HELLO. THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE WAS PREPARED BY THE PAN-GALACTIC TRAVELING AND EXPLORATION SOCIETY (PGTES), ROCK CREEK DIVISION.

Once again, there has been discussions about "the trip." The focus of these conversations has been about "this year." More specifically, it involved "you people."

As such -- we (PGTES) has prepared "this message." The sole question posed is ARE ANY OF YOU PEOPLE INTERESTED IN GOING THIS YEAR?

I realize that some of you are on vacation schedules which make this impossible -- or have kids too young to go at this point (knocking on wood, I will be in this same position myself, in about seventeen years...). I do not want to exclude anyone from "the trip" on those bases, but I still want to go with AS MANY OF YOU as can go.

Enough said. Please let me know if y'all are interested.

St. Even Ashburn
Pan-Galactic Traveling and Exploration Society, Milky Way District,
Eastern-Spiral-Arm Province, Rock Creek Division, Earth (With Offices In
San Diego and Lone Pine)


Subject: Re: Rock Creek Pack-In Trip
Date: Mon, 26 Jan 1998 09:27:54 -0800
From: Mary Ellen Ashburn <meashburn@worldnet.att.net>

Steven:

You absolutely made my day today ! What a great way to start my week. I am very happy to know that one of our tribe, regardless of the extreme pressures of everyday modern life, still has a sense of humor, and is looking ahead to some fun in the sun....

Good luck with your planning ... as usual, our segment of the tribe always goes with the flow, I'm sure dad has no reservations. However, I still worry about "the horse, and who the winner will be on the next ride into the wilderness !! Oh, well, we all need a little adventure, but one thing I know for sure, I will never, never go on the Army Pass trail again.

Hi to everyone.

Love

ME and Jer, too

Subject: Re: Rock Creek Pack-In Trip
Date: Thu, 29 Jan 1998 19:24:06 -0800
From: Harold and JoAnn <jbhb@wgn.net>

Dear St. Steven and Fair Mate:

I celebrate your efforts to plan another trip. I am all for it, except my body is programed to only withstand a somewhat lower altitude, say like "Balboa Island!!!" Seriously, don't you think the senior set (like your mother) should be closer to civilization and maybe some oxygen! I think I can withstand all the rest of the effort to get there and back but not at 11,000 (yeekkk) feet. Hacksaw said "YEA" and ran to the closet for his plaid shirt, boots and down vest. He would do ANYTHING to get to some fresh water and trees!!! And I thought he was G.Q.L.A. now.

Love, Auntie Jo Ann and Haroldo

P.S. Your mother is a true (horse) whimp.... I suppose I will have to challenge her to a trot should this insane idea of your's pan out.

Subject: Re: Rock Creek Pack-In Trip
Date: Sat, 31 Jan 1998 17:10:05 -0800
From: Mary Ellen Ashburn <meashburn@postoffice.worldnet.att.net>

Guess I know what JoAnn is doing on this rainy day. However, I am not a horse whimp; JoAnn just recalls trying to climb 1,000 feet in 2 seconds, as she tried to get up the mountain first, while I took my time and made it! JoAnn was found gasping --- collapsed over a rock, uttering unintelligible sounds. All I said was: You should have gone a little slower - and, of course, I wasn't even breathing hard. Oh well, I could start my horse hunt immediately for the "perfect horse" -- I'm sure Chiquita has been put out to pasture by now.

More later ....

Subject: Re: Rock Creek Pack-In Trip
Date: Sun, 1 Feb 1998 14:19:47 EST
From: MOVALVOOZ@aol.com

I swear Steven, you kill me sometimes...a saint...HA!

As much as I would love to go, unfortunately, we will not be able to go on "the trip" "this year". We have vacation plans to the hot spot of Cincinnatti, Ohio this year! You know, they have that new tropical island resort complete with ice blue waters, palm trees, hot sand... Oh wait, I believe I was thinking of somewhere else. Ohio has, well, it has, um, it has,oh yeah, Joe's brother and his family!!! Ok, so it's not as exciting a place as I can dream it to be, but we will be there this summer.

Maybe "next year" for "the trip", because I would love to go. However, as much as you admire me, please don't let me stop you from going "this year". I'd hate for you to miss all the fun. Go on, go ahead and plan without me, I won't be hurt:) !!

Subject: Re: Rock Creek Pack-In Trip
Date: Sun, 1 Feb 1998 14:22:40 EST
From: MOVALVOOZ@aol.com

A horse race between Mary Ellen and JoAnn? What a sight I'd love to see!!

Subject: PACK IN MESSAGE #2
Date: Sat, 28 Feb 1998 07:42:50 -0800
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

Everyone has finally responded. Some of you, however, responded in such a way as to leave your RSVP status unclear... take for example the following exchange:

Q: Will you be going on the pack-in trip?

A: Thanks for asking me to go on the pack in trip! I like to go on pack-in trips! Did you know that Volkswagen is re-releasing the "bug"? My friend told me she made cookies last week! Anyway, pack-in trips!

As you can see, by that response I have no idea whether that one of you (who shall remain nameless) is going.

Nonetheless, I think I got a pretty good handle on "the list." I'll print it here, and notify me ONLY IF I HAVE YOU DOWN IN THE WRONG LIST.

THE LIST OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE SAID "YES"

Jeff "Grizzley" Rodarti
Kira "Adventurer" Sullivan
Hacksaw "Hacksaw" Hacksaw
Mary Ellen "I Love Army Pass" Ashburn
Gerald "Good Groceries" Ashburn
Scott "Pinecone" Fisher
Steve"N" Ashburn
Shannon "I'm Only Going If Your Mom Goes, Too" Ashburn

THE LIST OF PEOPLE WHO WILL BE THERE VICARIOUSLY THROUGH THE ABOVE-NAMED PEOPLE

The Vuozzos (next time, when the kids are a bit bigger!)
Joann (next time, although I think you could make it this time!)
Shawn (although he should go, to protect Kira during the "ancient burial grounds" tour)

THE LIST OF PEOPLE WHO SWORE UP AND DOWN THAT THEY WOULD GET BACK TO ME, BUT HAVEN'T, CAUSING ME TO SUFFER SEVERE MENTAL DISTRESS AND ANXIETY, ALL TO MY GENERAL DETRIMENT

Lynn "I swear to God I'll get right back to you, Steven" Rodarti

THE LIST OF PEOPLE WHO, COME TO THINK OF IT, WEREN'T SPECIFICALLY INVITED, BUT SHOULD BE

Michelle (Scott -- why don't you ask her?)

That said, the next thing for me to do is check on availability. I think because of the snowpack, and the seemingly endless El Nino That Won't Go Away, we should probably expect to go later than normal. August or September? Before we make any decisions, however, I'll call the pack station to get an opinion and/or availibility.

Until Next Time.

St. Even

Subject: Re: PACK IN MESSAGE #2
Date: Fri, 06 Mar 1998 15:47:02 -0800
From: Mary Ellen Ashburn <me.ashburn@worldnet.att.net>

Steven - you are soooooo funny. I love your nicknames - including mine. Lauri and I were talking the other day about miscellaneous whatnot, and I mentioned that I saw the new Volkswagon on Good Morning America. At
the same time, a light went off, and we asked (accused) each other "Did you say that to Steven about the Volkswagon and cookies". We both said no.

Let us know what the pack station says --

Love,

Me

P.S. How could JoAnn let her entire family go without her? She says she thinks she would make it....

Subject: Closer...
Date: Tue, 07 Apr 1998 21:27:38 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

Well, I still haven't made contact with Cottonwood Pack Station (hereinafter referred to as "CPS"). I left two messages in March. This Sunday, a message was left at my work number... the sender? None other than JODY WINCHESTER, the woman who helped with the 1993 trip. (I can't speak for the 1977 trip... I wasn't doing much of the footwork at that time, other than to make sure Big Jim had remembered to pack his deoderant.)

In any case, it looks like I am getting closer to making CONTACT (someone call Jodi Foster).

I am hoping to plan the trip in either July or September, and am leaning strongly towards September due to the late winter we'll probably experience.

Anyone have a problem with September? I'm sure that with a group this size, planning is going to be a real bitch (sorry for the language, mom). So unless there is NO ABSOLUTE WAY you can make it in September, lets shoot for that month. We'll narrow down the week later, once JODY finally calls back.

MISC.

Everyone give a big round of Pack In Trip applause to Michelle, who has jumped from the "OUT" list to the "MAYBE" list! That's a big step!

Speaking of the "MAYBE" list, Lynn????????? Any response yet?????

And for those of you on the "OUT" list... hasn't the recent bout of Pack In Trivia (PIT) put a little wind in your sails? (or was it just gas?) Its not too late to jump from OUT to IN.

Did anyone ever answer Scott's original PIT question regarding chopping wood? I don't think I know, Scott. If I had to venture a guess, it would be "Hiyawatha."

OUT

St. Even

Subject: IMPORTANT PACK-IN MESSAGE
Date: Mon, 27 Apr 1998 07:58:19 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

Dear Adventurers,

I have finally spoken to Jody and have learned the following:

#1 She never called back because she was in Kentucky for a month, and her daughter dropped the ball with forwarding messages.

#2 Cottonwood Pack Station is estimating the first trips will begin in July, which is relatively late, due to the heavy snow pack. I was told that late July would be "no problem."

#3 The costs this year are: $125 for the guide, each way, $60 for each pack animal, each way. [We will each need one horse and one mule (give or take). As such, the cost per person should be $240 + ($250/n) where n represents the number of adventurers.]

#4 We need to send Cottonwood a deposit of $100 and a letter indicating the number of packers AND THE DATES.

#5 Jody recommended we do #4 SOON.

Given that information, and the request of Lynn/Jeff that we avoid September due to Jeff's school schedule, I am proposing the following dates:

a) July 18 - July 25

b) July 25 through August 1

(Note: to follow those plans, each person has to take off at least part of the previous Friday.)

*** Special Note ***

Lynn & Jeff: Once we change the date to July for your benefit, you are bound, in blood, to attend the trip. No later excuses will be allowed.

*** End of Special Note ***

Here is what I need from each of you:

#1 A note saying whether trip "a" or trip "b" will be OK with you.

#2 If not, give me other dates (excluding August) that will be OK, and a good reason why you can't make "a" or "b."

#3 Please send me $10 per person for the deposit. (6901 Estrella Ave, San Diego, 92120)

At present I have the following list of confirmed packers:

Lynn
Jeff
Kira
Scott
Mary Ellen
Jerry
Scott
Shan
Steve
Michelle (maybe)
(I am sorry to hear that Hack has recently defected to the "no" list.)


EACH OF YOU YES-LISTERS NEEDS TO GET BACK TO ME SOON. I NEED THE DATES AND DOUGH SO THAT WE CAN CONFIRM THE TRIP ASAP. ANGRY PHONE CALLS WILL BEGIN SHOULD I NOT HAVE HEARD FROM EACH OF YOU AT SOME POINT THIS WEEK.

Talk to you all soon --

Steve


Subject: Shower.
Date: Sun, 17 May 1998 09:48:10 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

That was a nice chat last weekend -- definitely better than going to the mosque. Although I was still in the shower when Pino, Grandma, Joann, Lauri, Joe, kids, etc. arrived. The good news is that my folks were late back from temple (must have been extra bad), and don't know of my tardiness/laziness. I think Joann even covered for me...

MOM: Was Steven out of the shower by the time you arrived?

*pause*

JOANN: Yes.

So, I have taken the affirmative step of printing out your email message, and setting it atop the pack-in docs you sent. I am going to the drugstore later today, so I may just get you the copies within the next few days.

One can only hope.

Talk to you soon -

Steve

Subject: RCPI98 in only 61 days!
Date: Sun, 17 May 1998 11:39:28 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

Dear Adventurers:

Allow this short message to serve as an update with respect to ROCK CREEK PACK-IN 1998 (RCPI98).

#1 DATES

Mark your calendars. The chosen expedition dates are JULY 17 through JULY 26. The actual trail-days are July 18 and July 25. I am sending notice to Cottonwood in tomorrow's mail.

#2 DEPOSITS

To Scott "Water Oxen 1" Fisher, thank you for your $15 deposit. To Gerald and Mary Ellen ("Redford" and "TVP") and Kira ("Bandana"), please send in your deposits.

#3 LISTS

Please note the following changes to the "yes" "no" "maybe" status lists:

CONFIRMED ADVENTURERS

Jerry
Mary Ellen
Kira
Scott
Shan
Steve

WOULD-BE ADVENTURERS WHO ARE ON THE FRINGE

Michelle
JoAnn
Hacksaw

THE LITTLE TROUT WHO WILL GO WITH US NEXT TIME

Rodartis
Vuozzos
Bob & Holli

#4 FURTHER PLANNING

As the journey unravels in only 61 days, we will have to do some serious planning in the near future. I imagine all of us will be present at the graduation of adventurer Scott "Professor" Fisher... As such, we will nail down some things at that time (without, of course, stealing the wind of the most festive and joyous event). I will bring the once-thought-lost, much revered, journal "There And Back Again," a tomb of notes and miscellany regarding the planning of the RCPI93 trip. This should prove to be a most useful tool in getting us ready in two months.

#5 FITNESS

Remember, scouts, packing in is more than a vacation. It is an adventure. It is an experience. It is Zen.

Aside from the necessary mental preparations, which are unique to each of us (I am reading "How to Shit [sorry mom] in the Woods" by Kathleen Meyer), we must not forget to prepare the body.

Although each of us is already a well-conditioned (ahem), chiseled (ahem), marathon-ready (ahem) machine, there is work to be done. The trail to Sky Blue is not easy, nor is the climb to Lake _____ (Scott, what was the name of that lake we climbed up to... up the sheer face and waterfall??).

I suggest that we each make an effort to be as active as possible over the next 61 days. Do as much as you can. Take it seriously. You will appreciate later the training you do now. Lets make the LITTLE TROUT proud of us.

Until next time:

St. Even
RCPI98 Commissoner on Dental Floss Acquisition Methods

Subject: Re: RCPI98 in only 61 days!
Date: Mon, 18 May 1998 20:07:05 EDT
From: MOVAL VOOZ <MOVALVOOZ@aol.com>

Does it hurt your brain to think so witty? And how long does it take you to write such a piece? Peace!


Subject: Add On
Date: Fri, 29 May 1998 15:32:40 EDT
From: MOVALVOOZ@aol.com

Hola!

I suppose you may add me, myself and I to your list of Pack-In "In's". I'm pretty sure I can find daycare for Jess and Eric while Joe is working. Because I was always on the "Out" list, I did not save any of the pertinent info re The Trip. Let me know what I need to do to join this "In" crowd!

Subject: Re: Add On
Date: Fri, 29 May 1998 13:33:54 -0700
From: Kira Sullivan <kiraj@access1.net>

Yea!! I am so glad that my dishes ditchin' cuz will be among the "In crowd"!!! That is the best news I have had all day!!! Steve...Did you find out the location of RCPI98? I cant wait to know!!!

Love, K

Subject: RE: Add On
Date: Fri, 29 May 1998 14:30:32 -0700
From: Mary Ellen Ashburn <meashburn@crosspointvc.com>

GREAT NEWS! - One more loved-one to serve me - (remember - payback time for 18 years ago!!!) AND, unless JoAnn (scardy cat) changes her mind - all the more hands to pamper me.

Love (and can't wait)
Me

Subject: A Man Without A Horse Is Like A Fish Without A Bicycle
Date: Sat, 30 May 1998 09:23:30 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

RCPI98 Message # 72-9(c)

[Introduction]

Hello. This is the introduction part of this message. This is where I introduce the rest of the message. Here it comes; the rest of the message:

[The List As I See It]

What would an RCPI98 message be without an update of the list.

BEYOND A SHADOW OF A DOUBT [a.k.a. the "Yes" list]

Jerry
Mary Ellen
Kira
Scott
Lauri (Welcome to the list... now send me $15)
Shannon
Steve

CLEAR AND CONVINCING [a.k.a. the "I'm sure it will happen" list]

Lynn
Jeff

MERE PREPONDERANCE [a.k.a. more likely than not]

JoAnn
Hacksaw
Michelle (Scott -- give me Michelle's CORRECT e-mail address!)

GUILTY [a.k.a. you, and O.J., are guilty for not going with us]

Bob
Holli
Joe
All the kids under 3 1/2 feet

[Status Update Re: Location and Horses]

I just got off the phone with an unnamed representative of Cottonwood Pack Station, whom I believe I woke up. To answer the burning $64,000 question, the "1977 location" is still closed to camping with fire. As such, we can camp there and have no fires (not), or camp elsewhere.

Elsewhere consists of the "1993 location" or one other location which I will call "Eddie." Picture, if you will, the capital letter "Y." It looks like this: Y. At the base of the Y, the lonely prong, is a small lake in a large meadowy area. It is a relative lowlands, being at a lower altitude than the upper prongs of the Y. It is also along a "major" trail (major for that area, anyway). [Those who attended the 1993 trip went to this lake.. those from 1977 did not (I don't think).]

Well "Eddie" is located here, at the bottom of the Y. I for one am against this spot. Closer to the trail, lower elevation...

Now the upper prongs of the Y consist of the "1993 location" and the "1977 location." The latter of these, as we now know, is not an option. That leaves the "1993 location." For those who haven't been, it is practically a mirror image of the "1977 location" with the exception of the missing lake. Which leaves this: the camp is in a wooded area just up from a large meadow. A meandering stream winds through the meadow. The "1977 location" can be reached by a) hiking down to the bottom of the Y and back up to the other top prong, or b) bushwhacking it straight from one top prong to the other. Scott and I did "b" almost daily in 1993, and had it down to a science (first time took an hour, reduced to 20 minutes after the proper route was discovered). We also walked down to the lake at the bottom of the Y (which is either called Rock Creek Lake, Lower Rock Creek Lake, or Lower, Lower Soldier lake... depending upon whom you ask). That hike is also a very short hike. Jeff, Jerry, and Bob did it numerous times in 1993. The "1993 location" also offers some EXCELLENT hiking opportunities and an array of geography: climb the rocks to Erin or Primrose lake... walk with the hobbits through marmot valley on the way to Sky Blue... fish along the Bridgeport-esque stream at the head of the meadow.

Or there is the option of trying something completely different. [A an unbefore experienced location, yet to be determined.] Scott mentioned this at his GRADUATION PARTY (congratulations again). I am averse to this, as I am growing more and more resistant to change as I age. As an equal-opportunity camp organizer, however, I feel compelled to offer Scott's suggestion. There's nothing like equal representation and a democratic form of government.

Oh, nobody wants to try anything new? Ok, then. We'll go to the "1993 location."

[On snow and weather]

The Cottonwood vizier thought that the July 1 date might be a *tad* early for packing in. [Shannon tells me it just snowed in Yosemite last night.] He thought that mid-July, our target date, would be fine, however. That said, we're still on, and bring a coat.

[Happy Birthday to Kira]

Happy Birthday to Kira.

[The Equipment List]

I will be forwarding a document called "The Equipment List." [Use Word or the word-processing program of your choice to open it. Any questions, consult your Computer Manual, Bill Gates, or as a last resort, me. Actually, call Bob. He's more "in the know" than me.]

That list will be broken into two parts: the COMMUNITY LIST and the BUY THIS STUFF ON YOUR OWN part. Each item on the list will be numbered for ease of reference.

I will maintain the "master list" and will be responsible for ensuring all items on the COMMUNITY LIST are procured. If you have a needed COMMUNITY ITEM, or volunteer to buy the COMMUNITY ITEM, e-mail me and I will make a note on the list. [Example: Jerry has a camp stove. We will put "JERRY" next to the camp stove. None of us has the water-oxen contraption, though Scott and I will be meeting to make/purchase one. As such, we will put "SCOTT & STEVE to do" next to that entry.]

Updated versions of the list will arrive in your in-box at irregular intervals.

[Menu]

Same idea as above. Will be included in the Word document. At this time I will be forwarding a SUGGESTED menu, copied almost entirely from the 1993 planning sessions [Thanks to Bob for preserving the papers.] E-mail me suggested changes, additions, protests, etc.

[Planning Dates]

These are proposed meeting dates and locations. Feel free to add more.


WEEKEND OF JUNE 6-7: Meet at my house to assemble water-oxen device and begin acquisition of needed community items. [Scott - I need you and your slide rule for this one.]

EITHER WEEKEND OF JUNE 20-21 or 27-28: Meet at Jerry/Mary Ellen's, if needed.

WEEKEND OF JULY 11-12: Meet at Jerry/Mary Ellen's to purchase dry goods, canned goods, any remaining equipment. Begin packing same and community equipment into Pack Boxes.

THURSDAY, JULY 16: Meet at Jerry/Mary Ellen's to purchase remaining perishable foodstuffs. (Alternatively can be done Friday morning, prior to leaving for Portagee Joe's)

FRIDAY, JULY 17: Drive to Portagee Joe's for altitude acclamation (acclimation?) and one last meal in civilization. Sleep at Portagee Joe's.

SATURDAY, JULY 18: Hup Mule!

[End of Message]

This is the end of the message. More soon -- give me your feedback. Lists to follow.

Respectfully submitted on this 30th day of May, 1998


Subject: Re: A Man Without A Horse Is Like A Fish Without A Bicycle
Date: Sun, 30 May 1998 23:45:50 -0700
From: Scott Fisher <scottsf@flash.net>

Yes packers that was a lot to swallow at this altitude but rest assured you WILL be gasping for breath in no time!

If you had a hard time scrolling as did you may need a little reassurance that "all will ride."

Glad to hear that some of you might be afraid of spiders! Personally I'm afraid of....umm hmm I cant think of a thing. Besides that is, of course, our late night visitor hungry for camp vittels and yummy campers who sleep on COTS. Maybe you would be better off hanging yourself in a tree for the evening. Its very relaxing, just ask jeff.

Speaking of jeff, I have contrived a rigorous P.I.T trigonometry training program in which more will be learned in a single lesson that could ever be force fed in a classroom (no offense to the lads' mother who only wants the best for him). The class is free and open to all PIT personnel, no prerequisite required. Students will learn, among other things, (spitting, and foul language and how to shoot you cousin with a BB gun), how to calculate the height of yonder ridge from the campsite, vector mechanics, and trigonometric identities applied in a practical manner. If you do not have a calculator one will be provided for you.

And if that wasn't exciting enough, hold your breath for the long awaited maiden flight of the PRIMROSE glider, of which is under construction as you read.

Sunday June 7th Scott and St.eve will be meeting at Shannon's' house to build pack boxes. And paint Steve's' mailbox.

For questions regarding geography please consult Bob at P.I.T.T.S. (Pack In Trip Tech Support).

Since we are all going to be very close to each other very soon there is some thing I have to get off my chest... Steve and I shit in a bucket behind the playhouse for a month, and ever since then Ive been carying a bucket everywhere I go. Butt this pack in trip Im going to kick the habit and kick the bucket. I encourage others with similar habits to do the same.

love scott

Subject: The lists
Date: Sat, 30 May 1998 11:10:33 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

These are far from complete, but we were going crazy...

Steve & Shan

[Editor's note: the "lists" were attachments and are not included here.]

Subject: RE: A Man Without A Horse Is Like A Fish Without A Bicycle
Date: Mon, 1 Jun 1998 12:58:01 -0700
From: Shannon Ashburn <shannon@rer.com>

Sorry about the virus on the word documents attached to the email that followed this one. We'll figure out something & some way to get the documents to you (virus-free). Lauri, I can fax it to you tomorrow. If any one else wants to send me their fax#, I can sent it to you tomorrow also.

Subject: Must have
Date: Tue, 02 Jun 1998 18:47:43 -0700
From: Bob Fisher <bob@bobnholli.com>

All who venture to the hinterlands must have at least ONE of these:

http://www.sportsmansguide.com/catalog/showad.cgi?adid=38&codename=hunting&productid=222&categoryid=885585588

bob, unc, dad

Subject: Planning dates
Date: Fri, 5 Jun 1998 13:36:46 EDT
From: MOVALVOOZ@aol.com

Is the planning date for this weekend still on? If so, which day, Sat or Sun? The weekend of June 27-28 is good for me, as is July 12.

I purchased my $28.99 Bunkmaster II cot w/mattress yesterday. I don't care who calls me a pansy, even if Joe already did, I like it! I got it at Target if anyone else doesn't want all those spiders and bugs crawling in their sleeping bags during the day, only to BITE you during the niiiigggghhhhttttt!!!

Let me know about this weekend. Later on........

Subject: RE: Planning dates
Date: Fri, 5 Jun 1998 10:55:40 -0700
From: Mary Ellen Ashburn <meashburn@crosspointvc.com>

Hi Steven:

I was just about to call you about this same topic. Saturday or Sunday is fine with me - just need to know soon.

The cot sounds great - but did you get one for Shannon, too! Sounds like you only bought one. Just wondering ....

RSVP.

Love,
Me

Subject: RE: Planning dates
Date: Fri, 5 Jun 1998 11:01:56 -0700
From: Shannon Ashburn <shannon@rer.com>

I just spoke with Steve (on the phone, since he's not e-mail accessable during the day) and he thought he would just get together with Scott this weekend to build the water oxen contraption.

Lauri is the one that bought the cot (not Steve). I think we're going to sleep closer to nature (on the ground!)

Talk to you all soon.

P.S. What do you know about that Pine Creek pack station and the spot you circled on the map?

Subject: Re: A Man Without A Horse Is Like A Fish Without A Bicycle
Date: Sat, 06 Jun 1998 08:48:32 -0700
From: Bob Fisher <bob@bobnholli.com>

A brief, unrelated addendum:

Kira's PC is down. Maybe for a week or more. But I am printing and snail-mailing all messages to her in Las Vegas.

dad, unc, bob

Subject: Re: A Man Without A Horse Is Like A Fish Without A Bicycle
Date: Sat, 6 Jun 1998 13:38:52 EDT
From: MOVALVOOZ@aol.com

I always knew you and Steven were wierd. Now it is clear to me that time when I was about 12 what exactly my mom meant when she asked me, "Who has been using this bucket to mix mud for mud pies? I've been using it to mix the marinade for our beef jerky."!!!!!!! Aaakkk, the thought!!

And, by the way, when you wake up one morning with a giant bump on your butt (the one you used to shit in buckets with) and it hurts and itches at the same time and lasts for days despite the calomine lotion you slather on it, I'll be standing by MY cot laughing at you until I can't breathe, just like I am now!!!!

See ya at 11K!!!!!!

Subject: Pack In Message, Brief
Date: Sun, 07 Jun 1998 21:17:18 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

Shan and I went to Home Depot (again) and picked up the 5 GA buckets for the water oxen contraption. We also picked up the necessary rope, lumber, and tackle to put it all together. We struck out, however, on the foam padding. We will keep our eyes open for that one.

Steve

Subject: Stoves
Date: Tue, 09 Jun 1998 05:31:54 -0700
From: Bob Fisher <bob@bobnholli.com>

Just a note. A reminder, if you will. A thought in case you forgot. But if you don't care, that's okay too.

The propane tank and hoses I left at Scott's are designed to REPLACE the pump up tank on a white gas stove. You avoid the pumping and the slow warm up that comes with a normal white gas supply. The coffee, therefore, is ready much sooner.

unc

Subject: Water Bag
Date: Wed, 10 Jun 1998 09:03:51 -0700
From: Bob Fisher <bob@bobnholli.com>

You mentioned an effort to get a water bag. I am ordering the attachment and will send it to you -- unless you want it shipped elsewhere -- please let me know.

It's a little big at 36 gallons, but you don't have to fill it up. Or just fill it up every couple of days. Dunno. You'll probably still need the "oxen thing" to get the water -- no change there.

It also occurs to me that the black 5 gallon water bags I left in San Diego might work good for the shower. It would take a while to heat up the 5 gallons, but no need to fill it, right? And with a little creative work, you could replace the spigots with a piece of garden hose. Maybe.

Unc

Subject: Pack In Meeting
Date: Fri, 12 Jun 1998 07:57:24 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

Dear Expeditioners,

Please allow the following to serve as a very brief update with regard to expedition RCPIT98:

Mini-planning meeting on Fathers Day at San Clemente outpost. Do not be concerned about making this meeting (it is going forward solely because a small group of packers will be there for Fathers Day).

MAJOR PACK IN PLANNING MEETING on June 27 or 28. We can pick either date to maximize attendance. If I don't hear back regarding a preference, we will meet on JUNE 27. Also at the San Clemente outpost. We should finalize our list of attendees at this date. As such, it is time for some of you to fish or cut bait... get off the fence... shit or get off the pot (bucket).

We will also meet on JULY 11-12 to assemble the gear and do the shopping for the non-perishable items. To change things up a bit, this time we will meet at the San Clemente outpost.

Talk to you all soon.

St. Even


Subject: Re: Water Bag
Date: Fri, 12 Jun 1998 08:00:37 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

The add says the bag is used. MMmm....

Should be fun, though.

As for the shower bags... didn't you already give scott a pre-made shower bag?

Steve


Subject: Re: Pack In Meeting
Date: Fri, 12 Jun 1998 11:49:58 EDT
From: Meashburn@aol.com

The dates are fine with us - only one thing -- BYOF (bring your own food) or take the consequences - (just kidding). Not fair to have this reputation after all the years of entertaining my most cherished loved ones -- still think Scott brought the flu - just a hunch - or something we ate was contaminated with flu germs. Oh well, on to the BIG challenge..... praying for sun and hot snow-melting weather.

Love,
Me

Subject: Re: Pack In Meeting
Date: Fri, 12 Jun 1998 12:19:37 EDT
From: MOVALVOOZ@aol.com

I will be able to make it, obviously, on Father's Day, as well as the following weekend, whichever day.

Subject: Re: Water Bag
Date: Fri, 12 Jun 1998 10:28:36 -0700
From: Bob Fisher <bob@bobnholli.com>

The "shower" at Scott's is the enclosure only. There may be a small Heat-em-up-water thing there, too, but only a gallon or two. Not enough for 10 bodies, especially with extra "ladies" along.

So take along the black things. Can't hurt.

Unc

Subject: Re: Water Bag
Date: Sat, 13 Jun 1998 09:05:38 EDT
From: Meashburn@aol.com

I'm so grateful that all our needs will be taken care of. Especially water for drinking and SHOWERS. (We have to watch Jerry - he will take two showers a day, if possible). I am concerned about drinking water. Safe drinking water! We boiled water for hours before. Do you just use the tablets now? How does it taste? How much pre-bottled drinking water would we need for a week?

One time we forgot to boil the water before we left for the day - I think for a hike to Soldier Lake. When we returned to camp, EVERYONE was dying of thirst, and the little ones were crying. For dinner we had warm (almost hot) lemonade.

Steven - your list is a masterpiece! I just did a preliminary review yesterday. May add a few things - but will try to KEEP IT SIMPLE.

Love,
ME

Subject: Re: Water Bag
Date: Sat, 13 Jun 1998 08:52:38 -0700
From: Bob Fisher <bob@bobnholli.com>

Try here:

http://www.securbar.com/purewtr.htm

And here:

http://naples.net/govern/county/emrgmgt/h2o_pure.htm

And here:

http://www.r5.pswfs.gov/inyo/vvc/disprsed.htm

And here:

http://www.sfbay.org/emfood.html

And here:

http://www.girlscouts.org/girls/Go/Sports/Outdoor/skills/water.htm

Or here (to purchase):

http://www.ewalker.com/adgear/h2ochem.htm

Or here:

http://www.pentapure.com/sport.html

Or here:

http://www.netside.com/~lcoble/unsorted/wfilters.html

Enough?


Subject: Re: Pack In Meeting
Date: Sat, 13 Jun 1998 11:17:26 -0700
From: Harold and JoAnn <jbhb@wgn.net>

What time?

Subject: Re: Pack In Meeting
Date: Mon, 15 Jun 1998 23:06:10 EDT
From: MOVALVOOZ@aol.com

Does your inquiry as to the time mean that you are going????????!!!!!!!!


Subject: Re: Pack In Meeting
Date: Mon, 15 Jun 1998 21:59:07 -0700
From: Harold and JoAnn <jbhb@wgn.net>

Oh, just asking.

Something odd going on here! Hacksaw keeps asking if we can sleep in the den in our sleeping bags and has been talking in his sleep with such mubmlings as "I've got one!!!" and "Hey, can I have extra chocolate with my marshmello!!" and "No, I won't carry the shovel!!" I haven't the slightest idea what is going on with this man!! The other night he was watching T.V. with a sadistic grin on his face and was tying these cute little knots with feathers and teeny hooks in them. He is definitely NUTS. Meanwhile, I am littering the house with travel books on ITALY. Maybe there's hope for him yet.

Sophia and Rico

Subject: RCPIT98 Meetings
Date: Tue, 16 Jun 1998 08:35:59 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

Nobody seemed to have a real preference, so I've pulled the following out of a hat:

The Father's Day Mini-Meeting will occur at whatever time we're all in San Clemente for Father's day. (How's that for specific....)

The BIG planning meeting will occur Saturday, June 27th, at 11:00 in the morning, in San Clemente, in the back yard. Food, beverages, and e-boli to follow.

Misc. Notes

1. I read an article in the paper this morning (Shan found it, actually) that said the snowpack is dissipating due to warm weather which has finally hit the Sierras. The article predicted the heaviest water drainage would occur by the 26th of this month... which I suppose is a good sign. Then again, it is raining today...

2. Joann, when you hear Hacksaw say "I have one" in his sleep, he may not necessarily be referring to trout.


Subject: Re: RCPIT98 Meetings
Date: Tue, 16 Jun 1998 12:28:22 EDT
From: Meashburn@aol.com

Steven ! I'm sure that went over JoAnn's head...

Regarding the water drainage and snowpack - just want everyone to know there will also be an earthquake watch that follows hard winters.

Re Father's Day - pray for sun. Come early. Bring notes and new ideas.

Love,

Me

Subject: Re: RCPIT98 Meetings
Date: Tue, 16 Jun 1998 18:08:50 EDT
From: MOVALVOOZ@aol.com

OK!

Subject: RCPIT98 Planning Meeting
Date: Mon, 22 Jun 1998 20:17:17 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

Due to numerous requests voiced last weekend, the planning meeting has been moved SUNDAY. And, to try and get us out-of-towners home at a decent hour, why don't we start at 10:00 instead of 11:00.

Be there, with your thinking caps on.

Stephen

P.S. Tick, tick, tick.

P.P.S. Lauri, Lynn, and Joe... YOU DON'T KNOW JACK.


Subject: Re: RCPIT98 Planning Meeting
Date: Tue, 23 Jun 1998 11:32:18 EDT
From: Meashburn@aol.com

How about pizza or sandwiches - any suggestions?


Subject: Re: RCPIT98 Planning Meeting
Date: Wed, 24 Jun 1998 22:46:56 EDT
From: MOVALVOOZ@aol.com

Yes I do. I'm a mind reader, remember?!!


Subject: Re: RCPIT98 Planning Meeting
Date: Wed, 24 Jun 1998 22:49:11 EDT
From: MOVALVOOZ@aol.com

Pizza sounds good and easy.

Subject: Re: RCPIT98 Planning Meeting
Date: Wed, 24 Jun 1998 22:54:52 -0700
From: Harold and JoAnn <jbhb@wgn.net>

If we come to plan with the rest of you nutcakes...I vote for Chinese/Thai! If, that is......


Subject: Re: RCPIT98 Planning Meeting
Date: Thu, 25 Jun 1998 11:46:21 EDT
From: Meashburn@aol.com

Great ! Someone else volunteered to be in charge of meal planning for Sunday.

Thanks JoAnn.

Love
Me

Subject: Re: (no subject)
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 02:29:25 EDT
From: LRodarti@aol.com

Glad to hear that you're coming!!!!


Subject: Check it out
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 22:05:00 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>


http://sierrafocus.com/html/outdoor/pine.html

Subject: RE: Check it out
Date: Tue, 7 Jul 1998 10:12:23 -0700
From: Lynn Rodarti <lrodarti@interpore.com>

Looks nice - did you call the pack station to see if it's not snowed in?


Subject: NSSIWBRCPIT98 Update Message
Date: Wed, 08 Jul 1998 00:19:06 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

Hello, expeditioners. This is a late-night Not-So-Sure-It-Will-Be-Rock-Creek-Pack-In-Trip-98 update message. A few things have come up of late, which need to be addressed post haste. These items will appear below, on your computer screen. Simply keep reading.

[Pressing Item Number One]

Is, of course, the ultimate destination. I have recently had it sprung upon me that the '93 destination was not the ideal choice, regardless of weather conditions. This was due to the fact that the '93 site is lake-challenged (to use the politically correct, nondiscriminatory term for the water-deprived).

After much ado, we have gone over three possible alternate sites. After much more ado, we have narrowed the alternate down to one site. After still more ado, so much ado, in fact, that if there's one thing I do do, it will be to refrain from ado, forever, we ENDED BACK AT THE START --USING THE '93 SITE AFTER ALL.

Weather permitting, of course.

I will find out Monday whether the weather will do us in. If we can weather the news, we will go to the '93 site as planned, whether or not there is minority faction that wants to set up a tent adjacent to a large body of water. Ado.

Should the news on Monday be grim, we will resort to using the PINE CREEK PACK STATION. (Hush, don't tell anyone.) More specifically, we will set up camp at a place called Horton lake. Feel free to fire up the web search engines and forward URL's on Horton Lake info. Briefly,the area is described as a wooded area in a box canyon (meaning it is a dead end... we will not have hikers passing through as we attempt to secrete the morning "ado" in tranquility). The region is lake-endowed, which should satisfy the Sirens who have infiltrated our group. The site, in fact, is directly adjacent to a lake, and there is one other lake within an hour's walk. (This latter lake features Golden Brand (tm) golden trout, which is of course our state fish.)

I will update you as I know more. Probably Monday. Do not be concerned-- we DO have options and we will have a place to go come Friday the 17th.

[Pressing Item Number Two]

Relates to our group. Whether we use Rock Creek or Pine Creek Pack stations, we will need to inform said pack station of the number in our party. Second, and most importantly, WE ARE GOING TO BE BUYING PROVISIONS THIS WEEKEND, AND THEREFORE NEED TO KNOW THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE GOING. THE EXACT, DEFINITE, NUMBER OF PEOPLE. PRECISELY. WITHOUT FRACTIONS (Scott, however, will be counted as three tenths of a person until he passes the Professional Engineer exam.)

I understand that the bulk of the group has confirmed: Scott, Michelle, Jo "H20 is my favorite molecule" Ann, Hacksaw, Mary "I Love Lakes" Ellen, Jerry, Shan, Lauri, Lynn, Jeff, and myself. Kira, on the other hand, has only given us hints as to the final number of Nevadans who will be attending. In her deligtful message of June 29 (hereinafter referred to as "the tantrum"), the number of attendees from the Silver State [36th state, entered the Union in 1864] was ZERO.

A recrimination of the blatant misstatements set forth in the tantrum is not necessary, except to say that not everything said in that message was accurate or appreciated. What is neccessary, however, is to DETERMINE HOW MANY PEOPLE GOING ON THIS TRIP. The answer to this seemingly straightforward question was not given in Kira's message of July 5 (hereinafter "the cryptogram"). In the cryptogram, Kira stated that "I" (singular) will be going, but that she bought sleeping bags (plural).

?

I am not interested in tantrums or cryptograms. What I like are nice, easy, whole numbers. In fact, I will provide ALL the numbers necessary for a response to the big question in this handy graph:

The number of attendees from Nevada is: 0 1 2

I would appreciate it if ANYONE, be it Kira or anyone who has heard from Kira, would e-mail me one of the above numbers. You can even cut and paste from the above graph to make it easy!

[Note: if your e-mail program does not display the numbers in a very, very fancy graph, with flashing borders and three dimensional background font bit character ado things, you need to upgrade to a pentium 900Mhz.]

[Pressing Item Number Three]

Is the upcoming shopping spree, during which large quantities of food will be purchased. Including 30 pounds of spuds, 84 eggs, and enough bacon to choke Georgia. Said shopping spree is to occur on Sunday, July 12. We should start at 9:00. [Kira, I apologize that Saturday didn't work out. In between the tantrum and the cryptogram, when it was presumed you had opted out of the trip, four other people told me they couldn't make it on Saturday. As such, we switched it to Sunday. It is probably better that way anyway, as it would have been kind of silly to fly all the way out just to go to the market...]

NOTE that by the 12th, all community items are to have been dropped off at the San Clemente outpost, for storage in pack boxes.

[Pressing Item Number Four]

There is no pressing item number four, really. The most pressing thing for me presently is sleep. The amount of planning that has gone into this thing recently has been incredible. No thanks to El Nino.

If anyone has ANY questions or concerns, NOW is the time to voice them. We are getting really close, and any changes, such as a(nother) change of location or a change in the number in the group, will drastically impact the remaining work. Which would make me flip my ado.

All the grim stuff aside -- we will be ON HORSEBACK in ten days! Time to get excited! In that regard, I remain,

Sincerely Yours,

St. Even

P.S. I can be reached at the following numbers if anyone needs anything:
home - 619-583-2773
work - 619-238-8550


Subject: re:"tantrums" and "cryptograms"
Date: Wed, 08 Jul 1998 01:18:37 -0700
From: Kira Sullivan <kiraj@access1.net>

In defense of my "tantrum" message let me just say that we all have a mother...enough said. In response to you question regarding "cryptogram"...I want you all to know that your messages made it impossible for me to not go on this trip...especially one from my aunt reminding me how good golden trout tastes. Anyway the count from Nevada remains at 2...If there is anyway to do the stuff on Saturday, I will be in LA anyway. If not tell me what community stuff I needed to bring and I will send it along with my mom.

Happy Camper Kira

Subject: RE: NSSIWBRCPIT98 Update Message
Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1998 09:15:25 -0700
From: Lynn Rodarti <lrodarti@interpore.com>

Dear St. Even,

Thank you, thank you, thank you for such a wonderful, good and hearty laugh this morning when I checked my e-mail upon arriving at my office. (I'm sure that some of my co-workers suspiciously wondered what I was doing in my office all alone and laughing so hard!!) I do have a couple questions for you and they are as follows:

Question #1 --- If we have to have our "stuff" packed into pack boxes by the 12th, and seeing that only a few select members of our rugged traveling group have pack boxes in their possession, does this mean that those infamous pack boxes will be available on the 12th at MEAJAH (MaryEllen and Jerry Ashburn Home) camp headquarters for a stuff pack in the pack boxes party?

Question #2 --- Do you need assistance in shopping or packing the 30 pounds of spuds, 84 eggs, and enough bacon to choke Georgia? If so, I'm available.

Thanks again for the update and see you Sunday,

Lynn

p.s. My graph did not show up with the fancy fonts and borders. Where can a 900 mHz computer be
purchased?

Subject: mama's tantrum message
Date: Wed, 08 Jul 1998 12:13 -0800
From: "JoAnn Doctrow" <JDoctrow@bronson.com>

Thata girl..bite the bullet as they say. And as an expert on the subject, I know for a fact, that you cannot divorce your mother.....no matter how hard you try.

Love you as ALWAYS, XX00, A chastised Mama.

Subject: Re: (no subject)
Date: Wed, 08 Jul 1998 23:29:46 -0700
From: hairy® <mike.harris@hairynet.com>, Organization: http://www.hairynet.com
To: jbhb@wgn.net

http://www.395.com/p6.htm
has info on all the horton lakes
pine creek pack station is closest
http://www.395.com/packers.htm

ranger station is in Bishop
(760) 873-2500

Subject: How Many Trout Would A Wood-Trout Trout if a Wood Trout Would Trout Trout?
Date: Thu, 09 Jul 1998 21:09:53 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

After that last long winded message of mine, I refuse to spend more than 38 seconds on this message. Simply can't sit in front of this computer any longer than that.

I fear, however, that some of you in my charge are still confused about pack boxes. More accurately, about the "Five W's Of Pack Boxes," to use the words of Dale Carnes.

"There are Five W's with pack boxes, really. Who, What, When, Where, and Why."

- Dale Carnes, 1967

Well, Mr. Carnes was last seen explaining campsite etiquette to a grizzly in Alaska, so I'll have to explain the five W's.

WHO: This one doesn't really apply. I don't know what Dale was thinking of.

WHAT: A pack box as we've been using the term is a wooden box used to put our crap on the side of a mule. And some on the other side. Cottonwood will supply us with as many metal pack boxes as we need, but Cottonwood will not leave said tins with us for the week. As such, outdoorsmen/packers Jerry Ashburn and Bob Fisher made wooden ones, which don't do much more than the metal ones as far as jackass transportation goes, but have the added benefit of remaining with us during the week. These boxes are used to support the table, at which we will eat and play tile rummy and pull mosquitos out of eachother's teeth. The key here is that WE CAN HAVE AS MANY METAL PACK BOXES AS WE WANT, SO YOU DON'T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT GETTING A WOODEN ONE FOR YOURSELF. Please refer to sections "When," "Where," and "Why," below.

WHEN: When will we pack the wooden pack boxes? This Sunday, in San Clemente.

WHERE: I just said where, in San Clemente. Weren't you paying attention?

WHY: We are packing the pack boxes with all of the COMMUNITY ITEMS. When I say COMMUNITY ITEMS, I am specifically excluding all PERSONAL ITEMS. This means pans, pots, hatchets, bowling balls, juke boxes, and the like. We are packing these types of items now because 1) they won't rot; 2) we won't need them during the following week [just try and pack a wooden box with your toothbrush and deoderant this week, and see how long you make it....]; 3) we don't want to be sitting in the San Clemente Garage the eve before the trip and realize only then that the fish-shaped skillet has a hole in the bottom.

IN LIGHT OF THE ABOVE, IT SHOULD BE ABUNDANTLY CLEAR TO YOU THAT YOU DO NOT NEED A PACK BOX FOR ANY OF YOUR PERSONAL CRAP.

SO PLEASE STOP ASKING ME.

PLEASE.

I CAN'T TAKE IT.

IF ONE MORE PERSON ASKS ME IF THEY CAN HAVE A WOODEN PACK BOX, I WILL LIKELY STOP FUNCTIONING.

Enough on the boxes.

Now to address some of the questions in your collective e-mails:

1. A 900 Mhz Pentium 6 computer can be purchased at Radio Shack.

2. Saturday meeting? I think we already resolved that. The last I heard, more people can make it on Sunday. It is kind of the pits, but remember what Spock said just before he died for the first time. [I am not referring to the earthling Spock, who said something about not feeding children any milk products just before he died.]

3. No, Lauri, squirrels can't talk to each other when no people are listening.

Now, here's a couple of things that are new.

1. Jodi said that the '77 site, LAKE INCLUDED, is available for our trip. She added that she thinks we can have fires there. I am still uncertain of this and want to run it by Dennis first.... he seems to be more in-the-know.

2. Jodi also said that the Lone Pine barber heard about our trip and was going to fly his airplane over Cottonwood pass and Rock Creek to check it out for us. Then again, she was supposed to call me with the results this morning and didn't. I'll post a message once I get news.


Whew! All done in 34 seconds!

Steve


Subject: Re: How Many Trout Would A Wood-Trout Trout if a Wood Trout Would Trout Trout?
Date: Sat, 11 Jul 1998 04:40:36 EDT
From: Meashburn@aol.com

Well - again I am laughing with tears - big tears! We just returned from seeing the 10:00 Lethal Weapon movie - and Jerry won't let me go to bed until I print the e-mail Lynn told us about. Well, he's probably sleeping and now I AM WIDE AWAKE AFTER LAUGHING SO HARD.

Steven - on behalf of myself and all other RC98 packers - how can we thank you enough. You have brought us this far - and hopefully won't abandon us by collapsing of fatigue before we get to RC and return. You have been great - more than great - where did you get your wit and organizational skills - I'm sure not only a mother would praise you! Thanks from the bottom of our hearts for making us laugh so hard. Please start planning our next escapade....

The last memorandum I know was written way after 11:00 p.m. - after our conference call with the folks at Pine Creek Pack Station - how could you function after an hour of such tough conversation - you trying to pull out of me why I love lakes and water so much and why I would hate hiking 12 hours to the nearest lake - my sister would thank me for trying, but, at last, I had to concede. Who can stand up to our fearless leader!

What a break - if its true that campfires are allowed again at the ''77 site, near the lake that I just now found out is not really Rock Creek Lake but Lower Soldier Lake. It appears Grandpa Glenn always called it Rock Creek -but the pack station calls it Soldier - Lynn and I decided it would always be RC to us!

Well - my thoughts are long - not as funny - I have a zillion of things to do to prepare ALL this weekend. Still don't have a hat. - One other message to all packers - please keep in mind that Jeffrey, almost 15 will be with us - and that this is a family-oriented trip -

Thanks again - St. Evan

Love,

Me

Subject: A formal, unofficial, informal, official message all at once
Date: Mon, 13 Jul 1998 16:10:47 EDT
From: Diandello@aol.com

-Being on the matter of the fact that there happens to be a most excellent homosapien, that just happens to be related to most all who read this letter, living in a certian "Yuppee-Bubble" town in a certain county named after a fruit, that has no relation with it besides the fact that it is sold in its privatly owned grocery/purely food stores/privatly owned indigidous homes, has
decided to announce (in colaboration with his GrandMother) that he is, in fact and abstract imagination, a living person, regardless of the fact that the "Pack-Meets" have been planned for the exact purpose to exclude a seasoned "expiditioner" so named "That Little Ursurper With a Sun Dial and a Patch of Grass on His Face and Writes About Brits Who Develop Funny Relationships With Ham Sandwiches", who writes easy to follow titles in his Electronically Sent Letters-

Subject: Re: <No subject>
Date: Tue, 14 Jul 1998 01:11:21 EDT
From: Meashburn@aol.com

We just returned from a shopping spree at Super K-Mart. Jerry bought all his fishing tackle and is now sitting at the table PLAYING with it and planning his attack - watch out golden trout!

Yes, we do need mixing bowls - but check with the Master to see if it is on someone else's list.

We took all the yummy food out of the garage that might attract the San Clemente Rancho mice - and are now stepping over it in the kitchen.

A word of warning from the Trout King - remember that the golden trout are afraid of noise and shadows!


Subject: Re: A formal, unofficial, informal, official message all at once
Date: Mon, 13 Jul 1998 22:46:05 -0700
From: Harold and JoAnn <jbhb@wgn.net>

JR:

Guess this trip will be more of an unofficial and informal gathering of the young and young at heart, except for the more or less formal shopping trip(s)that took place on Sunday, closely adhering to SA's officious food stuffs listings. We shall feast on Snickers for fun and Tiger Bars when we need some real nutrition. I did wonder why the grass bedecked fellow was not formally in attendance but guessed he was with pater Josef.

My promise is to henceforth include you in any mail or other communique going to any and all expeditioners '98. As for me I am not an expeditioner or even almost a willing participant....I go to purely save face and because I have been shamed into it. I do intend, however, to enjoy it in spite of the catalyst for my attendance.

Back to the unending and exhausting packing drill! Now where did I put that long underwear....

See you Friday.

Camper Jo.

Subject: Well, this is it.
Date: Wed, 15 Jul 1998 21:48:02 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

Dearest Rogues,

This marks what will likely be the last pre-trip e-mail. The high-tech, nineties portion of our trip is now complete. I hope you enjoyed it. Thank you; come again.

I have heard from Dennis, our guide at Cottonwood. He made it through Cottonwood pass today, and as such we will be headed to Rock Creek after all. Our trip may involve some clamboring over ice at the top of Chicken Springs, but I'm sure we're all up to that. Except maybe Susanna, but last I heard she wasn't going with us any more.

We are to have our gear loaded onto the pack table at Cottonwood Pack Station at 7:00. That means a very early morning -- probably leaving the High Sierra Cockroach Motel at 6:30. More on this at The Motel.

Cottonwood Pack Station, Inc., Ltd. does NOT take credit cards. Dennis informed me the easiest way of cashing out it to have Jodi divide our total bill by 13 and have us each pay by check or cash. He didn't mind collecting 6 or 7 personal checks. I guess this means we all need to add one more thing to our list of items to pack: a checkbook.

With at least two checks in it: Shan and I need to get reimbursed for the food we've bought and the food we've yet to buy (74 steaks, 16 gross of eggs, 3.4 entire steer, etc.).

AJ, you can certainly bring all the mixing bowls you think we need. Unless we can use our existing pots... up to you.

I guess at this point I don't really have anything to say. What a relief.

I look forward to seeing all of you in the SIERRAS.

St. Even


Subject: RE: Well, this is it.
Date: Thu, 16 Jul 1998 08:51:27 -0700
From: Lynn Rodarti <lrodarti@interpore.com>

Please St. Even,

I need one more e-mail from you (a telephone call would do too) to provide an estimate on what kind of funds need to be behind the two checks we will be using (one of course for you). You see, I don't keep my millions in my checking account and therefore need to know the pidily amount of doe to transfer from my Swiss account ---- or maybe the account in the Caymans. In any case, thanks for the estimate in advance.

I would also like to thank you for all the planning, stress, long distance phone calls and sleepless hours that you have put into this trip AND for all your wit and humor in your RCPT98 updates and briefs.

A big THANK YOU and a STANDING APPLAUSE to you St. Even!!!!!

Sincerely,

One of the 13 anxious-to-get-out-of-here-and-can't-wait-to-get-the-heck-up-there rogues!

Subject: Re: Well, this is it.
Date: Thu, 16 Jul 1998 14:53:10 EDT
From: Meashburn@aol.com

Steven said it all - this is IT! Not sure who is most apprehensive, JoAnn, Shannon, or myself. My only saving grace is that in ''77 I was absolutely terrified, had always told Jerry he would have to "pack-in" with the kids without me, and when I apprehensively reached our destination, I had an absolutely wonderful time, even with all the work of 5 children. That is the
only reason I can justify trying this again.

I have my hat now and a saddle pad - We will all have a great time .... thanks to Steven's efforts - he deserves a big applaud for a job well done. I'm sure he will plan the next trip to the Alaskan wilderness.

See you tomorrow -

ME

Subject: Re: Well, this is it.
Date: Thu, 16 Jul 1998 18:56:40 EDT
From: Meashburn@aol.com

Oh my gosh - here again I am laughing with tears - for all the newcomers - and those who have forgotten - remember the time Lauri (alias Laur Laur) found the tick on her while in the bathroom in the trailer (I almost can't contain myself to act business-like). It was after a day of wood gathering along Green Creek at Bridgeport. The trailer still echos her scream - also the bee that bit her while on the boat at Lopez Lake and subsequent hysteria. There must be more .. Oh, I'm alergic to bees and insect bites - Just take care of Lauri's hysteria and my body if we are bitten!

Did I mention that everyone should bring a table-height chair - if you want to sit at the table ... I told JoAnn to tell her family - but we all know JoAnn.

Just in case ...

Subject: RE: Well, this is it.
Date: Thu, 16 Jul 1998 16:26:49 -0700
From: Lynn Rodarti <lrodarti@interpore.com>

But Lauri,

What ever made you think that there are going to be BUGS up there in such a beautiful place -
especially TICKS and MOSQUITOES!!!!!

Subject: The Road Goes Ever, Ever On
Date: Thu, 16 Jul 1998 23:12:58 -0700
From: Steven Ashburn <sashburn@worldnet.att.net>

To: Bob Fisher <fishndix@flash.net>

Wish you were going, but can respect/empathise/sypathize/etceteraize your decision. We'll take some good photos, and hopefully spin some yarns for you when we get back. With this group of "Lucky 13," there HAS to be some good stories, don't you think?

Thanks for all the help and support and laughs.

Love,

Neph

Subject: Re: Well, this is it.
Date: Fri, 17 Jul 1998 00:57:13 -0700
From: Harold and JoAnn <jbhb@wgn.net>

Can anyone still hear Kira's screams when she happened upon a long, wiggley snake on the path at Rock Creek Lake (Soldier what have you??) I think it made the Lonepine Press!!! I was on the other side of the lake and heard her loud and clear.....I think she was ready to walk on water. Henceforth, Kira and I will keep snake watch for all of you, but mostly for us.

See you at the Golden Championship Cast-Off!!