Iowa / Midwest Crop [Archive] - Digital Scrapbook Place

Kathleen

01-15-2009, 10:38 PM

I'm dying to meet some more DSP'ers, so who is interested in a crop in the Des Moines area? I promise to make my Top Secret Soft Ginger Cookies (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=296617&ppuser=91426), and make sure everyone has a fun and fabulous time!

So, if you are interested, post here. And if you have pluses or minuses for dates, that would be great too.

Nicole Young and her mom (RoadMap4Us) live here too, and I bet they'll come!

In case you didn't know, Des Moines is literally located at the crossroads of America - where I-35 (Minnesota to Mexico) and I-80 (from the Atlantic to the Pacific) meet. So travel on down that road a bit, and come play ...

Omaha - 135 miles, 2 hours, piece of cake
Kansas City - 180 miles, easy 3 hours
Minneapolis - 250 miles, less than 4 hours
Chicago - 300 miles, 5 hours, you get to cross the Mississippi, how cool is that?
Milwaukee - 375 miles, 6 hours, but again, you get to cross the Mississippi
St. Louis - 435 miles, OK, less than 7 hours, but you would have so much fun!

And there are planes that fly here, too! We have the most convenient airport here!

Can you tell I'm excited?

ReneT

01-16-2009, 12:16 AM

Kathleen

01-16-2009, 01:57 PM

Des Moines is a long way from where I am, but if I can fly there, I would definitely be interested if it wasn't scheduled from mid March thru April (super busy time at work). Does Southwest fly there? I want to meet DSP'ers too. :D

Haven't really contemplated a date yet! Southwest doesn't fly into Des Moines, closest they get is Kansas City or Omaha. But the drive from Omaha to Des Moines is probably easier than rush hour drives in big cities!

RoadMap4Us

01-16-2009, 09:49 PM

Kathleen -- You are such a wonderful hostess, getting this thread started. YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES -- I will come and I will help get it set up!!!!!

Rene -- It's a nice straight shot from the Omaha airport to here. You can't get lost. We'll send up flares for you to see.

Oh, Kathleen -- I just noticed that you have an Iowa button. Note to self for this weekend: update my flair with kathleen's button.

Kathleen

01-16-2009, 11:04 PM

Grab the Iowa flair ... it is simple, but it was fun to make!!

mcbowersox

01-16-2009, 11:13 PM

Oh man! I'd love to do that! I'll have to look up how far it is from INdianapolis and how much a plane ticket would cost.

ReneT

01-19-2009, 10:52 PM

I am definitely interested!!!! Count me in and let me know if I can help with organizing/planning, or whatever!!!

MomOfMax

01-20-2009, 12:03 AM

I'm interested too. If timing works out, I'll be there!

MsJessica

01-20-2009, 12:16 AM

I am interested...it's a little bit of schlep, considering I work most Sundays, but if the dates work (I am very busy mid March to end of April) I will see what I can do!!

ETA: I am also interested in helping plan, even if I might not be able to be there. I've never been to a crop before, but part of my job is event planning!!

lbjiowa

01-20-2009, 01:42 AM

Love to meet-up with any scrappers any time I can! As I'm hosting a digiscrapping camp in early March and then off to Northern CA for three weeks ... so I'm casting a vote for the June/July time frame.

Bugs1

01-20-2009, 06:50 AM

I'm interested but it depends on dates and finances vs costs. Straight shot down for me to Dess Monnies (as my son used to call it!)

Hey, MomofMax....my brother lives in your neck of the woods! He lives north of Deer River in Talmoon.

Bugs

pieohpah75

01-20-2009, 07:36 AM

Des Moines is only a couple hours past the Mississippi Palisades, where you do a lot of hiking/camping. I think it's very do-able for me. June/July sounds great!

Jenni

01-20-2009, 07:39 AM

As long as it's not over spring break which is the later part of March (have family we have to see in Omaha) I'M IN! I've always wanted to go to a DSP crop but California was too much. I'm in Minneapolis....I'll offer to carpool and bring the suburban down for anyone that wants to ride together. :-)

dmrdm

01-20-2009, 07:40 AM

I've never been to one or even know what happens at these events....but yes I'd be interested if the date works out (and elderly parent issues).

Jenni

01-20-2009, 07:40 AM

Oh and I'll vote for June also.....July gets busier with Cub Scout camp. :-)

Sharon1313

01-20-2009, 09:51 AM

I'm interested in this! I'm in Missouri so not such a terrible drive for me.

mn53022

01-20-2009, 10:15 AM

I am interested if the dates work out.

MaFoster

01-20-2009, 10:22 AM

Hello ladies....... thanks for the invite. I'm on the Iowa, Mo. Il. border, you can't get much closer to the tri state line than I am. Sounds like a good time to be had by all, but I'm afraid I won't be able to make it. I really appreciate the invite though.

grandmakeil

01-20-2009, 10:58 AM

I would be interested if it would work out with the dates I have.

MrsC

01-20-2009, 11:09 AM

This sounds very interesting for sure. However, I'll have to wait and see exactly what dates we'd be talking about before I could commit. I'll be checking back here again. Thanks!

Kathleen

01-20-2009, 11:23 AM

I'm so excited to see so many people popping in here!

It sounds like the consensus is maybe June? The 12th or the 19th, which would be after most schools are done for the summer, but before the 4th of July holiday, and maybe before too much summer craziness sets in! And it is a great time in Iowa ... weather should be good, the downtown farmer's market is in full swing, maybe even the iCubs in town!

As far as cost, I think the goal will be minimum cost. We will likely have to pay for some sort of space, and we'll probably want some food. But lots of fun and inexpensive would be priorities.

MsJessica, thanks for the offer of help! I grew up in Chicago, and worked for a number of years in the travel and tourism business, and contemplated starting my own events planning company. But a move to Detroit put a halt to that!

Thanks to everyone else who has offered assistance ... as plans come to develop, I promise I won't be shy about asking for help if needed.

Nicole Young

01-20-2009, 11:53 AM

Woo Hoo!!!! I am so in!!!! Its SUCH a long drive for me to Des Moines you know...oh...wait...no...I live there! I cant wait!!!! WOO HOO!!!! I am up for June, pretty open schedule at this point!!!!!

Kathleen

01-20-2009, 12:09 PM

Woo Hoo!!!! I am so in!!!! Its SUCH a long drive for me to Des Moines you know...oh...wait...no...I live there! I cant wait!!!! WOO HOO!!!! I am up for June, pretty open schedule at this point!!!!!

Wanna car pool, Nicole? Maybe make it easier for both of us!

Nicole Young

01-20-2009, 12:16 PM

Yeah, no kidding, I think we may need to split the gas money. I dont think I can afford it!

QueenShakeNBake

01-20-2009, 12:36 PM

Count me in! I love that this is where I live. I've got a friend who I'm sure would also love to attend.

ReneT

01-20-2009, 12:46 PM

Kathleen, I am out for the 12th or 19th of June. We'll be on a cruise with our daughters. So if we could come up with another date that would be great, but if not, I understand.

fickdenise

01-20-2009, 02:28 PM

I'm in! Spring months work better for me, but I'll make it work - I'm exicted to FINALLY meet some more digi-scrappers.

doxie

01-20-2009, 03:31 PM

Oh that would be fun, we aren't all that far away (4 hrs or so in SE Ne.) but I hate driving in cities by myself...(Ok just don't like to drive at all, DH does most of it LOL) and we have farm animals, and will be milking again by then, so would have to be around in the mornings. I do hope you all have a great time though!!

jcdsmith

01-20-2009, 03:47 PM

Count me in - especially June or July!!! I even have a guest room if someone is coming on a very tight budget. Also, the Des Moines Airport is my neighbor if anyone needs a ride to their hotel - I'm retired so I'm usually here - always home by email.

Kathleen - let me know what I can do to help (besides the above). I'm hoping we get a lot of people from Iowa and maybe we can set up a club & meet once a quarter or something.

Have laptop, will travel!
Judy

PQ FRAN

01-20-2009, 03:54 PM

I would definitely be interested - I lived in Sioux City, Iowa for 10 WONDERFUL years and I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to go back. Iowa will always be home to me.

"PQ Fran"
photoqueenphoto

Kathleen

01-20-2009, 04:06 PM

lbjiowa

01-20-2009, 04:19 PM

Seriously, all the chatter here just makes me smile!!

Debbie, aka QueenShakeNBake ... in your signature, you have the cutest blinkie (mind you, I usually don't like blinkies because they are too darn blinkie) it flashes from Judy & Debbie to DSM Digi Chicks to ADSR 4 ... what does it all mean??? And who is Judy??

I'll help on those questions! Judy is jcdsmith ... see her post from earlier. ADSR is the Amazing Digital Scrapbooking Race (DSP was host to one of the events...Judy and Deb can tell you which).

GLAD to see both Deb and Judy will be coming too! Can't believe how many Midwesterners we're rounding up! WOOHOO!

Thinking it might be helpful for future communications I set up a SOCIAL GROUP for Midwest USA DSPers (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/group.php?groupid=7) ... if all members interested in staying connected (for purpose of scheduling future crops etc) join it will make it easier to get the word out to everyone.:cool:

Jenni

01-20-2009, 04:29 PM

Just joined the social group! :-)

QueenShakeNBake

01-20-2009, 04:46 PM

I am also willing to help in any way in organizing, picking up from the airport, shuttling, etc.

QueenShakeNBake

01-20-2009, 04:51 PM

Judy and I met up on some scrapping site when she introduced herself from Iowa in October. She was a new digital scrapper and I mentioned Linda's Clear Lake Crop in November 2008 I was going to. She signed up, we met for lunch to get to know one another and then rode to the crop together. As it turns out, we are both southsiders and live within three miles of each other.

Then I talked her into forming a team with me to compete in the Amazing Digital Scrapbooking Race 4. The blinkie is our team's blinkie for this race. We also have a blog where we are posting our race layouts to. The blog's address is http://2digiscrappingchicks.blogspot.com/.

I've joined the SOCIAL GROUP for Midwest USA DSPers too.

GailS

01-20-2009, 08:17 PM

Kathleen

01-20-2009, 10:25 PM

Debbie (QueenShakeNBake), thanks for the introduction and explanation! I checked out your blog, and you both have some great, from your heart pages!

Can't wait to meet you both!!

I also joined the social group - thanks for setting it up lbjiowa!

kaliko88

01-21-2009, 12:33 AM

Extremely interested - but, not sure about the June dates. My job situation is possibly going to change drastically in the next couple days. I'm waiting to see how it all turns out. If I can though, I'd be driving through KC then straight up I-35 and can offer a ride.

Margie

01-21-2009, 12:55 AM

hmmm, soft ginger cookies. that's tempting!!! i went clear to utah for bendipez's fudge! :D

Wanda

01-21-2009, 05:17 AM

This is V-E-R-Y tempting, even for a Floridian like me. The June dates are fine for me. I'm a big Southwest fan too, so the info earlier in the thread about Omaha is much appreciated. I'll be watching for more info.

Kathleen

01-21-2009, 09:38 AM

hmmm, soft ginger cookies. that's tempting!!! i went clear to utah for bendipez's fudge! :D

Ohio to Iowa, how easy is that??? And they both have 4 letters, not that that means anything.

What else can we do to bribe you ?????

RoadMap4Us

01-21-2009, 10:30 PM

PQ -- There's no place like home! There's no place like home! Now tap your heels and hurry back here!

So glad to see all this interest!! I'm up for whatever dates work out best.

bendipez

01-22-2009, 12:26 AM

Hmmm!! I can only do one crop will it be this one or the Ky/Ohio crop???
Which one should I go to??

HeatherL

01-22-2009, 02:04 AM

I live in on the prairies of Canada and I am contemplating coming but it will depend on the dates and airfare and where to go when you get off the plane lol. Sounds like a lot of fun.

Jenni

01-22-2009, 08:36 AM

This is VERY exciting that there is so much interest! I'm already getting "giddy" just thinking about it! :-)

lbjiowa

01-22-2009, 10:41 AM

Hmmm!! I can only do one crop will it be this one or the Ky/Ohio crop???
Which one should I go to??

BRENDA!!! I vote you come to THIS ONE!!! Hope to see you there!:yahoo::yes::yes::yes:

lbjiowa

01-22-2009, 10:45 AM

This is VERY exciting that there is so much interest! I'm already getting "giddy" just thinking about it! :-)

YAY! Jenni...finally we'll get to meet-up! This is exciting!! WOO HOO!:yippee::yippee:

lbjiowa

01-22-2009, 10:58 AM

Oh man! I'd love to do that! I'll have to look up how far it is from INdianapolis and how much a plane ticket would cost.

If I remember right it was about a 9 hour drive from Indy...or just under 9...??? It's been a few years since I've made that drive twice a month!!! Flights from Indy to OMA may be significantly cheaper and then IF you can coordinate with the others flying in to OMA (Omaha) you can join the carpool from Omaha to DesMoines!

OH HEY! Here's an idea ... bring DH and family along...bring camping gear ... send them to camp at Sailorville Lake (some nice camping there and Adventureland fun park is nearby) ... then you could use the road miles to do some digi-scrapping!!! (assuming kiddies are good riders!) :-)

Jenni

01-22-2009, 11:13 AM

Yes....very much looking foward to meeting everyone! I called my Mom today in Omaha and she is in as well.....we just need a date so the summer plans don't overlap. I would love to pencil this one in asap! :-)

Kathleen

01-22-2009, 12:00 PM

I thought it was time to post a poll to see if we can get a preferred date!

Check it out and go vote!!

Date for Iowa/Midwest Crop (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/showthread.php?t=36380)

dmrdm

01-22-2009, 12:01 PM

Des Moines is a nice family oriented place. If anyone wants to bring family, besides camping at Saylorville, there are a lot of great recreational trails where people can ride bikes. They are not just the short ones either, 20miles, 50 miles, etc. There is a great amusement park, casino's and all kinds of entertainment.

Here are a few sites about DM.
http://www2.mvr.usace.army.mil/Saylorville/
http://www.jordancreektowncenter.com/html/index2.asp
http://www.adventurelandpark.com/
http://www.blankparkzoo.com/

If you go to the attractions page on this site, you'll see a lot of other things that may be of interest:
http://www.seedesmoines.com/

Oh, a couple of other places I thought of...

If anyone is a fan of the movie, the Bridges of Madison County, where it was filmed is close by:
http://www.madisoncounty.com/movie.html

While I don't follow it, there are Nascar Races in Newton (just east of DM-very close). Here is the schedule for June:

Fri., June 19th IndyCar Practice USAC Midgets
Firestone Indy Light Series Qualifying
Sat., June 20th Firestone Indy Light 100
IndyCar Qualifying
Sun., June 21st Iowa Corn Indy 250 IndyCar Series
See additional info at:

http://www.iowaspeedway.com/

There are a bunch of antique places also. Just to name a couple:
Brass Armadillo http://www.brassarmadillo.com/dsmstore.htm
Majestic Lion http://majesticlion.com/
There is also an area called Valley Junction which has a lot of neat stores and has some antiques also: http://www.valleyjunction.com/

Kathleen

01-22-2009, 12:31 PM

dmrdm, you are so right, Des Moines is a great city!

Add to the above:

The best Farmer's Market ever:Des Moines Farmer's Market (http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.desmoinesfarmersmarket.com%2F&ei=Wal4SbTfL4z-Mo2G7MMB&usg=AFQjCNF3jaXMLHD0Ylvzen0XrA4Pl_QB2w&sig2=yx5RoX43XIwf4PZA8pwEnw)
The iCubs, and our fabulous Principal Park: Iowa Cubs: Home (http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.iowacubs.com%2F&ei=uKl4SdifFYzaNNqvjcUB&usg=AFQjCNFiHZ_OoVkLA3Vga-hHHRonYxS4Vw&sig2=wpjLQCtc6xqhEEvmdp6lAQ)
Our East Village, hip and happening: Home - Historic East Village (http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eastvillagedesmoines.com%2F&ei=I6p4ScjXMpi2MY3O8ccB&usg=AFQjCNERyw7XInGGz0JKsC2TY60X_inY-w&sig2=fj2KBIEmibKYhHrSRFMUBA)
Great golf around town, although my husband loves The Harvester Golf Club | Rhodes, Iowa (http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=2&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.harvestergolf.com%2F&ei=iap4SbqZB5icNfmUlcUB&usg=AFQjCNGhjX6ig7imUwmTdIgKWfqZqypPAA&sig2=0K8HrFLGyvqDs7I7jVOFSw) (about 45 minutes NE of Des Moines)
Union Park and our Heritage Carousel: The Heritage Carousel of Des Moines (http://www.heritagecarousel.org/carouselfacts.htm)
Shops, Restaurants and fountains at West Glen Town Center (http://www.westglentowncenter.com/)

Of course, we could talk about the Iowa State Fair (2009 Iowa State Fair | State Fair Time (http://www.iowastatefair.com/) ), but that is August and takes on a whole life of its own!!

Gramma2715

01-22-2009, 12:34 PM

idtwinmom

01-23-2009, 01:42 AM

Here's a crazy question for you: If flying in for the Clear Lakes retreat, what airport do you use and how far would it be from there to the crop?

lbjiowa

01-23-2009, 02:36 AM

Here's a crazy question for you: If flying in for the Clear Lakes retreat, what airport do you use and how far would it be from there to the crop?

Well...let's see...we always have a carpool avail for the MPLS (MSP in airport lingo!) area... just need to make those arrangements (the hostess/owner lives in Plymouth and always offers rides to any 'fly-ins'.

Since MSP is an international airport flights are often very reasonable (esp compared to Des Moines or Omaha). Even better now that Delta and Northwest merged!

The drive from Mpls to Clear Lake is about 3 hours I believe ... I can check and get back you you!

LOVE to have you join us ... there are four-six other DSPers signed up already YAY!!:yippee::yippee::yippee:

Kathleen

01-23-2009, 10:08 AM

Here's a crazy question for you: If flying in for the Clear Lakes retreat, what airport do you use and how far would it be from there to the crop?

Lisa, it looks like the Clear Lake Retreat weekend is in March, and we are planning the crop event for June. If you are seriously considering either event, that would be awesome!!!

Flying into Iowa can be tricky, our airport in Des Moines is wonderfully convenient, and extremely easy to navigate, but there is no low cost airline that flies here, so prices into Des Moines (DSM is our airport code) are usually not cheap.

With a family of 3, it often makes sense for us to look at airports require a bit of time in the car to get to - we can save a couple hundred dollars per ticket, so it more than covers the time, gas and mileage. Airports we look at (followed by their airport code and approximate drive time to Des Moines - Clear Lake would be different) Minneapolis (MSP, 3 - 4 hours), Omaha (OMA, 2 hours), Kansas City (MCI, 3 hours).

All that being said, occasionally we find a good deal flying in/out of Des Moines, and for one person traveling, sometimes the money you save on airfare by going to a different airport isn't enough to justify a couple hours in the car, paying for a rental car or parking, etc.

Kathleen

01-23-2009, 10:11 AM

Sounds like fun, but is it only for digital scrapping or the old faashioned way of paper and stamps and tools and embellishments etc! I haven't ventured into the digital era yet. No time to devote to learning right now with family things going on. But it sure does look like so much fun. I read and keep up with the things other people are doing hoping to learn by osmosis! Thanks -

Theresa in Illinois

Hi, Theresa. DSP can certainly be a fun place to be inspired! I would say that the crop will be mostly digital folks, but all scrapbookers share a passion for telling a story, preserving memories, and a bit of artistic flair, and everyone is welcome!

And if you have the smallest inkling to learn more about digital scrapbooking, this would certainly get your feet wet!!

idtwinmom

01-23-2009, 12:16 PM

Thanks - several girls are trying to pull off a Seattle crop, which is much more convenient. Not only can I drive there, but have family to stay with. I just thought the retreat sounded interesting, especially with the classes offered and could not find any other thread to post my question in. If Seattle bombs, I may look into it further (but don't really figure I can afford the flight/room/car bit and the time away from home would be hard on us too right now).

bendipez

01-23-2009, 01:50 PM

Kathleen

01-23-2009, 02:22 PM

I'm still deciding between this crop or the Ky/Ohio crop (would make my decision easier if both crops merged into one big DSP party, oops crop).....
Would be flying in from either Oakland or San Francisco, which airport would I fly into?
what about car, hotel etc.....

Flying into Iowa can be tricky, our airport in Des Moines is wonderfully convenient, and extremely easy to navigate, but there is no low cost airline that flies here, so prices into Des Moines (DSM is our airport code) are usually not cheap.

With a family of 3, it often makes sense for us to look at airports require a bit of time in the car to get to - we can save a couple hundred dollars per ticket, so it more than covers the time, gas and mileage. Airports we look at (followed by their airport code and approximate drive time to Des Moines - Clear Lake would be different) Minneapolis (MSP, 3 - 4 hours), Omaha (OMA, 2 hours), Kansas City (MCI, 3 hours).

All that being said, occasionally we find a good deal flying in/out of Des Moines, and for one person traveling, sometimes the money you save on airfare by going to a different airport isn't enough to justify a couple hours in the car, paying for a rental car or parking, etc.

As far as hotel and other logistics, we aren't there yet, but hopefully more info soon. There is the possibility that between us locals and venue location you might be able to get away without a rental car. I'm working on the details, I promise!!

Gramma2715

01-24-2009, 07:04 PM

Kathleen

01-29-2009, 04:45 PM

Just an update for everyone, I'm leaning towards June 13th, but hopefully should have some more information soon!

scamptx

01-29-2009, 08:24 PM

I'll be watching...;)

Kathleen

01-29-2009, 10:39 PM

I'll be watching...;)

Really!?!?!?!?!?!? How exciting!

QueenShakeNBake

01-29-2009, 10:47 PM

I'm ready. BTW Kathleen, I scraplifted your cousins LO for a challenge.

MrsC

02-03-2009, 08:02 PM

Just thought I'd check in here again. Doesn't look like I'll be able to make the June 13th date, but I did join the social group and would like to know about any future happenings!

RoadMap4Us

02-03-2009, 09:45 PM

Thank you for the reply. Mostly digital....might have to think on it a little still. I have never pulled anything off digitally. Still learning the lingo and trying programs. Another question...what is the favorite program for digital scrapping you can recommend...right now all I have installed is Paint Shop Pro v9. Still don't understand all that yet. That's how green I am. You all make it look so easy. Every layout I see I like. Thanks again.

Theresa in Illinois

I learned on PSP v9! It's a good program. I have PSP X2 now and still love it. Don't get discouraged. Just learn it like all the rest of us did -- one LO at a time! I hope you will join us in June!!

Just an update for everyone, I'm leaning towards June 13th, but hopefully should have some more information soon!

Sounds wonderful!!! I'm SO in!! Kathleen -- thanks again for getting this started. You are a super-star organizer!!

Just thought I'd check in here again. Doesn't look like I'll be able to make the June 13th date, but I did join the social group and would like to know about any future happenings!

Oh, sorry you won't make the crop. But I'm sure we'll end up with other fun things in the future.

RoadMap4Us

02-03-2009, 09:46 PM

I'll be watching...;)

Are you kidding?!?!?!? :yahoo::yahoo::yahoo::yahoo::yahoo::yahoo::yahoo:

lhyden

03-03-2009, 11:29 PM

Hi Kathleen, as I mentioned in the email when you were helping me out with the site, I will definitely make this crop. I work for Meredith (Better Homes and Gardens) and I drive to Des Moines form Kansas City every month so count me in and keep me on the list. Can't wait. Linda in Kansas City lhyden@kc.rr.com

lbjiowa

03-04-2009, 03:31 PM

Bugs1

03-04-2009, 04:33 PM

I will be unable to make the crop after all. I will be having pretty extensive surgery in May and will be unable to drive/ride for that distance. Have fun!!

Kathleen

03-04-2009, 05:57 PM

I will be unable to make the crop after all. I will be having pretty extensive surgery in May and will be unable to drive/ride for that distance. Have fun!!

Sorry that you have to have surgery ... I hope it goes well, and your recovery is speedy.

About the crop ...

I have confirmed arrangements for meeting space and hotel rooms for JUNE 6th!!!

The crop will be at Glen Oaks Country Club (http://www.glenoakscc.com/) on Saturday, and I have a block of hotel rooms at the Drury Inns & Suites (https://wwwc.druryhotels.com/PropertyOverview.aspx?Property=0144) for $79 per night (plus tax, and includes breakfast).

Cost will be $25, and will include lunch, snacks & beverages, tutorials, some surprise goodies and TONS of fun!

Sign up will be available through the store soon, and I will also start a "who is coming" thread in a day or two with information on how to book hotel rooms.

A note about hotel room - I have a block of 15 rooms (2 queen beds in each room) that are being held through May 6th. I'd like to get an idea if that is enough. If you plan on needing a hotel room, let me know, either in this thread, or drop me a PM.

I am SOOOO excited!!!!

Jenni

03-04-2009, 06:04 PM

I'm going! Wouldn't miss it for the world....I'll be needing one of those hotel spaces as well....who wants to bunk with me? I promise I don't snore! LOL!

Jenni

03-04-2009, 06:05 PM

Oh, I should mention I'm trying really hard to get my Mom from Omaha there as well...

scamptx

03-04-2009, 06:48 PM

Alrighty then--no promises, but if the Maysville crop doesn't crop up soon, I may have to check out the airfare!

Kathleen

03-04-2009, 06:50 PM

I won't hold you to it, but it would be soooo fun to see you again Scamp!!

GrandmaCrys

03-04-2009, 06:59 PM

scamptx

03-04-2009, 07:59 PM

You know what? I just looked at ways to get there, and flying into Minneapolis is fairly reasonable. Why would I do that, you ask? Because I've never been, and my grandmother (she's featured in several layouts) went to college there, and was born and raised in Austin (Minnesota!) and I could visit those places...oh, this is looking tempting!

Seratonin

03-04-2009, 08:45 PM

I'd love to make it for a crop...I may be moving around June - but we're actually going to be looking into housing options this next week so I may have a better idea of what's really going to happen.

Kathleen

03-04-2009, 09:20 PM

Kathleen, thank's for the pm inviting us Illinois girls to the Iowa crop! Sounds like such fun.

Working in the agriculture field, I just cannot commit to a June 6 event! :( I never know if my season is going to end by April 30 or June 30! :annoyed:

Thanks again, though, for thinking of us!!

Well, if you change your mind at the last minute, you know where to find us!

You know what? I just looked at ways to get there, and flying into Minneapolis is fairly reasonable. Why would I do that, you ask? Because I've never been, and my grandmother (she's featured in several layouts) went to college there, and was born and raised in Austin (Minnesota!) and I could visit those places...oh, this is looking tempting!

Minneapolis is a good place to fly in/out of, often a lot cheaper than Des Moines. Not sure, but maybe some carpool options?

I'd love to make it for a crop...I may be moving around June - but we're actually going to be looking into housing options this next week so I may have a better idea of what's really going to happen.

Moving can be a real hassle, gets in the way of soooo many things! Let us know as plans evolve!

Jenni

03-04-2009, 10:51 PM

I have carpool options for Minneapolis....that is where I'm coming from and I'm happy to drive in my LARGE Suburban. Austin? Make sure you go to the "Spam" museum.....it's actually really COOL and you can have a "Spam Sandwich" for lunch! :-)

Kathleen

03-05-2009, 09:49 AM

We have friends who LOVE the Spam museum ... when they first told us about it, I really didn't believe it existed!

RoadMap4Us

03-05-2009, 10:30 PM

You are all going to LOVE the location that Kathleen has lined up!! SO easy to get to! And SO many things to do!

I am looking forward to this!

Heidi

03-07-2009, 12:01 PM

Thanks for the invite, Kathleen! OK... I soooooo want to go to this!!!! I've never been to a laptop crop before & I would LOVE to meet some fellow DSPers. I just don't know at this point if I can pull it off - financially & I don't even have a laptop. I could possibly borrow one & load all my stuff on it.
And Jenni - I would love to ride with you if I can get it to happen! I live in Menomonie which is about 1 hour away.
I will work on getting it to happen hopefully!!

Kathleen

03-07-2009, 12:14 PM

Oh, please, please try!!!!

I would share my laptop with you (HP, PSCS3)!! Just bring an external drive loaded with stuff!

Heidi

03-09-2009, 02:13 AM

I'm gonna try! When do you need to know for sure by the absolute latest?

Jenni

03-09-2009, 07:47 AM

Heidi, I really am happy to drive. It's silly for me not to bring a car full of DSPers when I have so much room! :-)

Heidi

03-09-2009, 09:42 AM

Heidi, I really am happy to drive. It's silly for me not to bring a car full of DSPers when I have so much room! :-)

That's sooooo nice of you Jenni! How many do you have riding with you already?

Kathleen

03-09-2009, 11:23 AM

I'm gonna try! When do you need to know for sure by the absolute latest?

Heidi, I'll find out when we have to have final numbers in and let you know. The hotel will be a month before, but you can always make the reservation and cancel last minute if needed (but we are hoping you don't need to).

GailS

03-09-2009, 11:32 AM

I'm going! I'm going! :) Hoping to hitch a ride with Jenni since I'm only about 15 miles away from her house!

GailS

03-09-2009, 11:45 AM

I'm going! Wouldn't miss it for the world....I'll be needing one of those hotel spaces as well....who wants to bunk with me? I promise I don't snore! LOL!

I just want a room all to myself. I DO snore! :annoyed: Hope you don't get the room NEXT to mine either! :rofl:

Heidi

03-09-2009, 12:08 PM

Is it for 1 night? So do we go there early Sat & then head home on Sun?
Yes, Jenni plan on me riding with you if you still have room.
And Kathleen I will need a hotel room. And hopefully I can bunk with someone?? I don'r snore (I don't think)!

HeatherL

03-09-2009, 02:01 PM

I think the cheapest travel arrangement for me would be to fly in from Canada to Minneapolis. I would then need to find a ride from there. Jenni are you full yet? I guess I need to find out when I need to be in Minneapolis to do this. I sure hope this works out for me. It would be great to meet up with cyber friends.

Jenni

03-09-2009, 02:13 PM

ROCK ON! We are going to have as much fun on the drive down!! I have room....and I have more room! I talked to Gail this morning and she is riding with me for sure. We are thinking to leave Friday just as soon as Will gets home from work (I'm sure if he knows the whole story he will do everything he can to get home pretty early) and planning on returning Sunday. Heather, I can pick you up from the airport as well....it's only about 20 minutes or so from my house.....or Gail is VERY close to the airport. Between the two of us we will get you. :-) This is going to be SO fun!!!

Jenni

03-09-2009, 02:17 PM

Just actually went back and read all of the posts! Read first then speak! LOL!

So far I'm looking at four....myself, Heather, Gail and Heidi. I have comfortable room for two more and "squeeze" room for four more but that would be REALLY tight.

Leaving Saturday is an option, but it would be a very, VERY early morning. Isn't it about 4 hours to Des Moines?

Kathleen

03-09-2009, 02:19 PM

The crop will be all day Saturday, starting @ 9am. For those who arrive on Friday, we'll figure out something fun to do - I've been trying to think of some fun locations for a photo walk. Saturday morning for those who are interested in an early morning adventure, the Downtown Des Moines Farmer's Market is awesome, and maybe we can organize an early group.

Minneapolis to Des Moines is about 250 miles - about a 4 hour drive. That would make for a really long day to do the drive on Saturday morning!

I have hotel rooms reserved for Friday and Saturday night ... working on a thread with all the details!!

GailS

03-09-2009, 02:20 PM

Kathleen

03-09-2009, 02:26 PM

Could you imagine if this was a paper crop? I am not the most efficient packer, but at least when it comes to scrapping, it is the laptop bag and a camera bag - DONE!

Jenni

03-09-2009, 02:40 PM

Gail, if I can truck a family of five with a week's worth of luggage and Christmas presents to Omaha....I can do a crop! LOL! I drive a beast. Really, I think we will be OK. :-)

HeatherL

03-09-2009, 05:13 PM

Oh now I am really excited!!!!!!!! How fun is this going to be!!! I won't book my air until I know more about dates and times.

RoadMap4Us

03-09-2009, 08:28 PM

This is getting very exciting! I now wish I could fly into Minneapolis just to ride down in the van with all of you!!! LOL

Instead, I'll stay put here in Des Moines and just wait for you to arrive! I'm discovering that Kathleen is the world's best party organizer! Whatever she comes up with is going to be absolutely fabulous!!

(And, Kathleen -- Do holler as you start plotting out the details. Oh, and if you need me to come over and help you make those super secret gingersnap cookies, just let me know. I won't tell your mom. LOLOLOLOL!!!)

QueenShakeNBake

03-10-2009, 09:32 AM

For those girls driving in from Minneapolis, depending on what time you get in, perhaps we can arrange for some of us Des Moines girls to get together for dinner, or something. This is sounding like a lot of fun.

Nicole Young

03-10-2009, 10:01 AM

OHHHHHHH this is going to be SOOOOOOO fun!!!! I am marking off the whole weekend for whoever and whatever you guys want to do!!!! I am game!!!!! WOO HOOO!!!!!! I am doing a happy dance!!!!!

Kathleen

03-10-2009, 10:03 AM

OHHHHHHH this is going to be SOOOOOOO fun!!!! I am marking off the whole weekend for whoever and whatever you guys want to do!!!! I am game!!!!! WOO HOOO!!!!!! I am doing a happy dance!!!!!

I told my hubby he should just pretend I am not home all weekend!

Heidi

03-10-2009, 11:08 AM

Leaving friday is fine with me - I just didn't know what time the crop was. Oooohh... I'm excited!! I still have to talk hubby into it though - so still not sure yet. But we'll see...

scamptx

03-10-2009, 01:22 PM

Guess who's coming to IOWA! :yahoo: :yahoo:

FYI, for those of you thinking of flying, I've been told that Tuesdays are the days that airfare routinely changes. Southwest was almost $100 cheaper today for the flights I was looking at yesterday. I decided to jump! Travelocity might have had lower fares on other airlines but the ones that were listed were already sold. I understand that to play that game you have to really know the ins and outs of when they're going to post, and I'm just not that good! ;)

Will arrive in Minneapolis on Thursday at noon, and fly out Tuesday at 2:30. I'll prolly rent a car because of the exploring I want to do, but am open to meet ups!

And --I'm planning on being in Des Moines for supper Friday nite, and leave sometime Sunday for more genealogy exploration...WHOOOOOOHOOOOO! :yahoo:

Kathleen

03-10-2009, 01:25 PM

Scamp, this is sooooo exciting!!!! I am so glad you saw the opportunity and jumped on it!

Jenni

03-10-2009, 02:21 PM

Start off by telling him it's for a week in some exotic location.....then the next day tell him it's for a weekend in Des Moines.....he will think it's a great idea! LOL!

Jenni

03-10-2009, 02:24 PM

OH! I just saw these other posts! YEAH Scamp!!!! Are you wanting to ride with us from Minneapolis or maybe caravan if you want to explore after leaving Sunday? Oh, this is going to be FUN!!!!

lbjiowa

03-10-2009, 04:12 PM

WOW! Lots going on while I've been gone! WOOHOO!

Thought I'd post a summary of Who's Coming, Who wants to come etc...

From what I can tell ... this is our list:

Definitely attending:
Jenni (MPLS-carpool driver)
GailS (MPLS-carpool w/Jenni)
Kathleen08 (DSM)
QueenShakeNBake (DSM)
Nicole (DSM)
RoadMaps4Us (DSM)
Jcdsmith (DSM)
Heidi (Wisconsin-carpool w/Jenni)
ScampTX (MPLS-flight, rental car)
lhyden (Kansas City-driving)
dmrdm (DSM)
lbjiowa (NW Iowa)
fickdenise (DSM)

Want to come . . . not sure yet:
HeatherL (Canada/MPLS flight-carpool w/Jenni)
Seratonin (moving, may/maynot be able to come)
Sunhappy (Florida)
Kaliko88 (Kansas)
PQ Fran (?)
Doxie (Nebr)
grandmakeil (Kansas City)
mn53022 (midwest?)
Sharon1313 (?)
pieohpah75 (Mississippi Palisades?)
MomOfMax (Bovey,Minnesota)
ReneT (TX)
mcbowersox (Indianapolis)

I added as many locations as I could just in case someone lives nearby and would be interested in carpooling or being a travel buddy.

Off to see if the new thread is out there (Kathleen08 is working on getting one going?).

Looking forward to meeting everyone!

lhyden

03-11-2009, 12:20 AM

Getting excited, any information on exact time, place what to bring for us novices, that kind of info? thanks, lhyden

Wanda

03-11-2009, 05:17 AM

I lost track of this thread and just stumbled across it again. So, if I have this right, the crop is scheduled for Saturday, June 6th, and there's the possibility of a photowalk, perhaps early that day? Definitely sounds interesting!!

Wanda

03-11-2009, 05:26 AM

Hey, I just checked my latest Southwest e-mail. They are flying into Minneapolis now via Chicago. I did a quick search for me (Tampa to Minneapolis and return, 6/5-6/8) and the fare was $159 round trip!!! That probably doesn't include taxes, etc., but still sounds really appealing. From Tampa to Omaha & return was $209. Thinking, thinking...

HeatherL

03-11-2009, 10:49 AM

Hahaha some how I missed the dates for this crop as I thought it was June 13th. Good thing I didn't book a plane ticket yet. June 6th should still work for me I think. I will try to get my act together this week. Today I am going to an Eagles concert so I am already pumped about that.

QueenShakeNBake

03-11-2009, 03:19 PM

Guess who's coming to IOWA! :yahoo: :yahoo:

leave sometime Sunday for more genealogy exploration...WHOOOOOOHOOOOO! :yahoo:
Where are you planning on doing your genealogy research? If it is in Iowa and you would like some help, I'd be happy to assist.

lbjiowa

03-11-2009, 03:37 PM

Getting excited, any information on exact time, place what to bring for us novices, that kind of info? thanks, lhyden

I think Kathleen08 is working on all that. I read a post where it sounded like she might be starting a new thread with all the details ... ??? KATHLEEN...is that right???

I lost track of this thread and just stumbled across it again. So, if I have this right, the crop is scheduled for Saturday, June 6th, and there's the possibility of a photowalk, perhaps early that day? Definitely sounds interesting!!

Especially in June! AND it's the day of Farmer's Market ... which, traditionally in DesMoines is fairly LARGE and quite fun event! Block and blocks of people, food, crafts ... great opps for photos!

Wanda

03-12-2009, 09:00 PM

Woohoo! We're in!! (DH is coming too since we really haven't had opportunity to visit that part of the country). We're flying in to Kansas City Thursday a.m. & should arrive in Des Moines by early afternoon. Pencil plan is to sightsee on Thursday/Friday & participate in the photo walk, DH will amuse himself on Saturday while I'm at the crop, and we'll head back to Kansas City sometime Sunday for some sightseeing there before heading home late Monday. I am so PSYCHED!!

Kathleen

03-12-2009, 09:32 PM

How very cool!! We'll make sure to get you some suggestion on sightseeing! Staying in Kansas City on Thursday might be a fun option, too.

Wanda

03-13-2009, 05:12 AM

OK, so now that I know I'm coming, I'm volunteering to help out in any way you need, Kathleen. Local setup on Friday/Saturday, program preps (handouts, CDs of crop materials), etc. Just let me know...

scamptx

03-13-2009, 08:08 AM

Wanda, I'm so glad you are coming! It will be good to see you again!

Wonder how many of us have met IRL at other crops--:think: :D :think:

Penny M

03-13-2009, 12:43 PM

I've been watching this thread to see a specific date. I might be able to come but I only have one week in June that is available for me to take vacation. What is the date of the crop??

Heidi

03-13-2009, 12:50 PM

Its June 6th

Kathleen

03-13-2009, 02:33 PM

I've posted the official who's coming thread, with all the details in it ...

Iowa/Midwest Crop {June 6th} Who's Coming and Official Details (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/showthread.php?t=37411)

So hop on over there, and read all about it. Post if you are coming, questions, etc.

I included a list of people who have confirmed they are coming since the June 6th date was officially announced. If I missed anyone, it was not intentional!

I'm so excited!!

Penny M

03-13-2009, 06:39 PM

Oh shucks, that is my grandson's birthday weekend. The only way I could come is if his parents has his party on a different weekend.

Kathleen

03-13-2009, 07:35 PM

Bummer, Penny! Although Grandson birthdays are a good reason!

Kathleen

04-26-2009, 09:52 PM

Just giving this thread a bump in case there was anyone who voiced interest here and may still be on the fence. The most pressing thing is if you were to need a hotel, the hotel will release rooms on May 6th, so if you need a hotel room you should make sure you book before then.

Registration for the crop itself is helpful too, but I can wait until mid-May if need be.

All details can be found at:

Iowa/Midwest Crop {June 6th} Who's Coming and Official Details (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/showthread.php?t=37411)