Aurora

I'm OK with a copy of the second from last edition for $12. Remainders is all about clearing space for new stuff. Please grab a copy for me. I am the offical eGullet outfitter for the Midwest. You will be expected to dress in the required Midwestern uniform for the duration of this event. Those of you who are without the standard yellow polo shirt may obtain it from me. They are all 100% cotton, Lands End (go Wisconsin!) shirts. I have them in a variety of sizes. Please check that your collar is turned up before you arrive. Acceptable shoes are as follows: loafers, Docksiders, athletic shoe, or any other type of thing that makes you instantly recognizable as Midwestern. Those caught wearing socks will be sent home. _________________________________ What is the dress code for the restaurant?

The schedule is clear. I'm in. As for lodging, if there's room somewhere, I'll take it and/or has a block of rooms in a nearby hotel been reserved in our honor somewhere? Now, how are those of us in the Chicago Metroland area handling our travel arrangements for the journey across the pond? Our discussion about the train was a good one. That would be a ton of fun, and we will need someone to pick us up. If everyone is up for it, I will get the info.

That was a good time. Everything was excellent. Sweet Willie, it was a pleasure meeting you. As always, it was good to see Elizabeth, Iris and Robert with his new mobility. The mole was beautifully well balanced, and it couldn't have been smoother (Willie pushed it through a strainer). It had a georgeous color and richness, and it was really easy. The chilaquiles were so simple and delicious. I really loved the beans with the cojito cheese. That was especially tasty with the mole. That's what I'm having for lunch today. I found out how well sagrita (sp) and El Conquistador end I meal. I had no trouble getting to sleep. That was great food. I'm looking forward to the next class.

That was a good time. Everything was excellent. Sweet Willie, it was a pleasure meeting you. As always, it was good to see Elizabeth, Iris and Robert with his new mobility. The mole was beautifully well balanced, and it couldn't have been smoother (Willie pushed it through a strainer). It had a georgeous color and richness, and it was really easy. The chilaquiles were so simple and delicious. I really loved the beans with the cojito cheese. That was especially tasty with the mole. That's what I'm having for lunch today. I found out how well sagrita (sp) and El Conquistador end I meal. I had no trouble getting to sleep. That was great food. I'm looking forward to the next class.

Once again, the twins will be with their father (they really do exist, trust me).

Did the blackout touch Grand Rapids? I know it included Ann Arbor. That would explain Matthew's sudden absence.

I can't wait for the hayride. Oh good, Mags. Now you've gone and done it.

Gennifer. If given a choice. And where is "Hilary?" She should also vote, or is this a vast Midwestern consipracy? Ever silent and strong. No doubt she will go on to moderate the NY board.

Gennifer. If given a choice.

My votes are: September 19-21 : YES September 26-28 : YES October 3-5 : NO October 17-19 : YES

Oh, yeah...[Aurora pauses, raises knuckle of index finger to teeth, gently bites, and winces the wince of ecstasy] Please tell me you have a recipe for this, or I won't sleep tonight.

"She's the boss..." No way, man. I'm not the boss... I'm THE HAMMER. BUT SERIOUSLY, FOLKS... I'm not the boss of you (plural). It's the code of the sandbox, and, well, it works for me. Speaking from the heart, as Guaj's girlfriend, I cannot -- will not -- take two votes. Out of the question. I've stirred this pot enough already, and the stew isn't close to done. A suggestion of posting available dates followed by a vote gets my vote (1).

Respectfully disagree. Our Stalwart Nero is eating all that bakery in the interests of science, and it must be duly noted. But, Dude! Mountain Dew? And as if you don't know by now...you rock! (Oh, to be the age of twenty-three again, with the cast-iron tummy and limitless capacity for All Things Alcoholic that went along with it.) Oh, Maggie, my love. There's a reason why 23 only comes 'round once. If I drank that much, I could get up the next day...in Detox..."Oh, praise ye, Cool Toilet." I'd be grabbin' on tight. I would be in prayer all day and wearing sun glasses all week. Pound cake is food of the highest order. Make that pound cake a chocolate one -- with a glob of whipped cream, and my friend, you possess manna from Heaven. Preach on, Sista Nero.

You don't want "Erotic City, " that's too fast. You want "Do Me Baby." Oh, and save a bottle or two of the Spanish Cava for GR.

September 12-14 also works.

NSM - is this giving you any thoughts? RK - please describe the crust. Was it thin and crisp, somewhat thick, sugary and crumbly, more like shortbread. I'm curious. Lemon and pistachios are two great tastes that I have never sampled together.

Here, here, Tommy. Here, here. But the combines that we drive are far more efficient than wolves.

September 19-20?

WWJAD? What would Joan Armatrading do?

Sniff... I'm so getting so verklempt. Please type amongst yourselves.

If there's any more of that yellow shirt talk "Heartland Only" tables will be a necessity (a possibly poor attempt at levity?). Varmint - We're still working out the logistics of the 11th. You may need to go on without me. Oh the humanity! Or maybe September? That does throw a wrench in it all, doesn't it? Leave it to me.

Sorry.

I must vote for 10/18. Oct 3-4 I will be in Florida for the debut of my mother's new musical composition. I can't miss that -- not even for you guys.

Well, I can cut them.

Agreed. If such a thing ever goes down let me know.