We're not to that point, but it is true that if we were to do something like that, it would probably be necessary to make reservation and/or put down a deposit now/this year. I'd be willing to do some legwork to see if that's true or not. Or, you know, if anyone else wants to before I get around to it, have at it.

I adore the idea of an Orcas outing, especially if it were off the normal F2F schedule (which does not generally work out for me). That was my fantasy vacation that I used to periodically investigate details about, even though I had no intention of ever going.

It would be even more superfantabulous with Buffistas.

My vacation request for late June has been approved, so barring an unfortunate shuffling of deadlines my attendance at f2f has become much more likely. Now if GWB will just get that check to me, I will be happy to stimulate the economy of Wisconsin.

What time of year were you thinking, Liese? August or Sept., maybe?

I looked around yesterday for places similar to the Orcas place, but on larger islands or spots closer to city centers and services, to see if it might be possible to appeal to country- and city-mice. Being on a small island sounds like heaven to me but might not to all, so escape to a marvelous town or small city nearby might be good for those who are drawn to them. Or even just a larger island, like Bainbridge, or San Juan itself. Anyway, the hard thing is coming up with search terms to find them.

It would definitely have to be off the normal F2F grid, I think, because it limits who can come physically--people with babies or disabilities may not find it as accessible, and I would love for our main F2F accessible to all. It sounds like a great mini-F2F, though.

There's always the spot on San Juan Island where we had the cookout for my wedding. It has 9-10 cabins and camping, but one would need a car to get to downtown. But there are probably plenty of hotels on San Juan near the downtown area that could accomodate a Buffista gathering, and people could just walk off the ferry and be there.

Buffistas are very ferry friendly, in all senses and spellings.

Boston-istas! I am staying here. I don't know what transportation is like and what the best way of getting to...I think we've settled on Shabu Zen? My course ends at 5, so whenever is convenient to meet up after that works for me.

Ah, the birthplace of Parker House rolls and Boston Cream Pie. Snazzy. That puts you a block from Washington Street or so, which goes directly to Chinatown. Unless the weather is hellaciously crappy, I'd say walking is the easiest means of travel.

Cool, I like a good walk.

Boston cream pie! I guess I should have that while I'm there?

Hey, wait a second, apparently it's a CAKE.