POZ Community Forums
Off Topic Forums => Forums Gatherings => Topic started by: Fisher on August 03, 2013, 07:56:39 pm
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Hey Guys:
I really do not know any of you, and didn't get included on the list. I feel like a "one off." But I am coming, with sweetness and full heart. Looking forward to making new friends.
Life is really about joy. Although I just lost my partner, I am doing well. I look forward to greeting you with all my heart and joy . . . and I hope to come to know in heart and happiness and fun and adventure you guys. Other than New Orleans, Chicago is my favorite city!
I can be a bit shy, but once feeling safe, or after a few beers . . . watch out! I can be a Hellion. . . I come with a tail. And pulling it could result in unforeseen consequences :-)
With kindness, respect, and love,
-paul (prefer fisher)
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Hi Fisher,
I'm new to AMG too. I just compiled the initial list from those who posted their times of arrival and departure. Please don't feel left out. :(
You are on the list now and I think I can safely speak for the others that you just as much part of AMG 2013 as anyone else.
Looking forward to meeting you, tail and all. :)
Mitch
(you can call me anything you want... almost. ;D.)
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Hey Fisher
I remember how nervous I was at my first AMG in Boston. I quickly found out that there was no need..... We are all a fun bunch, if somewhat deficient in making timely dining choices. :o
The toughest part is making the first connections, as you may not recognize us or we you. We should probably all agree to meet on the rooftop bar for a drink around 4:00 or so on Thursday. Of course, it will likely become THE place for the weekend- if I know my cocktail loving cohorts (I am sober, so will stick to non-alcoholic beer or club soda).
Looking forward to meeting you - tail and all!
Hugs,
Mike
Edited to add - Hmmmmm, maybe the rooftop is a restaurant, but there is a bar in the lobby..........
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If I could have my way, we would be meeting in the Crow's Nest on a cruise ship. One of these years, we are going to do an AMG cruise... and it will be great! I can just imagine what some in our group would do for "formal night."
See you Thursday afternoon!
Gary
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Fisher,
Looking forward to meeting you.
Cheers,
Henry
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If I could have my way, we would be meeting in the Crow's Nest on a cruise ship. One of these years, we are going to do an AMG cruise... and it will be great! I can just imagine what some in our group would do for "formal night."
See you Thursday afternoon!
Gary
For the 2nd year in a row, I'm a no-show. But I'll be on that cruise, that's for sure.
robt
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8)
For those attending the AMG for their first time, trust me...You will have a GREAT TIME !! You will be welcomed and there will be lots of hugs, and hand shaking ! The first AMG we, ( Ed and I) attended, was last year in Washington, and we had a fantastic time. My only complaint, was it didn't last long enough. There will be plenty to see and do, and if you want to kick back and take it easy you can do that too.
When we arrived last year, Phil D was outside the hotel when we pulled in. He spotted us , but probably didn't know who we were, although we had Florida plates on the car ( and I didn't know who he was), I said to Ed, " I am going to ask that guy if he is here for the AMG." And I think that is how I approached it. :) An hour and a half later, Ed, Phil and I were roaming around Washington DC site seeing, and having a great time !! ( Thank you again Phil ! )
The Meet and Greet is a great time ! ( from what I remember :P ;D ), and the Memorial Service is exactly that,... A time to reflect and to remember those loved ones in our lives, that we have lost to this battle.
Ed and I will miss seeing everyone this year. Perhaps next year !
Enjoy Chicago and have great time !
Ray 8)
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Fisher -
You will have a wonderful time - as will all those newcomers and returning.
Last year's AMG DC was my first and Rocky welcomed me with a giant hug...
I had the opportunity to pay that hug forward when a bit later I met Ed and Ray in the parking lot coming into the hotel.....
Rocky put me at ease and so did Ed and Ray (we enjoyed walking the mall in DC together on Day 1).... Soon, everyone else had me feeling at ease as well.
Because of circumstances that happened a couple of months ago w/ my brother, I am not able to get the time away from work and school to make it to AMG Chicago.... but be assured that I will be there next year (wherever it is held) barring any life shaking events...
Go, meet, greet, hang out, and mostly ENJOY the new friendships and strengthening of what have been many times up until AMG "virtual" relationships that occurs.... AMG is a wonderful time spent with those whom we share a unique bond.... regardless of where we all individually come from (past, present, geographically, or otherwise).
-Phil (who will surely be missing seeing everyone - but who knows I will enjoy reading the full reports here on the forums during and after the event).
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Hey Fisher,
You will have a great time! I have been to most of the AMGs, and every time has its own flavor.
But each was wonderful. Great people who will make you feel right at home.
My journey actually starts tomorrow as I head to Albuquerque.
I look forward to seeing you in Chi town!
HUGS,
Mark
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Thanks everyone. A little shy and nervous but I "adapt" quickly.
See you soon. The architectural boat ride was well worth it, though it was a bit hot when I took it in June. The boat I was on, and I guess most, serve complimentary soft drinks and snacks. I'd do it again.
My "tail" is on my front side rather than hanging off my butt ;) When it gets pulled I have no choice but to bear hug the puller. Growl.
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Baker's dozen? No, I think the word you're reaching for is COVEN.
I'm quite sure you'll all be dancing around naked at midnight at some point in the gathering! ;D
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Only if my tail is pulled just right. . . ;)
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I'm sure you'll have a great time. I was so apprehensive about my first AMG and went way out of my comfort zone (including flying for the first time ever). I was having panic attacks worrying about all the wrong things; especially about fitting in with a group of people I had never met in person before.
Within mere minutes of arriving at the hotel, I KNEW I made the correct decision. When I returned home, I open another savings account just for AMG's as I knew it'd be a yearly rite as long as I'm able.
Looking forward to meeting you.
Wolfie/Greg
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I'm ironing cloths !
Have not done that is years !
I will assume I will look less fat in wrinkle free cloths :)
See you all tomorrow !
Carl
PS ; hoping i can put my toilet trees in my checked baggage I am going
Toilet tree poor :-[
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I'm ironing cloths !
Have not done that is years !
I will assume I will look less fat in wrinkle free cloths :)
See you all tomorrow !
Carl
PS ; hoping i can put my toilet trees in my checked baggage I am going
Toilet tree poor :-[
Just remember 3.4 oz. of gel, liquid, or aerosol MAX allowed on a carry on bag. If you try to sneak it through you may get a pat down from TSA. ;) ;D :o 8)
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Hope no one is expecting any need for fancy clothes -- I'm traveling casual!!
All packed -- names list created and printed. All that stands between me and Chicago is a morning team meeting at work (9:00-10:00), I'd skip it, but seeing as it's MY team and I need to get some info out to the gang, I guess I should go in........
See you all at the hotel -- Assuming that Mark got in OK today, he should be able to greet us all as we arrive.
Hugs,
Mike
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Hope no one is expecting any need for fancy clothes -- I'm traveling casual!!
All packed -- names list created and printed. All that stands between me and Chicago is a morning team meeting at work (9:00-10:00), I'd skip it, but seeing as it's MY team and I need to get some info out to the gang, I guess I should go in........
See you all at the hotel -- Assuming that Mark got in OK today, he should be able to greet us all as we arrive.
Hugs,
Mike
casual 100%.
i'm wondering if Mark has long enough arms to greet the oncoming herd /gaggle arriving at the same time. ??? lol.
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casual 100%.
i'm wondering if Mark has long enough arms to greet the oncoming herd /gaggle arriving at the same time. ??? lol.
I can assure his arms are long and strong and his heart golden .
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I can assure his arms are long and strong and his heart golden .
like.
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I'm ironing cloths !
Have not done that is years !
I will assume I will look less fat in wrinkle free cloths :)
See you all tomorrow !
Carl
PS ; hoping i can put my toilet trees in my checked baggage I am going
Toilet tree poor :-[
There are irons in the rooms and you'll have to do them again. :)
I managed to finally get packed. I started out with about 15 outfits and had to pare it down. Allowed myself 2 per day. Perhaps I can actually get by without checking luggage after all?
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Hope no one is expecting any need for fancy clothes -- I'm traveling casual!!
All packed -- names list created and printed. All that stands between me and Chicago is a morning team meeting at work (9:00-10:00), I'd skip it, but seeing as it's MY team and I need to get some info out to the gang, I guess I should go in........
See you all at the hotel -- Assuming that Mark got in OK today, he should be able to greet us all as we arrive.
Hugs,
Mike
Mark is now in Chicago. Shall see you all tomorrow.
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See you all tomorrow afternoon! I arrive at Midway around 3 pm and will make my way to the hotel.
Ready to be there!
Gary
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Oh my -- Fisher certainly misrepresented himself!!! If he's shy, well, MissP would be a wall flower!
He is a fun, funny and thoroughly entertaining guy -- but shy................... I think NOT.
The stories I have......................
;D
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Oh my -- Fisher certainly misrepresented himself!!! If he's shy, well, MissP would be a wall flower!
He is a fun, funny and thoroughly entertaining guy -- but shy................... I think NOT.
;D
mmmm hmmmm. How's Trey?
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mmmm hmmmm. How's Trey?
I now know why Trey's nickname here is Hellraiser. ;)
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Henry and Mike,
Kenny got down 3 minutes after you left. He was looking down the street to see if he could catch you for a goodbye hug. :(
The others are STILL on that dam bus tour!!! (me thinks something must have happened along the way) ::)
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I now know why Trey's nickname here is Hellraiser. ;)
Now I know why his other nickname is Hellbottom.
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Henry and Mike,
Kenny got down 3 minutes after you left. He was looking down the street to see if he could catch you for a goodbye hug. :(
I'm so sorry I missed Kenny -- please give him a big goodbye hug for me! I hope he's feeling well today! ;)
The others are STILL on that dam bus tour!!! (me thinks something must have happened along the way) ::)
Are you sure they're not in the bar across the street? :o
Hugs,
Henry
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Now I know why his other nickname is Hellbottom.
:-X 8)
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Henry and Mike,
Kenny got down 3 minutes after you left. He was looking down the street to see if he could catch you for a goodbye hug. :(
The others are STILL on that dam bus tour!!! (me thinks something must have happened along the way) ::)
I am sorry we missed him too -- I'm quite surprised he was up and about! :-X
Give him a big hug for me -- give one to Keniesha too!!
Oh -- as for what happened to the rest of them -- I can't be sure, but I DID get butt dialed by Fisher -- I have a 3 minute voicemail that has GOT to be a happening bar.
Hugs,
M
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Now I know why his other nickname is Hellbottom.
I think it is has something to do with the suction cups on the bottom of his feet.... he kepts talking about wanting to ride some Bud??? Over and over again.
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:-X 8)
perfect reply. :)
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I am sorry we missed him too -- I'm quite surprised he was up and about! :-X
Give him a big hug for me -- give one to Keniesha too!!
Oh -- as for what happened to the rest of them -- I can't be sure, but I DID get butt dialed by Fisher -- I have a 3 minute voicemail that has GOT to be a happening bar.
Hugs,
M
LOL! ... Keniesha giggles flamboyantly. (you know "the look") ;)
Was that a butt dial with the camera mode turned on? ;D Oh my. :-X
(hugs given)
Hugs back,
m.
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I'm so sorry I missed Kenny -- please give him a big goodbye hug for me! I hope he's feeling well today! ;)
Are you sure they're not in the bar across the street? :o
Hugs,
Henry
(hugs given.) feeling well? lol.
Not in the bar across the street. First place I looked. :)
Hugs back.
m.
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Oh my -- Fisher certainly misrepresented himself!!! If he's shy, well, MissP would be a wall flower!
He is a fun, funny and thoroughly entertaining guy -- but shy................... I think NOT.
The stories I have......................
;D
As my future husband is resent those remarks :-X
I am mooving to Maine ..................................................... :)
OMG ! This has been the best AMG EVER !
I will cherish my time with the group of men I have grown to love ...........
Weasel
P s. I'm in love ;)
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Perhaps someone kidnapped the real Fischer and sent a replacement?
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Perhaps someone kidnapped the real Fischer and sent a replacement?
I think not :-X
He is funny and a wonderfully cuddly BEAR
Weasel ....................... Et Al '
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I don't know what any of y'all are talking about. I was perfectly well behaved. Hell raiser is from my younger wilder days.
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As my future husband is resent those remarks :-X
I am mooving to Maine ..................................................... :)
OMG ! This has been the best AMG EVER !
I will cherish my time with the group of men I have grown to love ...........
Weasel
P s. I'm in love ;)
I feared being a smaller AMG wouldn't be as much fun, but it was incredible. I absolutely had a blast.
I don't know what any of y'all are talking about. I was perfectly well behaved. Hell raiser is from my younger wilder days.
We all behaved piously this year. Unless there are photos to prove otherwise, I'm standing by this statement. :)
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Damn! I forgot to turn on the video recorder.
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I took the liberty of installing web cams in all of the AMG hotel rooms so that we could all share the AMG experience . The video feed will start tomorrow in this thread .
If anyone wishes to opt out there is a substantial opt out fee .
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Actually the debauchery took place elsewhere....we were wise!
What happens at AMG, stays at AMG (until one of us breaks down and tells all...and this usually happens within 24 hours.)
Four of us remain....and depart this afternoon and evening.
Agreed...it was another great AMG. Already looking forward to another one next year.
Gary
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There was debauchery?
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I took the liberty of installing web cams in all of the AMG hotel rooms so that we could all share the AMG experience . The video feed will start tomorrow in this thread .
The interesting part might be what / who you don't see, rather than what you would see. :P
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Glad you guys had such a great time at AMG '13 in Chicago, it is to be expected with whomever in our group goes. It looks like the weather was great, it always has been every year amazingly. Have safe trips home to the guys still there.
Now we want details, details, details. Don't hold back now.
Looking forward to next years AMG '14 as well. :)
Jody :)
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Damn! I forgot to turn on the video recorder.
Not to worry, I saw someone taking photos of the "Fisher moon" that appeared on the rooftop terrace. Plus that group of ladies also had their cameras out for the mooning.......
Oops -- was that one of those things that was supposed to "stay in Chicago"?????
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Oh my -- Fisher certainly misrepresented himself!!! If he's shy, well, MissP would be a wall flower!
He is a fun, funny and thoroughly entertaining guy -- but shy................... I think NOT.
The stories I have......................
;D
We all have a tendency to "misrepresent" ourselves . . . now, don't we? ;)
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I am sorry we missed him too -- I'm quite surprised he was up and about! :-X
Give him a big hug for me -- give one to Keniesha too!!
Oh -- as for what happened to the rest of them -- I can't be sure, but I DID get butt dialed by Fisher -- I have a 3 minute voicemail that has GOT to be a happening bar.
Hugs,
M
I don't recall dialing your butt. But there is always next year . . . and of course, that could have happened during the periods of my memory loss on this trip...
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As my future husband is resent those remarks :-X
I am mooving to Maine ..................................................... :)
OMG ! This has been the best AMG EVER !
I will cherish my time with the group of men I have grown to love ...........
Weasel
P s. I'm in love ;)
Yes Wease! That penthouse on the 69th floor of that Lake Shore Drive high-rise you liked could be our new love-bird's nest. But you'd have to marry me first. We can marry in Maine, now . . . you know.
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Perhaps someone kidnapped the real Fischer and sent a replacement?
Actually, this was the first time he got loose from his cage in about 20 years. So he had some pen up energy to burn off. He is really very shy and bashful in real life. Why he's been locked up in a cage for so long . . . well those that came to AMG now know why. . .
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There was debauchery?
There might be in New Orleans at Southern Decadence. Perhaps I'll see you there. Will remember to bring my blue pills.
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Fisher, it seems like you had a great time. I remember your thread from spring, where you worried about fitting in. And, I definitely remember you saying you needed support and friendship now. I am glad to hear you got that.
I suppose I have not attended one yet, because I felt I wouldn't fit in. And, there is some mystery. No one posts pics of the trip. It reminds me of Fight Club..lol. Seriously, for someone with anxiety issues, it would help to see, in photos or video, what happens there. But, I can understand folks not wanting their pics posted-- either just having them searchable or just not liking their photos shared. I hate when people tag me in photos on Facebook, where I'm doing something embarrassing or looking my worst.
And, like you, I worried I wouldn't fit in, because I hadn't lost all the friends and family. I would hear some talk about losing hundreds of friends, and I would think I don't even know that many people. Add not being on meds yet, and I just wondered what I would have to discuss in common. But, it sounds like everyone just mainly has a good time, besides the memorial. I would imagine most don't even discuss HIV much. I mean, they can do that here. I'm just saying it sounds like everyone really just has a good time (an escape from daily life), and you could have just tested poz yesterday and fit in.
Anyway, I am glad to hear you took the leap and had a good time. I was really touched, when you discussed needing support and friendship, in your other thread. Perhaps I will make next years.
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Fisher, it seems like you had a great time. I remember your thread from spring, where you worried about fitting in. And, I definitely remember you saying you needed support and friendship now. I am glad to hear you got that.
I suppose I have not attended one yet, because I felt I wouldn't fit in. And, there is some mystery. No one posts pics of the trip. It reminds me of Fight Club..lol. Seriously, for someone with anxiety issues, it would help to see, in photos or video, what happens there. But, I can understand folks not wanting their pics posted-- either just having them searchable or just not liking their photos shared. I hate when people tag me in photos on Facebook, where I'm doing something embarrassing or looking my worst.
And, like you, I worried I wouldn't fit in, because I hadn't lost all the friends and family. I would hear some talk about losing hundreds of friends, and I would think I don't even know that many people. Add not being on meds yet, and I just wondered what I would have to discuss in common. But, it sounds like everyone just mainly has a good time, besides the memorial. I would imagine most don't even discuss HIV much. I mean, they can do that here. I'm just saying it sounds like everyone really just has a good time (an escape from daily life), and you could have just tested poz yesterday and fit in.
Anyway, I am glad to hear you took the leap and had a good time. I was really touched, when you discussed needing support and friendship, in your other thread. Perhaps I will make next years.
OMG! Here comes the deluge of pics!
And if anyone get a hold of one of those women's pictures . . . I can be black-mailed.
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Ted:
My experience?
It was all about heart . . . people willing to come together and share self in joy and happiness. Or maybe, it was all about the Budweiser?
I was scared shitless going down. But that lasted about four minutes.
We are all in the same boat. And if you think about it, we are all in the same heart, or as I call it hrdra.
AMG for me was the sharing of heart . . . and maybe a few beers, too.
One of the best experiences I've have in recent ages.
I just wished I wasn't so shy and bashful and reserved. But others say I fit in ok, despite the shyness.
Come next year!
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Ted,
Everyone is a bit nervous -- or a lot nervous -- their first time at AMG. However, I've yet to hear anyone regretting their decision to attend. If our dear, sweet, bashful :o Fisher can do it, you can too.
They are a lot of fun -- and if you find that you don't like it, well you can still explore the city on your own..... or bring you hubby. Mitch777 brought his and he was the belle of the ball. I brought Sid to Seattle and he still talks about it.
consider it next year.
Mike
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The interesting part might be what / who you don't see, rather than what you would see. :P
LMAO! tee hee.
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Actually, this was the first time he got loose from his cage in about 20 years. So he had some pen up energy to burn off. He is really very shy and bashful in real life. Why he's been locked up in a cage for so long . . . well those that came to AMG now know why. . .
keep the mystery and anticipation going. wise. ;) ;D
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Yes Wease! That penthouse on the 69th floor of that Lake Shore Drive high-rise you liked could be our new love-bird's nest. But you'd have to marry me first. We can marry in Maine, now . . . you know.
That is too temping :-X
I had a great time with you :)
SHY ? My ass .... LOL's
I enjoyed each and every one there ! Like they say ...... memories are forever :-*
Weasel
I hope I get tagged in some more pictures ;D
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Fisher, it seems like you had a great time. I remember your thread from spring, where you worried about fitting in. And, I definitely remember you saying you needed support and friendship now. I am glad to hear you got that.
I suppose I have not attended one yet, because I felt I wouldn't fit in. And, there is some mystery. No one posts pics of the trip. It reminds me of Fight Club..lol. Seriously, for someone with anxiety issues, it would help to see, in photos or video, what happens there. But, I can understand folks not wanting their pics posted-- either just having them searchable or just not liking their photos shared. I hate when people tag me in photos on Facebook, where I'm doing something embarrassing or looking my worst.
And, like you, I worried I wouldn't fit in, because I hadn't lost all the friends and family. I would hear some talk about losing hundreds of friends, and I would think I don't even know that many people. Add not being on meds yet, and I just wondered what I would have to discuss in common. But, it sounds like everyone just mainly has a good time, besides the memorial. I would imagine most don't even discuss HIV much. I mean, they can do that here. I'm just saying it sounds like everyone really just has a good time (an escape from daily life), and you could have just tested poz yesterday and fit in.
Anyway, I am glad to hear you took the leap and had a good time. I was really touched, when you discussed needing support and friendship, in your other thread. Perhaps I will make next years.
Ted,
Everything you imagined and described is exactly (almost... ;).) what it is. You would fit in perfect. We ARE all misfits and we all know it! I just KNOW you would have the time of your life! I jumped in head first into these forums not that long ago and after my many emotional posts of baring my soul here I took the gamble that I would fit in. I will give a better description after much needed rest. :P :)
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In case anyone is wondering...
we got to the airport early because the party was over and thought a chill down rest would be wise. Our flight was at 7:40PM but we lucked out and got an earlier departure at 3:25PM. Got home around 7:30 local time and rushed to pick up our pooch! :) :) :)
everything went well for him and we're glad there was no crisis while we were away.
hope to hear from Nick to make sure he got back ok.
Mark has a lonnnggg way to go. (Amtrak) ::) don't know how he can do it without a sleeper car.
probably rambling and not making much sense so I will say goodnight. :P
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Ted
If you go on my photobucket thing you can see the pictures I took in DC last year.
Michelle 8)
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Actually, this was the first time he got loose from his cage in about 20 years. So he had some pen up energy to burn off. He is really very shy and bashful in real life. Why he's been locked up in a cage for so long . . . well those that came to AMG now know why. . .
There is no doubt that we all adored you. I sincerely enjoyed it all. I've been waiting on our dear Nick to respond. I just absolutely adored the new shirt he got me. That was the sweetest thing ever. And the overall, I'm sincerely grateful to have been fortunate to reconnect with old friends and to also make new ones.
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yup got home just fine.... pulled into Dallas just as a huge thunder storm/ hailstorm hit traffic time from arpt to home was nearly twice as long as usual ...buy here safley and unpacked....
Nick
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I am also safely home. Started the mountain of laundry and just now realized I had not posted yet.
It was a great gathering, as it always is. I hope the ones who worry about "fitting in" will read the experiences of the newcomers and see how easy it is to fit in, almost within seconds (this is literally the universal experience of everyone who has come over the past seven years.) We are "serious and contemplative" as we should be in the memorial service, but otherwise it is a very social, friendly and relaxing time.
Join us next year...wherever we end up!
Gary