London BD

[LePetitChoux]

Since there seems to be an East-Coast BD meet-up in arrangement, why not have a London/England one? I'd CERTAINLY come. If it was in London. And my Madre let me. smilies/biggrin.gif

[ January 28, 2003: Message edited by: LePetitChoux ]

[eleanor_niphredil]

Yeah. There seems to be several meet-ups in America, but none in England. But whether I could come or not would depend on when it was, as I live in the north of England.

Good idea all the same. smilies/smile.gif smilies/cool.gif smilies/smile.gif

[Rimbaud]

I could come to this one also. Set it in May or afterwards. smilies/wink.gif

[dragoneyes]

If I could bend my dad around to my way of thinking, then maybe!

[Amanaduial the archer]

Hmmm, depending where it was and if I could persuade my mum it wasnt really me meeting up with people I have no real idea about...

I live in the North West of England- Greater Manchester- so Im afraid London is a little out of bounds. Unless I oculd persuade my dad to let me use his house, which is never going to happen. For a few years anyway.

[LePetitChoux]

I probably couldn't do anything BUT London. smilies/frown.gif

[Birdland]

I could come to this one also. Set it in May or afterwards. - Rimbaud
Does that mean you can't come to the East Coast BD if it is held in summer, Rimbaud? No way!

[Inderjit Sanghera]

I live 200 hundred odd miles from London, but who cares? Though I've been to London hundreds of times, since I have a lot of relatives there.

[Rimbaud]

Something like that, Birdie dear. Although I do flit across the ocean periodically, so you never know. I advise the Philadelphia one to be in the last week of April and the London one in the first week of May. smilies/wink.gif Then you shall be bowled over by a double helping of London-style French Radicalism. Even if Birdie's statuesque puns prove beyond me.

[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

London's about half an hour by train from me. I'd be interested.

Edit: it's nice to see that the British contingent isn't asleep. I know that there are more of us, though. Where are you all?

[ January 29, 2003: Message edited by: Squatter of Amon Rudh ]

[*Varda*]

Hm, well unless there's a BD thing in Scotland anytime (which I doubt, due to the lack of Scottish downers) I can't make it. London is just a wee bit too far. smilies/frown.gif

[eleanor_niphredil]

Actualy, I have more chance of going if it was in Scotland, especialy if it was near Glasgow. I live in Greater Manchester to, but I go to Glasgow frequently.

[Amanaduial the archer]

Yay! Another Mancunian! I was beginning to think I was the only one.

[Elanor]

Manchester would be great for me too, I'm not that far away. I could manage London too. It would definitely be nice to meet some people who don't think I'm a freak for reading Tolkien....

[ February 02, 2003: Message edited by: Elanor ]

[arelendil]

i only live about hour away by train so i could go to London, most definately! but that gets us no nearer to anything except to say that you can't leave me un-notified. i'll keep an eye on this thread!

[ January 30, 2003: Message edited by: arelendil ]

[eleanor_niphredil]

Whats to stop us having more than one, in different places?

[Eärendil]

Are there any Tolkienistas from Canterbury (or near to) on here? Then maybe we could work something out about a meeting in Canterbury. Just a thought, as I will be quite near Canterbury in the Easter break. smilies/smile.gif

[Rimbaud]

Just struck by the similar conversations and discussion of places here and those threads regarding the US Meetings. Two hundred miles feels like a long way, doesn't it? smilies/wink.gif We really do have a skewed perspective on distance. Or, perhaps more pertinently, they do. smilies/smile.gif
______

This is a Kermit-less post.

[*Varda*]

It's not the distance that's the issue, just the age. smilies/frown.gif 16 or not, I can't just go running off down to England when I have exams and stuff. Oh well, can always dream.

[the real findorfin]

Tell me where and when, and me and Donlammenion will be there! yeh, yeh, yeh. smilies/smile.gif

[ElentariGreenleaf]

hay, if dragon's dad took her I could go with them! Hehehehe... MWHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!! smilies/evil.gif

[Amanaduial the archer]

I didnt realise you knew dragon in real life.
There is no way in eternity that my parents are actually ever going to let me, unless it was in a public place like the Trafford Centre or something and then I wouldnt be actually going to party with people I dont know of the web...

[LePetitChoux]

That would affect most of us, because most of us here are under 18, I presume. Oh dear. Well, the parents could come too, provided they were not completely against LotR... smilies/wink.gif

[ElentariGreenleaf]

My mum loves Lotr, but she would kill me if she knew is was on this forum. Stupid not being allowed on forums or chat.... I'm 14 for crying out loud!

Yes, me and dragon know each other in real life. We're best friends! In fact, I walked 2 miles to hers this morning (in the snow) WOOO! NO SCHOOL! (well, it's actually 22:25 here now, but oh well!)

~Elentari I the insane (or indigestable)

[eleanor_niphredil]

a meeting with parents? I suppose there is no other option for us, um, younger members. The Trafford centre is a good idea, but the thought of dragging by dad there is not worth thinking about. Still, for his eldest daughtor, in place of pocket money. I am thirteen, but though I look twelve, I have always been in a class full of people a year older than me, so i am really fourteen.

Will the dream ever happen?

[eleanor_niphredil]

What would we actualy do when we got there? Ists all very well chatting on a forum, but in real life, what would happen?

What we should do is hire a room of some sorts and have a showing of the DVDs. No need to talk if you dont really want to.

[the real findorfin]

What would be great if we had a day of Lotr, showing all three from 9-9 but that would be crazy. We'd need some kind of 'getting to know each other' activity. Perhaps going out somewhere or having a party maybe, but how old is everyone (not old enough to drink I guess, I'm not either...but I do). Any suggestions.

Carrying on with my crazy idea, if we came down one day, slept, had a day of lotr, slept went home, with get together things in between....stupid???

[eleanor_niphredil]

not stupid, would it would be hell to arrange, not to mention expensive, unless we could stay with each other.

Just for the record, who would want to come, but is under, say, 16?

[the real findorfin]

well, im over that. Surely many could stay with relatives and others might be able to get cheap places, like travel inns or something? I don't know, is that any good.

I'd invite you all to my aunty's but I don't think she'd like that! smilies/smile.gif

EDIT: This was a joke! Not something dodgy!

[ February 04, 2003: Message edited by: the real findorfin ]

[Arien]

Ive just seen this thread, so people do live in England....wow and heres me thinking Im the only one.....

For the record...I would love to come, but there is one downfall...I'm 14 and there is no way on Middle Earth my parents would let me go.....well I could persuade them...

[Amanaduial the archer]

Stupid not being allowed on forums or chat.... I'm 14 for crying out loud! Know the feeling hun!

Jeez, how many year 9s are there here?! I count about 5 so far...

Going to one of your houses is a pretty much complete no no. Someplace public is really my only option, and Elentaris it seems. Then, even if parents were there, we could say we just happened to meet each other, friends friends or something...

Oh man, I am so dishonest.

[the real findorfin]

We would need to hire a conference room type of place, because we would need something to play the movies on, either an actual cinema or some kind of projection system. I really don't know much about this. If we had a central base kinda place, where we all stayed, it would be cool. We could go shopping (don't I sound such a girl...no offence meant) and have a party or something in this place.

[arelendil]

well i'm coming no question and Gothlothlammiel probably as well. i'm under well 15. 16 in May! damn GCSEs ruin my B'day!!

As for dishonest thats not true just bending!

[Amanaduial the archer]

Maybe the new Lowry then? You can book a private cinema there, and the designer outlets beside it (hmm, I wouldnt have thought guys would be into that...Fin... smilies/biggrin.gif ). That would come back to the expense thing though; it is kinda expensive.

[Arien]

Oh year 9 how I wish I was there .....stupid year 10...Amanaduial the archer .....enjoy it while it lasts......Oh god I sound like my parents!!......

[Amanaduial the archer]

lol Arien!

Yes, arelendil, never lying....always just bending...

[the real findorfin]

new lowry????

Yeh I like shopping, weird eh smilies/smile.gif

We really need to find some costs. the only rpice I know off the top of my head is that a travel inn room costs about £44, and thats for any size room. Surely mates could share, I'd share with Donlammenion if I had to. But we might not wanna do that.

I'll be back later, keep talking.

[Amanaduial the archer]

The Lowry, in Salford. The big purple and orange thing by the river

[LePetitChoux]

I'm Year9! Count me! Count me!
So I take it Mnchester is a definite yes then... Oh dear...that will take a LOT of manipulative behaviour...better get started.... smilies/wink.gif

Well, as most of us are in school, the curriculum is the same, so we would be able to find a time during the holidays to meet up...I think. Though I can't do Easter break.

Hey, we could all revise for SATs together! smilies/wink.gif
*mutters*stupid private school doesn't have to do SATs but wants to for stupid ratings in the stupid papers and overloads innocent girls...

I'll shut up now. smilies/smile.gif

[eleanor_niphredil]

Wouldnt the summer holidays be best? its a bit long to wait, but chances are we are all free at the same time.

Of course, that will mean that only one DVD will be out...

Another year 9 here, who is VERY please with her mock SAT results smilies/biggrin.gif

[ February 04, 2003: Message edited by: eleanor_niphredil ]

[the real findorfin]

So, so far we have....

Summer Holidays (which would be best)
Manchester as a Location

We really need someone to take charge! Any volunteers, who eldest (always fall back on that idea smilies/smile.gif )

[dragoneyes]

I'm not eldest, that for sure I'm.... 14! Like almost everyone ele here seems to be... I wish I were in year 9 again, the freedom from coursework, utter bliss! Oh well, back to physics homework.

[the real findorfin]

OK, is there anyone in college except me...anyone...plz??

[eleanor_niphredil]

I,m not the oldest, but I would like to help in some way please? I like about an hour from Manchester.

[the real findorfin]

I live in Gloucestershire, which is quite a way from Manchester, so I don't no jack about any venues. If we set some accomodation up, would it be better to buy in bulk (ie. for all the members travelling to stay in one place) or would it be better for everyone to make thier own arrangements and then meet. Personally (although it would be fun to all stay in the same place), separate arrangements sound easier then no one can let someone else down.

Aman, or whoever else lives in/near Manchester. Can you tell us a bit more about the venues you had in mind?? Size/typical attraction/cost, etc.

[Eärendil]

I would love to come London for a Downs-meeting, or Manchester for that matter, but it´s too far away for me.
I will ask again...
Are there any Downers here that live in or near Canterbury? I will be in England (and about 30-40 min. way from C.) during the Easter break, and it would be great if I could meet one or a few Downers then. smilies/smile.gif

[Auriel Haevasawen]

I have a horrible suspicion I'm the only adult on this thread. I'm 31 but I promise I'm not one of those people you are supposed to be avoiding on the net. (I'm female and photo available on Alk's site so you can draw your own conclusions)
Hope all you year nines are OK with SATs. You know they change the pass rates yearly to fit with government spin don't you? Unfair or what?
Anyway, Manchester is OK, I'm in Birmingham. We have venues too and I'm happy to enquire if you young folk want me to. I strongly suggest bringing parents/chaperones, no matter how embarressing. Even I'm none too keen about meeting complete strangers and I'm quite capable of looking after myself.
Please don't make me responsible for you though, I don't do responsibility. Why else do I spend my freetime here instead of down the gym or in a bar like other women my age?
Bye young ones!

[the real findorfin]

Hey, someone older than me, yeh! Its weird that there aren't many adult brits around (or if they are, they're just boring smilies/smile.gif )

We really need a list of prices for places and a decent layout of what would happen, anyone wanna do one?

[Bêthberry]

Its weird that there aren't many adult brits around (or if they are, they're just boring <http://forum.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/smilies/smile.gif> )

You obviously have not yet met Squatter of Amon Rudh nor Rimbaud, the real findorfin, although I suppose they might contest that label 'adult'.

Bethberry

[ February 08, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Amanaduial the archer]

Hmmm...there are adult brits yes...its just you might not actually recognise them as adults...

Age can be deceptive on the net. I mean, Ive been mistaken for both an 11 year old...and an 18 year old. Hmmm.

[Maikadilwen]

Well, I'm an adult (or should be smilies/tongue.gif 25), but I live in Denmark so that doesn't really count does it? But I may be able to go see you guys if it's during the summer. Preferably June.
But since I have absolutely no idea where to go to get anywhere once I get off the plane in London, I might need a little help from someone... *hint hint*

And I may be foolish, but I'm not afraid of any of you guys. Not even Squatter. And he's experienced Danes before. "Complete lunatics!" Did I quote you right, Squatter dear? smilies/biggrin.gif

[Elanor]

Well I'm an adult Brit, so there are some of us. smilies/smile.gif I'm not sure you'd want me there at the party though. I'm one of the evil people responsible for setting the dreaded Year 9 SATS and making you poor guys do them. (I'm sorry, honest!)

[Gorothlammothiel]

Ah, arelendil, I see you speak for me smilies/wink.gif

Yes, I would be very interested in coming, especially as it seems to be our American cousins that meet frequently, (although I remember there was a meeting in London between a certain 2 members not so long ago).

London would be a good idea for a meeting down in the south of England, its fairly easy to find. Any ideas as to where In London yet?

As for the date, as has previously been mentioned, May onwards would be a good time, thanks to study leave, but it may take a little longer than that for organisational reasons (I am quite willing to help on that front).

[The Saucepan Man]

Hey, someone older than me, yeh! Its weird that there aren't many adult brits around (or if they are, they're just boring)

Hey, not so much of the boring! smilies/wink.gif

I'd be more than happy to meet up in or around London. Just not sure I'd really fit in unless there are a few more thirty-somethings around.

[the real findorfin]

Insults always flush people out, new it would! smilies/evil.gif smilies/evil.gif

More and more people seem to be wanting London now so we seem to have a dilema. I suggest a comprimise with somewhere big in between. I won't suggest where )leave it to you) but then we would all have to travel (except me..heehee, i live inbetween-ish anyway).

Place suggestions.....

[arelendil]

I've been away for ages and we've got no where well thats good, haven't missed anything then!

a list of people may be a good start?

[Amanaduial the archer]

I'm one of the evil people responsible for setting the dreaded Year 9 SATS and making you poor guys do them. WHAT?! Oh evil! Nah, we dont do them anyway- I did them in junior school, year 6, but my school doesnt do them in seniors.

[eleanor_niphredil]

Well we do! But I wont hold it against you, oh no, not me.

* turns away, sharpening knife*

He he he... smilies/evil.gif

[arelendil]

Aha i remember SATs you should try GCSEs they're ten times worse and you really can't be bothered to work for them at all equalling panic stricken teachers. join my school you'd see what i mean. i just sleep through most lessons. i mean it doesn't take a genesis to know that input is something you put in a system, thats been my textiles for the last week!! No joke!

anyway we're still not going anywhere with this are we!

[Gorothlammothiel]

Fin, you suggest somewhere inbetween? Why not have more than one!? That way people can attend whichever is closest to them, and if they are prepared to travel, to more than one!

As for a list of names, I would be quite happy to draw one up for each location if others post and say a preferred area.

[Amanaduial the archer]

it doesnt take a genesis to work it out
a genesis? Hmmm, did I read that right, or have I just got GCSE choices on the brain (RS or music, RS or music...)

I wont be able to do it outside of Manchester, and it will be quite difficult for me to do there as well.

[the real findorfin]

If everybody PM's me with the nickname and location, I can right up a list and post it. This will save space on the board.

Thanks

[Auriel Haevasawen]

Yipee, more old folk like me! I don't feel so uncomfortable on this thread now.
Just a thought - the YHA will 'rent' out their hostels for 'conferences' or 'educational purposes'. That way you have somewhere to stay and meet etc and it isn't too expensive. There are lots all over Britain so you could have one in the middle or London, or wherever!
Just ignore me if I'm talking pants again, I do so regularly, better head back to the RPGs.

[eleanor_niphredil]

YHA?

I like the idea of meeting for shopping in the Trafford centre, but that would only work for females...

[LePetitChoux]

Look, as its undecided between London and Manchester, how about we have both?

That way, people like me won't need to grovel at their parents' feet, and there would be less people to manage.

I can't doeither the easter or Summer breaks hugely, as we are going to Russia, but half term would be good, or I could squeeze in end of march/late june (not summer break, but we are leaving on the first day of my hoilidays, so no can do there).

And whatever happened to WEEKENDS? I can do any weekend.

[the real findorfin]

hey el, I like shopping!

weekends might be alright for some people who live right next t the location but some people will have to travel or work on weekends.

I'll get a list of people to location sorted when everyone has PM'ed me and we can see where we stand.

[ElentariGreenleaf]

Don't you think, though, that if we had both Manchester AND London not many people would be at each one.

[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

Canterbury's nice too. It's been four years: I'm sure they'll have forgotten by now. smilies/wink.gif

[the real findorfin]

four years since wot? (sorry, im slow)

Well, everyone PM me still, (i've only had 2) and i can right the list and then we can see wot will happen.

If people write what locations they want (or can suggest) and what we could do there as well, that would be nice.

[ElentariGreenleaf]

Well, if I have it completely convineint for me, it would have to be in Bury St. Edmunds....... *strange looks* ok, ok. dragon, I tried....

[the real findorfin]

What do ppl think about going bowling? We could chat and have fun, and those places usually have loadz of stuff to do. Good idea??

[eleanor_niphredil]

Another idea for people around Manchester. The new Star wars movie will be out soon. We could go see that at the Trafford center, with parents if you want. We can spend two whole hours comparing it to LOTR, shouting "sauroman!" when Christopher Lee comes on ect. And for those who want to, shopping afterwards! smilies/evil.gif

[Dain]

I'm surprised nobody has offered Oxford up as an apporpriate meeting place for Tokienist. Grab a drink at the Bird and Baby! (That wouldn't work for the year 9s, though...) (Not that I know anyone here, or was suggesting I would crash your party, I just thought the Eagle and Child would be the best venue...consider it a pilgrimage!)

[ February 13, 2003: Message edited by: Dain ]

[Gorothlammothiel]

eleanor_niphredil, you say the new star wars movie is out soon? You are mistaken my lady, it is not due to be released until may/june 2005 smilies/smile.gif

Bowling would be enojyable but only offers a limited time. It may also seem a little odd to have people of all ages turning up to play together, some with parents.

Oxford indeed! There is an annual meeting, Oxonmoot I believe, (arelendil can tell you more about that) in the autumn sometime, if we could all wait that long.

Or, we could go ahead with these summer ones and still attend Oxonmoot, if that is possible. Also, that way, worried parents can attend the summer meeting and may feel a little more comfortable for their child to attend the second.

[eleanor_niphredil]

2005!!!! I knew june, but I expected it to be at least this year!

I would love to go to Oxford, but for me, its just not possible. For Manchester people, how about a different movie? We can see what is out. smilies/smile.gif

[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

I'd be more than happy to meet up in or around London. Just not sure I'd really fit in unless there are a few more thirty-somethings around.

I may not be thirty-something yet, but I'm close enough for it to be breathing down my neck. You are not alone.

four years since wot? (sorry, im slow)

Since I was a student there, of course. How else would I have done things that the town would need to forget? smilies/wink.gif

[ February 15, 2003: Message edited by: Squatter of Amon Rudh ]

[ElentariGreenleaf]

London's better than Manchester or Oxford. Bt my parents wouldn't take me cause they'd kill me if they knew i was on, oooooo, a forum. Even though my mum is sitting near me, but hey, I'm sneaky.... I'll go with dragon I guess

[Mithadan]

BW, Sharku, Mr Underhill and I have been monitoring this thread and others like it. While we understand why members would want to meet one another, we are a bit concerned and wish to emphasize that care must be taken if you choose to arrange such a meeting.

First, the Barrow-Downs itself is not involved in organizing such meetings and does not intend to be in the future. These meetings are arranged by individuals or groups of individuals and we take no responsibility for the outcome. The decision to meet is made by individual members at their own risk. We are not providing transportation, accomodations or security and are not involved in the choice of locale or the agenda.

If you choose to meet, individually or in groups, please think it through, plan carefully and be careful! Meet in public with other persons present. Make sure that others know where you are going and who you are meeting. Think twice before providing personal information to other members such as e-mail addresses, telephone numbers or home addresses and do not send anyone money or credit card information.

We're sorry to throw a wet blanket over this but we are concerned about peoples' safety and want to emphasize that this is not an "official", sanctioned event sponsored by the Barrow-Downs. If you choose to meet, good luck and we hope that you enjoy yourselves. But please be careful!

[the real findorfin]

Thanks Mith.

Iv PMed everyone a little questionnaire to fill in, all questions are optional.

(BTW, I know the uselessness of asking for the Nickname when I just PMed you, but originally I was just going to put it on the board. But today I got some free time and PMed them all)

Thankz for the replies that have already come back.

[eleanor_niphredil]

Do you want mine again? Cause I sent it to you a while back.

[the real findorfin]

Not at the moment, but i'll PM if I need anything.

smilies/smile.gif


EDIT: It looks like we have an overwhelming number of London answers, oh dear Mancs. I'll post the finished table soon.

[ February 21, 2003: Message edited by: the real findorfin ]

[Lyra Greenleaf]

me please! i want to come! i'm in london, and i think it was the real findorfin who asked about anyone in college: well i go to sixth form. so if it's in may/june i really can't come. i have to get my grades for uni. i should be allowed to come on my own, i'll be 18 by then (OMG i'm gonna be so old! thats really wierd)
erm- the real findorfin i'll pm you, but i don't know how late i am or anything....
hope to see you all then!

PS: you should try GCSEs they're ten times worse
believe me, a-levels are 100 times worse than GCSE. (you won't believe me now, but give it 2 years)

[the real findorfin]

Im in my first year of A-Levels and OMG, they
are much harder than GCSEs. Maths! OMG!

[Gorothlammothiel]

Not that this thread is going off subject at all smilies/wink.gif but how is the finished results table coming Fin? PM me if you need any help smilies/smile.gif

[eleanor_niphredil]

PUB? Oh yeah, I, a mere fourteen year old, am going to walk into a pub and sooooo look 18!

I like the eat/drink idea! More of that please!

Squatter, good idea! Visit to Tolkiens Grave, and then perhaps a meal somewhere, or shopping or cinema ect...?

Amanaduial the archer, where is the Lowry Centre?

[The Saucepan Man]

PUB?

Sounds good to me. smilies/biggrin.gif

Seriously, given the likely differences in preferences over what to do, what to talk about etc etc, seems to me that there may be merit in organising different events for different age groups.

I'm not trying to be divisive or anything, but a get-together is likely to work better between people who have more in common.

[the real findorfin]

Thats a good, idea. May I suggest...

a group who want to go to the pub and discuss, etc.

a group who want to go bowling/lunch, etc.

Hopefully these will cover most people, any other suggestions.


PS: Its finally sunny, I feel so happy and green!

[Elanor]

Yes, just to clarify, I wasn't suggesting the younger members go to the pub. smilies/smile.gif I agree, we'll probably need two separate meetings, based on age. And going for a meal is a good idea too.

Edit: wow, I just noticed that LePetitChoux is only 13! I'm really surprised, I was sure she was much older.

[ March 06, 2003: Message edited by: Elanor ]

[ElentariGreenleaf]

Hey, I thought LePetitChoux was like 20!

I thikn we should act out LotR!!!! With costumes if we can get them!

[Lyra Greenleaf]

i thought so many people were older than they are! and i assumed lots were american too.

i feel ancient!

[eleanor_niphredil]

I take it from this that everyone naturaly assumed that I was an immature thirteen year old... smilies/frown.gif

[Elanor]

Of course not eleanor, but we have seen your picture, which proves you're not grey and wrinkly yet. smilies/wink.gif

And you feel ancient Lyra G? How do you think I feel? smilies/eek.gif

[eleanor_niphredil]

ah, so you have seen that have you? that is not my most flattering picture!

[the real findorfin]

Can I suggest that we all find a week in the Summer Holidays that we can 'do', and post them. Then we can get the date sorted.

[Donlammenion]

hi i know i haven't posted befor but i hope i don't step on any toes has any one thought about a parental concent form for those under 18 that can come with a final plan of action (poa)dates times and the like. smilies/smile.gif

[eleanor_niphredil]

Just to conferm, it is okay to bring a parent, isnt it? Cause without my dad coming, there is no chance on earth. He is a LOTR fan as well, by the way.

[Donlammenion]

yeh bringing a parent is an an obvious option for all under 18s who wish to partake in any meet, as I mentioned earlier.

Don & Fin

(Mirkwood Party Elves) smilies/rolleyes.gif

[Adastrea]

Count me in.
Age: 20
Location: London area
Suggestions: Don't really mind. Food and LOTR is good enough for me! Just a suggestion but how about a theme park, lots to do for all ages...

[Adastrea]

The Real Findorfin! Your in Gloucester! No way. Most of my family live there...

[eleanor_niphredil]

Theme park is a good idea, but would cost alot of money. Would be fun, but alot harder to confince parents to go. Although if it is aroung July, I could pass it off as a birthday treat...

[Donlammenion]

Fin: Hi Adastrea i actually live in the forest of dean my friend Donlammenion lives in gloucester about three miles from the center.
Don: yeh a theme park is ok but we really have to think about expences(unless you know a cheap place) but the fact that a theme park is a very busy is adventageous as it provides a very public place. i still think that a meal or bowling is good but ill settle for a good game of rugby followed bye a packet of pork scratchings and a pint of cider. ill talk to fin soon but if all could pm fin with the times your free in the summer and well try to arrange a sutiable time for every one (subject to change hehe)and ill get him to pm it to all of you interested peeps talk soon DON

[ElentariGreenleaf]

I still thik we should do a re-enactement. It would be fun, me would be random person...... who fellows the fellowship.

I can do the last week in Jily and the first week in August

[eleanor_niphredil]

I wouldnt really know until the time, but as far as i know, I'm free throughout. smilies/biggrin.gif

[Adastrea]

ya didn't say which part Fin smilies/wink.gif Forest of Dean eh? passed through it a couple of times always meant to go visit the supposedly haunted mansion/castle. Its name escapes me right now...but my cousin tells me its now closed to the public... My family dont live in the city itself, more Staunton area.
Rugby is ok! Well I like to watch anyways...

[the real findorfin]

yeh, Forest of Dean, the Drybrook area. Very scenic place, me and Don went walking in the woods last weekend, it was really gorgeous.

[Rimbaud]

Rimbaud worries that in his absence, such educational standards as grammar and spelling have eroded to sub-par-quasi-americana.

[ March 12, 2003: Message edited by: Rimbaud ]

[Donlammenion]

the place your refering to is in a little place called soudley the old mansion and yeh its haunted by a reported 20 spirits is it true who knows but it makes money.
Back to the subject we really need people to give a definate on where they want to go and does every one think a majority vote should hold sway or ne other ideas

[Bêthberry]

*Bethberry reflects that Rimbaud's worries do not appear to be groundless.*

[Amanaduial the archer]

*Archer decides this thread can be her escape from endless english tests on spelling and grammar, as in the world of this thread, such things do not exist*

Im sorry, Im not going to do this. I suppose I think it might spoil it to meet you all in real life, but I have other, darker worries. Im sorry.

[LePetitChoux]

Wow! I am flattered in a way. Do I really appear as a 20-year old? Wow! smilies/biggrin.gif

I can do the very end of August/beginning of September. I can also do this Sunday, and all weekends after it. I am free. smilies/biggrin.gif

[the real findorfin]

Hey guys, I hope everyone still wants to do this. I'll be putting up a selection of dates soon and we'll try and get it fixed.

[Gorothlammothiel]

Good to see you are still with us Fin though I can't help but wonder why you have taken it upon yourself to do all the work. Surely there is something one of us can help with, or does that come later on once we have actually organised a date, time, place and activity? smilies/wink.gif

[the real findorfin]

Well, if your volunteering then could you get the suggested dates sorted, thanks.

There will of course be more work after date is set.

[lindil]

I wonder if I may impose a bit on any of my fellow Downers in London.

A certain 'Complete Tolkien Companion' has come out in the UK [but not here] and it has yet to be reviewed on Amazon UK. I am wondering if anyone can take a peek for it, or at least keep and eye out for it and check to see if it has any information in it that is post Silmarillion, i.e. does it include info from the History of Middle-Earth Series, Unfinished Tales and the Letters?

There was a New Tolkien Comapanion which was an updated [to include the Silm material] version of the Tolkien Companion [which only covered the things published prior to the Silmarillion.

Much thanks to anyone who can find out this info for me.

feel free to PM me re: it.

in advance,
thanks

[ April 02, 2003: Message edited by: lindil ]

[Elanor]

No problem lindil - I think I have it, I'll just go and check.

[arelendil]

i have to say that though i've been gone a long time or it feels like it. i've kept up to date thanks to Goth. and i see that we really aren't getting very far!

i'm here the whole summer. so dates aren't a probably. may i say that hyde park is very nice in the summer. with pubs close by, wide open spaces for sitting and chatting and eating!!! that way we could all meet up and no one would feel excluded because of age! i know i'm looking forward to meeting some of the 'old' and 'wiser' BD member!

i also love the idea of costumes and acting. how many odd looks would that get if we all turned up in the middle of hyde park and started shouting about balrogs!! very funny! i'd be like a real rpg. ummm...okay you get what i mean right?

anyway thought i'd reply since i haven't in ages. keep going! i'm sure we'll get somewhere!

[the real findorfin]

When does the school term end?

[Lyra Greenleaf]

Hey, Fin. Hows your revision going? I can do anything after June 24, excluding the last week of July and first week of August!

[Gorothlammothiel]

Right, I have two proposed dates to see how they fit with all of your busy schedules. The two possibilities are:

Thursday 28th August 2003

or

Saturday 30th August 2003

Both of the formally mentioned dates are during the summer holiday's for those still in or working in education. Bearing in mind a weekday may be difficult for those working we have considered a Saturday, but I would like to add that travel will be easier on a weekday in central London.

From the reply's to the pm's I sent out, I think those dates should be suitable for most but please post any thoughts and feelings you have on them, they are just a starting point and open for discussion.

A possible meeting place is Hyde Park, London as it is easy to find, (I apologise to those who didn't want to travel to London but it was a more popular location, and the title of the thread).

Suggested activities are that we will meet in the park late morning, to either 'picnic' or otherwise (considering some of the younger members). The afternoon will surely see good debate and activities between ourselves as well as possible 'real-life' rpg's and such.

Suggested dress is 'in costume' as either you as you see yourself in Middle Earth, a favourite RPG character or any other ME costume you can come up with smilies/smile.gif

When we have more final details on dates and actvities I'll open a new thread along with Fin to discuss the details.

Please post opinions! smilies/smile.gif

[arelendil]

Very good Goth! i'm free either date and i'm definately coming!!

[eleanor_niphredil]

I am free, but i'm not really sure about coming now. If kind of drifted away from the barrow Downs recently, gone on other boards instead. I just dont feel that I know everyone well enough now.

[Gorothlammothiel]

eleanor_niphredil, of course it is your choice whether you attend or not but I am sad to hear you may not be there with us.

Can I make a suggestion to you though, if you feel you have drifted away from members, a BD London meeting may help you get back in touch with the downs, and both develop new and rekindle old friendships. smilies/smile.gif

[eleanor_niphredil]

you ahve a good point. At least i have a while to think on it! smilies/biggrin.gif

[arelendil]

you would indeed be sorely missed eleanor_niphredil. i have hear some of the wonders that Goth is thinking of. and personally i can't wait! summer doesn't come soon enough for me!

[the real findorfin]

I'm thinking warm summers day (in Britain...nah!), I'm thinking Hyde Park, I'm thinking food and costume (maybe). The vision moves on, a vague outline of shops, clothing possibly but it is vague could be anything, it is unclear.

What do your visions say?

[eleanor_niphredil]

my visions would not include costum, but definatly include good food!

Ah, i'm a hobbit at heart!

[arelendil]

i'm definately coming in costume. the plans me and goth have. i want summer now!! and that is very odd for me i don't do sun well!

but yes! i have many visions, many of climbing trees. can you do that in hyde park? and games and food! of firing imaginary arrows at people and mainly being understood for a whole day!! oh and another intersting object that goth has planned. Can i say anything yet goth? PLEASE!!

[Arien]

I think that date is fine, and the location too. Im now a whole year older (15) and a whole lot more responsible. I would really love to come. How many people do you think might be attending?

[Gorothlammothiel]

Arien, I'm glad to hear you are coming, but to which date?

And where is everyone else that was intially interested in this thread?

(arelendil, you are free to post what you like, I never said to keep it a secret).

[the real findorfin]

Whose going so far!

Yes: the real findorfin, Donlammenion, Gorothlammothiel, Arelendil, Lyra Greenleaf, LePetitChoux

Maybe: ElentariGreenleaf, Dragoneyes, Arien

Not replied: Eleanor_nimphredil, Sqautter of Amon Rudh, Inderjit Sanghera

Unable to contact: Adastrea, Auriel Haevasawen

[ May 21, 2003: Message edited by: the real findorfin ]

[Arien]

Which ever date would suit me, Im not fussy.

[Donlammenion]

OMG, I've actually made it back. Sorry for the 'ohh so long' absence but lots of college work and a new RPG so im still a definate yes and by the looks its going to be pretty great. Hyde park (pretty), sunny day (amazing), trees, Fellow Downers smilies/biggrin.gif

[ May 20, 2003: Message edited by: Donlammenion ]

[Lossentilien]

Aww, why do I never read these things? Ok, does anyone care to explain the date/location etc, or do I have to read through all that? I live in Edinburgh anyway, so it might not be possible, but I'm in England quite often.
Hey, how many people live in Scotland? I haven't come across that many........

[*Varda*]

You live in Edinburgh? I was always under the impression there was a distinct lack of Scottish downers on here *sobs* Anyway *points to location* you can see I'm from Glasgow.

Much as I would like to meet up, it's just too far..my dad's face if I just up and said 'I'm just heading down to London to meet a bunch of people off the internet...' In any case, Scottish summer holidays are finished by then. I never will work out the point in having different holidays.

[Lossentilien]

Aww, another Scot! Maybe there should be a big meet up in Scotland......although it seems like there'd be very few people...
When is this happening anyway? I must check my summer holiday dates. I get confused since I'm usually at the film festival in the first week or so back, so my dates are always different to normal school timetables.

[LePetitChoux]

I have a question: If I want to bring additional Tolkien fans who aren't necessarily members of BD, am I allowed to? After all, we want to spread the word, don't we? smilies/wink.gif
The people I directly have in mind have both (yes, there are two of them) read the books , and aren't completely obsessed, but I'm sure would be interested to meet everyone.
Also, I have the thought of bringing along busybee, a member who hasn't been on for ages.
So, anyway, long story short, am I or aren't I allowed to bring carefully and thoughtfully chosen third parties?

[eleanor_niphredil]

it would be easier for me to come if it was in scotland, perhaps glasgow? I am already coming up there in August.

[Lossentilien]

I think there are far more people in England. So far I've only spoken to around two people who live in Scotland. But if there are more we could always start up another thread.
Anyway, I won't be able to come, so have a great time everyone, and I hope that we'll get loads of stories about what you get up to, and who played who in the LOTR performance etc.

[the real findorfin]

I have no problem with other people coming, does anyone else?

[eleanor_niphredil]

the more the merrier

[Lyra Greenleaf]

Bring lots and lots of people! There was only 6 on that list of definites. It looked quite sad and lonely...

[the real findorfin]

I prefer to think of select and friendly than sad and lonely. I reckon we could still have fun with a small number.

[eleanor_niphredil]

Okay, I seem to have a problem.

I got a letter from my school through the post last week. Usualy bad news, but not this time. They have invited me to a Gifted and Talented Summer School. I am Gifted and Talented!

Unfortunatly, if I get a place, it will cover the dates for this meet. So I'll put it down to pure luck.

If I get in, I have to go. Its not an opetunity that I can pass up easily. But if I do not get in, I will come. Definatly.

I'll let you know as soon as I know. But until then, I think (I hope) that I will not be able to make it.

[Lossentilien]

I had the most awesome dream last night, but it got me thinking. I dreamt that there were loads of 'downers meeting up for the ROTK premier! It was brilliant, and we all went together dressed up, and with a big BarrowDowns banner.
So, my suggestion is, if this meeting goes well, why not arrange another one for the premier? Heck, it's so tempting I'd have to consider traveling down....

[arelendil]

i see we've got no where new then. have we decided which date it is to be? it doesn't bother me at all. this is like the only thing i'm doing over the whole summer.

i do have a question though, when we're there do we call each other by our screen names or our really names? i haven't decided what would be better. i suppose it depends on each person, yeah?

Goth: i think i'll keep it a secret then we can have a huge surprise. literally!

[the real findorfin]

the name thing is a good question. Humm, should I be Fin or not......

Arelendil, you cant keep me hanging like that, tell me!!

As I'm going to be down for both dates perhaps we coud do both? Or do the earlier one, then see if we want to do the second?

[ June 09, 2003: Message edited by: the real findorfin ]

[eleanor_niphredil]

I've done my interview. I think theres a good chance I cant make it.

[LePetitChoux]

I think we should all have name tags with our Screen Names and our Real names on them, because remembering everyone just by being told is not that great an idea. Alternatively, if one is uncomfortable with giving out their name then I think that would be fine too. I personally dont mind giving out my name.

[arelendil]

personally i'd like the first date. its easier to get into london on a weekday than on a sat and the park will be quieter.

if you really want to know...me and goth thought that it should be a proper thing so someone suggested that, just like in the book, the barrowdowns should have...a banner. to mark the spot we're meeting(although a group of US wouldn't be hard to miss!) and general just for the sake of having one! i love to make things so, me and goth have designed a banner for our london meeting. its got the barrowdowns symbol on the top and then a ring of elvish script which says, 'annual london barrowdowns' then a smaller flag on the top which says 'first'. that way we can re-make the top flag if we ever met again!

there you are, i can't remember how we thought of it, but it made sense once we had! now all i have to do is make it and then get it to the park!

[eleanor_niphredil]

Sorry guys, but I cant come. I got in, which is a good thing I guess. I'll think of you all!

[the real findorfin]

Well done eleanor, good luck.

Cool idea Arelendil, that will be fun to watch people walk bye starring at you, lol.

I think I shud post everyone's picture on my site so we can see who we are, could u send me ur pics to findorfin@drena.co.uk, plz.

-----

Whose going so far! UPDATE

Yes: the real findorfin, Donlammenion, Gorothlammothiel, Arelendil, Lyra Greenleaf, Arien, LePetitChoux & Co.

Maybe: ElentariGreenleaf, Dragoneyes

Not replied: Sqautter of Amon Rudh, Inderjit Sanghera

Unable to contact: Adastrea, Auriel Haevasawen

[ June 11, 2003: Message edited by: the real findorfin ]

[arelendil]

me?? Don't you mean us? you'll all be sitting there as well! besides when i'm carrying the banner, it'll have to be wrapped up in black! otherwise how are we meant to say, "what is that you carry? the lady wrought it long in secret for you.... then i know what it is you carry and ask that you keep it for awhile yet!"
Do you thing i'll have to ask permission of the barrow-wight to use the logo? it just crossed my mind for some reason that it might be polite to ask him.

sorry thats just going to be so funny!

i have another random question that pondering on the day for too long brings to mind. i know that what we are going to actually do is sketchy but i was wondering do we want any kind of music? yes more things to bring, so what. then again maybe that would get complicated with us all wanting different things! just a thought, one of very few actually!

i do like the idea of name tags at least for a bit. i hate having to remember names. smilies/tongue.gif

Ahh. I thought I'd edit this rather than start another since no one has posted. I got very bored yesterday as one does after trying to remember all the elvish differences in vowels. So I started to draw and had an idea. I made some badges! Not nasty sticky white things. Proper badges! Lovely leaf shaped green badges with safety pins then we can all write are names on it when we get there. Yes i can get that bored!

[ June 14, 2003: Message edited by: arelendil ]

Oh and fin, my pitures on the BD photo gallery thread thing or i can just send it to you as well! i was just that your site, its very nice. i could never do that! where would the pictures go? i especially love your forum, almighty overlord! Very Good!

[ June 14, 2003: Message edited by: arelendil ]

[LePetitChoux]

I can do the 30th of August, but I may be still in Russia on the 28th.

Edit: Also, what do you think of this (http://beautifulsoup.bravepages.com/banner.jpg)?

[ June 18, 2003: Message edited by: LePetitChoux ]

[Gorothlammothiel]

LePetitChoux, it seems the webpage you are trying to link to does not allow hotlinking so we can't see the page. smilies/smile.gif

Perhaps you could find another way around - perhaps to copy and paste what I presume is an image?

[LePetitChoux]

http://beautifulsoup.bravepages.com/banner.jpg

Although this probably won't work too. another strategy I've found is to stop it loading the anti-hotlink notice and press enter again, while the page is stopped. Or something.

I don't know what we could use this for, but I was feeling bored, so I toyed around with my tengwar-gandalf font and the Barrow-Downs sword (sorry, Mr. Barrow Wight!)

[eleanor_niphredil]

actualy, I found the barrow downs sword on a page of fantasy graphics. Cant remember where though...

[Lyra Greenleaf]

It's going to be fun meeting up under a huge banner with only a few people!

[eleanor_niphredil]

handy if it rains...

[ElentariGreenleaf]

What were the dates? I can't find them. I'll come whenever though. Just not in the first 3 weeks of august cause I have camp. Er.... camp's 14-21st I think.

[the real findorfin]

EVERYONE WHO IS GOING OR SHOULD BE GOING!!

Please PM me with your final preferred dates from the 28th or 30th of August.

thanks, Fin

[arelendil]

my pms don't work so i'll write here fini. i can come on the 28th. i can't make the 30th cause its my parents silver wedding but they don't mind me going on the 28th as long as we go about things properly!

and the banner is coming along quite well. it should be good thoughi don't know it'd keep the rain off anyone unless you took it down.

[Gorothlammothiel]

I'm sorry to say Fin (and all the others), I won't be able to make the meeting, on either date. I apologise smilies/frown.gif

However, I'll still help with all the planning and organising when needed, and maybe next year i'll be able to come.

[the real findorfin]

ARGH!!!! This is spiralling uncontrollably.

We are left with Fin (me), Donlammenion, Arelendil, Lyra Greenleaf, Arien, Le Petit Choux and Co I think.

Would this be right?

Oh, I think we should have it on the 28th as well, so I'm gona set that as the date and everyone reassure me you can go.

Fin

[LePetitChoux]

I am very probably not going to be able to make it on the 28th. smilies/frown.gif

However, if it continues without me, then I shall send my ghostly vegetablish spirit out to you. smilies/smile.gif

[the real findorfin]

OK, picture this, a plane, engines cut out, it spirals down and explodes as it hits the ground. This would pretty much embody what I'm about to say. In the infinite wisdom of managers and hierarchical people above me and Don, we have work and try as we may cannot get out of it. Something for which I am quite peeved. So....BOOM!

I can't say sorry enough, sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry.............................sorry, you see.

[arelendil]

we'll have to meet up for the film, costumes and all! with slightly better organisation skills! smilies/wink.gif

[Lyra Greenleaf]

Sorry, I haven't been around for a while because of computer problems- I couldn't have made it anyway. We'll just have to wait for the film, like you said.

[ElentariGreenleaf]

I think going to the RotK in LotR costumes would be CLASS! I'd definatly go in costume... then look stupid cause everyone else probably wouldn't.... MEH!

[Elentári_O_Most_Mighty_1]

I'm from England too...

Well look at that...5 pages and it looks as though it never happened...

[LePetitChoux]

Yay! Let's meet up for RotK!
It might be better to go to one of the less glamourised cinemas (ie. not Odeon Leicester Square), because they're cheaper and less likely to be sold out. My holidays start at 12 noon on the 17th (lousy conspiracy!) so The earliest I can make it to anywhere is 1 o'clock. Yeah. Um.
smilies/smile.gif

[arelendil]

we have to!! my costume is already planned. and well i'm not givin up on moth just yet! smilies/wink.gif anyway, i'm not sure whats up with my holidays but if its in the evening it'll be fine! and i think planning should start now!!! so we don't mess it up. (five pages isn't really that much....in the larger scale of the site.)

ummm yeah i don't know where else there are cinemas, i guess it'll still have to be central london somewhere.

well we'll do it this time. we're wiser from the mistakes and well if it doesn't work we won't ever get a chance like this again so it has to!!!!! smilies/biggrin.gif

[arelendil]

come on people, we're not going anywhere. has everyone disappeared. okay we are definately running out of time and nothing has moved!

so what date where, and who can come? lets try and make it work this time. infact it has too cause there isn't another movie to try again next year. damn that just hit me this is the last movie. smilies/frown.gif smilies/eek.gif

so lets get thinks moving! smilies/smile.gif

[E-Niphredil]

yikes, I thought you lot would have met up by now! Its been nearly a year since we started to plan this thing! (I am eleanor_niphredil under another name, unless anyone was wondering smilies/wink.gif)

[Everdawn]

Im coming ot England in Mid-Janruary, for my sisters engagement party. Is anyone near Fullham or near The Circle in London?

[arelendil]

okay we are getting no where. i think you all must have vanished or something, but hey if you find this in time:

me and moth have taken action. we have decided that we are going to see the rotk at leicester square on the 19th, in costume, sometime in the evening. okay now i'm about to go and find out times etc and when i know them i will post them after this.

okay being odd, the dates only go up to the 15th so therefore i will post the times when i know them! but definately the 19th at leicester square...anyone else coming? smilies/tongue.gif

oh and where is the circle? i'm sure i should know where it is. and fulham sounds firmilar. probably really close and i'm just not on the ball! ask moth she'll know where we are!

[ 12:12 PM December 02, 2003: Message edited by: arelendil ]

[Everdawn]

Its in London, not sure where exactly, My sister has an appartment there.

[arelendil]

yeah, moth seem to know where that was. what dates are you here for maybe we could meet up and see the film again or something?

everyone else...where have you disappeared to...fin, anyone? smilies/frown.gif

[Daisy Brambleburr]

Hello y'all

I'm British, and I only just discovered this thread. I really don't have time to read five pages worth of posts, can you let me know what's goin' on? I'd be interested in joining in...

[arelendil]

well me and moth were going to go to london on fri 19th to see it but its sold out so...and no one replied on here. so we're going to croydon warner village on the fri, your welcome if you live near. otherwise i'm up for doing something any other day. seein it twice isn't a problem. or we'll hopeful get the summer thing to work this year!

so five pages down to a paragraph not even a long one! but yeah now your up to speed.


if you reply i'm sure me and moth would love to come meet you if we can!
smilies/smile.gif

[Daisy Brambleburr]

Unfortunatley, I have school on the 19th smilies/frown.gif that's the day I break up. But it would be so cool to meet up with some British Barrow-Downers. I'm up for the summer thing, if anyone can get it organised. Bear me in mind, I'm a half hour train journey from London.

[ElentariGreenleaf]

Went to London this weekend to the LotR exhibition. It was a 1hr30mins train journey. I probably won't be able to make it in the christmas hols (i also don't break up until te 19th), plus it's really cold!!! I think we should wait until summer, or easter.

[arelendil]

no i know i don't break up until the 19th either but you know the cinema isn't as far for me and we're going in the evening about 6 so its cool! your righth it is so cold and i'm gonna freeze! my dress is like two layers of chiffon and thats it!! but hey suffer for fashion etc...

yeah definately a summer thing. we'll get it right and organise something that works this year. keep in contact though and read the page regular that way we won't miss anything or just set the email notification thing thats what i'm about to do! hope to hear from you all soon!!
smilies/smile.gif