b.jpg)
Post by: NinetyFour on November 06, 2023, 09:53:22 AM
https://www.gjhikes.com/2023/04/lower-south-mill-creek.html
Also, next year, I want to take people to see one of my favoUrite arches in Arches NP. It's one that I have been to only once, and it's awesome. I don't want to give away the surprise here...
All in all, for me, this was the best Magical Moab Meetup yet! And that's saying a lot, because they have all been excellent! I counted 43 people and one very good dog. That's our biggest meetup yet. I was a little nervous that that would be too many people, but it worked out perfectly, from my perspective anyway. It was large enough so that people could join in different activities each day, and not so big that people got "lost" in the crowd.
In case you haven't seen it yet, there is a new thread (https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/meetups-and-social-events/2024-magical-moab-meetup/), because YES we are on for next year!! :D