It is now June 10th. and not a whole lot of folks have registered.  If you know you are going to be there, I urge you to get your regisdtrations in to the OUCH treasurer ASAP.  They need to know how many T-shirts to order, the Hotel needs to know how many dinners to prepare, etc. 

Dr. Peter Goadsby will be speaking and believe me...you don't want to miss his presentation.  He is fantastic.  (not to mention the other great speakers)

AND...Guiseppi and Brew will be the entertainment and I have 1st.-hand knowledge that they are GOOD!!!!!

Come on folks...get those registrations in. 

My registration is paid!

Unless I sell a kidney, I can't afford to go     :'(

Mike

P.S. Anybody in the market for a used and abused kidney?

Sorry Linda but the only way i can be there this year is in mind.And be sure i will do that at least.

M.R. wrote on Jun 11^th, 2010 at 3:41pm:

Unless I sell a kidney, I can't afford to go     :'( Mike P.S. Anybody in the market for a used and abused kidney?

Nope...i might be interested in the right shoulder(providing it has not been abused) :D :D :D

We're up to 21 attendees today.

For anyone who has never been - and are apprehensive about going from an "online" community to a real one:

My husband suffered from CH for many years prior to me finding this site. I told him about it and he began posting and sharing ideas with others. He was approached to go to OUCH gatherings a few times and we did not participate. Eventually though he went to a small gathering, and to a couple OUCH meetings. Last year I attended a meet & greet and OUCH. The people we have met in this online community have made a direct impact on our life in helping Guiseppi be able to enjoy his even when in cycle.

Meeting these people in person has been an amazing experience. Like all walks of life there are different kinds of people from different backgrounds. Our one bond is CH. Whether it was teaching someone last year how to effectively use O2, listening to how doctors prescribe medications differently, or just sharing stories - it was incredible.

We have our annual gathering again next month in Atlanta. I would hope that anyone within a 4-5 hour drive would consider making the drive. We are traveling across country. The board has gotten together some fantastic speakers for the treatment of CH. Please please, make this your summer outing if nothing else. Take Friday off work to come. Bring your spouse/supporter if you can. If you can't just come anyway. You won't regret it.

START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

I have to agree with Christy.  We have made some of the finest friends of our lives because of CH and OUCH and CH.com. 

The original bond was the beast, but the friendships have grown into so very much more.

Quote:

We have made some of the finest friends of our lives because of CH and OUCH and CH.com.

You got that right!!! 

btw...any chance of a preview of what you'll be donating to the auction Pat?   ;)

I met my first Clusterhead at the first Davenport Meet and Greet.  Drove 2 1/2 hours to get there and had to leave after about 45 mins to drive back home, but it was worth it!  The bonds made in just that little bit of time, plus the knowledge that I really am not alone nor weird (CH wise) was life changing.  I've gone through some very tough times after that and saw the beast go chronic, but just having met the others gave such a boost that I've been able to deal with CH much more effectively.  I cried when I left, and I cried for the next three years that I was unable to go.  I still pull out the pics from that short time and look at them again periodicly and i find the peoples faces get blurry. 

If you are on the fence about attending, whether it is worth the money or not, take it from me.  It is well worth the time and money if it is at all possible to come.  I have not yet registered because I just was notified I'm losing my job come the end of July, but I'm still trying to put it together to be there.  Hope rises eternal!

Jerry

I know the economy is taking it's toll on folks this year.  I hope people attend this convention because OUCH has arranged for some good presentations! 

-P.

Linda_Howell wrote on Jun 13^th, 2010 at 2:20pm:

btw...any chance of a preview of what you'll be donating to the auction Pat?   ;)

START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

How's this, Linda?  It's 24 x 6 inches, meant to hang vertically and called "Beyond the Black Time."  It's about life's colors and textures that happen before and after the "black time" visits of CH.

OMG...I'ts absolutely gorgeous Pat.  Thanks for posting that.

Hi all Terry here in DavCon. I wont be able to make it again to the convention but I will always send items for the auction. I dont have enough time to built a model ( just finished one for the Senior Olympics and working on one to enter in the towns fair in August) BUT I bought a cool car at Walmart for only $5.00 and I will have best friend Dave print out decals (OUCH, the location of convention and the date) and slap them on and send it along with some extra Jeff Gordon diecast cars AND.... I live two towns over from where the history channel show "American Pickers" are located at and got all three (Mike,Frank,and Dannille) of them to sign a 8X10 and I will send that too for the auction. Here is a picture of the car (I did one for the guy who owns the local sports card shop and sports complex/bar) and picture of the signed 8x10. Now I just need an address to send the items that is all. Terry
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Here's my auction items. Pat and I were talking about how CH'ers don't "see" the M-Tanks in the living room anymore. Well I spoke to my mom who is a quilter and asked what she had in fabric that she could make some covers.  We have affectionately named these Tank Tops!.

The white one is a sample that we did to make sure of the "fitting". It now decortes the M-tank at the BrewCrew's house. The rest will be up for auction at the OUCH convention. (note the remaining pictures below were taken with the tank top modeling on an E-Tank. We don't have an M-Tank here for modeling.)

START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Neutral gold color:
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Christmas bows:
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Neutral gold with red flowers and greenery:
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Quilt pattern (this is not quilted, just a quilt pattern):
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Christmas lights on black fabric:
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

These will all fit under the collar on the M-Tank. There is velcro at the top and bottom to close. Hand made with love by my mom.

Those are FABULOUS CHristy.  The one currently covering our M Tank is the prototype and adored by all.  Your mom deserves a big THANKS for thinking of our sufferers.

Mosaicwench wrote on Jun 15^th, 2010 at 12:38pm:

Those are FABULOUS CHristy.    Your mom deserves a big THANKS for thinking of our sufferers.

Ditto to that....THANK YOU Christy's Mom!!!

Pat...your work is BEAUTIFUL as always!!!

I wouldn't mind having Pat's mosaic hanging here in my office. I think I have just the window to hang it in!

(HINT JOE, HINT).

QnHeartMM wrote on Jun 15^th, 2010 at 1:31pm:

I wouldn't mind having Pat's mosaic hanging here in my office. I think I have just the window to hang it in! (HINT JOE, HINT).

Except it's not a glass-on-glass piece, so it might look kind of silly in a window. That shouldn't preclude you from picking a wall, however.

Brew wrote on Jun 15^th, 2010 at 1:57pm:

QnHeartMM wrote on Jun 15th, 2010 at 1:31pm: I wouldn't mind having Pat's mosaic hanging here in my office. I think I have just the window to hang it in! (HINT JOE, HINT). Except it's not a glass-on-glass piece, so it might look kind of silly in a window. That shouldn't preclude you from picking a wall, however.

That works too!

QnHeartMM wrote on Jun 15^th, 2010 at 2:50pm:

Brew wrote on Jun 15th, 2010 at 1:57pm: QnHeartMM wrote on Jun 15th, 2010 at 1:31pm: I wouldn't mind having Pat's mosaic hanging here in my office. I think I have just the window to hang it in! (HINT JOE, HINT). Except it's not a glass-on-glass piece, so it might look kind of silly in a window. That shouldn't preclude you from picking a wall, however. That works too!

sigh...... :-/

Guiseppi wrote on Jun 15^th, 2010 at 5:53pm:

Except it's not a glass-on-glass piece, so it might look kind of silly in a window. That shouldn't preclude you from picking a wall, however.That works too!sigh...... :-/

I'm developing a complex here . . . .

Not my Pat!!!!!!! ;D

I already have two exquisite pieces of Pats work.  I want more.

Depending on what Pat wants the bidding to start at....I am going to give a few,  a run for their money.  I want that piece.  I even have a wall that screams out.."put me here"

Linda...the woman who drew me to my first CH conference...one of my first true CH friends...still one of my dearest CH friends...Lady...it's on! ;D

Linda - I could do secret on-line bids for you and they'd never know what hit them! ;)

I too cherish the pieces I have that Pat made for me.  I believe we've become a tad spoiled by the crafty lady.

Quote:

...Lady...it's on!

Oh-Oh.  :o   checking to see what my credit limit is on my Discover card..

I will be bringing one of two photographs (both are matted and framed out in a 16 X 20 ebony frame).

START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Beautiful, Carolyn.

I certainly enjoy the one we purchased a couple years ago.  It's hanging in my office so everyone coming and going can enjoy it too.

Christy, many years ago I thought a cover for our e-tanks would be a great idea since so many of us have them in plain sight around our house, but I never learned how to sew.   These are so great and I thank your Mom also for doing them.  What an angel.

Only 18 or 19 days til the convention depending on when you get there.  If you're still on the fence about going, check out the convention pics from past years to the left of here.
All of us have told stories of how great it was to meet others but sometimes a picture is worth a 1000 words. 

I can't wait!  I feel like my grandson with Christmas a couple of weeks away trying to see what is under the tree, but can't get to it.

I still have half a room to share if that would help cut the cost for someone.  I have to limit that to a male.  I want to stay happily married! ;D

Jerry

As bad as I want to go, and as much as I am DYING to meet Dr Goadsby, it won't be happening this year.
Not only is it not in the funds, but I just saw the date, and that is moving weekend so, even if I had a way to make it happen, it wouldn't be possible.

HOWEVER, to those who can afford to go, but haven't made up their minds...and have never been to a meet n greet or a convention -  It's a no-brainer.. GO! My first convention I relate to somewhat of a religious experience. I am a man of many, many, many words (I've been called hyper-social before - but my first day there, I was speechless! Hard to talk when you're jaw is on the ground in awe of the amazing people you meet who you have an instant bond with.

The hardest part is when it's over, and you have to say goodbye. What you will take home with you though is priceless.

Have a good one this year. I'll be watching for pics once I get the puter set up in the new house.

Peace, and travel safe,
Carl D

Carl...that was a wonderful testimony to the conventions/get-togethers  and right-on!!!!!!!!

We'll be having 2 guitarists play this time.  It would be so great if it could be a trio.   :'(

I'm almost on my way!!!  Heading to Asheville NC tomorrow night, then going down to Atlanta on Thurs.  Seems like waiting for Christmas!

Any of you clusterheads in the Asheville area that want to get together for coffee one day give me a yell!  I'd love to see you.

Jerry

I love the whole "Tank Tops" idea...cool and creative.  I think I might need a couple of those.

Langa

I'm with you Jerry, feels like X-mas times 2. Can't wait to see all you folks.

I've been told if I don't bring my guitar I'll be forced to take a hit of Nitro. Kiddding.

Anyone else staying 'till Monday? Are all the rooms non-smoking?

Don

Just answered one of my questions, they do have smoking rooms. When I originally booked, the impression was they didn't.

Don

Quote:

I love the whole "Tank Tops" idea...cool and creative.  I think I might need a couple of those.

Langa, if you're unable to attend I will be glad to bid on one for you.  Let me know in a PM how much to bid on and I will pay for it and send it to you.  O.K.?



edited to add:

On Wed. Brew and Pat will be staying here and on Thursday morning 6 of us will be caravan-ing to Atlanta.  I am so excited, I may need a sedative.  Oh and Joe and Bill?    I have my 3 songs WITH chords I might add. 

Don, the more the merrier.   :)

back and front yards mowed

car cleaned and filled up with gas

lists made

Are we there yet?

No....but we're close.

Are we there yet?

START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

oops, wrong song

START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Now, we have some travlin' music (this song is also on the first cassette tape that sarah ever bought at the tender age of 6).

Taking advice from a pro - Carolyn - I have my list, which I'm still adding to - but haven't confirmed or listed what to wear.  So I'll probably be there in jeans and t-shirts unless I get my act together.  I do, however have on my list my "undies", but other than that, nothing has been decided.

Hmm, how many hours now until I depart on Thursday morning???  Too many!

Sandy

Have an absolutely wonderful and educational time everyone!  Drive/ride safe!!

xoxo
:)mel

UNDIES????? You're bringing undies? No one told me this was a freaking formal affair........ >:(

Joe

I'm expecting to see tumbleweed blowing through here at the weekend as it seems that so many of you will be having a load of fun at the convention.

It's a pity it's about a third of the way around the planet from here. :(

Mike NZ wrote on Jul 13^th, 2010 at 4:11am:

It's a pity it's about a third of the way around the planet from here. :(

Hmmm I feel the same.  I wish I was over your way and could meet up with you all... but seeing as it aint going to happen, I will be looking forward to pics and info  :)

Have a great time everyone!

Kate

Guiseppi wrote on Jul 12^th, 2010 at 11:44pm:

UNDIES????? You're bringing undies? No one told me this was a freaking formal affair........ >:( Joe

Same as DavCon, Joe, without the moose knuckle! ;)

sigh :-[

Mosaicwench wrote on Jul 13^th, 2010 at 8:06am:

Guiseppi wrote on Jul 12th, 2010 at 11:44pm: UNDIES????? You're bringing undies? No one told me this was a freaking formal affair........ >:( Joe Same as DavCon, Joe, without the moose knuckle! ;)

START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Guiseppi wrote on Jul 12^th, 2010 at 11:44pm:

UNDIES????? You're bringing undies? No one told me this was a freaking formal affair........ >:( Joe

Yes Joe, it is formal, but all you need it a tie.  Don't worry about bringing any undies. ::) :o

Sandy

On a serious note, for those driving in to Atlanta plan your arrival time to avoid the hours of 4 - 7pm. You will regret it if you don't.  ;)

Racer1_NC wrote on Jul 13^th, 2010 at 11:58am:

On a serious note, for those driving in to Atlanta plan your arrival time to avoid the hours of 4 - 7pm. You will regret it if you don't.  ;)

Thanks for the heads up.  I'm so looking forward to seeing you, Bee-yull! Drive safely.

Sandy_C wrote on Jul 13^th, 2010 at 11:47am:

Guiseppi wrote on Jul 12th, 2010 at 11:44pm: UNDIES????? You're bringing undies? No one told me this was a freaking formal affair........ >:( Joe Yes Joe, it is formal, but all you need it a tie.  Don't worry about bringing any undies. ::) :o Sandy

Well since Joe retired I believe he got rid of all his ties. But he has this one!
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Kate in Oz wrote on Jul 13^th, 2010 at 7:36am:

Mike NZ wrote on Jul 13th, 2010 at 4:11am: It's a pity it's about a third of the way around the planet from here. :( Hmmm I feel the same.  I wish I was over your way and could meet up with you all... but seeing as it aint going to happen, I will be looking forward to pics and info  :) Have a great time everyone! Kate

So why don't you host next years convention?  I've always wanted to see Australia and New Zealand, but never had the necessity of going down there. :)

My mom found some time and extra fabric and made another batch of tank tops - here's the pictures- although they just don't do justice and I modeled them on an E tank but they are sized for an M tank.

Christmas tank top
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Great for a school teacher
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Patriotic colors
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Girlie
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Girlie
START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGESTART PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Quote:

So why don't you host next years convention?  I've always wanted to see Australia and New Zealand, but never had the necessity of going down there.

It's not in the middle of summer there in July either!

Have fun kids!

Charlie

  Those are great Christy.  O.K. I know it's a kentucky thang, but I am gonna say it anyway.

   Bless her heart.

I Have both size tanks so I will be bidding on at least 2.

edited to add:

Charlie you will be so missed.  You've missed too many of these now.  I offered to kidnap you and bring you down , but you refused saying you wouldn't fit in the cargo hold.   Next year for sure my friend.   >:(

So why don't you host next years convention?  I've always wanted to see Australia and New Zealand, but never had the necessity of going down there. :)


Hmmm I'd have to have a long hard think about that one!  Somedays it's enough to get my son off to school and me off to uni, don't know how I'd go organising something so big  8-)

That's funny Kate, Christy and I were just talking about those days...when life was a perpetual high speed stress game that you always felt like you were falling farther and farther behind! Getting the kids to school, sports, etc. Then they grow up and leave you and it's much quieter...less stressful...and a little bit sad. :'(

Joe

Guiseppi wrote on Jul 13^th, 2010 at 10:26pm:

Then they grow up and leave you and it's much quieter...less stressful...and a little bit sad. :'(

Oooooh Can't wait... [smiley=clap2.gif]


Lefty

My son will be 8 next month, he tells me that he never wants to leave home!  To be honest I kinda like the idea - but we haven't gone through the teenage years.... so things could change  ;)

but we haven't gone through the teenage years.... so things could change 

Umm...a little bit! ;)

Wishing you all a safe and PAIN FREE trip!! 8-)
Wish we could be there!!  Happy Pappy

Quote:

but we haven't gone through the teenage years.... so things could change

    Could???    [smiley=crackup.gif]

Be prepared for a bumpy ride Kate.  I've gone through it 7 times.  The yrs. between 12 and 19 will age you 20 yrs. 

Can't wait to see all who will be there!! :)  Packing my bags now and have printed boarding pass!!! :)

Excellent. Our boarding passes are printed. Joe's packed. I will be eventually!

We arrived at Linda's after 10 hours of driving and are all caravanning tomorrow.  Can't wait!

Linda_Howell wrote on Jul 14^th, 2010 at 3:40pm:

Could???    [smiley=crackup.gif] Be prepared for a bumpy ride Kate.  I've gone through it 7 times.  The yrs. between 12 and 19 will age you 20 yrs.

What she said - it's an evil time in life.

Ok....where is everyone?

I arrive tomorrow around 2pm or so!! All ready to go - now just have to try to sleep!!! :) Safe travels everyone!!!

edit: since it's after midnight - I guess it's technically today!! :)

Could be construction going on this summer through unfamiliar roads.  All be careful driving.

Those arriving by flights, hope your luggage will, too.


:)

Everyone, have a safe journey to the convention, have an amazing time & post lots of pics for the rest of us! :)

Kate, on a serious note, if you are considering hosting a convention, it would be fantastic. My boyfriend & I talked about our plans for next year's trip abroad and Australia and New Zealand and on the list of the countries we both hope to visit one day.

Sanna

I R HERE... Just got a call from my Seester Smackie
that I walked right passed Racer1 in the lobby... Gotta go to the Lobby..

Peace & Blessings
LadyLuv

Landing in Atlanta soon!!!! I can't believe they have Wi-Fi on planes now!! Can't wait to see everyone!! Xx  :D