Conference misery::feline

An east coast gathering sounds great to me!  I'll even volunteer my house,
in Carlisle, MA.  30-45 minutes from everywhere (Merrimack, Nashua, Marlboro,
Fitchburg...)  Just pick a date that I can make! :-)

Jill

    And for another options...I will volunteer my house too which is
    in Fitchburg Ma.  Let's gather our options...and then we can pick
    the spot which is most convenient for everyone.   
    
    I'd like to suggest we do this one in April...and then I can plan 
    another one at the shelter in June!  End of April is best for me!!
    
    Sandy
    
     

    End of April sounds good here, too!
    
    K.C.

Me, too, but I'm leaving the 29th of April for DECUS......

Mary, who still has leftover pizza.....

    How about someplace along the Rte 128 belt?
    
    There is a Weylu's in Woburn....?
    
    Lynne
    

    We first need to figure out where everyone lives/works and pick an area
    that is convenient for most.  If people want Chinese, there's an ok
    place in Chelmsford (Szechuan Chef) as well as Billerica (Hunan Garden)

    Since I started this, how does the week of April 20-24 sound?  It's
    prior to DECUS but just after my vacation.  :^)

    How does Thursday night sound or do we have to do this on the weekend? 
    Should we pick a restaurant or would we rather meet at someone's house
    and each bring a dish to share?  My big key factor is if there's going
    to be cigarette smoke around I won't last long.  

    Ok, I'm volunteering to coordinate this!  Send me the following info
    and I'll try to think of something:

    	preference for day of week and time:
    	area that you'd be willing to travel to:
        choice of meeting at restaurant/someone's house/or no preference:
        if in a restaurant, any preference for seafood, Chinese, etc:
    	if you are willing to host this and where your place is:   :^)
    	
    Feel free to add any other information.  

    I live in Groton, MA and work at LKG (Littleton, MA).  Any day but
    Thursday's are good for me, but even that could be arranged.  I think
    a meeting at the shelter sounds fine, if I can resists "just one more
    kitty before I leave".  April anytime is fine also.
    
    Rosemary Gaskell

    I also work at LKG.. Hunan Garden in Billerica has real good Chinese
    food.  April 20 is Patriots Day and the end of Easter weekend, so
    Monday might not be a good day for some folks (like me!). Most any 
    other night is fine with me (except for that Friday since I'll be in
    Boston all day for DECworld Employee Day).
    
    Don't forget to bring pictures of your kitties!
    Mary
    

    I'd like to go too, and the week of April 20 is fine with me, with
    a preference for Wednesday or Thursday that week.  I work in ZKO, and
    can go just about anywhere in Mass. or southern NH.
    
    Barbara

    I'd also like to attend this gathering.  I am presently employed in
    Hudson (being a temp., this could change at any time) and I live in
    Fitchburg, so anywhere convenient to either place is fine with me. 
    Also, as of now, anytime in April is okay for me.
    
    Lori B.

    Lori, Is that Hudson MA or NH?  
    
    So far it seems like everyone can make it the week of April 20th.  Why
    not shoot for either Wednesday, the 22nd or Thursday, the 23rd.  We've
    had offers of the usage of homes in the Carlisle and Fitchburg,
    Massachusetts areas.  How do people feel about the 22nd or 23rd?

    Oooopps, sorry, that should have said Hudson, MA.
    
    The 22nd or 23rd is fine for me.
    
    Lori B

    I'd love to attend the gathering! I just need REALLY good directions to
    wherever it is to be held. I'm the world's worst at directions! 
    
    It's weird, because my husband hands me the atlas when we start on a
    trip somewhere, (usually at least 900 miles) and I can get him there
    with no problem. Even if we hit major traffic, and need a contingency
    plan! But, put me in the car alone to try to get somewhere that I've
    never been, and my brains fallout! Go figure!
    
    Either of the dates posted would be fine for me. I just need a little
    notice if it willl be at someone's home, so I can plan some time to
    make something.
    
    Awaiting a decision,
    
     Y
    
    P.S. I think I'd better get some photos of my two, or I'll be in big
    trouble! ;-)

    Yvonne,
    
    I'm the same way!  I hate driving to places alone I've never been, even
    if I have REALLY GOOD directions!!  When my husband and I were on our
    honeymoon we got lost coming back from Atlantic City.  It was after
    midnight and nothing was open so I said to him, "just take this exit
    here", since it pointed to the NJ turnpike and I figured we could at
    least find the turnpike since our hotel was off exit 3.  Imagine our
    surprise when he took the exit that pointed to the turnpike and our
    hotel was sitting right there in front of us at the end of the ramp!
    
    Anyway, if the party is in Hudson, MA, I know that area well and
    hopefully won't get lost!
    

   General consensus was for Thursday, April 23rd and in the greater
   Littleton area.  Now all we have to do is figure out whether we want to
   meet at a restaurant or someone's house.  Sandy Merritt and Jill Meier's
   have both offered the use of their place.  What do you say ladies, shall
   we take them up on it?  (hey, where's all the men? :^)

   We could all prepare a dish to bring along.  Mary T still has left over
   pizza.  :^)  Ideas for food?  Mexican?  Picnic-type finger foods? 

   Here's a list of those that want to attend:
	Lori RICKS::BARR 		Rosemary DELNI::GASKELL
	Barbara RTL::BENTON             Roberta JUPITR::KAGNO 
	Yvonne STUDIO::COLAIANNI        Lynne EASTRN::MANDILE      
	K.C. CIVIC::FAHEL		Sandy MAYES::MERRITT
	Jill AUKLET::MEIER 		Mary MRSTAG::MTAG
    	Cheryl CSSE32::RAWDEN		Mary DSSDEV::TAMIR

I'm interested in attending. How can I pass up an opportunity to
meet so many women who all like cats ;-)

I can be persuaded to go for either a house or restaurant meeting.
Hunan Garden in Billerica is great!


Andrew Duane
264-5873

    OK if the hub tags along?  If it is at someone's house, he can bring
    the video camera again so that furballs can show off!  :^)
    
    If it is to be at a restaurant, NO Mexican food, or restaurant that
    serves a lot of turkey dishes, please?
    
    K.C.

    
    
    	Add me to the list! Roberta and I are going to get lost 
    	together....
    
    	Sherry
    

    I'd be interested in going as long as its no further from Braintree
    than Littleton - and I only eat poultry or fish so no steak houses
    please.  I love Thai food, chinese, japanese food, indian food,
    pizza etc.
      Nancy DC
    
    P.s. please keep me posted by mail.

    Count me in! Anywhere central is fine, I'll be travelling from
    MKO.
    
    

    And Here's something else to put in the back of your mind.
    Assuming I manage to keep the house (which isn't too big a deal
    I don't think) - I'd like to have a cookout in the summer at
    my place in Braintree.  It'll be on a weekend.  
    
    I did this a few years ago but only 3 people showed up so I'm
    starting early this year.  
    
    Considering the fact that CC & Halie are due the end of May and
    Bonnie is going off to be bred this weekend (since no one wanted
    her) there will be kittens around to provide entertainment. 
    
    If you are interested, send me mail.
    
    
    Now....back to your regularly scheduled note...........
      Nancy
    
    

Count me in for a night of fur and frolic.  I'd prefer Wednesday 4-22 
over Thursday.  Maybe some feliners from southern NH could carpool.  
Getting lost is twice as fun with a friend.  

PS.. Nancy sounds great about getting together this summer. Keep us 
posted.

Valerie Rossi

HI everyone!

I'd be interested in this too!  Either day is fine with me!  

I'll also talk to Cindy Gerry and see if she wants to go.  I'd actually prefer
someone's house.  It was so much nicer just to sit around Mary's living room
and talk.  It was great to actually SEE the felines as well!

Anywhere in central NE is fine with me.  I work in Maynard, MA and live
in Fitchburg.  Just let me know.

Holly

Gosh, gee!  It was fun, wasn't it!  Beth has a great time!  In fact, she wants
to come to the next gathering, as long as Leigh is there to make her a star...

I'd vote for someone's house...but going out is OK, too.

Mar

    Unless I can find a meeting I just *have* to attend up that
    way, I won't be able to make it...):
    
    L-

    Jill Meier has offered use of her place in Carlisle Massachusetts. 
    (It seemed like a good central location for just about everyone)
    Carlisle is next to Chelmsford & Billerica, so it will be easing
    commuting distance from routes 495 and 3.

    So, mark the calendar - Thursday, April 23rd about 5:30ish.  Mexican
    seemed to be the winner with everyone.  I think the easiest thing for
    everyone to do would be to bring a dish of food and/or beverage.  I'll
    coordinate who is bringing what so we will have a nice variety of
    munchies.  When the time gets closer, we'll send directions to everyone
    interested in attending.  Sound ok?

And before you can volunteer it, Cheryl, I'll bring the Rotel!!  For those
who were at my house, Rotel was that cheese dip.....nummmmsssssss....

Mary

    Mary, no fair!  I was saving my last can of Rotetl just for this
    occasion.  Ohhh, maybe I'll bring some guacamole and/or bean dip or a
    surprise dessert?  I've got a great new Mexican cookbook and am anxious
    to try it out.  :^)

    I don't know what we will be bringing yet, but could someone else also
    bring something NOT Mexican?  I don't like Mexican.
    
    K.C.

    
    Put me down for some sort of dessert, probably baklava.
    
    ...Rania

    A little late here but I'd like to attend too. I'm off from school that
    week so any night is free. Will get back to you on what I can bring.
    
    Roslyn

    I recently sent mail with more details on the upcoming party.  If you
    did not get a copy, please send me mail.  I don't think it would be
    fair for the west coast readers to have to weed through a bunch of
    miscellaneous notes that don't pertain to them.  Besides, they may get
    jealous although I'm still jealous of their being able to drink
    margaritas without all of us!  :^)

Well, Cheryl, you could always bring margarita ingredients with you :-).

Oh, and in case this affects anyone's plans:

a) We have a microwave oven
b) We do not have a VHS VCR, but do have Beta, as well as an 8mm camcorder,
	and can accomodate plugging in a VHS deck if someone actually brings
	one :-).

Jill

    I'll probably bring some kind of appetizer.
    
    Lori B.

    My hub's videocamera (VHS) can hook up to any TV in seconds, and act as
    a VCR.
    
    If we can make it (we've got to get the car fixed), the camera is
    coming with us...GOTTA film those furballs!
    
    K.C.

    Hi!
    
     Does that mean that if I bring the 8mm tape that has my girls on it,
    we can play it? Now if I can just find the tape with them on it. It's
    not really that good, because we had just bought the camera, and were
    actually palying with it when we filmed them, but did get some good
    pictures anyway. You can really see Furby's tail in the video. It's
    only a couple of minutes too, so no one will get overly bored! ;-)
    
    Can't wait till next week to meet everyone!
    
    Love,
    
     Y

Yup, Y, you can bring your 8mm tape, if you can find it!  And it will be good
incentive for me to play around with the camera, as well as find my tape! :-)

And, KC, it would be great if you could come, and bring your camera!  It would
be wonderful if we could get some VHS footage of our furballs to show my
family without having to convert the tape...that is, if they come out of
hiding long enough :-) :-)

Jill

    Sad to say...
    
    I don't think that we can make the gathering tomorrow night.  The car
    had been vandalized, and isn't running well enough to go further than
    around the block.  Also, since the old saying goes, "When the budget
    catches up, the car breaks down", we are unable to contribute any food
    to the festivities.
    
    Hopefully we'll be able to make the NEXT one.
    
    *sniff*  :^(
    
    K.C.

    I also just found out that I won't be able to make the gathering
    tomorrow night.
    
    Hopefully next time.
    
    Lori B.

I, too, won't be able to make it---Cheryl, you still got Ro-tel??

WAAAAAAAAA!!!!

Mary

    I'm going and have room to take up to 3 other people with me. If anyone
    is interested in carpooling from ZKO send me mail at RTL::BENTON.
    
    Barbara

    I hate to do this at the last possible moment, but I've got some
    problems here to take care of, and I'm not going to be able to
    make it tonight :-(  Hope everyone has a great time!  
    
    Mary-Michael

    Oh no!  Mary-Michael, I was looking forward to seeing you again!! )-:
    
    BUMMER!!!
    
    Holly
    

    I'd like to say a special thanks to Jill for allowing us to use her
    lovely home last night, and to everyone that came and shared the
    wonderful food and good times.  It was a really nice evening and all of
    us made new friends.  
    
    Is it too soon to start planning the next one so we can tease Sandy
    Merritt in person about her desire to be with whole males?  :^)

    I'm really sorry I missed it...because I can see I was a topic
    for discussion!!  But why all you females were together...I was
    with my whole males!!!  Not really...I ran around with my head
    cut-off getting all the shelter stuff ready for our show in R.I.
    
    Hope you all had a wonderful time....
    
    Sandy

    Ditto to .44 !!!!
    
    It's so nice to be able to put faces next to the node names.
    
    Thanks Jill!
    ...Rania

    
    YES!!! I had a great time! I like putting names and faces together!
    Good food, good folks, good conversation and kitty pictures
    everywhere!!! Can't touch that!
    
    Thanks again Jill for opening your home to all of us! It was wonderful!
    So, when's the next gathering? I'm ready!
    
    Sandy, 
    
      You were missed last night! I was looking forward to finally meeting
    you. Maybe next time. Maybe there will even be some whole males there
    if we go to someone's home again! ;-)
    
    Love,
    
     Y

Well, thanks to everyone who came for making the party such a smashing success!
And we missed those of you who didn't make it, but not TOOO much :-) :-)

Especially Sandy :-)

> But [while] all you females were together...I was
> with my whole males!!!  Not really...I ran around with my head
> cut-off getting all the shelter stuff ready for our show in R.I.

The first words I saw when I read this was "whole males" and "cut off"  :-) :-)

====

Quotable quotes:

> So, Jill, where are your cats? (reply:  Cats?  I don't have any cats!!)
> What are all these things?? (reply: Glass insulators :-))
>  ...whole males...  (by Cheryl :-))
> I guess now we have to get a cat... (by Y, quoting her hubby)
> OK, I give up, where'd you put the ship? (again Cheryl, the world's last
                                                     funny non-dirty joke :-))
> Mmmm, this is good (by everyone :-))

Jill

    My my...I'll never live that one down  (or is it up as in whole males)
    
    Sandy

Oh, there were a couple of pieces of paper left at my house.

Holly, one is a small paper that came with your dalmation kitty poster; it
says how good Smirnoff vodka is; let me know if you want this :-)

The other was a letter to exhibitors about the Bengal cat; if someone wants
this back, please let me know real soon; or if you know who brought it, let me
know so I can contact that person.

thanks,
Jill who was hoping someone had left their kitty pictures :-)

    Maybe Holly could design a new logo to be used for a sign for Sandy
    Merritt's back porch.  
    
    	Whole Males Earn Extra "Merritt" Points Here
    
    Ok, I promise to behave for a while now.  :^)

    How about we plan the next get-together around the review 
    of the artist's drawing for the T-shirt? (about 3 weeks?)
    
    BTW, It was so much fun, but the time just flew!!!  Thanks,
    Jill!
    
    Also, I would like to offer my place for a summer party
    date (evening or weekend!) as I have a pool, and for anyone
    interested, maybe some pony rides? (-;
    
    L-
    
    
    

    Well, you'll have to send copies of the designs to the West-Coast
    Feliners so that we can have a design-screening get-together, too!!
    
    ;^) -- Michelle (from California)
    

    You bet!  Any excuse for a party!  Of course, anyone who
    wants to fly in for the party... (-;
    
    L-

    Jill,
    
    The letter about the Bengals belongs to Holly's mom.  Don't know if she
    wants it, but you can mail it to Holly I guess.  
    
    Thanks again for the wonderful time.  We'll do lunch!
    
    N

    Jill,
    
    Thanks loads for hosting the party! I had a wonderful time and enjoyed
    meeting everyone. I would definitely like to make the next party but
    unless it's on the weekend or a Tue/Fri I won't because of school. I
    lucked out this time cuz we were on vaca.
    
    The food was delicious, the jokes and stories were fun. It sure is nice
    to put names with faces though I know I still don't have them all
    straight. Thanks again Jill!
    
    Hugs,
    Roslyn

    And now for something completely new....  :^)
    
    Anyone on the east coast interested in a day trip up to Kittery or
    Freeport Maine to hit the outlets?  I'm toying with the idea of taking
    a Friday off and was wondering if anyone else cared to join me?  If we
    get enough people, perhaps we could rent a van or get a couple of
    volunteers that have large cars?  
    
    Any takers?!  --Cheryl (who has Spring Fever)

    Cheryl,
    
    I did that back in October and it was great fun!  Got some really cute
    placemats with cats on them -- purebreds and mutts that looked like my
    cats.  And some new clothes!
    
    I love to shop, so count me in!!
    
    -Roberta
    

Sounds good to me, if I'm available on the particular day in question.

But someone else has to drive...I'm tired of driving to Maine (a long story...)

Jill, making up her shopping list just in case... :-)

    
    I'll go, I'll go!  If it is a Friday later in the month of May,
    that would be nice....  I have to space these vacation days so 
    I don't look like a complete SLOUCH.....  :-)
    
    Nan

    I'd love to go, but I am already taking this Friday off to get ready
    for a horse show.
    
    

    Shhhhuuuuuuuurrrrrrrr, count me in.....now to find some stashed cash.
    
    Roslyn-who's-a die-hard-shop-til-u-drop...or at least a window shopper
    for now.

    *sigh* to be able to just blow a day...
    
    I wish I could go.  :^(
    
    K.C.

    For those of you that expressed an interest in taking a day off to go
    shopping in Maine, please send me mail.  I've found that some people
    want to go but Friday is not a good day.  Would a Monday or Wednesday
    be any better?  If anyone needs incentive to join us, we're going to
    make a pitstop at the Lindt Swiss chocolate outlet store on the way in
    Stratham, NH!  :^)
    
    One of my coworkers who is "read only" (hi Mel!) is coming along, but
    there's still room for two others in my car as long as a promise is
    made not to smoke.  Perhaps we'll need to use a few autos but we can
    plan more of the specifics once we set a date.  Well ladies, lets do
    it!  I'm really down in the dumps these days and can use an excuse to
    take a day off to spend time with some genuine people, so lets try to
    do something really soon....  Cheryl

    Hi All!
    
     Rather than start a new note, I figured I'd add to this one about
    gatherings. (Jo will be proud! ;-) 0
    
     Nancy DC has invited me to her home tomorrow night to see the new
    Putitput babies! She also invited me to put an invitation in here to
    any and all that would like to visit tomorrow also! I know it's short
    notice, but I just got the word from Nancy to put it in here.
    
     Nancy lives in Braintree if anyone needs to know. I will be following
    her home from MRO3 myself, and if anyone wants to meet there we can car
    pool. I'm working on getting directions from her in case people don't
    want to meet at MRO3 (Marlboro). Also, she leaves at 3:30, so she can
    beat some of the Route 128 traffic, so we would have to meet by that
    time.
    
     It's a bit late to plan a pot luck supper, so I thought maybe we could
    do pizza or something like that.
    
     So, what does everyone think? Any takers?
    
     So far there is only me and Barbara Volkle going, so there's plenty of
    room! Also plenty of kitties to love! 31 if I remember Nancy's last
    count!
    
     You can send me mail, or call me at DTN 234-4470
    
     Hope to see some of you there!
    
     Love,
    
     Y
         

    Hi all,  We never did make the trip to Maine in the month of May so now
    it's time to really do some serious planning to go shopping.  Due to
    the Fourth of July coming up, I'd recommend avoiding the outlets on
    Friday, July 3rd --- too many tourists!  (then again, it is Yonee's
    birthday and we could celebrate!).  

    How does the week of July 6th through July 10th sound?  What day is
    best for everyone?  I'm assuming I'll still be here in the next few
    weeks to coordinate this. :^)  Well????  Who wants to go?  Cheryl

    I do! I do! I don't think I would enjoy fighting Freeport Tourists on
    my birthday, but the following week would be fine with me! Now I just
    have to find some money! 8-} I want to hit the camping area at L. L.
    Bean! 
    
    BTW, I think it's wonderful that the nation decided to celebrate my
    40th birthday as a National Holiday this year! ;-) I knew it was a big
    year, but I never expected all this! :-)
    
    I have a Chevy Astro Van, and can carry three other people comfortably,
    four if they are skinny, BUT, I have tons of room for packages! ;-)
    I'd be happy to drive my car up there.
    
    Y

    I'd like to go! The timing is great -- for the next two weeks I'll 
    finally be on VA-CA-SHUN!! At last... I can hardly wait.

    I have weekly commitments on Wednesdays and Fridays, but if those days
    are best for other people I can rearrange my schedule.

    I'll be logging in from home occasionally to read mail and notes so I can
    keep up on things.

    Linda

    RE: logging in from home...
    
    *sigh* if only I could...  :^(
    
    K.C.

    Someone suggested hitting the NH outlets due to no tax.  The ones I
    know of are in North Conway.  It's one option but it's twice as far. 
    Something to consider?  

    It would be nice if we could all pack a lunch.  Seeing that most of us
    are short in the finance department these days, it would be one way to
    save a bit of cash.  Also, if we get tired of shopping or run out of
    money (whichever comes first) we could toy with the idea of going for a
    walk along the beach in York, Maine or Hampton, NH.  Who knows?  The
    possibilities are endless, especially when you have spontaneous drivers
    such as Yonee and myself.  So ladies, when do we leave and where shall
    we go?  My gas tank is full.  :^)

    I'll go anywhere. I don't expect to do a lot of buying since I am 
    treating my car to a new radiator and other repairs tomorrow, but 
    that's ok, looking is just as much fun. I had been thinking of taking 
    a day trip to York on my vacation, so I'd be game for that, too.  
    Packing a lunch is a great idea -- maybe we could find a nice spot 
    nearby for a picnic. 

    Yes, the possibilities are endless -- maybe we'll have to have more 
    than one trip! 

    Linda

    Seems like Monday, July 13th is a bad day so Friday, July 17th is the
    shopping date for Kittery.  This is the last attempt that will be made
    to get people together since there are too many schedules to work
    around.  If you want to join in, send mail.

    Melissa, Yvonne, Jill and myself went to the Kittery outlets on Friday
    and we had a great time.  The day started off with Yvonne making quite
    the Freudian slip with my husband which set the pace for humor the
    entire day.  We enjoyed ourselves and decided to have another trip this
    Fall so for anyone that missed the last trip, we're going again real
    soon.  Start saving your money cause we don't want any "poor" excuses
    this time around!  :^)

    I had a GREAT time in Maine! It was close! My Major Freudian slip
    actually ALMOST embarrassed me! You really have to go some to get me
    embarrassed! Of course living with Nick has helped make me a bit on the
    immune side! ;-)
    
    The only problem was, that when I got home, and divided up the booty
    into piles of what I got myself, and what I got for him, he made out
    like a bandit! :-( He was a happy camper when he got home though!
    
    I had never done the outlet route before in my life, as I'm not a big
    shopping person, but I wanted to go to the Trading Post, and the other
    stores were just icing on the cake, so to speak! It was a really good
    day all around! I'm looking forward to the next one!
    
    Love,
    
     Y 

    What, you're not going to tell us?
    

    OK! OK! I'll tel lthe story! This is a bit risque', so I'll warn you
    now! ;-)
    
    When Jill and I arrived at Cheryl's house Friday, Cheryl came ot to
    greet us. Just before I went into the house, I saw Bill approaching the
    door, so I said, "Are you decent?". He said "Yes", and I said "Darn
    it". Then he said Cheryl had sewn his buttons back on.
    
    That's when it happened. I MEANT to say to Cheryl, "Do you have any
    THREAD stuck in your teeth?", but what I SAID was "Do you have any HAIR
    stuck in your teeth"!!!! I realized what I said as soon as it came out,
    bt it was too late! Now EVERYONE knows where my mind is, even at 8:00
    in the morning! ;-) 8-) 8-0
    
    Like I said, I was ALMOST embarrased! I was more shocked at my slip
    than anything, and burst out laughing! That did set up tha day though!
    
    OK Cheryl, are you happy now! :-)
    
    Love,
    
     Y
    
    BTW, the conversations throughout the day went downhill from there, so
    you can imagine what we talked about all day! ;-)
                                                                          

    RE: .76
    
    WOW!  Sorry I missed it!!  sounds like I would have had a blast!! (-:
    
    Holly
    

    Hi Holly!
    
     It would have been great to have you there! You know me! I'm always
    tripping over my tongue! I tripped BIG TIME that time! ;-)
    
     Sometimes I think I should only open my mouth to change feet! ;-)
    
   Y

    And Yvonne...I can guarentee Cheryl will never let you forget it.
    
    Sounds like you guys had a wonderful time....I'm sorry I missed
    the Chocolate Outlet.  Now that is one store I could shop in!!!!
    
    Sandy

    Sandy,
    
     Maybe my blunder will give you a little relief! ;-) I do understand
    that I will NEVER be allowed to forget it! Good thing I thought it was
    funny, eh? ;-)
    
    Y

    
    Yvonne, you definitely are a CLASSIC...   :-)))))  I am in stitches
    over here, because I know you so well, and I can just imagine how it
    dropped out of your mouth.  To know you is to love you.....  hee hee
    hee......
    
    Next time there's a shopping extravaganza, I hope to be there....if I
    can just get my cards down to a dull roar.... (sigh)
    
    N

    well, it's not like you need a lot of cash to join us - you just need a
    day off and a sense of humor!  yvonne was a real scream on friday. 
    thank god my husband had met her before and knew what she was really
    like.  you know what they say about dressing someone up but not being
    able to take them out?  :^0

    we have some classic one liners from friday that will be long standing
    memories.  aside from yonee's slip of the tongue we also have "Shut
    up!.... {pause}... SIR!"; a lovely discussion on cat throwup that
    resembles meatloaf and another scene about pulling blisters off.  i'm
    telling you, we were just downright rude and crude at times but we had
    a lot of fun!  also, the trunk was full when we left maine so you might
    say that the day was productive in the "shopping" category!  
    
    some of these adults had to be dragged out of toy stores.  guess i
    shouldn't mention names, huh?  oh, and a certain someone who had to run
    into a store to use the restroom and came back out 10 minute later,
    running across the parking lot with a bag in hand and huge smile on her
    face.  now that was a keeper from friday!  women!!!!!!!!
    
    ok, when's the next trip?  imelda here is ready to shoe shop.  :^) 

    
    I know, I know. You can dress me up, and take me out, but you'll be
    ashamed of me before oyu get me home! ;-)
    
    I laughed so hard that day, my face was sore! 
    
    Yup, the trunk was FULL, but the fact that one of us bought out the
    ENTIRE Mikasa outlet had a bit to do with that! ;-)
    
    Guess who they had to drag out of the toy store? It wasn't just me
    either! :-) I'm still playing with my 'boink'! (OK, try to figure that
    one out without getting disgusting!) ;-) Oh yeah Feendoonie likes to
    play with it too! 8-0
    
    Luckily, there was room in the back seat for all the salt water taffy
    and chocolate! Of course poor Melissa had her feet on/around a cooler
    all the way home! (Guess who took up most of the trunk? 8-0 )
    
    Of course we didn't make it home without Imelda getting a pair of
    shoes! ;-)
    
    Can't wait till the next trip myself!
    
     Love,
    
     Y

    salt water taffy......sigh....remember that the next time you go into
    envy overdrive about the West Coast dinners and Mexican food....
    

    I'll have to think of something else to envy about the West Coast
    gatherings! I'm to wimpy to even TRY most Mexican foods! ;-) 
    
    Any suggestions?
    
    Y

    .84
    
    Hmmm....maybe I should pack a few pieces when I send you
    your T! (:
    
    L-

    Yvonne, nothing to envy about the west coast gatherings?!?!?!  What?! 
    Get a grip girl!  These people LIVE on the west coast.  They don't
    scrape ice off their windshields 5 months out of the year!  They aren't
    infested with mosquitoes or black flies!  What more could you ask for? 
    (well, Richard Gere would do but let's not wear the poor guy out :^)

    Maybe our next east coast gathering should consist of Mexican food and
    margaritas?  
    
    Ideally -- what we really need is tequila flavored taffy!  Really
    folks, you should have seen the "small" bag of taffy that Jill came
    walking out of the store with.  These women were out of control Friday,
    except for me of course.  :^)

    Cheryl, who *detests* being stuck in New England

    Ok, that will do! No scraping of windshields is a VERY big drawing
    point! ;-)
    
    I don't know what it is, but when I think of warm California, all I can
    think of is the beach, and that is definitely NOT a drawing card for
    me! Unless there are birds to watch on that beach of course! ;-)
    
    That's what I really envy about California! All their great birds that
    we don't have over here! Hummingbirds! Yeehaw! Someday i'll make it out
    there to go birdwatching/FELINER visiting! 
    
    If we have a Mexican East Coast gathering, should I bring a peanut
    butter sandwich just in case? ;-) Just call me Superwimp! 8-)
    
    So Cheryl, are you going to be the organizer for the next one? You did
    a great job last time! ;-)
    
    Love,
    
     Y
        

    Ok, I'm taking the plunge here!  Since Jill left I thought it would be
    appropriate to have a party in her honor.  (She likes the idea cause I
    just got off the phone with her!)

    Your choice of party days: 	Sunday, August 2nd -or- Thursday, August 6th

    My preference is Thursday afternoon right after work.  (this means 3:30
    for me :^)  Jill leaves the next morning to visit relatives outside of
    New England so the timing would be just right for her.  I'm in Bedford,
    NH and was wondering if many people would be willing to venture that
    far north?  It's about a 20 minute ride past ZK at exit 1 in Nashua.  I
    realize most readers live in Mass.  If you won't drive that far north,
    we could possibly volunteer Jill's house.  Then again, maybe I should
    ask her about this first.  :^)

    Well people, what do you think?  Shall we have a party now or possibly
    wait a while longer cause other people (groan) might be getting laid
    off?  I'd prefer to do it now cause if I get laid off I'm packing my
    bags and heading southwest at the first possible moment!  Quick
    responses are greatly appreciated cause I've got to think of a way to
    get my husband out of the house for the evening.  :^)  --Cheryl

    You guys are too quick.  :^)  Mail replies sent already with too many
    no's.  Bad week for everyone so far, drats!  Can I be really
    spontaneous and suggest one week from tonight, July 30th?  I figured
    the last party that was held was on a Thursday so that must be a night
    that most people have free???? 

    July 30th would be fine with me!  But there's NO way I can do August
    2nd.  That'll be the day that I get back from bring Kyra to go "find a
    man!" (-:
    
    Holly
    

    I'd love to go....but August 2nd would not be good for me either.
    Weekends are tough for me because I'm usually involved in something
    with the shelter or my family.  We will need to let the SERP folks 
    know too...like Barbara Ives and Cindy Fischer.
    
    I'd like to suggest that we meet somewhere in the middle...every
    day I drive 65 miles round-trip (South) ...so going to Nashua is a bit too
    much!   I'll also offer my house...but I doubt that is in the middle
    either!!   How about the restruant in Littleton...that seems to
    be in the middle for most folks and it seems we normally get a good
    turn-around of people.
    
    Keep me posted.....
    
    sandy
    

    I feel badly about offering my house for a party and then having to
    revoke the offer but we suffered serious damage on Saturday and will be
    undergoing some heavy duty repairs over the next few months.  There's
    just no way we can host any kind of gathering until extensive work can
    be completed.  I am sorry ladies.  :^(  Perhaps someone else could
    offer their place instead?

    Cheryl, what happened to your house?
    

    We left at 2:30 in the afternoon to go canoeing and visiting with
    friends.  When we got back around 11 in the evening on Saturday, the
    dishwasher was still running.  Needless to say, we figure at least 500
    gallons of hot water spilled out in those 8 1/2 hours.  We've got 
    damage to the first floor and basement and we are waiting for insurance
    adjusters to come take a look.  Depending on what we need to do for
    repairs, I might ask someone to take in our cats for a week or so.  I
    have a feeling that we are going to have to rip out the kitchen and
    living room floors just for starters but at this point nothing is
    certain except that the damage is in the thou$ands and no parties for
    the time being. 

    Cheryl-
    
    At least the dishes were VERY clean! (;
    
    Sorry to hear about your mishap....
    
    Lynne

    Cheryl.....
    
    when I first read your note, I thought the feliners party did the 
    extensive damage....opps!
    
    Michele
    
    

    Can someone arrange a get together for when the other Cheryl comes up
    for a visit later this month?  Our house is still very much out of
    commission but I'll ask again - are there any takers out there who
    could host a party?

    I MIGHT be able to swing something.  What is the date she's coming up?
    I'll check over the next couple of days and you let you guys know.
    
    Kim

    Oh oh.... west coast people are at it again.  Planning and scheming a
    gathering and I know as soon as the word "margarita" is mentioned, I'm
    going to have to put a bug in someone's ear about a party.  :^)  Anyone
    up for a gathering or perhaps a shopping excursion somewhere?  Lynne is
    going to need to distribute t-shirts some one of these days so let's
    get hopping on this.  Where's the party and when?  We still have no
    floors in the house so I can't host but I can coordinate!!!! :^)

    I'm game for another gathering be it at a restaurant or home.  I can
    offer my place in Hopedale but I'm afraid it will be a bit out of the
    way.  Hopedale is located off of 495 by Milford in Massachusetts.  From
    the Mill its a 45 min. drive.
    
    ...Rania

    I'd love to see everyone again!  The last time I went was at the
    gathering at the Yangtzee River Restaurant in Littleton.  I would
    volunteer to make reservations at any restaurant AND keep the 
    list of attendees - if anyone is interested.
    
    Marilyn
    

    The disadvantages of having a gathering at a restaurant is cost and
    noise control.  Yonee and I would have to tone it down too much.  :^)
    The nice part about being at someone's home is the flexibility and
    privacy, not to mention the array of foods.  The last party at Jill's
    had everything from taco salad to indian food to baklava and was
    affordable by everyone.  Not to mention you can mingle in someone's
    home from kitchen to living room, whereas a restaurant setting limits
    you to socializing with the person seated next to you.  

    
    
    	Well I only have a sofa and a papasan chair for people to sit
    	in (and four kitchen chairs) but if people don't mind driving
    	to Nashua and climbing to the third floor  =)  I'll open up
    	my apartment for a get together.  I haven't had any type of
    	party in it since I moved in in June....
    
    	And you can all meet the terror known as Audrey in person.... =)
    
    	JJ
    

    I'll offer my mobile home again. I have three recliners, and 2 kitchen  
    chairs, and 4 directors chairs, and 5 lawn type chairs, and one folding 
    chair, and 4 tall stools, and one short stool, (20 total) 0and I would
    be willing to host a gathering in Hudson, MA. I'm only a couple of
    miles off 495, so it's not too hard to get to. Lots of turns in the
    trailer park, but if you miss all but one turn, you end up at a dead
    end anyway! ;-)
     
    Oh yeah, my trailer has quite a large living room and dining room area
    because of a roll out that adds about 8 x 24 feet to that end of the
    structure. If I move the recliners around a bit, there should be plenty
    of room for all, as long as we're close friends anyway! ;-) Plus we
    could always overflow onto the porch, which is really closed in right
    now, and has a heater we could turn on out there if it is cold. It
    works real well. My husband uses the porch when he has barbershop
    quartet rehearsals at our place, and it's always warm enough.
    
    Again, any night but Monday or Thursday is OK with me. Also, if we do
    have it at my place, any help with organization would be greatly
    appreciated! (Did you hear that Cheryl? 8-) )
    
    Love,
    
    Yonee

    Gathering in a home is so much more fun and cozy - however the 
    night we met at the Yangtzee over 50 people showed up.  Does
    anyone have a place THAT big?
    
    My home is in Leominster and I would be happy to have people come
    there - however I don't think I could manage more than 20.  Offer 
    is open ... though!  Right near the center of town, plenty of 
    parking and right off Rt. 117.  People could either bring a
    dish or we have numeous places that DELIVER - Dominoe's is
    1/4 mile away.
    
    Marilyn
    

    And for the East Coasters...I have keyworded this note FELINER_DINNER
    so you'll be able to find it again when you need it.
    
    Jan

    Of course, we could all come meet Beth........
    
    And JJ, I've SEEN those stairs!
    
    Mary
    

    
    	Mary
    
    
    	sssshhhhh!  don't wanna scare everyone off!  =)
    

    Meet Beth? Meet Beth!? MEET BETH!!!!!! I'd sure be willing to drive a
    bit to meet that little girl! 8-) 8-)
    
    But, that doesn't mean I'm rescinding the offer to use my house. Only 3
    stairs to get into my place! ;-)
    
    Love,
    
    Yonee

    Gee, my barn can hold 50, and there are no stairs! (; (;
    
    

    yeah, but does it have heat?? (-:
    
    I'll vote for any of the places!  Marilyn's (close to home!!  AND wanna
    meet the critters), Yonie's (wanna meet those furrfaces!!), Mary's 
    (wanna see beth again!), or JJ's (haven't met audrey yet).
    
    Oh yeah, and seeing the other FELINERS will be nice, too! (-:  haha!
    
    I'll be able to offer my house for christmas time if we want to have a
    christmas party.  But it's in Fitchburg on the third floor.  A plus
    will be that I'll need help "socializing" kittens! (-:
    
    Holly
    

    Well, since I started this - I'd be happy to coordinate!       
    
    Ideally, a location in the greater Littleton area would work because
    we've got people farther south than Marlboro and also people father
    north than Nashua.  Last party we had about 22 people say they were
    coming and with all the last minute cancellations only a dozen showed
    up.  I can't imagine 50 of us invading someone's home! 
    
    Well, I'll put a list together of who's coming and what they'd like to
    bring.  Only problem now is we need to select a date (not Richard!) and
    a place.  Would a Friday evening be better for most people?  If so, how
    about a few weeks from now?  Maybe we could do something close to
    Halloween.  I've got the perfect costume in mind!  Sandy Merritt - you
    better show up for this one. :^)

    Hey, you East-Coasters should have your gathering the same time we
    West-Coasters do!  Ours is 10/23 at 7:30pm at Mexico Lindo.
    
    ;^)   8^)   B^)
    
    Michelle

    Now now Cheryl...I was at the last one at Nancy DC's house...
    remember!!!!  It all matters on what date is chosen and where it
    is going to be...and only if you promise to bring Richard this time!!!  
    
    I'll put my house (fitchburg) on the list of potential places as well!!!
    I have heat...no stairs...and 9 furfaces (possibly 10) that live with
    me and another 6 upstairs that live with my sister.  Plenty of cats
    for all....
    
    Sandy
    

    I vote for Rania or Yonee's place!
    
    Weds would be best...of course, I'm still waiting for the
    T's.....):
    
    L

    Hi,
    
     A Friday would be fine with me. Any of the places mentioned,
    (including Lynne's barn) would be fine with me. I do agree that a
    little farther north would probably be ideal, but, the people who know
    me well, know I'll drive almost any distance for a good time! ;-)
    
     The only restriction I'd have for a Friday, is one Friday either in
    October or the beginning of November is Nick is competing with his
    Barbershop Quartet, and I can't miss that. The competition will be on a
    Friday night. I'll check the dates though.
    
    Love,
    
     Yonee

    I'm still game for whatever place decided upon.  I would prefer not to
    have it on a Friday though.
    
    ...Rania

    Would love to help organize the "party" .... anyone willing to 
    commit to a date, time and place?
    
    Marilyn
    

    Good idea - let's pick a date.  How about midweek, a Wednesday night? 
    Marilyn, was that you that offered a place in the Leominster area that
    holds about 20?  Someone pick a place and time and let's do it instead
    of talking about it.  :^)

    Hi.  Yes, I have a house in Leominster - with plenty of parking - 
    that can comfortably accomodate 20 people.  I had a birthday party
    for my daughter and invited 45 people - open house.  They all came
    at 2 and stayed until 9 - so I can fit that many people.
    
    Let's shoot for October - want to narrow it down to either
    Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday?  I know the first time I planned
    the dinner at the Yangtzee River Restaurant in Littleton I just
    named a date and people responded.  The next dinner was a 
    different night of the week - so if people couldn't make one
    dinner ... they made the next.
    
    Not to throw a monkey wrench - but I live about 5 miles from
    the Pat Brody shelter.  If you want to make it a brunch type
    thing on a Saturday - we could all go to the shelter and come
    back to eat - or eat first and then go to the shelter.
    
    The next couple of week-ends should be beautiful in our area -
    would make for a nice outing.  Also, Coggshall park has
    picnic tables and we could have a picnic then go visit Priscilla
    at the shelter.
    
    Just some ideas ... might as well take advantage of the weather,
    the foliage and the cats!  Perhaps more people could arrange to
    come out on a Saturday!
    
    Marilyn
    

    Yes, as soon as I said it (brunch) the more I liked it.
    
    I don't know about anyone else - but I am dog (parden the pun)
    tired after a full day(s) work.  Then with it being dark so
    soon - it could be a stressful ride home late at night for
    people who don't know the area.  And, if it's held on a
    Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday - you have to get up and go to
    work the next morning.
    
    With a brunch on Saturday that would give people time from all
    directions to come to my house (if we vote for that) eat a
    leisurely meal and meet Otis and Tiffany (if they let you .. ha)
    and go for a ride to the shelter ... if you so desire.  There
    are lots of antique places, malls, yard sales and farms in our 
    area so it would be a fun trip.  
    
    I would be happy to supply the coffee, tea, soda's and depending
    how many people show up - I could make a Muffilatta which (I have
    been told by many people) is the ultimate grinder.  One feeds
    12 people - and I could make two or three Friday night.  All
    we would need would be some chips and some desserts.
    
    How does that sound - I love a party and LOVE to entertain.  I
    have catered parties before so this is right up my alley.
    
    Marilyn
    
    

    Marilyn, don't go through all the trouble with preparing food.  That's
    our job!!  You are supplying the house which is more than enough. 

    How about everyone sending mail to Marilyn so we can get a date set?  
    Please send:
    	what day you prefer, weeknight or Saturday morning
    	what you could bring for food

    When the date and time have been determined, Marilyn can post the info
    here.  Let's not clutter up this note cause it's not fair to the west
    coast or European noters.  :^)

    Sounds good.  Also, if anyone wants to, I believe my house is on the
    way to the Pat Brody shelter from Marilyn's.  I live in Fitchburg, just
    off of the highway.  If anyone wants to, they can stop by and meet more
    furry felines.
    
    Holly
    

    Holly, thanks for the warning.  Now I won't wear anything with pockets. 
    :^)

    One warning, Cheryl!  I count ALL furrfaces before anyone leaves! (-: 
    Especially since Kyra's kittens are due this weekend! (-:
    (YAY!!!)
    
    Holly
    

    Looks like Saturday - the 10th of October is the favorite....or 
    coming in second is Thursday, October 8th.
    
    The good thing about Saturday is the trip to the PB shelter (yah)
    and more time to relax (and eat)!
    
    Keep the responses coming and I'll post the exact date, attendees
    and menu.
    
    Marilyn
    

    Marilyn,,,
    
    Once you get a specific date...you will have to check with Priscilla 
    to ensure that someone will be at the shelter.   We are involved in 
    ALOT of fundraising events on the weekends.....that is why it was so
    hard to coordinate a date.   Just FYI too....the cleaning crew works
    at the shelter in the AM...so it is much better to schedule stuff
    in the early part of the afternoon!!!
    
    I'll have to check my calendar at home to see if I'm free the 10th!!
    
    Sandy 

    From the responses I am getting it looks as though Saturday, October
    10th is going to be the day.  
    
    It was brought to my attention that I should call the shelter as 
    soon as I know the exact date - as they have a lot of fundraising
    going on during week-ends AND the cleaning crew comes in the
    morning.
    
    People are still checking their calendars for dates - so I'll hold
    off for a couple of days until you are all sure as to whether you
    can come on that date.
    
    Please, if it doesn't work out that many can come on the 10th - 
    would you rather we wait until the following weeknights to set
    another date.  Possibly the 15th - a Thursday night?
    
    Marilyn
    

    A Saturday is out for me!  For a good reason, though!  This
    Saturday, we open our new Feed & Grain store!!!!!!! 
    (YEAH! My own business!!! (-8 )   Store hours are Sat & Sun,
    & Tues, Weds, & Thurs evenings.  Doesn't leave me much time
    to go anywhere, but it's a good opportunity to become our
    own boss' (;.
    
    That leaves me Mon or Fri nights.....
    
    Lynne

    Hey Lynne!
    
     Congratulations! Sounds exciting! Maybe we should have the gathering
    at the new store!? ;-) Got any kitty stuff on sale there?
    
     Friday's are Ok with me, but not Monday or Thursday.
    
    Yonee

    Well, Saturday the 10th was the only day that I CAN'T make it. )-:  I'm
    running a booth at the pet fair in Marlboro, MA.  
    
    I'll just have to make arrangements to meet Marilyn's furrfaces some
    other time.  And will have to make it so that all of the feliners can
    come and see my furr faces!  Maybe around christmas??  
    
    Anyone up for a FELINER's christmas party??  
    
    Holly
    

    OOPS!  AND will have to hit the Pat Brodie shelter some other time too. 
    Oh well!
    
    Holly
    

    Holly, tell us more about this pet fair.  I heard a little about it and
    plan to attend.
    
    Thanks!
    

    Roberta,
    
    I've got some info at home.  I'm going representing the Central Mass
    feline fanciers.  Will have flyers on declawing and spaying/neutering. 
    Probably some others as well.
    
    I'll start a new note on it tomorrow when I bring in the information. 
    
    Holly
    

    RE: Pet fair info
    
    Please put the info in note 32.
    
    thanks,
    Deb

    Actually, Saturday the 10th is a planned outing to King Richard's
    Faire.  A group of us are meeting at my house at 1:00 in the aft,
    and going to the fair.  (It's only 15 mins from my house!)
    
    Anyone interested?  The more the merrier!! (;
    
    Also, a chance to pick-up your T's, too!   THEY ARE HERE!   YEAH!
    
    Lynne

    Hi.  Had 5 people respond to "yes" on the 10th - with 3 others
    checking their calendars.  Due to other events (plans) 6
    canceled and it's now down to two on Saturday the 10th.  
    
    So, perhaps we had better cancel as this time of year has people's
    calendar's filled up with all kinds of things.  
    
    Just can't seem to get it together, I guess!
    
    Marilyn
    

    Marilyn,
    
    We could still do a week night, couldn't we??  
    
    HOlly
    

    We could - but no more than 3 people can commit to one evening.
    
    The majority of people can't come on Friday nights - a few can
    only go on a Monday/Tuesday - two in Wednesday and perhaps 2/3
    on Thursday.
    
    Perhaps we should try for November - not so many things going
    on?  With fairs, shows and outings in October - people have
    already committed themselves to other activities.
    
    M
    

    No event will happen in October, unless you call 3 people getting
    together a party.  Marilyn and I tried but it was no use...  Maybe
    someone else could try coordinating next month and will be more
    successful at avoiding the runaround.  :^(

    For anyone in the greater Marlboro area, there's a few of "us" meeting
    on November 5th for lunch.  That's Thursday, folks!  :^)  I believe
    we'll be going to Chez Siam, a Thai place.  Anyone else care to join
    in?  So far it's Nancy Cross, Yonee, Sandy Merritt and me.  Come and
    meet up with us - it's a guaranteed good time!

    I'm going too!
    
    -Roberta
    

    Do they have any "normal food" there?
    
    My cats eat a better variety than I do! (-8
    
    Lynne

    HA HA Lynne...the last time we went there I asked the same
    thing.  What the heck is Thai food????
    
    They do have semi normal food....
    
    Sandy

    I love Thai food, wish I could be there.
    
    Steffi
    

    
    I'll come......and I'll bring Blue pictures!!!!!!!
    

    I'd come, but I need a ride.  Anyone wanna pick me up in Maynard??
    
    Holly
    

    I'd come, but I need a ride.  Anyone wanna pick me up in Great
    Shefford, UK.
    
    ;-)
    
    Lisa
    

    I need some directions to get there, from 495N...
    
    Lynne

    Lisa,
    
     I'm on my way! ;-)  I wish!
    
    Yonee

>>> Do they have any "normal food" there?

I'm sure our Thai friends think their food is normal.....;*)

Anyone got directions?

Mary

    I'll come, anyone want to pick me up in Los Gatos, CA?
    
    Steffi
    

    Cheryl....how many of us are going....do we need reservations...
    and what time are we meeting???????
    
    Sandy

    I'm hoping to be able to find this joint and expect to be there by
    12:10. 
    Sandy, Yon, Cheryl, Nancy, Roberta, Lynne and Mary said they'd show. 
    How about Holly?

    Does everyone have the directions?
    
    Yonee

    NO!!  Please put in directions!!!!!!
    
    Mary
    

    Here's the best I know how as far as directions to Chez Siam
    
    If you're on 495, take the Rt. 20 Marlboro exit.
    
    Go straight through three sets of lights 
    
    At the fourth set, take a left.
    
    At the next set of lights, take a right.
    
    At the bottom of the hill you will see Big D (grocery) and Rich's
    Department stores. Next you will see a small plaza with a CVS in it. 
    The next driveway after the small palza will be Chez Siam. I suppose
    you could park in CVS and walk over if you like.
    
    The trick is to stay on Route 20 the whole way. It's a good distance
    from 495, so don't think you went too far. If you happen to go past A
    White Hen Pantry on your right after a large curve, then you went too
    far.
    
    Hope these are OK. Any other Marlboro folks want to add anything?
    
     Yonee

    
    What direction on Rte 20?  Heading towards 128/Boston?

Stuff is hitting the fan all over the place here, so I'm not going to be able
to make lunch today.

Nashua feliners----anyone interested in meeting at Giant of Siam one day
next week?????

Mary

    Ok, i realize that it's only the beginning of November, and we just got
    over Halloween.  But in order to get everyone in this file together,
    I've GOT to plan things early!!
    
    What does everyone thing of having a FELINER'S christmas party???  I
    will offer to host it at my place in Fitchburg with no problem.  We
    could have it pot luck, I will make egg nog, and maybe each of us could
    bring a $5 gift to do a gift exchange??
    
    The holiday season is always a fun time of year, and what better way to
    spend one night than with FELINE friends???
    
    I would probably make it for one night during the week.  Maybe a
    thursday night??  What does everyone think??
    
    Holly
    

    I'd like to go to a Christmas party and so far have no other plans
    that far ahead.  A Thursday night is fine.
    
    Barbara

    And a vote for lunch next week at the Giant in Nashua!
    
    Barbara

	I don't work in Nashua, but Merrimack is sort of nearby -- right?
	I'd love to try to join you for lunch at the Giant, their food is
	terrific and I know the company will be too!


	Jan  whose_inn_is_full_with_13_cats,_4_dogs_and_2_llamas

Hi Jan!!  Two llamas??  You are a soft touch!!

How about next Thursday for a Greater Nashua/Merrimack lunch at Giant of Siam??

And Christmas sounds good, too....

Mary

    ...Christmas party sounds great.  Seeing as I live in Leominster, it's
    VERY convenient.
    
    I'll bring a casserole and the Bull Run dip.
    
    Let me know where...and when!
    
    Marilyn
    

    Mary, is the Giant the place right next to CVS and the hospital, and if
    so, can we offer other suggestions for places to meet?  The Bangkok
    Oriental Cuisine restaurant in Harris Pond (Merrimack) has a wonderful
    buffet and the place is nice and quiet.  I'd be willing to drive.  :^)

    Yup, that's the Giant.  Whatssamatta?  Don't you like Giant?  How do
    you other New Hampsha-ites feel about Bangkok???  I love the Giant...I
    eat there at least once or twice a week.
    
    Mary

    I like the Christmas party idea and count me in for
    lunch next Thursday!  I have a station wagon and work
    in MKO2, be glad to carry a couple of riders.
    
    Mary-Michael

    Regarding the luncheon, Mary and I would like to go for the Bangkok in
    order to avoid the lunchtime downtown traffic in Nashua.  Let's meet at
    11:45 on Thursday, November 12th.
    
    Bangkok has a nice buffet (I think it's $5.95) but they also have an
    extensive luncheon menu.  The food there tends to be on the spicy side
    and is quite good....  Oh, and there's also no mariache band there. :^)
    
    Regarding the Christmas party - I think a Sunday morning brunch would
    be ideal.  Can we steal that idea from the West Coasters?  :^)

    Unfortunately, I would not be able to have it at my place on a Sunday. 
    My fiance is REALLY into football and would be QUITE upset if I took
    the livingroom away on a sunday!! (-:
    
    But if there's someone else who would host it on Sunday, I don't mind. 
    Otherwise, I figured some weeknight would be good (except for Monday
    for the same reason).
    
    Holly
    

    I'm all for a Christmas party, but Thursday night is not good for me.
    That's my shelter night! I'd hate to miss my shelter night! It's Nancy
    Cross's shelter night too.
    
    Actually, I'm quite the party pooper I guess. Monday and Tuesday are
    bad for me too. I bowl in two leagues, and have to pay if I'm there or
    not. I'd gladly do a Sunday though! 
    
    I'll bring the linguine salad, only I'll make it right this time! :-}
    Last time I used the wrong seasoning and it came out real salty! never
    again! ;-)
    
    Love,
    
    Yonee

    Holly, you are supposed to make your fiance go over his buddy's house
    to watch football that Sunday.  :^)  Or how about a Saturday brunch
    instead?  
    
    A Friday night would also work better for those of us traveling over an
    hour but as far as other nights during the week, it gets hard to plan
    things....  Whenever you decide to have it, put me down for bringing
    some kind of fattening dessert!

    I could offer my house as well as long as it doesn't fall on
    a Sunday that I'm doing something for the shelter.  I also
    live in Fitchburg...and have plenty of furfaces to pat!!!
    
    I just don't have the time to take on the coordination....but
    will offer my house.
    
    Sandy

    Who is going to lunch tomorrow?

    Should we postpone??  I may not be able to go either...I'm on "critical
    path"...
    

    Postponing may work better because I'm also not doing so well this
    week....  Been really busy with junk, and coping with the removal of
    hundreds of engineers from my surrounding buildings.  We better plan
    this soon before we all meet up in the unemployment line!  How about
    next week?  Tuesday would be ideal, or possibly Thursday.

    Perhaps we should have a BEN & JERRY'S Christmas party since that's
    about the only thing that would be incentive enough to get all you east
    coast people assembled into one home on a given day.  Well Holly,
    whatever happened to your offer to host - are we doing this or not? 
    :^)  Let's pick a date and do it to it!

    Ok, this is it!!!  
    
     First (hopefully annual) East Coast Feliner's Christmas Party!!
    
    Date:  Thursday, December 10th
    Time:  7:00 pm
    Place:  My house in Fitchburg, MA (Please note, I live on the 3rd
    floor!)
    
    What to bring:  
    
    1)  Some type of food for everyone to enjoy (please let me know what
    you will bring)
    
    2)  A gift to exchange.  Value ~$5-$10.  We all realize that it should
    probably have SOMETHING to do with cats (picture, or what ever)
    
    3)  YOUR FAVORITE FLAVOR OF BEN & JERRY'S ICE CREAM!!
    
    4)  Kitty pictures!!
    
    I'll supply sodas and punch, the christmas setting, and 4 felines for
    various laps.  
    
    
    Please respond to me telling me if you will be there and what you will
    bring.
    
    Thanks.
    
    Holly
    

    I'll be at DECUS.....WWWWWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!
    
    Mary
    

    Well, it looks like I won't be able to go to the Christmas party.
    Thursday nights are bad for me. That's the night I volunteer at the
    shelter. Can't disappoint the furfaces that need help. 
    
    Hope everyone has a good time!
    
    Yonee

    Gee, only one person has responded to me saying that they can actually
    go to this party.  And now she may be backing out as well!
    
    Unfortunately, I cannot make it on a weekend until December 19th+20th
    (shows the first two weekends).  
    
    Please, if you would like to have this christmas party, please send me
    mail letting me know the best time/day for you.  
    
    Holly
    

    Come on, isn't ANYONE else interested in having a christmas party
    besides me, Mary Tamir, and Cheryl Coleman???  While these two ladies
    are very nice, I'd love to have more people there!!
    
    PLEASE!!  let me know absolutely no later than this friday when you
    will be available for a christmas party some time before christmas??  
    
    So far, the best night has been a friday night.  Let me know what is
    best for you!!
    
    Holly
    

    Whoops!!  Mix up of Cheryl's there!  I meant Cheryl RAWDEN, not Cheryl
    Coleman!!
    
    Holly
    

    My vote is for DEC 4th or DEC 11th.   Any closer to Christmas...and
    I become a complete basketcase because I never finish my shopping....
    
    Sandy

    
    
    	I'd love to but working two jobs makes the free time very tight!
    	And I have a lot of craft projects I need to get done as they're
    	Christmas gifts!  If this is still going to happen and a date is
    	set, if I have it off, I'll *try* and make it!  But I can't make
    	any promises.  =(
    
    	JJ
    

    JJ, bring your craft projects with you.  Sandy, you come to the party
    and learn how to make some of these last minute ideas.  There Holly,
    now JJ and Sandy will also be coming to your party.  :^)

    I CAN COME!  I CAN COME!!  Of course, the reason I can come is that
    I'm not going to DECUS and the reason I'm not going to DECUS is that
    I'm at "high risk", so I need a party!!!  JJ, you can ride with Cheryl
    and I and we'll help you with your crafts.  It'll be like an Old
    Ladies Sewing Circle.....

    Hey, how about we make this into a combination Christmas Party/craft
    party???  I've got a few candy wreaths I need to get done.  I'll even
    make some for the shelter!
    
    Holly
    
    p.s.  Another idea .. I'm willing to teach anyone who wants to how to
    make those candy wreaths (the ones that are ALL candy with a bow on
    top).  Just let me know!!
    

    Hi,
    
     I'm pretty sure I can make it either the 4th or the 11th. I'll have to
    check with my social director (Nick) to make sure though.
    
     Holly,
    
      I've been making those wreaths for years! They make a great gift for
    a group when you can't afford individual gifts. everyone loves them
    too!
    
    Yonee

    December 4th is this Friday - I say to go for it Holly!  (what a nice
    name for a hostess of a Christmas party :^)  December 11th is also
    good.  
    
    If anyone is seriously interested in crafts, I am making a dozen wall
    quilts of trees and would be willing to share the idea/pattern with
    anyone.  I'm also frantically needlepointing my fingertips off on a
    stocking for the mantle.  Oh, and let's not forget the cross stitched
    victorian banner for the front door.  Yonee can show us the catnip
    pouches she makes for cats!  
    
    A combined craft/social gathering sounds great!!!!  Maybe if the first
    party is a success, we can have a second one! 

    Well, now that it's closer, I can commit to the 4th, the 11th would
    still be a maybe,  but at least possible!  I will also come with craft
    in hand.  Now, what to bring to eat????  Is this to be dinner, or just
    dessert?  
    
    Linda

    If we are going to Holly's straight from work, we'll need food (not
    sugar highs)!  We could do what we did at Jill's this Spring and all
    bring along a dish.  Holly, shall we send you mail as to what we are
    bringing?  

    Well, as I told Cheryl in mail, I'm not really good with last minute
    things!  Besides, this friday isn't REALLY the greatest one!
    
    So, it looks like we'll be having this get together NEXT friday,
    December 11th.  At my house in Fitchburg.
    
    If you are going to go, please send me mail telling me what type of
    food you'll be bringing.   Also so that I can make up a distribution
    list to send directions.
    
    
    Oh, and don't forget the Ben and Jerry's ice cream!! (in case you
    forget, there's a Victory right up the street from me! (-:)
    
    Holly

    Oh yes, and don't forget the $5-$10 gift for the gift exchange!!
    
    Any and all crafts are more than welcome.  Maybe We'll all learn a
    thing or two!
    
    Don't forget the kitty pictures either!  Otherwise, you'll be tarred
    and feathered by the rest of the gang! (-:
    
    Holly
    

    
    
    	Well with the way my work schedule has been going at CWT,
    	I'd say it's more than likely I'll be working the 11th.  I
    	am working the 4th.  I've been schedule for Fri/Sat the past
    	two weeks in a row.
    
    	BUT!  If by some luck I'm not scheduled on the 11th I shall
    	do my best to make it.  =)
    
    	JJ
    

    If anyone is in contact with FELINERS that are no longer with the
    company, please let them know about this party and if they are able to
    attend, please have them contact me.  My outside number is
    (508)493-8514.
    
    Thanks.
    
    Holly
    

    Well, we've got an added bonus for this Friday's party!  The Infamous
    "Tu-tone's sweet sixteen", CFF's Alter of the Year for 1990-1991 will
    be honor us with his presence at our Feline Christmas party.  
    
    Sweetie says, "You're welcome to take pictures, but please don't ask
    for my autograph!  I hate having that pen between my toes!"
    
    hehehehe!!
    
    Holly
    

    Whew!  I haven't been able to get in to feline all week!
    Glad to see the party is still on!

    RE: .200's title ...
    
    Bring food, gift, kitty pictures and BEN AND JERRY'S ICE CREAM!!!
    
    
    Directions are going out today!!  I promise!
    
    Holly
    

    Well, leave it to me to plan a christmas party on the night of the
    worst blizzard we've had in 10 years at least!  
    
    One by one, people were calling and saying that they could not make it. 
    
    
    So, it looks like we're going to reschedule.  The party will be next
    SATURDAY afternoon/evening.  I figured we could start a bit earlier
    this time.  Maybe around 4:00 or so.  
    
    If there's anyone else who would like to go to our Christmas party on
    Saturday, please send me mail.
    
    Thanks.
    
    Holly
    

    I've been out of touch lately...  What's the scoop on the east coast
    party?  Was there one or will there be one?  

    Well, there wasn't a party after all.  Nobody could make either Friday
    or Saturday. )-:
    
    We're going to have an "after christmas" party, though.  Some time in
    January, I think.  
    
    Could everyone who would like to attend a FELINE gathering please send
    me mail about this and tell me which days would be best for you??
    
    Thanks.
    
    Holly
    

    Ok, here we go!  We're going to try this ONE more time!!!
    
    East Coast Feliner's Gathering!  Come one, come all!!
    
    When:  Friday, January 22, 1993
    Snow date (I've got ya covered this time!):  Friday, January 29th 1993
    Time:  7:00 pm
    Place:  My house in Fitchburg, MA 
    
    What to bring:
    
    Kitty pictures!
    Food (something for everyone to enjoy)
    And your favorite Ben and Jerry's Ice cream!!
    
    Please let me know if you will be attending and what you will be
    bringing.  Let's all try and make it this time.
    
    Holly
    

    Well, this party is two weeks away!  Please, if you are planning on
    attending, let me know as soon as possible.  I'll have the party
    whether I've got two people or twenty people (although that may be a
    bit difficult to fit into my apartment!).
    
    Let me know if you'll be going or not.
    
    Holly
    

    Well, I checked my social calendar, and unfortunately, I already have
    plans for that evening. BUmmer! Well, maybe next time. I'd try to drop
    in, but I'll be in Brockton that night! Too far I'm afraid.
    
    Yonee

    But Brockton isn't too far from Middleboro, Yonee!! (8
    
    I have to work, so I won't be able to make it. )-8

    So far I think I can make it!!!!!!!   Cheryl...your always wanting
    a get together....get your butt there!!!!  And Bring Mary too!!!
    
    Sandy

    I'm waiting to hear back from Mary T.  Also, I sent mail to Ros Reed
    and she might make it (she doesn't read notes).  Left a message with
    Jill Meier as well!
    
    Where's Barbara Benton, Bernice Ward, Linda Lust, Nancy Cross, Roberta
    Kagno, etc....?!

    I'd love to go but usually can't make it on Friday eves. or weekends.
    Maybe next time.
    
    Barbara

    I'm a maybe - have to wait to see how the "parent" situation is going, 
    but I'll be there if I can!
    
    Linda

    
    I really hate to break this to you guy, but I got an opportunity that I
    just couldn't refuse.  To go to the FLORIDA show with all expenses paid
    (except for my meals).  Unfortunately, it's the same weekend that I
    planned this party for.  
    
    So, it looks like it's got to be postponed to the 29th.  Sorry, guys!! 
    Hope everyone can still make it!!
    
    Holly
    

    
    Hi Cheryl, you party animal, you!
    
    I have a wedding that nite.  I can't make it either.  Always something!
    
    Nan

    Holly, If Rania is coming (and bringing along the baklava), you better
    get more chairs.  :^)
    
    Mary T said she'd come along on the 22nd but now that the date has
    changed once again, I'm waiting to hear back from her.  Ros Reed said
    she could make it on the 29th.  Not sure about Jill Meier though (I
    told her it was the 22nd but haven't heard back from her).

    Just curious (like a cat, I suppose...) is this gathering still on for
    the 29th?  If it is, Tamara and I can make it then...
    
    --jim
    

    I hope it's still on. I'm planning to go too, and I can't remember if I
    told Holly! 
    
    Holly, are you out there? Is this still on? I'm coming if it is!!
    
    Yonee

    Hi everyone!!
    
    Sorry I didn't get back to anyone about this.  Yes, it is still on for
    tomorrow night.  I was on vacation for a week and didn't get a chance
    to write back to everyone.  
    
    So far, I've gone through about half of the 130 mail messages I've
    received in the last week and have only seen a response from Cheryl
    Coleman (and Jill Meier).  Please send me mail letting me know if you
    will be coming and what type of food you'll be bringing.
    
    Holly
    

    Well everyone, tonight is the night!  It seems as if we'll have about 6
    people there.  Should be a lot of fun!!
    
    As for kitties that will be there, three kittybabies will be running
    loose (Tabitha, Silver, and PITA) and Kyra will be in the cattery.  Two
    reasons for this.  1) Kyra and Silver don't get along (instant
    fights!!) and 2) Dear Kyra has gone into RIP ROARING heat after the
    last show and has had some "litterbox problems" while in heat.
    
    Everyone will still be able to see her, they just have to go into the
    cattery.
    
    Party is at 7:00 tonight!! Anyone who wants to show up early is more
    than welcome!  If you didn't get directions, send me mail and I'll
    forward them to you.
    
    Holly
    

    So, when is the next party?  

    Hi All,
    
     I'd like to thank Holly for hosting the gathering Friday night. It
    seemed like everyone had a good time. I know I did. I had planned on
    leaving around 10:00, and ened up getting home at 12:30! My, how time
    flies when you're having fun!
    
     There was great food, and great desserts too!
    
     I'd also like to thank Sandy Merritt for letting some of us go to her
    house earlier in the evening to see her kitties. Van Gogh is such a
    love! I got lots of head butts from him. We had some appetizers there,
    and then went to Holly's for the 'real' food! 
    
     Also thanks to Sandy's husband Ernie for putting up with us! ;-)
    
    Yonee

    Did you know that Van Gogh took Rosyln's license while we were at
    Sandy's?  Watch out, he's a pick pocket!!  Anyone missing any cash? :^)

    Poor Ernie "Dimento", wonder how he survived the ordeal of all those
    women in his house.  Yonee kept asking how to use the joystick while we
    were making obscene jokes in the other room.  :^)  But never during the
    course of the evening did the mariache band show up!

    
    I have trained Van Gogh very well.....but the nut forgot to take
    the cash..so obviously I have to re-train him!!! And believe me
    Ernie enjoyed all that "nasty" attention too!!!
    
    I had a great time at my house and at Holly's!!!!  The food was great..
    the kitties were great...and you guys are a bunch of crazy nuts!!!
    Poor Kyra wants a man so so so bad!!!!!
    
    Sandy
    
    

    I'd just like to chime in here and thank Holly (and everyone else!)
    for the good time!
    
    Special thanks go to Silver, PITA, and Tabetha, for letting a whole
    roomful of strange FELINERs pet and paw them all night 8-)  (PITA
    even fell asleep in my lap for a little bit 8-) ).  I'm not sure any
    of *our* cats would stand so much "loving attention" for so long...
    
    --jim
    

    Sorry I'm so late with this (spent 2 glorious days in exotic
    Kalamazoo, MI!!).
    
    I really had fun at Holly's too!  I met a lot of Feliners that I
    hadn't met before - and found out how very "shy" Cheryl Rawden
    is (ha ha)!!
    
    I really enjoyed meeting Holly's beautiful babies and everyone's
    company!
    
    Pam

    Yeah Pam,
    
       Cheryl's "almost" as shy as me! ;-) 
    
    Yonee

    But I'm really Cheryl Coleman in disguise, ask Jan.  (Don't ask Holly
    cause she hasn't figured this out yet!)  :^)

    Barbara Benton and I are meeting Mary Tamir for lunch tomorrow,
    11:40ish at the Giant of Siam in downtown Nashua.  If anyone wants to
    join us, please send mail so we can arrange for possible
    carpool/directions or whatever...

    Please give Mary my regards, and send hugs to Blue and Beth.  I wish I
    could join you, I love Thai food, but I only have a lunch "hour". ;-) 
    But if anyone wants to carpool...... ;^)
    
    Steffi

    If possible, a tad more warning would be helpful.  I've corresponded
    with Mary, have contributed to Blue's care fund, and have a picture of
    him, but would have enjoyed an opportunity to finally meet Mary.
    
    len.
    

    Len, perhaps next time then?  Mary, Barbara and I only decided on this
    yesterday so it was a spur of the moment thing...  But the food at the
    Giant is good and we're ready to go back again.  Just say the word. 
    :^)

    Hey everyone, Holly's having a party for our west coast guest. :^)

    Ugh!  Snowballed into it!!
    
    Ok, ok!  We'll have a party at my house again (Bob's gonna kill me!). 
    Marlene, let me know when you'll be able to make it.  Is friday before
    the show ok?  (that's Friday, the 26th).
    
    Anyone who wants to go, send me mail.  Should we do pot luck again???
    
    Holly
    

    At this time, I already have plans for next Friday, but if anything
    changes, I'll be there! I'd love to meet Marlene! I love to meet the
    people behind the writing in this file! ;-)
    
    Yonee

    Ok, I guess it's Friday!  Send me mail if you want to go.  I've got to
    call Cindy Gerry and find out what's going on with Marlene.
    
    Holly
    

    
    Holly, I am here @ ACO.  I sent you mail before I left the West coast
    but hadn't heard from you.  I'm still planning on Friday.  What time
    and where and what can I bring?  I told Cin about it, please give her a 
    call...
    
    
    

    Well, there's only been one person who responded, that was Linda Lust. 
    but if you still would like to come over and meet furrfaces, you're 
    more than welcome (Linda and Cindy are welcome too).
    
    Actually, are you going to be around tonight???  My fiance is going to
    be in school most of the night.  That would be good too!
    
    Holly
    

    This party has been canceled due to lack of response.  Just thought I'd
    tell everyone.
    
    We'll have to have a get together next time Marlene is back here in
    Mass.
    
    Holly
    

    
    I propose we try for an after work (5:00pm) get together at a
    local (I know, local to whom?) place, on an off night like
    a Monday.
    
      The Yangzee Rest.  Rte 110 was the place I noticed had the
    most show up for a get together (about 25+, at least!)
    
    We could have a coupon drop-off, an SLM collection plate go around,
    and of course, the usual pictures & stories.
    
    In this area there is also Scupper Jacks (Acton-used to be Rusty
    Scupper), the Westford Regency (expensive but nice)...
    Anyone have any other places they know of?
      

    I vote for the Yangzee ..and Monday would avoid conflicts with cat
    shows, cat club meetings, etc.
    
    I was sorry I couldn't try for the proposed gathering at Holly's while
    Marlene was here. I had to help the club set up for the show that
    night.  
    
    Marlene, ..Cin said you stopped into the show for just a few minutes. I
    was so sorry to hear that I had missed you! :^(
    
    Next time you are coming out let me know and I'll crash Cin's house one
    night when you're visiting.
    
    Linda

    Another vote for Monday at the Yangtze River in Littleton.  Of course,
    the fact that my site, LKG, is right next door, is coincidental.
    
    len.
    

    I'd love to do another gathering at the Yangtze, but alas, the only
    nights I'm available is Wednesday and Friday. I can do some weekends
    too. If I can make it the night that's decided on, I'll be there! ;-)
    
    Yonee

    Len Fehskins, Barbara Benton, Mary Tamir (and maybe me?) are meeting
    for lunch this Wednesday.  Giant of Siam, downtown Nashua - 12:00 ish. 
    Anyone else going??

    Since I don't know any of you by sight, I'll be carrying a white canvas
    Digital tote-bag, with my cat pictures (slides) and a hand viewer in
    it.  I'll be wearing a blue jacket.
    
    len.
    

    Hi Len,
    	I'll be there today and so will Mary, but Cheryl may not make it.
    I'm about 5' tall, brown hair, and will be wearing a red ski jacket. 
    Mary is also short with dark hair.  Last time she was wearing a red
    coat, but that could change.  We'll be there at the Giant of Siam
    between 11:45 and 12:00.  Do you know where it is?  Send me mail if you
    need directions.                   
    
    	See you there.  Is anyone else going?
    
    Barbara

    Len is coming by my cube in just a bit so I'll set him straight with
    directions and descriptions.  Oh, and if I can make lunch, I'll just
    bring him with me.
    
    Where is Mary M-C, JJ or Jan Brown?????

    I *was* going to go home and clean up at lunch, since Mary Tamir
    is coming over for dinner tonight, but what the heck, I'll be
    there!  I'll just blame the dust on the cats..... :-)
    
    Mary

    Ok, Len has directions and I'm going too.  (if I have to work until
    midnight, it's all Barbara Benton's fault.  we'll just force her to
    host the next feliners party)  :^)  
    
    Is Mary Michael-Cochrane now Mary Michael-Cochrane-Scanlon?  Too many
    names!  Some of us are starting to get confused.  :^)
    
    We'll meet up somewhere between 11:45 and 12:00 at the Giant.  Look on
    the left side of the restaurant as you walk in, which I think is the
    non-smoking section.  Anyone else coming?

    Could some of us get together at the Yangtze River in Littleton some
    night?  Perhaps a choice of either April 27, 28 or 29th? (tues, wed,
    thurs).  If we can't all get together at once, "a few good cats" at a
    time is fine!
    Karen 

    
    How about the 26th?

    I would only be available on Wednesday the 28th. I bowl Monday and
    Tuesday, and have shelter duty Thursdays. I'm not sure about that
    Friday though. I'll have to check my social calendar! ;-)
    
    Yonee

    Well, I'd be available most of that week except for that Saturday. 
    It's by birthday and my fiance and I will probably go out somewhere.
    
    Holly
    

    Much as I'd like to join you, I'll be away on business those days.
    
    len.
    

    I think the week after would be good.  It may give us more time to plan
    and I would certainly like to say hi to Len again.  How is Merlin these
    days?
    Karen

    Hi Karen, I hope we'll be able to catch you at the show this weekend.
    Merlin is sleek and happy, he just gets more obnoxiously affectionate
    as he gets older.  He'll be 18 in four months!
    
    len.
    

    Oh Len, that's wonderful about Merlin!!  That little blue point kitten
    I got at Christmas is of the obnoxiously affectionate type too!  He
    leaps at you from anywhere and then climbs to your shoulder.  I am
    afraid this is a trait he won't grow out of 8^D!!  Yes, I will be at
    the show all weekend.  It is being put on by one of the clubs I belong
    to.  I have made the decorations, just hope they come out alright! 
    You will finally get to see the kitties you've heard so much aobut.
    Karen
    18...yikes!

    RE: Karen,
    
    Trust me, that's not a trait that he'll grow out of.  Sweetie did the
    same exact thing and STILL does.  In fact, that's the only way that he
    would let me carry him to the rings.  I opened the cage door and he'd
    jump up onto my shoulder and ride there the entire way to the ring or
    back to the cage.
    
    Ask Marlene.  She saw him at the Brooklyn show! (-:
    
    Holly
    

    My husband and I will be coming to NYC Oct 9, and we plan to drive up
    to NE on Oct 11.  We plan to stop at Braintree and visit Nancy DC and
    check out the kitties (maybe succumb to temptation).  We would love to
    meet any feliners in the general area that evening.  I want to go to
    Merrimack NH on Tuesday to visit my counterparts in Central
    Registration for Educ Services.  So anywhere between Braintree and
    Merrimack would probably be fine for us.  If anyone can recommend a
    nice (inexpensive) place to stay.  A B & B would be great.  
    
    I hope we can get to meet a lot of the NE feliners, Oct 11.
    
    Steffi

    Let's see, October 11 is a Monday.  What do you say we have a FELINER'S
    get together at the Yangtzee River Chinise Restaurant in Littleton??  
    
    H

    I'm pretty sure I'll be around that evening! I'd LOVE to meet Steffi!
    I'll even try to find my pictures! 8-}
    
    Yangtzee River in Littleton is fine with me, or even someplace else if
    this is bad for others! I'm easy! ;-)
    
    Yonee

    Bob and I love chinese food.  We'll have lots of pictures.  Bob is
    going to AAA today and geting a triptik of the area, so I'll be able to
    see where we are planning to go.  We are already planning to
    wear our Meower Power T-shirts.  I hope the leaves will be doing their
    thing and turning beautiful colors.  I'm bringing a camera too.
    
    I hope to see lots of Feliners.
    
    Steffi
    

    Ok, I see there hasn't been much input on this little gathering. Now I
    just KNOW that the East Coast FELINErs are all excited about meeting
    Steffi!
    
    So, who's going to be there besides Holly and I? (And Steffi and her
    hubby of course) Is it the location? Or is everyone waiting to see what
    everyone else does? I would love to see a bunch of FELINErs too! 8-)
    
    I'm sure between Holly and I (me?) we will take care of the
    reservations and whatever. (Is that OK HOlly? ;-) 8-} )
    
    So, let's chat it up here. Steffi won't be here that long!
    
    Love,
    
    Yonee 
    

    As long as I can get a sitter for that evening, I'll be there too.
    
    Lori B.

    I also want to meet Steffi and am going to try real hard
    to get there.  It has nothing to do with where the place
    is located...it's only with my work schedule.
    
    I'm going to try real hard...so count me in!!!!  And
    I won't forget my pictures either.....
    
    Sandy

    
    Normally I'd say count me in, but on the 11th I'll be away on business.
    
    len.
    

    Who's else is coming and what time are we going to meet????  
    
    Sandy

    Ok, here is the rather short list of names that I have so far for the
    gathering. I hope a few more people can make it. It isn't every day we
    get a visitor from the west coast!
    
    Steffi
    Bob
    Yonee
    Holly
    Lori
    Sandy
    Ernie?
    Mike  (Mike, told me his last name, but I can't remember it for the
           life of me! Sorry Mike! I'm just an Airhead lately!)
    
    	I was thinking maybe we could gather around 6:30 or 7:00, and chat
    for a while, and then we could eat when everyone is there? Comments
    welcome!
    
    Yonee

    I personally would like to start a little earlier...like maybe
    5:30 we can sit/gab and eat about 6:30!!  Unless people are
    going home first and need the extra time to get to the restraunt!!  
    
    

    That's fine with me! Not that I like to 'Gab" or anything, as I'm such
    a quiet person, but I could probably be coaxed into SOME conversation!
    
    So, now that my nose has grown four inches, what does everyone else
    think? 8-)
    
    
    Yonee

    
    I really wish I could make this.  Drat.
    
    len.
    

    Len...someday I swear I'll meet you and see your pics of your
    furfaces!!!  Sorry you can't join us.....   
    
    Sandy

    I can go, but I need a ride from MSO2 to the place and then from the
    place to my home in Fitchburg.  Can anyone help me out here?
    
    Holly
    

    Holly,
    
    If I can get a sitter for that night, I will be attending and can
    probably get you both ways.
    
    Lori B.

    Lori,
    
     You HAVE to get a sitter for that night! I'd love to see you again so
    soon! Plus we need to get Holly there, since she was the one who
    suggested the place and stuff! ;-)
    
    Love,
    
     Yonee

    I should be able to go, and can give Holly a ride home after - no
    problem.  I don't yet know where I'll be working that day, but if PKO
    I can do that trip also - Holly, ya gotta go!
    
    Linda

    I really, really, really want to go.  I spoke with my sitter this
    morning and she said that so far it looks like she'll be available, but
    it's her son's birthday and she doesn't know if anything is planned for
    that evening yet.  The thing is, if I get someone else to watch my son,
    I'd have to go all the way into Leominster first and then back to
    Littleton, which is a big pain!  I'll know soon enough though.
    
    Lori B.

    Holly I can't get you there because I'm taking the DAY OFF....but
    I sure can bring you home to Fitchburg.
    
    Sandy

    Well, it looks like I can get from the Yangtzee river to home with no
    problem.  Linda, if you're in PKO, that'd be great if you can give me a
    ride.  Anyone else coming my way that can pick me up in Maynard??
    
    Thanks everyone!
    
    Holly
    

    Well, it looks as though I will be able to go. :-)  My sitter called
    last night and said she would be available to watch my son for me and
    if not, her 15 year old step daughter would be around. :-)  Holly, if
    you need a ride to Yangtzee River and are willing to wait for me to get
    to Maynard from Marlboro, I can come get you.
    
    Lori B.

    YEEHAW!!! I'm glad you're going to be there Lori! 
    
    And I FINALLY found my pictures that I stupidly took out of my car! So
    I'll be able to show off my crew Monday night too! I don't think Steffi
    would have forgiven me if I didn't have SOME pictures of my gang! ;-)
    
    I love it when a plan comes together!
    
    Love,
    
    Yonee 

    Gonna go home and look for more pictures of my kids, present and
    past (although I'm down to only one now).
    
    See you all Monday night! :-)
    
    Lori B.

    any problem if there's a last minute show-up ??   I'm taking a vacation
    day on Monday but can find out if my regular after-school care for
    my son is available to come later in the afternoon and stay into the
    evening ..................  would love to meet some of you !!

    Debbi

    Wish you were meeting in Leominster then I could attend.  I would
    love to show you the pictures of Abigail and meet many of you who
    have been so supportive and caring during her ordeal.
    
    But - I work in Maynard and don't like the idea of leaving her
    alone for 15 hours ... I hope you understand!  Actually, I could
    send Yonee a picture of Abigail and she could bring it for me ..
    of course I have to ask her first (smile).
    
    Enjoy and know that my thoughts will be with you all.
    
    Marilyn
    

    
    Deb,
    
     Of course you can be a last minute show up! If the table(s) is/are
    sort of full, we'll just squeeze in! ;-) I hope you can make it! The
    more the merrier!
    
     I will also be out Monday, so, if there are last minute additions,
    maybe Holly could take care of that?
    
    Marilyn,
    
     Of course we understand! You do what you have to do, and we'll
    definitely meet one of these days! BTW, I'm workng on getting a copy of
    that song I promised you! ;-)
    
    Yonee

    Marilyn,
    
    What facility in Maynard do you work in?  Weren't you in MSO1 at one
    time?  We could always meet and I could bring the picture of Abigail
    for you.  I'd LOVE to see a picture of her!!
    
    How is she doing at home?
    
    HOlly
    

    Hi Holly.
    
    I am working at the Mill!  Where do you live - isn't it Leominster?
    
    Either that, or I can meet you sometime tomorrow morning (or after
    work) and I'll bring the pictures in of her for you to bring!  She's
    extremely unusual - she's all white except for a gray tail and gray
    on the top of her head!
    
    Let me know.
    
    M
    

    Marilyn,
    
    I live in Fitchburg.  Unfortunately, I don't have a car (my husband
    drops me off here at MSO2 and then goes to work in Concord).  Maybe we
    can meet somewhere tomorrow?  
    
    Oh wait a minute!  I'll be at Central Animal Hospital at 6:15 tomorrow
    night with Mondo and Silver.  Any chance you can stop by there?
    
    Holly
    

    Holly!  I'll be at Central Animal Hospital at 6:10.  Chances are I
    might have to bring Abby in for fluids - if not - I'll stop in to
    say hi to the "gang" and pick up a couple of cans of AD cat food.
    
    I'll bring in the pictures ... some of which the staff haven't seen
    yet either.  They were taken when she was well ... I think they will
    enjoy looking at them.
    
    A large one of her - a silouette of her behind a lace curtain - that
    I took last Sumer is being enlarged.  I can pick it up the middle of
    next week - too late for the dinner.  I am planning on giving it to 
    Dr. Moss as a "thank you" for all she has done for her!
    
    I'll see you tomorrow night at Central Animal Hospital - 6:10/6:15
    p.m.!
    
    Marilyn (and thanks)
    

    Well Gang,
    
     Tonight's the night! I wish more people could make it though.
    Including Steffi and Bob, there will only be about 7 or 8 people there!
    I'm going to make the reservations for 10 just in case someone changes
    their mind at the last minute! ;-)
    
     I'm off today, so if you have any questions, please contact Holly. 
    
     See you all tonight!
    
     Love,
    
     Yonee

    Yonee,
    
    Add Karen Fallon as a possibility.  She hasn't had a chance to catch up
    in this file, but I told her about it on Thursday.  I talked to her
    today, and she said possibly, but she'll definitely be able to give me
    a ride there as it's on the way home from work.
    
    Oh, and I picked up Marilyn's pictures.  Abigail is absolutely
    georgeous!!
    
    Also, I brought some wedding pictures if anyone's interested.
    
    See everyone tonight!!
    
    Holly
    

    I can't believe I left the pictures of my "kids" on my kitchen table
    this morning.
    
    Lori

    Just want to say that I had a WONDERFUL day yesterday with
    Steph, Bob and Yonee.  We visited my crew...went out for lunch..
    visited the shelter and then attended the feline get-together.
    It was so nice to see some of the feliners at the dinner and I
    love the pictures of Abigail and Otis!!
    
    What a great day...with wonderful people!!!!  Misha is absolutely
    gorgeous as well as Lizette, Misty, and Marnie!!  I would love to
    meet the foursome in person someday!!!!!   
    
    Sandy 
    
    

    I also had a wonderful time yesterday with Steffi, Bob and Sandy! I was
    the chauffer for the day, and really enjoyed Steffi and Bob oohing and
    aahing over the foliage. I always appreciate the glorious colors, but
    it's always nice to be reminded how lucky we are in New England to have
    such a wonderful Autumn!
    
    It was great to see some FELINErs again, and to meet some new ones! I
    took Steffi and Bob over to Karen Fallon's after dinner to meet her
    clan. They are absolutely wonderful! We met THE Lynxette, and she is a
    big Moosh, looking for attention constantly! I loved it!
    
    Let's see, who was there? Well, Steffi and Bob, Sandy and Ernie, Mike
    O'Neill (did I spell that right Mike? I know there are two L's!) Linda
    lust, Lori B., Holly Ventura, Karen Fallon, and ME! ;-) It was a nice
    gathering!
    
    The pictures of Abigail and Otis were wonderful to see also. It would
    have been even better if Marilyn could have brought them in person, but
    we all understand that yo needed to be home Marilyn! So glad she's
    doing so well now that she's home!
    
    I have bite marks all over my fingers rom the shelter kitties being a
    bit too excited over the baby food I brought! 8-} I'll survive though!
    It was good to visit the PBS again.
    
    I hope we have another gathering soon! I love getting together with
    kitty people!
    
    So, I had a really full day yesterday, and thoroughly enjoyed every
    second of it!
    
    Love,
    
    Yonee

    Thanks to Yonee for being the chaffuer!
    I had a great time and was able to meet Steph and Bob.  I am always
    very pleased to meet someone who lives so far away and are only
    a name and picture to me otherwise.
    
    All the pictures were fun to look at and the food/conversation was 
    very good as well. 
    
    I didn't think Steffie would ever leave, that is until Wizzer 
    decided to climb up her backside:'}  They wouldn't leave her alone
    for a minute.  Tubba fell asleep on top of the refrigerator while
    Yonee was scratching his chin. I think my guys really enjoyed the 
    company!
    Boy, I had to hunt for this note.  I just don't have as much time
    anymore....
    Let me know when the next dinner is!
    Karen

    Bob and I had a wonderful visit.  Thank you, Yonee for being such a
    good chauffer.  Thank you Sandy, for taking us to the shelter.  It is a
    wonderful place for the kitties.  And thank you Karen, for letting us
    visit your beautiful cats.  I never got to handle orientals before and
    they are lovely.  I enjoyed being a kitty toy. (I was wearing a jacket
    with cord strings hanging down.)  The kittens loved chewing on them and
    Wizzer climbed my leg to chew on the one that was inside my jacket.  It
    was wonderful fun.  Karen threatened to check my pockets when I left.;)
    Tubba sat like a beautiful white statue, Chessie is just beautiful,
    actually they all are beautiful.  Boy, I sure got a kitty fix Monday.
    
    I was so glad to meet some of the Feliners that I have just known by
    name.  Now I can put some faces with the names.
    
    Thank you for making my visit so special.
    
    Steffi (and Bob) 

    You will have to let us know when you are coming out this way
    again!  We reallly enjoyed your visit and the kitties are all 
    waiting to see you again!
    Karen
    (paw pats from Wizzer, and yes, I clipped his claws :'})

    Ok, people. Considering all of the hastles we had last year, I've
    decided to start planning for this EARLY this year.  So please, don't
    anybody shoot me in the head for mentioning this "C" word before
    Thanksgiving. (-:
    
    Last year I had planned a Christmas party at my house ...
    unfortunately, the weather just didn't want us to have the party.
    
    I'd like to possibly hold a christmas party at my house this year.  I
    was thinking of Friday, December 10th with a "Rain/snow/slush/whatever"
    date of Friday, December 17th.  
    
    Anyone interested in heading to Fitchburg for a FELINE christmas
    party??
    
    Holly
    

    Holly,
    
     The way the weather cooperates with you, maybe we should have a
    Christmas party in August! ;-) Sorry, couldn't resist, what with me
    being one of the ones who'll need to brave the weather! ;-)
    
     Right now, my calendar looks clear, but I know Nick's company is
    planning something, but I don't know when yet. So, I guess right now, I
    can be counted as an almost maybe definite! 8-} 
    
     Good Idea trying to plan it early though! Maybe we could even plan a
    kitty toy/something else neat grab bag for that night! That way we
    wouldn't have to worry about male/female type gifts! Just kitty stuff!
    
     Just my ramblings on a Monday!
    
    Yonee

    
    You bet!!!!!  But I agree with Yonee.... let's plan it for August 22!

    I can most likely make it, and even can carpool with people from here
    (MKO or Southern NH).  Just let me know when, what to bring, what the
    attire will be, and most importantly... how to get there!  Steven drove
    when we came down, so I will surely get lost!!!!

    M-L

> Friday, December 10th

	FWIW, that's the same week as Fall DECUS this year.

    I haven't looked at my calendar at home...but if I'm free
    I'll definitely be there and see if Ernie wants to come too!!!
    
    Sandy

    Holly,
    I want you to know that I would like to come, but more than likely
    I will be preparing for a show.  I just have to pick which one to go
    to!
    Either TICA in Boston or CFA in Suffern, NY.  If you have a "snow
    date", perhaps I can make that...
    Karen

    
    Those dates look good to me - I assume I can bring Sandy and lots of
    pictures...
    
    len.
    

    Count me in.  I'll pencil in (soft hold) both the 10th and 17th.
    
    Anything I can do to help and/or bring or is it too early to 
    start discussing those things?   ;*)
    
    Marilyn
    
    P.S.  Holly.  My new assignment is at MSO 2 - 3rd floor - I start
          Monday the 15th.  I can get the pictures from you then!
    

    Great, Marilyn!  We can "Do" lunch! (-:
    
    You working in the Law Department??
    
    For those of you who said that they would come, should we do this as a
    "pot luck" like we did last year??  I think it's a great idea!
    
    Send me mail letting me know what you'll bring.
    
    Also, I really like Yonee's idea about doing a "kitty" gift swap.  We
    can put a limit of $5 on it.  Buy a favorite gift for a kitty and wrap
    it up and we'll do a yankee swap for kitty gifts.
    
    Holly
    

	Out of interest,  what's a "yankee swap"?

	Thanks,
	Heather    

    
    Though I've never heard it called this, I'd guess it's the tradition of
    everyone bringing a gift of roughly the same value, putting them all in a
    big sack and then everyone picking one out at random.  This way
    everyone gets a gift and nobody has to sort out the logistics of who
    gives what to whom.
    
    We used to do this in school as kids, and one year I picked the same
    thing I had brought!  (Actually the odds of this happening are
    surprisingly high).  Of course, my mother accused me of not putting my
    gift in the sack, despite my tearful prostestations to the contrary.
    
    len.
    

    Actually the way I believe a Yankee Swap works is this.  Everyone
    brings a gift and they all get put together either on a table or in the
    center of the room.  Numbered slips of paper are then placed in a hat
    (as many slips as there are people in attendance).  Everyone picks a
    slip of paper out of the hat.  Number 1 goes first.  They pick a gift
    and open it.  Number 2 then picks a gift and has the option of opening
    it or trading with number 1 if they trade with number 1 then number one
    gets to open number 2's gift.  Number 3 then takes a gift and has the
    same option as number 2 except they can take either number 1 or number
    2's gift.  It continues like this until everyone has picked a gift. 
    The higher your number, the better because you're the last one to go
    and you get to choose whichever gift you like the best.  It's fun!
    
    Lori B.

    Re: -.1
    
    We used to do this at the barbershop chorus my husband used to belong
    too. We called it a Chinese Raffle though! The only difference was,
    number 1 got to pick at the end from ALL the gifts, since that person
    didn't have any choices at all to start with.
    
    I've also done something where you count your people, and deal out
    cards from like two decks, (so everyone has at least a few, and then
    one person shuffles together two other decks (the cards must come out
    even. The extras that don't make a full circle will be taken out of
    the dealing deck also) and starts flipping and calling the cards.
    Whoever has the card, say red nine of hearts (red deck and blue deck)
    gets to pick a gift, but NOT open it. Then the next card is called, and
    THAT person has the choice of any otther gift, or the gift that was
    already picked!
    
    This goes on and on until there are no more cards to be called, and
    whatever gift you have at the end, you open and keep. the fun is, that
    if you take a gift someone already chose, they may still have a card
    left, and can grab it right back! I've seen times where two or three
    gifts get passed around MANY times before the cards ran out. It was
    really fun, and we laughed till our sides ached!
    
    Of course then we ate! 8-)
    
    Pot luck sounds good to me. We've had some really great dishes at
    gatherings! Roslyn, are you listening? 8-)
    
    Of course I, with my massive amount of free time, usually bring
    beverages, cause I have no time to cook! :-( Maybe I'll surprise
    everyone this time. I'll still bring beverages (not alcoholic though)
    and maybe something sweet! Or maybe I'll even cook! I'm a pretty good
    cook, when I actually have the time!
    
    Yonee (what day was it again? KIDDING!!!)
    

	Souns great to me...expecially with the eating afterwadrs

	Heather

    So, Heather, are you coming? 8-) It would be quite a commute, but I'm
    sure we'd all love to have you! 
    
    Yonee (who loves the eating part much more than she should!) ;-)

	I'd love to come............just a tad to far though!


	Heather

    Well, it looks like we're on for next friday night!!
    
    Date:  Friday, December 10, 1993
    Time:  7:00 pm
    Place:  My house in Leominster, MA
    
    Why:  To celebrate Christmas with the best type of people in the world,
    FELINERS!! (-:
    
    What to bring:  I'm planning on having it "pot luck" again.  I'll make
    another dirt cake, and maybe something else.  Please respond to me
    letting me know what you are going to bring.
    
    Also, bring a gift around $5 for a kitty.  Not a gift for a person, but
    specifically for the kitties.  Wrap it, and we'll do a type of "yankee
    swap" (as previously described).
    
    Please let me know asap if you'll be attending, and what type of food
    you'll be bringing.  Also, if anyone knows of a FELINER who is no
    longer with the company that they can contact, please feel free to
    invite them as well.  Just let me know that they are coming.
    
    Holly
    

    You said Leominster....I thought you lived in Fitchburg!!! Did
    I miss something????

    I second that! Did you move since last year? I thought it was Fitchburg
    too!
    
    I'll need directions again, as usual! ;-)
    
    Yonee

    Whoops!!!  Not thinking strait.  I meant Fitchburg.
    
    Ok, so I'm having a Blonde day!! (-:
    
    Holly
    

    DAY?????  Try *life* dearie!!!!!
    
    Hugs and kisses!!!
    
    guess who

    
    Fitchburg, Leominster, wherever, as long as you provide directions.
    
    len.
    

    Holly, what's a "dirt" cake?  I wish I could be there, but it's an
    awfully long drive.  Have fun, everyone.
    
    Steffi (form the land of sun and temps in the 60's)

    Holly, what's a "dirt" cake?  I wish I could be there, but it's an
    awfully long drive.  Have fun, everyone.
    
    Steffi (from the land of sun and temps in the 60's)

    Holly count me in!
    
    Can you use a casserole or some munchies (i.e., stuffed grape leaves,
    chicken livers wrapped in bacon, artichoke dip, Bull Run dip, shrimp
    cocktail) ... which would you prefer?
    
    Also, should I bring some paper plates and napkins .. or perhaps 
    some soda?
    
    Let me know!  Haven't seen you around lately - you okay?  Looking
    forward to it.
    
    Marilyn
    

    Marilyn,
    
     MMMMmmmmm! Bring all of the above!!!! Sorry, I've been dieting, and
    lost control there for a minute! BTW, what's Bull Run Dip? Sounds
    interesting! I used to make a dip thing called Dog Chow or something
    like that! I loved the dip, but hated the name! ;-)
    
     Since I am so busy that I have no life of my own, (meaning at home) I
    have volunteered to bring beverages to the Gathering. I have no time to
    cook, as Thursday nights are my shelter nights at the Framingham
    Shelter. I'll be bringing a variety of stuff, but no alcoholic stuff.
    If anyone wants beer, wine, etc., you best remember to bring it! ;-)
    
     I know I have to bring Diet Coke, and some sort of fruit juice, but if
    anyone has any special requests other than your basic Coke, Diet Coke,
    Flavored sparkling water (my personal choice) or whatever, let me know.
    I'd rather bring stuff people want than try to figure out what they will
    drink. If I get too many different things, I'll just buy smaller
    bottles! 8-)
    
     Looking forward to this Gathering! Knowing me, I'll end up over
    Sandy's earlier so I can visit Kitty City, but directions would be
    great just in case. Are they already in here Holly? I haven't looked.
    
    Yonee

      Blonde day...I love it!!!     Len...just to give you an idea..
      Holly lives about 8-10 minutes from the shelter!! 
      
      Yonee..you are more then welcome to stop at my house first!!  Yonee
      is the only one of my friends that can name and identify all my 
      cats...which is not an easy task!!  If anyone else wants to come
      over early and see the crew...you are more then welcome!
    
      Well I HATE to cook or bake...so I'll bring something store bought
      or at a bakery!!  Holly I could bring cold meat/buns...or some type
      of dessert...or munchies!!!  Please let me know what you need!
    
     I'm still trying to convince Ernie to come too!!!  
    
      Sandy..

    As far as I know, I will be there (drink request, Yonee, anything
    caffeine AND sugar free).... Holly, we'll talk closer towards the end, so
    I can get an idea what to fill in where we are lacking!  Or, if I can
    find the recipe, I'll make Litter Box Treats!

    M-L

    M-L,
    
     Litter Box Treats! I'm not too sure about that one! ;-) Let's see,
    Bull Run Dip, Dog Chow Dip, Litter Box Treats, I also have a recipe for
    something called Puppy Chow! Any other er, 'inventive' recipres out
    there? ;-)
    
     Also, caffiene and sugar free is my middle name! ;-) I'll be sure to
    have some of that! I drink a lot of Caffiene free Diet Pepsi, and
    sparkling water stuff that is also sugar free! I can't even drink the
    other stuff any more!
    
    Yonee

    -< Ok, where do you get the ingredients! 8-} >-
    
    heeheeheehee
    
    My secret!

    Hmmmmmm, I'll have to see you sample these first! ;-) I think I'm
    losing the last (small) shred of sanity I have left today! ;-) I'm not
    sure why I'm, in such a good mood, but I'm glad I am! 8-)
    
    Yonee

    Well, let's see..
    
    Sandy, the coldcuts and rolls went over well last year .. maybe you and
    Pam (is she coming??) can get together and share the expense of that.  
    
    Yonee, I know that you're bringing soda .. be sure that the diet coke
    you bring for me is "leaded", not "unleaded" (as in not caffeine free).  
    
    Marilyn .. any of the above is fine .. Looks like we only have one main
    dish so far (sandy's coldcuts).
    
    M-L ... LITTERBOX TREAT, PLEASE!!  From what you described to me
    before, it sounds great!!
    
    Gee, there's dog chow, litterbox treat, puppy show, bullrun dip, and
    dirt cake .. SHEESH!!  What a combo! (-:
    
    

    Hi there,
    
    Just found out about this party (sorry, haven't been in notes for
    a while!)
    
    I'll mark my calendar, and will get together with Sandy on the
    cold cuts - maybe I'll make a veggie hot dish too...
    
    Count me in!
    
    Pam

    Well, so far we have the following:
    
    Pam	  \
    Sandy /  Going together with lunchmeats an rolls
    
    Yonee - sodas
    Len - was going to talk to Sandy ... but I'd really appreciate the
          paper goods.
    M-L - litterbox treat! (-:
    Marilyn - some kind of dish (don't remember which)
    
    
    Anybody else planning on coming?  Is there anyone outside the company
    that people can contact and get them to come?  What about Mary Tamir,
    or Jill, or a few other people (I'm going to contact Cindy Gerry
    tonight).  
    
    I bought my "yankee swap" gift yesterday ... you're gonna love it!  
    
    
    HOlly
    

    Sandy, Len and I have gotten together, and here's the new plan:
    
    Len and Sandy will split the deli platter.  They'll also provide
    paper plates & buns.
    
    I looked through my favorite recipes last night and came up with
    Mexican Pizza.  I'll try to keep them warm enough before the party,
    but they may need to be put in the oven for a few minutes just
    before serving.
    
    Can't wait to see everyone there!
    
    Pam

    Great!!  Sounds good.  
    
    RE: mexican pizza .. YUM!!  Don't worry about keeping it warm, Pam.  We
    can just pop it into my oven for a few.  It'll probably be warm already
    as I was thinking of making some chicken wings.
    
    Holly
    

Holly,

I'm gonna try to make it, but depends on (1) if my roommate wants to come too
and (2) if I have a kid-sitter (can't call him a "baby" anymore - he's NINE
now !!!)..............I'll let you know for sure by mid-week and will keep
up on who's bringing what so I can fill in at the last minute.............

hope to see you all there !!!!!   The big question :  WILL SANDY M & YONEE
							REMEMBER TO BRING
							PICTURES ?!?!?!?!?!?

    Deb, that's great!!  I hope you AND your roomate will be there!!
    
    RE: Sandy and Yonee's pictures
    
    They BETTER remember their pictures !!!  Otherwise, they may not make
    it in the door until they go get them!!!
    
    (-:
    
    Holly
    

    Well, I'm going to do my best to remember my pics, but knowing me, I'd
    better not promise! 8-} ;-) I'll be holding the beverages for ransom if
    you don't let me in Holly! ;-) That is of course if I actually do
    forget my pictures.
    
    I'm gonna try to at least get them back in my car during the week.
    Then, if I forget to bring them up, I'll at least be in striking
    distance! ;-)
    
    Looking forward to Friday night, and hugging Mondo baby!!!!! What a
    Dude he is!
    
    Yonee

    Yonee,
    
    "Mondo baby" has gotten much bigger since the last time you saw him. 
    He's just over 5 months old now, and what a terror!!  Maybe he'll
    perform for everyone and play "fetch" with any of his toys.
    
    Oh, and I decided not to make the "dirt cake" this year.  I've got a
    better recipe .. called "Death by chocolate".  Can't wait to try this!!
    
    Holly
    

    
    
    	Hi, 
    
    	I will be there this Friday.....
    
    	What can I bring besides Pictures ...
    
    
    	Mike

    Where do people come up with the names for these recipes? 8-) I'd
    better do 'double' aerobics the rest of this week to get ready for the
    goodies! 8-}
    
    Mike,
    
     If you just bring pictures, a kitty present and your huggable self,
    "I'LL" be happy! ;-) Holly will have to let you know about food! ;-)
    
     Can't wait to see Mondo Baby!
    
    Love,
    
     Yonee

    FWIW.... I will have a surprise guest with me!
    
    heeheeheeheeheeheehee
    
    ain't ya'll dying to know????
    
    heeheeheeheeheeheehee

    Well, things haven't gone well as far as the food goes (My
    contribution, that is!)
    
    I went to get chicken wings last night, and refused to buy them
    considering the price!  No way was I going to pay $1.89 lb for wings!!
    I couldn't believe it!  So sorry folks, but I won't be making wings
    (don't have time anyway!)
    
    Went to make "death by chocolate" last night, and burned the brownies! 
    No problem, I've got another brownie mix.  WRONG!  I forgot I used it
    about two weeks ago!
    
    Anyway, we'll still have it, but a bit of a variation.  I'll be making
    it with chocolate cake instead of brownies.  NOt quite as good, but
    it'll still do the trick.
    
    There are still a few people that I don't know what they're bringing. 
    Mike, you said you didn't know what to bring?  Chips and dip!  I don't
    have anyone bringing those yet!  Marilyn, what did you decide to make?
    
    Looks like we've got an abundance of desserts (death by chocolate,
    litterbox treat, and sugar cookies), but that's QUITE all right with
    me!  I love desserts!!
    
    Holly
    

    Ok! Tonight's the night! I haven't heard any weather for tonight, but
    I'm going to assume the roads will be passable! ;-)
    
    I have my pictures in my ditty bag, and my grab gift in my car. Now I
    just have to remember to actually stop at the store to get the
    beverages! ;-) Not to worry, I'll remember! (Now why is that string
    tied on my finger?) 8-} ;-)
    
    Can't wait to see everyone! 
    
    Yonee
    
    

    Uh Oh... now you've gone and done it Yonee!!!  You spoke well of the
    weather, now we will end up with 7 feet of snow on the ground by the
    time we leave work!  Thanks a lot!!  Sheesh!
    
    ;^)
    
    M-L

    
    The forecast I heard is just for rain.  The snow isn't coming tomorrow
    night or Sunday.
    
    Oh boy, something to look forward to - the kittens' first experience of
    snow!
    
    len.
     

    Well M-L, there has to be SOMEONE to blame it on, and I guess I
    volunteered! 8-) 8-}
    
    It's what I live for!
    
    Yonee (who is now PRAYING the weather holds!)

    Yonee, don't you remember the LAST christmas party I planned?  We ended
    up with 2 feet of snow that night!  Don't jinx us, please!!
    
    Forcast I heard is rain tonight .. temps high 30's-low 40's.  TOMORROW
    and SUNDAY are going to be auful!!
    
    Gotta go home and put the death by chocolate together (got all the
    ingredients made, just gotta put it together!).
    
    See everyone tonight!
    
    Holly
    

    Well, I think I already had my scare for the day. I was driving in this
    morning, and hit a stretch of raod that the sun hadn't hit yet, and my
    car decided it wasn't going to hold the road any more! I got it back in
    control quickly, but it sure shook me up a bit! So, nothing else should
    happen today! How's that? 8-)
    
    Yonee

    Well, I just called Holly to say that I am coming - bringing pizza.  I 
    can't commit to *anything* until the last minute!   See you all
    tonight!
    
    Linda

    Well, Let me be the first on in here to thank Holly for a great time
    Friday night! I had a blast! (of course the two cups of coffee, and
    the death by chocolate sugar rush didn't hurt!) Kitty pictures
    everywhere, and kitties too! PITA was her usual loving self, and Mondo
    Baby was everywhere, all at one time! ;-) Kyra honored us with visits
    during the evening, especially when there was a sparkle toy to be
    played with! Tabitha was a little standoffish at first, but came around
    after a while.
    
    Of course my pictures are once again separated from me, as, airhead
    that I am, I forgot them at Holly's house! DAH!!! You'd think I'd
    learn, but NNNOOOOO!!!!!!! Not me!
    
    Thanks again Holly, for opening your home to a rowdy bunch of FELINErs
    once again! It appeared that a good time was had by all! (I did think
    it might come to blows during the Yankee swap though! ;-) )
    
    Love,
    
    Yonee
    
    

    I want to be the second to thank Holly for the fun time!!!  I don't
    envy her the food she had left over, she and Bob will have sandwiches
    for the next year on that stuff!!!  NOR do I envy her having to unwind
    a couple kitties, after everyone tried out their new toys on them!

    Thanks Holly and Bob, you are indeed nice folks (no matter what they
    say about you Bob  heeheehee.. oh, that isn't a "they" it a ME..
    heeheeheehee). 

    Hugs and pats all around to the Ventura household,

    M-L

    PS  the weather held out... thank goodness the party wasn't planned for
    Saturday!

    
    I guess that makes me third.
    
    Luckily the Fitchburg water main chose to wait until this morning to
    break, otherwise we all would have gotten even loster.  I was actually
    on South Street *THREE* times before I figured out this really had to
    be it.  (Down closer to route 2 it's called Whalom Street, which kept
    me guessing as to where I really was).
    
    It was great to meet the famously reclusive Kyra, although it seemed
    that Tabitha was the least sociable of the fabulous foursome.  Pita
    probably got her minimum lifetime requirement for belly rubs all in one
    night, and Mondo probably got an object lesson that hot ticket that he
    might be, he can't always be the sole focus of attention.
    
    Holly's "death by chocolate" was fabulous, and made up for the fact that
    the chicken wings seemed doomed to be overlooked.
    
    My kitties loved their prize, and allowed as how it was a more or less
    fair trade for the sparkle wand and the feather flyer that had to give
    up.
    
    Of course, it was nice meeting all the other people people too.
    
    len.
     

    Howdy,
    
         I am going down to Milford/Franklin Mass, the last week of July,
    for the whole week.  I was wondering if people might want to have a
    feline gathering during this time.  I have only met a few of you, and 
    thought this would be a good time to met more of the feline group.  So,
    what does everyone think???
    
    
                                  Crys 
                  (mom to Miskey, BeeGee, Pappy and Sandy)

    Count me in!!!   

    sounds good to me too !! 

    Debbi

    MOST definitely!  And I'll tell Cindy Gerry this weekend!
    
    H

    Wow, this is going to be GREAT!!!  I will in town July 24th to July
    29th. (I have some training I need to attend in Franklin). Now, when
    and where would everyone like to meet. Oh boy.........
    
    
                                       Crys

    
    A really easy place to get to is Applebee's on rt. 140.  It's in a
    mini-mall adjacent to 495.  I will post directions if that's what we
    decide upon.
                                
    Oh, I'll plan on being there too. 
    
    ...Rania
    

    
    I may be able to make this too.
    
    len.
    

    Applebee's sounds Ok to me. How about everyone else....
    
    
                                   Crys
    
                        

    I guess we will be meeting at Applebee's. What day would be good for
    everyone???  
    
    
                                  Crys
    

    I'd prefer to meet after work on a Tues , Wed, or Thursday! Since I'm
    new to the Marlboro area,  I will need directons to Applebee's from the 
    MRO plant!!
    
    Sandy    
    
       

    Directions to Applebee's in Franklin, MA.

    - Take 495 South to exit 17 
    - Left off the ramp 
    - Take a right at the lights into the Stop & Shop, Marshall's 
      shopping plaza 
    - Take a right, once you pass the Baybank building you'll see
      Applebee's on the right, near Hoyt's Cinema

    I thought Applebee's was in Marlboro!!  How far would Applebee's
    be from the MRO plant...I already have a 50 minute ride in the
    other direction!!
         
    Sandy

    How about meeting on Wednesday around 6:00pm at Applebee's??? Don't
    forget to bring your pictures... :)
    

    
    I'll be there, with my pictures.
    
    len.
    

    
    
    	Speaking of which....from what I could tell from this
    	month's feliners mailing, your kitties are so *cute* Len!
    
    	I loved the top one of Robin and Blueberry cuddled together.
    

    
    I hope you can make the Applebee's dinner, they're *so* much prettier
    in color...
    
    Plus, pictures of Floyd!!!!  And JJ and her kittens!!!!
    
    len (well into volume 3 of kitty pictures).
    

    
    
    	Well Marlboro or Framingham is a long haul for me
    	from Milford NH..... so I don't know that I'll make
    	it.
    

    
    So who all expects to be there tomorrow evening?  Is this still on?
    I need a positive go ahead by 11AM tomorrow, as I'll be off the net
    all tomorrow afternoon.
    
    len.
    

    I'm not positive yet if I'm going to make it because it's a bit 
    far as well as I need to make sure my hubby will be home to take
    care of my starving furfaces who wait patiently until 6:00 for
    supper then all hell breaks lose!!  I'll know for sure by tomorrow AM.
    
    Sandy
    

    I would like to go also, but it is too far.  Perhaps later in the 
    summer we could have another meeting for us "northerners"?
    Karen
    who will be thinking of everyone!

    
    Well, as it turned out it was just me and Crys.
    
    len.
    

Hello everyone .. sorry I haven't been around much lately.  It's been
aufully busy here.  

However, I'd still like to host our third annual christmas party!  Following
is basically last year's message, revised for this year.  If anyone would
like to come, please contact me.  If it turns out that the date isn't good
for everyone, I'm more than willing to change the date.  Please let me know
whether this date is good for you.


     ***** Announcing the Third Annual FELINER'S christmas party!! *****

    Date:  Friday, December 9, 1994 (is that ok with everyone??)
	   Snow Storm date, Friday December 16 (Hey, I'm prepared this time!)
    Time:  7:00 pm
    Place:  My house in Fitchburg, MA
    
    Why:  To celebrate Christmas with the best type of people in the world,
    FELINERS!! (-:
    
    What to bring:  I'm planning on having it "pot luck" again.  I'll make
    some chicken wings and maybe a dessert.  Please respond to me letting me 
    know what you are going to bring.
    
    Also, bring a gift around $5 for a kitty.  Not a gift for a person, but
    specifically for the kitties.  Wrap it, and we'll do a type of "yankee
    swap" (like we did last year).
    
    Please let me know asap if you'll be attending, and what type of food
    you'll be bringing.  Also, if anyone knows of a FELINER who is no
    longer with the company that they can contact, please feel free to
    invite them as well.  Just let me know that they are coming.
    
    Holly
    

    I've gotten SOME inquiries to change the date of this party.  As it is,
    only three people have said they'd like to go, and two of them said
    that they can't make that date.  So, we'd like to change the date to
    the 16th.
    
    Please get back to me as soon as you can if you'd like to come.
    
    Holly
    

    Well, it looks like there will only be 5 people at the party besides
    myself and Bob .. Oh well .. it'll still be a great time!  Does anyone
    keep in contact with some other feliners that have either left the
    company or maybe haven't gotten in here lately?  Like Yonne, Sandy
    Frasher, M-L Belforti, etc?  Haven't seen Pam Gladding in here much
    either.  
    
    If anyone sees someone who may not have seen this notice, please let
    them know about the party.
    
    Holly
    

    Hi Holly!
    
    Unfortunately I have another party to go to that night.  Hope you
    guys have fun though!
    
    Happy Holidays,
    Pam