37 replies to this topic

[Janine]

Never in million years would I have considered flying out to Colorado to spend a long weekend with people I had never met before. I did meet SandyP in October 2009 for dinner when she came to NY for a photo expo, but my only other contact with anyone on the forums was through my keyboard. I had watched video clips from previous STOMPS and seen photos. I could see that everyone had a fun time together. So many of you have had relationships for years and I'm sure that added to relaxed atmosphere and the fun & games. I was not prepared to have one of the most amazing, wonderful, joyful, beautiful, laugh- till- your- ribs- ache weekends of my life. Besides the location of the STOMP in RMNP, which on it's own was a reason to venture out there, the idea of meeting a group of people from all over the country who share our love of the outdoors was an interesting one. Brian has always been an outgoing, friendly, funny guy....I had a feeling there were some people (you know who you are) he would get along with famously. I ususally take a little more time to get comfy in a new situation. It did not take long at all.

Before I get into posting some photos and descriptions of the weekend activities, I just want to thank all of you for making Brian and me feel welcome. He hasn't been able to stop talking about the weekend either. The two of us could have taken a trip to Rocky ourselves, gone snowshoeing ourselves, ate dinner at Village Pizza ourselves.....but it would not have been the same. Being with all of you made this trip what it was....something we will never forget. (More to come once I dry my eyes and get the photos loaded onto the computer)

[OklaHiker]

I know exactly how you feel, Janine. I was a bit nervous about coming out to meet people I'd only had forum interactions with, but it was great. I wasn't exactly feeling like my usual self pretty much the entire weekend, but everyone made me feel extremely welcomed and comfortable. I have a lot of great memories from the trip and I hope to make it back to a forum event some time soon.

It was very nice to meet you and Brian. Oh, and you need to share your stew recipe... it was good!

[hector]

Well said, Janine!! Forum people are the BEST!

[junkie]

hector, on 02 March 2010 - 11:48 AM, said:

Well said, Janine!! Forum people are the BEST!

Agreed.... I think you pretty accurately summed up about everyones first get-together experience.... no matter how awkward it feels for a bit, I think everyone always leaves very happy! As much as I love the park, it is 10x more enjoyable when we have hooked up and spent time there with forumers!!!!!!!!!

[mistylady]

It has been a great experience meeting forumers at any time of the year. It is amazing that no matter what your age or where you are from, meeting forumers make the RMNP experience ever better. This is truly a unique forum. (Thanks, Aaron, for getting it started!)

[Monica]

I'm glad it was a such a great experience for you and Brian, Janine!
This makes me look forward to August that much more!
Looking forward to your pictures!

[Marvman]

Which one were you?

Marvman

[Bill 007]

Marvman, on 02 March 2010 - 02:06 PM, said:

Which one were you?

Marvman

She's the one that kept you fed through the week end...sheesh...what a memory.

Bill
(Janine....you & Brian brought most of the fun with you! It was a pure joy to meet youse guys!)

[Marvman]

She was the pizza delivery chick?

Marvman

[SandyP]

Well, I think part of the reason it was so fun was because you and Brian were there. I already felt like I'd known you all my life just from the night me & Jen spent with you in Brooklyn, but getting to hang out with you and Brian made the weekend feel even more of a blast. I'm with you. I've never laughed so hard in my entire life as this weekend -- It was one of the best Rocky Mountain memories I've ever had. But that last night at Mama Rosa's. . . . There were times when I thought JP had nothin' on you in the "make me laugh" department :) So thanks for coming and making it more fun for everyone :)

I'm working on putting together my favorite Haiyaha pictures for a trip report now, and I'm halfway floating from reliving it again, and halfway wanting to cry from wanting to be still there. I had 85 pictures that I love, so I'm having a hard time paring it down to appropriate trip report photography. Don't worry, tho, I won't put all 85 in even tho I wish I could :) tee hee.

[Aaron]

These are my favorite topics I like hearing these stories! Forums get-togethers are the best!!

--Aaron

[Janine]

Sandy, please put them ALL in! I can't wait to see your pictures!

[Janine]

To Marv & Bill.....you guys crack me up!

[OklaHiker]

SandyP, on 02 March 2010 - 02:22 PM, said:

I'm working on putting together my favorite Haiyaha pictures for a trip report now, and I'm halfway floating from reliving it again, and halfway wanting to cry from wanting to be still there. I had 85 pictures that I love, so I'm having a hard time paring it down to appropriate trip report photography. Don't worry, tho, I won't put all 85 in even tho I wish I could :) tee hee.

Sandy, do you host your photos online? I'd love to see as many of yours as possible.

[misssilly]

I can't wait to see everyone's pictures either!!!