I met a fellow BDer!!

[Estelyn Telcontar]

I’m starting this thread to give everyone who has met someone from the Barrow-Downs a place to tell us all about it. You think that’s nice of me, to be so interested in your experiences? Naw, I just want to brag to you all about mine!! :p

I met Lush yesterday!! :) She’s in Germany at the time, so I went to Cologne (Köln) to get together with her. It was raining, so we went somewhere to sit and have something to drink (no, not what you think – we had hot tea!) while we talked. We spent over three hours, getting to know each other’s real life person, talking about the site, the book, the movie, soccer, the difference between life in the US and Europe… And of course we enjoyed a bit of good-natured gossip about the people we know on the Downs!! ;) It was my privilege to get to know a young woman who is interesting, intelligent and serious as well as being very humorous – not that I was surprised! We had not one dull moment and I would be very happy to see her again. At any rate, it will be even more fun to read her posts now that I’ve actually seen and heard the person behind them.

(By the way, for all you hobbits - the restaurant we sat and had lunch in had two pages of its menu devoted to mushroom dishes - and what we tried tasted very good!)

Now it’s your turn…

[Nevfeniel]

That's awesome, Estelyn! I wish I could meet someone here, but I doubt that will ever happen. smilies/frown.gif

[Maikadilwen]

I may be meeting up with Vinyaampawen while she's in Copenhagen for a couple of weeks. I'll let you know. And of course, I'll try to get some pics... smilies/biggrin.gif

[Gimli Son Of Gloin]

I want to meet Naz, so we can secrely plan to delete BarrowWight's-- opps, wasn't supposed to say that *Whistles with head up and arms behind back*

^^ Another example of disrupting a thread with little purpose ^^
*** THIS NEEDS TO STOP ***

No offense Mr. B, I was just sayin I want to meet Naz. Sorry.
[ July 18, 2002: Message edited by: The Barrow-Wight ]

[ July 18, 2002: Message edited by: Gimli Son Of Gloin ]

[ July 10, 2003: Message edited by: Gimli Son Of Gloin ]

[Eärendil]

Maika - I´m going to Malmö on Saturday (staying till early Monday)! Don´t you think we could meet up somewhere?! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Maikadilwen]

Eärendil, the problem is, that I don't live in Copenhagen but in the opposite end of the country. Could've been fun, though.... smilies/frown.gif

[Sindacuion]

I envy you, Estelyn! Well, I might be seeing someone from the 'Downs while I'm in England.. In two years. Well, there is plenty of time before that. Anyone coming to Finland? smilies/biggrin.gif

[Lothiriel Silmarien]

Estylen, lucky you!! I wish I could meet someone from the Downs!! That'd be cool. And I hope I wasn't in that gossip coversation between you two smilies/wink.gif smilies/tongue.gif
Well, if anyone comes to New York let me know!! smilies/biggrin.gif

[GreatWarg]

Estelyn: I envy whoever had the remarkable chance to meet a fellow BDer! It would certainly be fascinating to see one whom you've communicated to only through the Net. It's just one special thing about the barrow-Downs; where Tolkien gathers us all! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Eärendil]

Maika - Ah...I thought you lived in Copenhagen. smilies/frown.gif Oh well, some other time perhaps? smilies/smile.gif

[Birdland]

OK, If anyone is going to be at a Civil War re-enactment in Coshocton, Ohio, USA tomorrow, you can meet...Meeeeeeeeee!

Yeah. Didn't think so.

[Liriodendron]

Those Civil War re-enactments sound fun, are they? What's the best, the actual battle, the getting you outfit together before the battle, or camping out that nite with the other mountain men, ladies and kids? Or is it not like that at all?? smilies/smile.gif

[ July 18, 2002: Message edited by: Liriodendron ]

[Birdland]

Liriodendron -It's my first one, so I have no idea what it will be like. I've heard that the people who participate in these things are extremely dedicated and authentic. Everything just like the 1860s - except for the smell, I hope!

Hmmmmm... Helm's Deep re-enactments, anyone?

BTW - Isn't Burrahobbit's B-D party this weekend?

[ July 19, 2002: Message edited by: Birdland ]

[Gayahithwen]

When I was in London on class trip some months ago, I was hoping to meet Miriel, but we had no time for running away, meeting people from the net (can you understand how that felt?) so I didn't meet her.

Maybe I could convince dad about taking a vacation trip to Finland.. that doesn't cost so much.. All I had to was order a BD-tshirt (or something else lotr-related) make dad get us to finland and (wherever sind is living) mail sindacuion and tell him we're here, ask him about some good café or another and get there.. *sighs deeply*
ok, I'm fantasying, so what?!?

[VanimaEdhel]

Lothloriel: haven't we been over this? I live in New York. In Westchester County to be precise. When I/we can drive, maybe we could meet at some point...

[Sindacuion]

Ooh, good plan, Gayahithwen! If you get things wrapped up, I'd be more than happy to meet you! smilies/smile.gif

[Lothiriel Silmarien]

Vanima that's right!!!! Stupid me, I forgot! Ooh, I don't know, where would you think would be good? Well, I'm leaving tomorrow and I'll be gone for a week, so when I get back maybe we can do something!
smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

[Galadrie1]

I learned something today: I am friends with a fellow BDer and i didn't even know it. I was talking to her brother and i told him to join the forum cuz it's really fun, and he told me that his sister's on the forum!!! She's Arwen Imladris! and her brother is Sarin Elfarmour! smilies/biggrin.gif happy happy joy joy!

[ July 19, 2002: Message edited by: Galadrie1 ]

[Melephelwen]

Ooooh, Galadriel!! And you didn't even know!!! smilies/rolleyes.gif I am so jealous!! I wish it was me!!! smilies/wink.gif

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Bethberry:

Thank you for your kind testimonial commemorating our merry meeting, and please allow me to echo all your sentiments, my good friend! smilies/smile.gif * low bow *

Indeed I look forward to future visits between us.

Gandalf

[Samwise]

OOH! OOH!!! *Jumps up and down and waves hands* I haven't yet, but I will tomorrow night!! smilies/biggrin.gif
"Begging your pardon," said Sam, "I don't think you understand my master at all, "

[Ithaeliel]

Nobody lives close enuff. The only person I know from the Downs is Brinniel, and that's because we go to the same school.

[Samwise]

Don't give up, Ithaeliel. Raefindel lives in Washington State and I'm in Ca., but, it's gonna happen! smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif
"Let's see now! Boromir isn't lying, that's not his way; but he hasn't told us everything. "
<center>
http://www.plauder-smilies.de/bouncer.gif http://www.plauder-smilies.de/jump.gif http://www.plauder-smilies.de/bouncer.gif
</center>

[ July 20, 2002: Message edited by: Samwise ]

[Rosseiliantiel]

I go to school with Losthuniel and Naurlothwen, so I've met them, ya, a bunch. I wish I could meet other people too though! But my parents have a complex that everyone on the web is a creepy kidnapper or some such thing, so FAT CHANCE smilies/frown.gif

[tangerine]

Oh, this is sad, i know no one from the Downs. Is anyone from the Downs live in southern Ontario? Just curious.

[Samwise]

Welcome, tangerine! I see you've been here for a bit, but I haven't said hullo yet, so:
<center>
<font color=blue>Hullo!
Frodo crouching over his knees heard Sam muttering and groaning: "What a place! What a horrible place! Just let me out of this boat, and I'll never wet my toes in a puddle again, let alone a river! "

[Brinniel]

The only person I know from the Downs is Brinniel, and that's because we go to the same school.
We're also buddies, remember? smilies/biggrin.gif

If I ever go to any of the places any of you live in, I'll make sure I'll visit you. My goal is to meet one of you before I graduate (which is far off)!

[Rosseiliantiel]

tangerine:
I live in Toronto, which is sorta Southern ont, I think. smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif
So do Losthuniel and Naurlothwen.
Where in Southern Ont do you live???

[Eärendil]

I know eleniwilvarin, we are ex classmates and go to the same school.
Anyway, anyone that lives in the more south of Sweden? *curious* smilies/smile.gif

[Raefindel]

I met Samwise this week. My family was traveling through Petaluma on our way to Disneyland so we arranged to meet.

She met me with roses from the garden at her church, which she tends.

She has a pleasant voice and a easy manner. My husband and kids were there too, until we finished dinner, then he took them to the hotel to swim. Samwise is very good with children. My kids took to her right away.

We talked about what had been going on here at the Downs since I'd left Washington. And we found we have many other similar interests.

It was too dark to see the garden she tends at her church or at her home so we sat in her driveway for another 20 minuted and talked some more.

AND NEITHER ONE OF REMEMBERED OUR CAMERA! We'll just have to do it again, Samwise!

[Rosa_Baggins]

It's kinda hard for me to meet people because I live in a boring place where no one lives and no one vists.
Stupid City.I hate it.I wish I lived in London or birmingham or something.
Oh well.I guess that life!
love
Rosa

[Arwen Evenstar the Fair]

Well lets see I know Waen really well. Ever since LOTR came out thats almost all we talk about!!!!! (well not really) We went and saw the movie together like 5 times!!! smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif
Anyway she is cool and I'm glad we both decided to join the downs!!!

[Waenfalathiel]

Arwen Is really cool.All Though sometimes i think she's a little too in to lotr. smilies/biggrin.gif not that there's any thing wrong with that smilies/biggrin.gif

[Arwen Evenstar the Fair]

lol Waen!!!!!

[Rose Cotton]

I have Rosseiliantiel's problem that I can't tell everyone were I live cause one of you is supposed to be ready to come kidnap me. But in four years when I'm 18 I'll tell you all where I live and then I can meet someone.

Oh I know! I'm going to Orlando Flordia in August! Anyone want to "accedently" meet me there?

[Arwen Imladris]

Well, I would have said this but Galadrie1 beat me to it, I found out that I knew her just a couple of days ago. And of corce I know my brother (Sarin Elfarmour) as well, but that is all!

[dragongirlG]

I want to meet Lush. I'm going to try to get into a camp at Duke next year and try to meet her there. Hehehe, you're so lucky, Estelyn! I don't know any other B-Ders except my sister, but she doesn't count.

[Lush]

Well, I'm back in the States, and can finally get on-line without my German lover looking over my shoulder every two minutes, and asking me questions like, "why aren't you on an Oliver Kahn site downloading nude pictures of him?"
I'm glad Esty started this thread, and I can safely testify that we had a great time. And as I recall, we didn't gossip about Lothiriel. And it is true, I didn't drink a drop of anything remotely alcoholic while lunching with Esty. The same can't be said for what I did that night, or the following night, or the night after that...You get the idea. smilies/biggrin.gif
dragongirlG, I'm not that exciting of a person, I only become interesting when handsome men walk into the room, but I'm glad you want to meet me.
Here's a big thanks to Esty for coming all that way to see me, and a big thanks to the Barrow-Downs for bringing us together in such a lively community. Finally, long live the Bundesrepublik Deutschland for its excellent beer, architecture, men, and other attractions.

[Alkanoonion]

Welcome back Lush smilies/smile.gif
The site has not been the same since you left.

[dragongirlG]

Yay, Lush! You're back!

Even though you say you're not that interesting of a person, I still want to meet you. smilies/biggrin.gif Besides, who says handsome men don't attend Duke University? Hmm? I know handsome men who go to MIT...

I agree with Alkanoonion. The site has not been the same since you left. Oh yeah, a lot of things have happened here too. But I'm sure you'll find that out on your own.

Welcome back!

[Samwise]

Sorry it took me so long to say so, but I enjoyed our meeting veryveryveryveryveryveryveryveryveryveryvery
much, too, Miss Rae...hugs to your hubby and sweet kidlets, for me. smilies/wink.gif
*Frodo turns* "What's it? "
*Sam* "If I take another step, I'll be farther from home than I've ever been."

[Lothiriel Silmarien]

Lush, glad to see your back also!!! I just got back from a trip, but I still missed you! Ooh, German men....anything interesting in that department? smilies/evil.gif

[Lush]

Ooh, German men....anything interesting in that department?

Yes, yes, it was all very "interesting." I'm sure that Esty remembers the day she and I had lunch, and how I was debating whether or not I was going to do anything "interesting" that night. I had resolved not to, and Esty was my witness, but I ended up breaking all my promises to myself as soon as we said goodbye at the train station. Nevertheless, Esty's influence on me was a positive one, as I'm sure she knows. smilies/smile.gif

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Well, I would be more than happy to tip a few with any of you. Rae, I live in Seattle, up on Capital Hill. Didn't you say you live across the Sound? And I think Obloquoy lives in Spokane.

Lush, *clinks glasses* Welcome back. Seems we went on vacation at around the same time. Sigh. Good to be back, isn't it?

-Maril

[ August 01, 2002: Message edited by: Marileangorifurnimaluim ]

[Turambar]

(Bethberry) "and my daughter was tickled pink to discover that Gandalf is indeed a magician."

Well you gotta explain that one, Bb. Gandalf the Grey does magic ????

[ August 01, 2002: Message edited by: Turambar ]

[Lush]

Ah yes, it is good to be back. This forum has been my consolation in the face of a fading summer season complete with absent friends, student loan applications to fill out, and whiny e-mails to a German now thousands of miles away. It's good to see Maril here (hope everything is working out with Maril) and Turambar (where the hell has he been?).
I hope that next summer there will be more opportunities to meet fellow BDers. Maybe even Sharkey will concede to suffer through a lunch with me the next time I'm in Germany. smilies/wink.gif

[The Green Ringwraith]

Well, when I finish German 104 (I'm just starting German 101 this year, so maybe... 10th? 11th grade?) I'll get to go to Germany as a reward trip. I have kewl parents, but they too are hung up on the "'Net predator" which I believe in too but... Does anyone go to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in June? Or... goes to the Shakepeare Festival in Montgomery, Alabama?

[the phantom]

Hey Nevfeniel, I was in North Texas last week, but I'm afraid I won't be back for a year or so. I'm wondering, is there anybody from Iowa, Missouri, or Illinois? I'll be going through those states next week.
Anybody from Nebraska? That's where I live.

[Turambar]

(Hobbit children gather around Bethberry)

"Please please tell us the story of Gandalf the Wizard's magic tricks. C'mon we're not tired . . . smilies/smile.gif

EDIT: and now I think of it, please tell the story in rhyming couplets.
smilies/biggrin.gif

[ August 02, 2002: Message edited by: Turambar ]

[Turambar]

With two minds contributing and three weeks to work on it, we expect something of the length of The Rape of the Lock.

P.s. "slant" rhymes are permitted.

P.p.s Think how many things rhyme with "Bethberry" and "Gandalf the Grey" - should be easy.

[Lady_Báin]

does anyone live in minnasota or utah or anywhere betwix. I'll be visiting the u.s. with my mum in october(?) and it would be a lot of fun to meet up with someone. smilies/biggrin.gif any takers oh *tear* I thought not.

*goes to weep histericly*

[Ithaeliel]

Question: Besides me and Brinn, do we have any southwest Idaho/Northern Nevada/Eastern Oregon residents? I know GreatWarg lives near Carson City. Anyone else?

[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

Almost on the same subject: are there any British spirits out there? Reading may not be the social hub of Christendom, but it has excellent rail connections, and anyone who happens to be visiting this green and pleasant land (poor fools) may well pass through my neck of the woods on their way to such places as Stratford-Upon-Avon and Oxford. I also have friends in Nottingham and Colchester, in case anyone happens to be visiting those places when I'm there.

If any of the above applies to you (and for some reason the pleasure of my company appeals to you) then drop me a line, as Estelyn has already done (looking forward to it, E). It would be nice to be able to hold a conversation in which my execrable typing isn't a handicap.

[Lothiriel Silmarien]

I'd love to go to England. I always wanted to go. Well, when I move there in...um...probably 5 or 6 years, then I'll have to visit you!

[Alkanoonion]

With all the talk of people meeting other members Please and I stress please take an older person with you. The world is not a safe place and with people posting pictures in one topic and addresses in others the danger increases. Predators are not stupid. In one topic people state the state they live and in others they tell people where they are going on holiday. This is not safe. If you must meet other people take a friend with you. Sorry for being off topic but with recent cases on the news I was concerned.
Take care Al

[Maikadilwen]

I'm pretty sure I would need to have someone with me if I was going to meet Squatter. Hmmm, maybe Lush would like to come with me... smilies/tongue.gif

[ August 14, 2002: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

I couldn't agree more, Alkanoonion, although it's very sad that we have to say these things. Be very careful what you post here, everyone: not everyone who reads these threads will be doing so with innocent intent.
Also bear in mind that meeting people you know from internet sites can be risky: never go alone; always meet in public places where there will be plenty of people, although that's not a guarantee of safety; and try to check up on people before agreeing to anything. We all see the news (I hope) and we know what the risks are, so exercise caution and common sense at all times.

Sorry about that. Don't like to bring people down, but these things have to be said.

[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

I'm pretty sure I would need to have someone with me if I was going to meet Squatter. Hmmm, maybe Lush would like to come with me...

Me and my big mouth. I would, of course, feel obliged to bring company of my own: Lush is a bit of a predator herself. smilies/wink.gif

[Lush]

Who? Moi? Sweet, innocent Lush? Waaaah!!!

[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

Oui. Vous, Mademoiselle Lush. You're not fooling anyone, you know. I've seen that shameless display on Malbeth the Seer. Most unladylike. smilies/wink.gif

[Maikadilwen]

He he... Nothing wrong in being shameless, eh, Lush? smilies/tongue.gif smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif
But surely you wouldn't have a piano dangling over MY head, would you? smilies/eek.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

[ August 15, 2002: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Lush]

Yes, Squatter, I am no Arwen. I am, however, a lady. Just one who knows what she wants. Not everyone likes to sit in the background you know. Not everyone has composure.

[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

We wouldn't want you any other way, I can assure you.

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

No Arwen? Thank goodness! Eh, well, you know my feelings about her appalling swordsmanship. *Maril sheaths weapon and attempts to appear demure.* Many thanks to the gentle, kindly "Uncle Alk," for the timely and intelligent advice.

-Maril

[Estelyn Telcontar]

Second BD encounter for me: I'm visiting (Tar-)Míriel in London! We've known each other from chatting for months and now we have gotten to know each other as real people! It was a bit strange at first, meeting someone who was well-known on the one hand and yet a stranger. Now the images have merged to make one whole person and we are enjoying our time together. More later...

[Lush]

Are you guyes chowing down on mushrooms yet? smilies/wink.gif

[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

I think there were some mushrooms in the huge dollop of rice that ended up in front of me. It was great fun, once we'd got over all of us having actual faces and voices: we ended up drinking opposite the British Museum in a pub that looked like a museum itself. Esty and Miriel have pictures. Meeting other Downers is definitely a strange experience, but well worth it. It's great to be able to join in the conversation without putting down one's pint.

[Lush]

So Squatter, who's the alcoholic now? I did not have a drop of anything that came CLOSE to alcohol while out with Esty. It did wonders for my speech. smilies/biggrin.gif

[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

Have I ever called you an alcoholic? If I have then I must have been drunk at the time. smilies/wink.gif
I've no objection to a nice sociable drink; and what could be better than another sociable drink to follow? Besides, four pints of bitter is hardly a binge.

[Raefindel]

Yippee! Yippee! I met Helen, Mark 12:30!

We had the best time in Poulsbo. We shopped and had coffee, and never ran out of things to talk about.

Helen is the tallest Hobbit I've ever met! (Pictures soon to follow) Yes! Third times a charm, we both remembered our cameras!( I forgot it when I met Samwise and Maril.)

When I had to go home I brought her with me and we watched FOTR and ate dinner. She made me a box for my LOTR books (the creative lady!)

She bought me a teapot which I rudely forgot to use while she was here. I used it this morning, Helen. It's beautiful!

Helen is wonderful and I'm so glad I got to meet her!

[Samwise]

Sigh.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

* smiles at the merry meeting of Helen and Raefindel * smilies/smile.gif

[Lush]

*brimming with jealousy*

I have wanted to meet Helen since the summer.

Congratulations, though, on having such a splendid time. smilies/smile.gif

[Raefindel]

We are going to try to meet again Thursday. I wish I could have taken her to Seattle, you can often see 1000-lb sealions from the ferry, and occasionally even a whale!

[Gorwingel]

I wish I could have come, Glad you had a great time though. smilies/cool.gif

[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

As many of you may know, our esteemed colleague Rimbaud, the Perilous Poet, is moving back to his native England later this year. I'm very much looking forward to meeting him for a convivial drink or six.

[Arien]

I supose being related does not really count as having "met" a fellow BDer. Ah well, in the future may I have the pleasure of meeting a BDer, but for now as I sit and stay young..( I hate it smilies/wink.gif cant go any where!) I can just post and read of the times people have met.... smilies/frown.gif

[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!

[Raefindel]

Thanks to Alkanoonion, the pictures are now posted on his Bree site.

Helen and I did indeed get to meet one more time before she went home, but we did not go to Seattle together. smilies/frown.gif We will try that next time.

[Eressië Ailin]

Anyone live in Texas? Or Nebraska?

[InklingElf]

I live in California [the Bay Area], and I know a few people from the BD that live here too but I haven't met any of them [posts are on another thread]. It would be nice, but I can't right now because I'm 13 and I can't go anywhere to meet people online - yet.

[mark12_30]

Clueless me, I didn't even think of posting here...

Rae is a delight. Pleasant, cheerful, relaxed, honest, and good company; I felt like a hobbit comfortably among hobbits, or sometimes like an elf comfortably among elves. It was easy to enjoy her, and easy to enjoy what we did together. By the end of the day, we were watching Fellowship extended DVD, and it was the perfect end to a hobbitty, elvish day.

Earlier, Rae and I went shopping in lots of Norwegian-oriented artsy, craftsy stores. We saw many beautiful things, and I was amazed by a consistent pattern. Here's an example:

Rae spotted a scarf, with a gold pattern on it, very Norwegian (and hence rather elvish looking.) I thought it was stunning, and she said, "That would go with your outfit." I was reaching for my wallet, when she took a look at the price and gasped. "That's ridiculous!" she said. "You could make that for ..." and then she quoted a small fraction of the price.

"Really?" I said, impressed.

"Sure, " she laughed. "All you would have to do is..." and then she told me how they made it.

Store after store, this pattern was repeated, with Raefindel (which means "Red-Haired Elf") rattling off detailed instructions on how to make the whatever-we-were-looking-at. Raefindel, I began to believe, can make almost anything!

Now, she will modestly dissemble, but the fact remains that she has made three gorgeous cloaks, (including both the cloaks we are wearing in the picture) beautifully and reversably lined, warm, comfortable, and a delight to wear. She makes gorgeous cards; she does calligraphy... Celebrimbor should hire her. Maybe she should have been apprenticed to Feanor. Okay, okay, but this girl has Talent. "The Red-Haired Elf" can put out some beautiful workmanship. I don't know why she isn't in business. I urged her to apprentice herself to some artisan; you could tell she only half believed me. Don't be fooled. She's creative and clever with both her mind and her nimble hands.

Hmmm, I wonder if she should go into the cloak-making business? Making ropes out of hithlain perhaps? Or make Wizard-staffs and hobbit-walking-sticks? Whatever she chooses, I hope she lets her creativity and cleverness come into full flower.

You know, Rae, I've always wanted a changing-greenish-greyish-blue cloak but been quite puzzled how to go about it. I bet you could make me a reversable cloak with greyish-green fabric on one side and watery-grey-blue on the other.

How's the peach one coming?

[Raefindel]

Oh, don't let her fool you, guys, Helen is very talented, too. I would never have attempted making a box for my set of Tolkien books.

You know, Rae, I've always wanted a changing-greenish-greyish-blue cloak but been quite puzzled how to go about it. I bet you could make me a reversable cloak with greyish-green fabric on one side and watery-grey-blue on the other.



Hmmm.. I'm sure I've seen such fabric but usually around prom-time. That wouldn't be very warm, though, would it. But I'm sure we can figure it out.

How's the peach one coming?



Well now, I haven't bought the fabric yet, and I'll definately need some acorns to dangle from the ties.

When are you coming back Helen? I can't wait to show you Port Orchard and Gig Harbor!

[mark12_30]

Acorns... unfortunately, you'll have to wait, Rae! They're buried under a foot or so of solidly frozen snow!

When am I coming back? (sighs) I dunno... the Ferry & harbor sounds like lots of fun though!

[Raefindel]

The eagles decided to show up after you left, of course. I've seen them nearly every day since.

Oh, and the whales came back too.

[Samwise]

Snow!? (Sighs, as in the part of California where she lives there is no such thing).

[Gorwingel]

Oh Helen you are so going to have to come back, especially in the summer (Washington has some of the best summers, sunny, nice and not too hot, or humid. Another good thing is that we don't have a lot of thunderstorms) You should come and see a baseball game at Safeco (if you are a baseball fan, but it is pretty cool even if you are not)

[Samwise]

Ignore this message, trying to make it so I stop getting messages from this thread.
#3 Bagshot Row (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Number_3_Bagshot_Row/?yguid=39722730)

[vanwalossien]

Rae spotted a scarf, with a gold pattern on it, very Norwegian (and hence rather elvish looking.) Er, what? Norwegian, elvish looking? What kind of pattern was that? The elvish part of Norway is something I've missed in my sixteen years of being stuck in this country smilies/wink.gif

[lindil]

Not that it seems to have to much to do with the current discussion smilies/wink.gif but...


...I had the great and good fortune to attend a ' private mini-subchapter meeting of the Bay-Area's Downers Club' last night [sections removed from post due to relevance, the scarcely changed original complete with more typos can be found in the Bay Area BD'ers thread]


As I was saying, I was most fortunate to meet my second BD'er last night, just scant minutes off of my usual Sat night Northward trek up Highway 101 and back home.

Tar-Elenion received me warmly into his apartment and we immendiately got down to 'business' smilies/smile.gif .

I had been away from a certain mutual project [not the Silm/TftE] for more hours than I like and whose size and scope seems equal only to my ego [on less watchful days], and T-E graciously suggested we peep in to see what had transpired overt eh course of the day, curious of course himself.

Tar-Elenion, reminded me much of myself, if I had been 'smart' enough to remain single, that is smilies/wink.gif, and if I had retained that soft-spoken demeanor which I once possessed for 10 minutes or so back in my tweens Thorondil may remember the moment when in 84 after hearing Dark Star an the AOR FM station [ a never to be repeated experience I can tell you - we sat in silence as the DJ very quietly and humbly recalled the days when 'we talked very softly and...'

Similar to my first meeting a BD'er [the now retired and northwardly moblie Saulotus/Bobwehadababyanditsaboy], Tar-Elenion is extremely knowledgeable well beyond my many years.

As we attempted to make a bizarrely instructioned scanner to do our bidding [the ostensible reason for my visit] I took surreptitious moments away from the marginally successful process to peer into volumes [all in their immaculate dust-jackets which seemed to be right off the shelf, despite some being 20 years old! and well read].

'Tolkien's Legendarium' was in particular finally seen by myself, the ultimate in HoM-E scholarship, and T-E was gracious enough to honour my request to copy the chapter which I have been desiring to read eversince I caught wind of it:On the Construction of "the Silmarillion" by one Charles Noad.

The meeting, as it went through it's phases reminded me much of my time with Saulotus;
timeless - stretching into the the late hours with me feeling as if only an hour or so had passsed.

Humbling for me, like the meeting with Saulotus, Tar-Elenion's scholarship runs deep [see his 'Aragorn's Anscestors' and 'Kings of the Noldor and Canon' in the TftE public forum if you wish for a taste in comparison with that most famous of internet Tolkien personalities], I learned many things in a short space, and came away inspired and ready for my long trek home to the hidden fastness, called by it's shirelike officials 'County of Lake'.

Interestingly enough we each left the encounter no wiser about each other's personal life than we started, excepting of course the volumes that seeing another person can tell you about them, and for us, recalling in a way perhaps that wise DJ of old, it was not only enough, but subtly and peacefully so.

When I arrived there hours later at 2am I was still warm at heart and eager to hopefully meet some day, not only my other fellow Bay Area BD'ers btu also the other 2 of the Downs 'top 4' scholars Jallanite and Aiwendil.

Oh and in addition, I learned that the Downs had hosted one of the great luminaries of the Elvish Language [and a published author to boot!] for over a year without me even noticing! And, no I won't say who it was [at least not in open forum smilies/wink.gif]... you will have to search it out yourself!

I wish I could go into more detail re: the many byways and 'snakeshands' of our conversations [when not about the poorly designed scanner software] but my time has expired, and I must rouse the family for Liturgy.

- lindil

[i]'The dwindling Men of the West would often sit up late into the night, and awaken early before dawn- exchanging lore and wisdom such as they possessed , so that they should not fall back into the mean and low estate of those , who never knew or more sadly still, had indeed rebelled against the Light.'

[Samwise]

BayArea BDers?? I had no clue there was such a thing! smilies/eek.gif

[Galadrie1]

Samwise, there's a whole thread about them! (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=14&t=000855) smilies/smile.gif

[GaladrieloftheOlden]

Please contact me if you live in Massachussetts or are palnning to come here anytime soon. smilies/wink.gif

[Samwise]

Sigh.....thank you, Miss Galadrie1. Leave it to me not to see it......

[GaladrieloftheOlden]

I haven't met any BDers except one, and she doesn't count, cause I've known her since I was 5 anyway smilies/wink.gif , but I am currently traveling in California and will be here in San Francisco for maybe 2 more days. Then traveling to LA. Anybody care to meet me here? smilies/smile.gif
By the way, Im not sure you do, because I'm even more boring offline than online smilies/rolleyes.gif

[kittiewhirl1677]

Yes, unfortunately, the only BDer who I know in person on this site was the one I knew since I was five. She was the one who showed me this site, the one who posted right before me.

It's kind of hard to believe that no one is coming to Massachussets, or is currently living there! Come on, there's gotta be someone here who is!

As GaladrieloftheO said about herself, I am, as it seems to some, more boring offline than I am online. And that really says a lot. smilies/wink.gif

[ April 19, 2003: Message edited by: kittiewhirl1677 ]

[Cuthalion]

Ah, in 10 days Maikadilwen will be here in the U.S. with me.....I'm more than slightly delirious!

[kittiewhirl1677]

Please, any Massachussetsers? This site can't be Massachussets-free, can it?

[Cuthalion]

Make that 9 days now....I'd better go dig up that flight itinerary!

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

smilies/frown.gif no fellow Downers on my list yet... I did get a PM from Alaklondewen speculating on whether we might know each other for real, since we're in the same general part of the world... but no. I'm still the only one of my kind around here, as far as I can tell smilies/wink.gif

-Sophia

[Helkahothion]

You people should stop being so sad. Look at me: I life in Holland. Who lifes in Holland these days? I might be going to Schotland this summer, but that is not shure. Many people live in the UK so they would be able to round up some I guess. But I am alone on my deserted Island. *snif snif*
________
Kawasaki El250E (http://www.cyclechaos.com/wiki/Kawasaki_EL250E)

[Cuthalion]

Heh, heh...8 days....

[*Varda*]

Schotland? You mean Scotland? If so, have fun in my rainy part of the UK.

[Cuthalion]

One week from today! Ok...roses....reservations.....bubbly....check! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Cuthalion]

6 days and my palms are beginning to sweat...*looks around and notices that this is suddenly his thread*!!

[One Axe to Rule them All]

If anybody is in Austin Texas and would like to meet a fellow BD'er, gimme a PM about it

[Cuthalion]

To continue with what is
now my daily post...5 days....woohoo!

[Cuthalion]

And with 4 days to go, I'm already being told to change my posts.... smilies/frown.gif smilies/rolleyes.gif

[ April 29, 2003: Message edited by: Cuthalion ]

[Cuthalion]

3 days left....I'd better lay in a stock of Cherry Coke, Dr. Pepper and what else? *racks brain* Ah, yes! Honey!

[Raefindel]

What are you planning to do together? Are you taking her anywhere special? will you meet her in costume?

[Cuthalion]

Don't want to give it all away...but I plan to take her on a ghost-tour (she requested this), to a Renaissance Festival, and to the Biltmore House in North Carolina.

I have other things on my to-do list, but those I'll keep under my cloak. No, alas, no costume. My thanks for asking! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Raefindel]

You'd better post pictures for us or I'll never forgive you! smilies/wink.gif

[Cuthalion]

Yes ma'am! I know the "Mom-voice" when I here it!

[Raefindel]

Have a great time ... and behave yourself...NOT!

[Cuthalion]

Ah! You seem to know me well! smilies/wink.gif

[Raefindel]

No, really, have a good time.

[Cuthalion]

No worries on that count, my dear Rae! 2 days...I'm gonna go check out the Party! smilies/cool.gif

[mollecon]

I went to the US in the Summer of 2001 to visit friends from the internet. That was a great experience! I can highly recommend it smilies/smile.gif

[Cuthalion]

Tomorrow I pick her up! YES!! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Raefindel]

Well guess we won't be hearing form you two for a while. Have fun, take lots of pictures to post for us and check in once in a while and let us know what you are up to.

[Maikadilwen]

Well, I'm here now and so far we've had a very good time.
I arrived Saturday but we've been kinda, uhm... busy, so I haven't had time to post. smilies/wink.gif

[Cuthalion]

All I can say is..."WOW!!!" smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

[Arafangwen]

I wishI knew any of you guys! Anyone happen to live near Austin Texas? smilies/biggrin.gif My parents are the same as everyone elses though smilies/rolleyes.gif smilies/frown.gif They think you're all serial killers and never want me to meet up with anyone from the internet, ever. smilies/mad.gif It's so frustrating! I'm gonna make twelve shirts or so that say various things BD related and wear them every day so mabey I'll meet up with someone *looks around hopefully*

[the phantom]

These people are all from Texas, Arafangwen.

Nuranar
DaughterofVana
Bulelainwen
Eressie Ailin
BethoHOG

One Axe is too, but I think you knew that! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Lush]

I arrived Saturday but we've been kinda, uhm... busy, so I haven't had time to post.

You're shocking me right out of my innocence! Hardy har har.

Hope you're having a fabulous time!

Save us a piece!

...If you eat cake, that is. smilies/biggrin.gif

[Niluial]

Well I am off on a journey to the wild Kingdome of Africa… ok nope not that much fun but I am going into the wonderful City; Cape Town in South Africa! My flight is tomorrow.. I can’t wait. Maybe I’ll go on Table Mountain. I am going there for business reasons and personal reasons. I shall also spend two magnificent days with The_Evenstar.. well that is my plan! I have never met The_Evenstar or actually been to South Africa, so it will be a astonishing event! I shall update you about my meeting with The-Evenstar this weekend! I cant believe I am meeting a Fellow B-Downer!!

[Maikadilwen]

It is with great sadness that I can tell that I'm now back in little cold and boring Denmark after spending two wonderful weeks with Cuthalion in the States. smilies/frown.gif

But I'll be going back as soon as possible! That crazy romantic made sure of that.
I just have to look at the ring on my finger.... smilies/wink.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

[piosenniel]

*~*~*~*~*~*~ Congratulations are in order, then, on your engagement! ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Best wishes to you and your sweetie!

~~ Pio smilies/biggrin.gif

[Gorwingel]

Three Cheers for Maikadilwen and
Cuthalion! smilies/biggrin.gif
I wish you both the best of luck and the greatest of happiness!

[Niluial]

Sorry, I said I would post this last weekend but I did not have the time:

On Sunday night I packed my bags not knowing what to expect of the weather, so I decided a mix of warm and cold would be a good idea! I went to sleep rather early that night, it must have been about 8:30pm! I woke up at 4:00 am feeling rather sleepy and a bit cranky! After an hours drive fetching and dropping off things I reached the airport. My flight was long and there were children behind me who thought “kick the chair game” would be fun. So I sat for a lovely 15 hours with a child moaning or kicking my chair!! I got to the Johannesburg Air Port in South Africa. As horrible as the flight was nothing prepared me for what waited ahead. After standing for one hour watching bags go round and round (I was curious seeing that everyone ells was also standing around not finding there bag). An announcement was made “We are sorry, we put the wrong flight numbers on the screen please go to screen no45 to get your baggage sorry for the inconvenience.” By this time steam was coming out of my head. People started to collect their baggage and a while later once ALL the bags were gone I was still standing their. I went to the department of help. They notified me that my bag had been lost or stolen and that if they found it they would deliver it to the area where I was staying. They gave me a wonderful R100 (please note $10, somewhere around there). I gave them hell, screaming and shouting noticing that it would not get me anywhere! I stormed out the airport and caught a Taxi to Cape Town which cost me R50 half my money gone. We drove passed weird tin houses. This was poverty I saw, I felt sorry for all them! I reached Cape Town a lovely place with lots of smiling people. I drove to a place called Camps Bay, a really beautiful place , lucky to see a school of dolphins a site I would never forget. I drove along the mountain with the see shimmering in the sunlight. I finally reached a place called Hout Bay a small but lovely little valley. I drove to a rather nice looking hotel and stayed there for the night!....

all I can write for now.. I promise I will tell you all about my meeting with The_Evenstar later!!

[Niluial]

Oh my word congratulations Maikadilwen!! I wish you all the best and happiness for the years to come!!

[Raefindel]

Congratulations Maikadilwen & Cuthalion! Best wishes for a happy and fulfilling life together!

[Arafangwen]

Barrowdowners together! That is so great! I wish you the best of luck!

[Helkahothion]

Well since I got the scoop, I made a thread about it. Pity BW closed it. But I am glad that the matter finaly is brought to the attention. I will say it again and never grow tired of this:

Cuthalion and Maikadilwen, two of the best things that happened to me: I wish you the best of luck in you're mariage.

I say we give them all a cheer. smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

[Niluial]

CHEEER!! smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif!!! Its so romantic...
smilies/rolleyes.gif

[GaladrieloftheOlden]

Lots of people have said, but I'll add my voice too: congratulations! smilies/smile.gif
And, also, do any of you BDers live in San Francisco or LA? Because, in that case, i could have passed you on the street during vacation, and not have known... smilies/mad.gif

~Menelien

[The Saucepan Man]

Congratulations, Maikadilwen and Cuthalion. smilies/smile.gif All the best to both of you for your future together.

How enchanting, a marriage made in the Downs ... smilies/rolleyes.gif smilies/cool.gif

[Niluial]

I still can’t believe it!! It is all too romantic!

P.S. anyone…Anyone?? I’ve got blonde hair, blue eyes… come on we share the same interests for heaven sake!!!! Lol… but it would be fun smilies/wink.gif!!

[Ransom]

w00t w00t! Go Maikadilwen and Cuthalion! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Raefindel]

WooHoo! Helen will be here tomorrow! I've been to Farmer Maggot's and bought all the things Hobbits need to survive! this Elf is ready!

Can't wait, Can't wait, Can't wait...

[Arafangwen]

Raefindel, you get to meet Helen! No fair! Say hi for me!

[BethoHOG]

Arafangwen, you live in Austin, Texas?? smilies/eek.gif

Oh look! I'M A WIGHT!!! smilies/biggrin.gif

[ May 21, 2003: Message edited by: BethoHOG ]

[Annalaliath]

i wish there was one of you here in New Mexico! I am so Jelious!

I feel so alone.....

[GaladrieloftheOlden]

Welcome to the club. Except I'm in Massachusetts... one person from Massachusetts (except me and kittie) PMed me, but I haven't seen her on here since, so that was a chance wasted. If there were a BDer that I know of anywhere close enough for me to weedle my parents into with hours of it, I would be sure to find you... *evil laugh*

~Menelien

[Calenedheliel1]

I feel lucky to have a fellow bdowner living close by. We go to the movies together and spend a lot of time talking about the barrowdowns. Otherwise I would go crazy because my family already thinks I'm crazy because of my fasination with LOTR and TTT.

[mark12_30]

If hobbits can purr, this one is. Rae has been at it again, and I haven't been so spoiled in a LOOOOONG time. There is a pot of lucious stew bubbling on the stove, homemade bread (wheat and gluten-free) to go with it and plenty of fresh stuff.

How does Caradhras look without snow? I still have no idea. There was a good three-to-five feet of snow still on the upper slopes of the mountain. We explored the lower slopes, and found lots of beautiful spots and bubbling springs and streams. The upper slopes we left to wizards and rangers. We stopped by an Inn on the way home for a hot meal.

The day before that, Rae and I spent some happy hours wandering through The Old Forest (parts of it seemed like Fangorn to me.) There were towering old (OLD) trees, a few that seemed to have a diameter greater than my height... We pottered among the wildflowers and discussed the names and merits of each one, and sat by Sarn Gebir (how did it get here?) while we ate lunch.

Today we saw sea-otters and a baluga whale, and some wolves (not wargs) and an eagle and a raven, and some peacocks besides.

Time to start pulling some songs off of the BBC LOTR cds, I think. smilies/biggrin.gif

[ May 24, 2003: Message edited by: mark12_30 ]

[Gorwingel]

Helen, which mountains did you visit? The Olympics or the Cascades?
I am glad you are having a good time. Tomorrow I am heading up to Seattle, to have a good time at a northwest tradition called Folklife.
Rae sounds like she is a great host, I hope you have a wonderful rest of your trip.

[Raefindel]

Oh My Goodness! It was such a nice visit with Helen. We were so rushed last time and this time we had several days together.

Helen is still wonderful (she was last time, too) and we are very compatable in our habits and activites. We went all over the place; The Old Forest, Caradhras, even Minas Tirith. We ate all over the place and spent lots of money, too.

But alas, all good things must come to an end, and I had to let her go. I felt like I was setting her adrift alone in a strange city.

Gorwingel, I was went to festival but had no idea until then just how big it really is! If I saw you there, I didn't know I had! We'll have to try another time.

[ May 25, 2003: Message edited by: Raefindel ]

[Gorwingel]

Did you go today, Sunday 25 of May? I tried to keep my eyes open for any redheaded elves, but alas I did not find any, maybe another time. It was a great festival though! smilies/cool.gif

[Samwise]

Maikadilwen and Cuthalion, congratulations, indeed!
Er...can dead folk get married...? smilies/rolleyes.gif smilies/wink.gif

[Raefindel]

Yes, Gorwingel, I went Sunday, and I kept my eyes pealed for you as well, but my goodness! waht a crowd! I finally retired to the KOMO Bldg and watched from a balcony.

Helen and I went hiking first at Staircase near Lake Cushman, and the next day we went to Mt Rainier, but Surprise, Surprise! There was 6 ft of snow at Paradise! We took a trail to the springs at Longmire to see "Iron Mike", and Longmire's cabin.

To be honest with you Helen scared the living daylights out of me! When she crept barefoot along the wet, mossy cliff to see the rapids below, I was imagining myself trying to explain THAT one to the ranger and her husband.

"Umm well, ya see... she's a Hobbit, and... um well... Hobbits have this need to climb cliffs barefoot...

[Lush]

My oh my, I turn my back for a few weeks, and look what you kids go and do. Congratulations.

[Arafangwen]

Annalaliath, I have cousins in NM. Mabey we could meet up some time when I'm up there, although those time are very rare smilies/frown.gif . I just found out that I might have a chance to meet BethoHOG! I'm so excited! I've also just recently recruited my cousin to the Barrow Downs! She's very reckless though, I'm working on her attitude....

[Eärendil]

Congratulations Maika and Cuthalion! smilies/biggrin.gif
I am so happy for both of you, and wish you all the best! smilies/smile.gif

[mark12_30]

To be honest with you Helen scared the living daylights out of me! When she crept barefoot along the wet, mossy cliff to see the rapids below, I was imagining myself trying to explain THAT one to the ranger and her husband.

"Umm well, ya see... she's a Hobbit, and... um well... Hobbits have this need to climb cliffs barefoot...



It was only a LITTLE cliff.

But it was pretty doggone slippery.... glad I made it back up!!

[Lyra Greenleaf]

Niluial- do you live in Sydney? If so I may be able to come and see you in around about a years time! (Hopefully!)

[Yavanna228]

I'm going to be in Orodea, Romania, in the beginning of August. I'm going to be very busy, so I don't know that any meetings would be possible, but I'm just tossing this information out to you all just in case. smilies/smile.gif I'll also be in Paris for a few hours as well, but that will be at the airport. smilies/rolleyes.gif
Peace
Edit- Yes, I too add my congratulations to Maika and Cuthalion! Hurrah! Best wishes to you both as two become one. smilies/smile.gif

[ June 26, 2003: Message edited by: Yavanna228 ]

[Horse-Maiden of the Shire]

Biggest, biggest, biggest congrats to Maika and Cuthalion!

Any B-Ders from Winnipeg? The Mosquito City...but my mom is terribly paranoid about people on the internet and serial killers and such. Bah.

[Lëowen]

Congratulations Maika and Cuthalion! smilies/biggrin.gif


The only BDer I've met is ElenCala Isil, who was in my class at school for a few years before moving.
Are there any other BDers from Florida?

[Samwise]

Mmm...if I remember right, Mr. Mithadan himself is (one of the fellows who helped start this place up).

[Orofaniel]

I'm sorry for beeing sooooooo late;CONGRATS Maikadilwen and Cuthalion!!!! smilies/biggrin.gif

(check my message icon...hehe)

smilies/biggrin.gif

[alaklondewen]

I'm going to have the pleasure of finally meeting Miss Sophia the Thunder Mistress in just a couple of weeks. I'm so excited I can hardly stand it. smilies/biggrin.gif

We are still looking for some ME activities that are relatively inexpensive...if anyone has any ideas, we would love to hear them.

[maikafanawen]

Many many many Congrats!!! It's just *wipes tear* so romantic!!! And hey! My name's Maika too!

ME activities? If you're of age, hit the local irish pub for a good mug of hobbit spirits. Or you could go to any cute tea shop around 4:00. Hmm...I don't know...

Does anyone live in the south-eastern US...? I'm going to Texas next year for the fourth...and am in D.C. now...but my traveling hours are very limited. So! Back to the south-east... smilies/biggrin.gif

-Maikafanawen

[Cuthalion]

Where in the south-east Maikafanawen?

[Måns]

Any other people living in the capital of the world, Stockholm? Though, I must say I cannot like the overall way the city is planned. Too large and cold squares, not cosy enough.... I like Karlbergsvägens upper part... especially the little wall at the northeast part of Vikingagatan/Karlbergsvägen crossing, shutting in the little garden and that beautiful house. For all that are worried about my safety, please don't be, firstly I don't even live there, though, I would if I could afford an apartment there... Secondly I am the King of Rissne, and if your messign with me, your messing with Rissne. smilies/wink.gif

Måns

[the phantom]

I met three fellow BD members over the weekend- alaklondewen, Sophia the Thunder Mistress, and Phrim.

All three of them were polite and intelligent and provided excellent company.

I expected alak and Sophia to be there, but I had no idea that we would be meeting Phrim. He was in town for some sort of LOTR gaming convention. We were afforded the opportunity to meet with him near the convention center, and I'm glad we did. Downtown Indianapolis is a very pleasant setting, made more so this past weekend by the abundance of cloak-wearing Tolkien fans. I wouldn't mind going back to Indy next summer.

We spent most of our time together eating. The biggest advantage to this was that I had to still my wagging tongue and flapping jaw occasionally to take a bite. Those few precious moments of silence were very much welcomed by my companions. I hope they didn't mind my endless stream of chatter too much, but I couldn't really help it. I'm a talker, especially when I'm in a good mood (and I was in a good mood the whole weekend).

Well, I would say more good things about the weekend, but I have to hit the road out of Indy now. I'd like to finish by saying that meeting alak, Sophia, and Phrim face to face confirmed that all true Tolkien fans are a cut above normal people.

And I really enjoyed myself! smilies/smile.gif

[Samwise]

Hmmm...all this time and "in person" I've met only one of the 'Downers. A few have been so kind as to join my own LOTR message board, and it's nice to see them over there, too. smilies/smile.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

[Yavanna228]

phantom, I do hope you got a few photos of your meeting with the others between your chattering. smilies/wink.gif It would be wonderful to see pictures of that joyous occasion! smilies/smile.gif Perhaps Alk would put them up on his photo page.
Peace

[Samwise]

That would be fun. smilies/wink.gif
The one thing we lamented about when Miss Rae and I met was that neither of us brought a camera.

[the phantom]

phantom, I do hope you got a few photos of your meeting with the others between your chattering
I didn't take any pictures, but the other people did.

I'm sure some of the pics will be posted (but I'm not sure if I'll allow any pictures with me in it to be posted, it ruins the whole phantom thing). smilies/wink.gif

[Cuthalion]

Heh...sounds like my Maika, Phantom...I managed to get ONE pic of her!

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

Time for my report on the weekend's adventures.

I arrived off the bus in Indy tired and faintly nervous. Having paid an ungodly amount for my six hour bus ride, I was more than a little apprehensive about what the weekend would hold. Alaklondewen was there to meet me at the station and she brought along her lovely daughter. We got along splendidly right from the start (as I had always expected, but you know how nervous one gets right before the big moment smilies/wink.gif) It was wonderful, because it felt as though I've known her in person for months.

That evening we met up with the Phantom (about whom I am afraid to give *too* much away, lest I should shatter his mysterious aura) for dinner. That was great, it's so rare that I get a chance to have heated Tolkien discussion using my voice and not my keyboard! smilies/biggrin.gif

That evening Alak and I sat and chatted back and forth for a few hours while her daughter slept. It was a wonderful day, even with the six hour bus ride!

The next day we met up with the phantom early (early being a relative term, as we were all late!) and went to meet Phrim at the Convention Center. Since he hadn't eaten we went over to a food court at a mall and had some more discussion about Tolkien and the downs, it was lots of fun. Then we split up and Phrim went back to his gaming, while Alak and I went back to pick up her little girl. When we got back to the city it was nearly suppertime, so the five went out to Fridays and stuffed ourselves. It was very nice and companionable.

That night Alak and I chattered like people who have been friends for years (and of course, we will be!). Despite the fact that Alak doesn't have the best sense of direction ever (we got lost how many times?! smilies/tongue.gif) it was a very satisfying day.

Sunday we slept late and then Alak and I just spent the morning and early afternoon together just being lazy and relaxing. Then we put me back on the bus and suddenly I'm back in the real world again (drat smilies/wink.gif).

But I'll have pictures soon, and *gasp* phantom, I think Phrim's are already posted somewhere smilies/evil.gif.

Something to do again. Maybe a lot of times.

Sophia

[Estelyn Telcontar]

*sound of gavel pounding on table*

The Second Annual Cologne (that’s a city, not a perfume!) Barrow-Downs Meeting will now begin.

Anyone who is interested in the minutes of the first meeting need only go back to the beginning of this thread, where they are duly recorded.

Notes for this meeting:

Members present – Lush and Estelyn
Begin – 11:00 am, Wednesday, July 30, 2003
Location – Kölner Dom in Köln (Cologne), Germany

Agenda –
1. Welcome toast, drinks provided by Estelyn
2. Traditional opening of umbrellas, since the annual accompanying rain arrived punctually.
3. Walk to a bookstore, looking for German (and English!) Tolkien books. Purchase optional.
4. Walk to a café for further drinks, provided by Lush. Opportunity for conversation, information, gossip…
5. Photo session at the Kölner Dom (Cathedral) – photos will be released as soon as possible.
6. Further leisurely walking, combined with shopping (decorative cosmetics – wouldn’t the guys out there have enjoyed coming along for that?! smilies/wink.gif )
7. Meeting adjourns sometime before 3:30 pm.
A good time was had by all.
Time and location of next year’s meeting to be determined later.

*gavel out*

PS - Here is a picture (http://www.barrowdowns.com/sharku/meeting09.jpg) of the 2003 meeting!

[ August 19, 2003: Message edited by: Estelyn Telcontar ]

[Arafangwen]

Maikafanawen,
Myself,
Nuranar,
DaughterofVana,
Bulelainwen,
Eressie Ailin,
BethoHOG,
and One axe to rule them all,
we all live in Texas. I'm not sure about the rest of them, but I would surely love to meet you per chance you actualy do stumble into the coolest state out there!

[Samwise]

From my understanding, my fellow-collector Alatáriël hails from Texas, too. Hm. That's one state I've never been to. *Tries to think up good excuse to go...*

[Arafangwen]

That's one state I've never been to. *Tries to think up good excuse to go...*

How about the whole previous list? *batts her eylashes to reveal her sad puppy eyes* But don't feel preasured or anything smilies/rolleyes.gif . I think we should have a Texan Barrow-Downers convention. That sounds like fun! Any other thoughts on that?

[Raefindel]

Samwise, you met Greycloak as well as myself.

[Samwise]

Greycloak, Miss Rae? You mean your hubby?
In that case I guess I can count three little Elflings as well. smilies/wink.gif

[Raefindel]

That's the one; the tall man with the elven name. The elflings, however, have never been on the Downs. Well, my son used to post with me on the riddle thread.

[Samwise]

Ah, I thought so. Awfully dark for an Elf, isn't he? smilies/wink.gif

[Raefindel]

There's nothing elven about him! He's as plain as can be. smilies/wink.gif

[Samwise]

Plain? I wouldn't say that. smilies/wink.gif

[Maikadilwen]

Ok, now I want to see!

Rae, photo up, now! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Meneltarmacil]

This may prove to be a wild goose chase, but did any of you go to the Young Life camp called Lake Champion in New York State last week? If so, you may have met me!

Oh, and I passed through Richmond VA, home of the B-W, on the way there! smilies/evil.gif

[Raefindel]

Well now, I mentioned the photo request to Greycloak and he said "Let it die!"

I'll have to see if Alkanoonian is game to post a 3rd picture of me. He has been gracious thus far. I never did mention to my brother I had his pic posted. I'm sure I'd be in the dog house if he knew. smilies/evil.gif

[Estelyn Telcontar]

For the first time in the history of the Barrow-Downs, the founder of this site met one of the administrators, as well as a moderator and a respected (though not necessarily respectable! smilies/wink.gif ) member, who is incidentally a BD chat room operator, face-to-face. The Barrow-Wight, Sharkû, The Squatter of Amon Rûdh and I got together in the historic city of Trier, Germany. We met under the arch of the old Roman city gate (http://www.barrowdowns.com/sharku/meeting04.jpg) and explored buildings and ruins, some of which date back to the Roman Empire. The building that impressed me most was the Basilika, a huge palace hall built in the early 4th century. Exploring the tunnels and passageways (http://www.barrowdowns.com/sharku/meeting08.jpg) of the old Roman baths was fun, especially since the record heat wave made everything that was underground, in the shade, look more enjoyable to do. Then we found a cool (literally!) Historic Cellar restaurant (http://www.barrowdowns.com/sharku/meeting03.jpg) two levels below the street and settled down under its massive arches for food, drink and talk. Later on we discovered a church that had a vaguely familiar-sounding name – St. Gangolf!

So much for the tourist aspect – we had no problems finding lots to talk about all day, mostly Tolkien and the Downs, of course. If some of us *occasionally* happened to mention something that would make a good post for the Entish Bow RPG, we can’t be blamed, can we? It’s so much more fun to converse directly rather than by typing!

Some personal impressions of the others – though one shouldn’t be hasty about describing complex personalities, I will make an attempt. Hoom, hom!

The Barrow-Wight was a great host, having brought gifts for us lowlier wights (who live far from the merchandising paradises of the USofA) – thanks for the lovely bookmark, BW! He also had a German TTT poster that we signed; it will decorate his home barrow. He looks like his pictures, wiry and active, and is full of ideas, always looking to new horizons. Add a great sense of humor to that, and you get an enjoyable mixture!

Sharkû is living proof that still waters run deep – he doesn’t speak unless he has something to say. Fortunately, that’s often enough to make him a very interesting person to talk and listen to! He’s thoughtful, knowledgeable and humorous – well, exactly like we know him from his posts on the forum!

Squatter looks the very epitome of Englishness (great hat!) and is a wonderful conversationalist, always ready to share a joke or some bit of the information that he keeps stored in his astonishing mind. He is very well-read, widely interested and has a great way with words.

I hope the three of them (http://www.barrowdowns.com/sharku/meeting05.jpg) will add their impressions to give you a more complete picture (http://www.barrowdowns.com/sharku/meeting01.jpg) and a different point of view! I can only say that it was a joy and a privilege to meet them!

[ August 19, 2003: Message edited by: Estelyn Telcontar ]

[Estelyn Telcontar]

(For those interested, I have added a picture link to my above report of the Cologne meeting of Lush and myself.)

[Sleepy Ranger]

does anybody here live on a very boring island where everyday is the same(and a shortage of lotr fans)?Oh wait I forgot its called Bahrain so if anyone is as unluck as me to end up there. PM me.

[Maikadilwen]

Esty, seems you've been really busy, lately. I am so envious!
I've just spent a week dancing on cliffs and climbing castle ruins. Just me and my camera.

Hmm, Köln isn't really that far down, so maybe I could make it there someday. The Danish-German border is only about 300 km from where I live, so it could make a nice trip.

And I'll be in the US again after Christmas and sometime later next year, so we'll see who gets caught in the dangerzone. smilies/wink.gif

[ August 19, 2003: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

Esty- sounds like you guys all had a great time! smilies/biggrin.gif

I had the pleasure of meeting Gwindor last Wednesday. It was a bit of an experiment, as we met outside a train station, having only seen fairly old pictures of each other. Luckily we did find the right people, and set off for Wrigley Field.

May I just point out that taking the L train in Chicago is harder than it looks, especially when the card-pass thing only lets one person through, and then *I* have to jump over the revolving gate to get through. smilies/wink.gif

We met a few real-life friends of mine outside the Field and after Gwin downed many free samples of Vitamin Water, we went inside and found our seats. The Chicago Cubs proceeded to win (YAY!) and then we went to a little cafe in the city and had fruit smoothies.

It was overall a pretty neat experience, and I'll put up a link to a picture as soon as I have one. Gwin's a great guy, definitely worth my three hour train ride. Maybe we'll do it again next summer! smilies/smile.gif

Sophia

[Gorwingel]

Gosh, how lucky of all of you to get around so much...

Estelyn, that meeting looked so very cool. It is wonderful that so many high ranking members of the B-D's were finally able to get togther. The location looks absolutely beautiful smilies/biggrin.gif

Oh, and Sophia, going to a Cubs game. That sounds absolutely wonderful. I have always wanted to do that, but just have never been able to stay in Chicago for enough time to do that.

[Lush]

I recall a certain distinguished Downs member promising a picture of Sharkey that would be more revealing. smilies/wink.gif

No, really, sounds like you guys had tons of fun (it having not been rainy must have been a plus...blah). Can't believe it will probably be another year when, and if, Esty and I meet again.

Thanks for all the pictures and the reviews of the participants! Am feeling quite warm and fuzzy now, overcome with the great spirit of Downs Internationalism! smilies/smile.gif

[Luthien_ Tinuviel]

Maikafanawen,
Myself,
Nuranar,
DaughterofVana,
Bulelainwen,
Eressie Ailin,
BethoHOG,
and One axe to rule them all,
we all live in Texas.

Me too! I'm from Texas! A Texas BD convention would be great! We deserve a convention of our very own! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Yavanna228]

Wow, Esty, Squatter, Sharku, and BW! So glad you had such a great time. smilies/smile.gif Also, the pictures are wonderful! Hm, that's another admin's picture down... smilies/wink.gif
Anyone in the area of Southern Pennsylvania? PM me if you are!
Peace

[ August 20, 2003: Message edited by: Yavanna228 ]

[Alkanoonion]

I love the pictures Estelyn Telcontar but I am a little depressed. I am always busy and never get to visit other members, maybe if some lived in Adelaide, Australia I could go and visit them.

Any chance of getting any of these great pictures into the barrow photo page, I don’t think I have any of Sharkû yet.

[Sharkû]

You know you're in great company when train or car rides, or evenings on the balcony (with the added advantage of generously served cold beer) seem so much more attractive than the actual sight-seeing.
Such was definitely the case for me at the first "official" Barrow-Downs gathering in Trier. Having known BW, Esty and Squatter as well as can be online for quite a while, I was pretty sure we were the right number of members and the perfect people to make the meeting both fun and interesting. Barrow-Wight, Squatter and me already met the day before we hit Trier with Esty, so we actually got in two boys’ nights. We spent both in a generally jocular mood, recalling old forum and chat antics and anecdotes; but it was also obvious that we all enjoyed the opportunity to talk to others with the same interests in real life for once, whether these were Tolkien, the Site; of an ‘academic’ manner, or the wonder that is good funny television.

Meeting people you’ve known online for a while was fortunately only strange for a few minutes, after which the excellent company I was in even made me gladly drop my usual –away status.
Of course, the fact that we were a small group, and definitely what I would call a group of online friends, made that comparatively easier and more enjoyable. Furthermore, this also accounts for my not really being surprised by the personality of anyone; some people you just know to be cool, and I wasn’t disappointed.

At least since I’ve known of BW’s “German history”, it was evident that we really should meet up some time when the chance should arise, which finally did after some three years of my sojourn on the site. Just as I said, the Wight was pretty much not only like I imagined him, but also like I knew him: about the funniest person I know, an excellent host, and both clever and wise in any discussion. Even though we talk about site matters frequently, the chance to do so face to face, and even start a “Barrow-Downs brainstorming” on some occassions with Estelyn and Squatter was very welcome.

Ever since the latter popped up on the forum and especially the chat, I’ve often experienced that it doesn’t take much at all for me to get into a deep conversation with him. With a person like Squatter, “deep” can be relative, since he is a walking treasure vault of knowledge of very high-brow academic matters just as much as of a wide range of anecdotes and amusing pieces. Such was one night when we decided to trade in sleep for discussion, and paid the price for it the following morning.

Even though she lives considerably closer to me than the little Englishman or BW, Esty and I never met before, either; and I can now say with absolute certainty that failing to do so is my deep regret. Esty proved a great interim guide through Trier and Heidelberg, but an even greater conversationalist with an opinion worth listening to on just about everything we ventured to come up with. Plus she’s head of my fanclub (no kidding), and that says a lot, mainly what a cheerful and amiable person she is. And that she has good taste, obviously, except for that REB thing which I never really understood. The three of them could talk on hours about that!

[Mister Underhill]

Now that is one meeting I would have loved to attended. I hope BW and Squatter weigh in with their sides of the tale.

[Thenamir]

All y'all Texans are hereby invited to see the ROTK with us in Houston as it was meant to be seen -- ALL 3 MOVIES BACK TO BACK. We're tentatively calling it the Houston Middle Earth Butt-Numb-A-Thon. Movies start afternoon on December 16, and will end with the premiere showing of ROTK. We plan to have a costume contest and great prizes to give away. Details forthcoming.

[Susan Delgado]

That sounds fabulous! Glad you guys enjoyed yourselves so much. smilies/smile.gif

Belin and I will be meeting Daisy_Sandybanks again in a few days, along with someoen else who has never been to the forum but chats sometimes, DrakeDun.

[Lush]

Danke schön for your report, Sharkey. It's good to be able to finally see your pic!

Almost forgot:

The Barrow-Wight is hot!

*goes off whistilng innocently and hoping that Mrs. Barrow-Wight is not reading over anyone's shoulder right about now*

[ August 20, 2003: Message edited by: Lush ]

[Lucinda]

Hmm, anyone happen to be about perth (scotland) this september? anyone? doubt it!

[Nerindel]

Wow! two Scots and here was me thinking I was the only one smilies/wink.gif smilies/tongue.gif

[Pyroclastic]

Greetings people! Is there anyone here from UW-River Falls? It would be so great to talk to somebody who won't yell 'nerd alert' when ever I talk about LOTR! *Sighs Bitterly*

[Estelyn Telcontar]

I’m starting this thread to give everyone who has met someone from the Barrow-Downs a place to tell us all about it. Please remember the purpose of this thread - it was not started to hear of those who would like to meet, but for those who have already met to report! There are other threads with locations and suggestions for meeting.

[Tarien Ithil]

I met Niluial yesterday! (Friday)
She's such a wonderful person. We both met on the beach and we surfed together (well, I taught Nil how to surf) and then we went for an ice cream. Wow, it's so fascinating to meet a fellow Bdner! smilies/smile.gif

[Niluial]

On Friday I met Tarien Ithil and it was great. We met on a great Australian beach and had fun and spoke all day. Tarien actually got me on to a surf board (really I don’t know how) and I actually surfed a wave. It really was great meeting another Barrow-Downer! Unfortunately Matthew couldn’t join us but we had fun anyway! It was sad when the day ended, but I am in Sydney she is in Sydney so you never really know!
Thanks Tarien for the great day.. and the yummy ice cream smilies/wink.gif

[ August 23, 2003: Message edited by: Niluial ]

[VanimaEdhel]

Greetings! I got back from my month-long vacation this past Saturday, so I didn't have a chance to really post this until today. On July 25th, I had the great, great, great, great pleasure of meeting TheXPhial. My parents took us out to lunch, then she and I got about an hour to ourselves. It was a really amazing day (I hope to meet with her again), and it prompted me to really want to meet more of you!

EDIT (so as to not waste an entirely new post to answer the question stated by Samwise below): I live in New York, kind of near to NYC. TheXPhial was not that far out of the way of the path I was taking to go on vacation.

[ August 27, 2003: Message edited by: VanimaEdhel ]

[Samwise]

Whereabouts are you located, Vanima?

[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

As Estelyn and Sharkû have so ably described, not so long ago I met both the two of them and, were that not sufficient to glut the worm of greed, Our Revered Founder himself. It was the prospect of such an illustrious conclave that led me to fly out especially for the meeting, which solved the problem of where to go on holiday this summer.

I arrived a day early, and a little before Sharkû. We were picked up in turn by the Barrow-Wight and whisked off to stay with his relatives, which involved food, beer and a lot of conversations I couldn't understand. We had a couple of lengthly discussions (thankfully in English, since my German isn't very steady on its feet) on topics ranging from the Downs by way of various television comedies to how hot it was everywhere, which was absolutely great fun. I was delighted to find more fans of The Young Ones (that's the anarchic comedy series, not the Cliff Richard song) among the longest-serving forum members. We had a late night on the Sunday, and were therefore perfectly prepared for a meeting with Estelyn the following morning.

I'll skip the events of Monday, since they've already been covered. Suffice it to say that Estelyn was extremely well prepared, having got hold of a guide to Trier, which left us with plenty to do other than the all-day pub trip that would have become inevitable had the planning been up to me. Suffice it to say that the day seemed rather too short, and it didn't seem as though we'd been in Trier for more than a couple of hours before we were on our way home. Those pictures by the Porta Nigra are from the end of the day, just before we met up with our respective lifts home.

My impressions of the others were much as I'd expected, since I've had more than a few conversations with all of them in chat, not to mention having met Estelyn in London last summer. The Barrow-Wight is a man who keeps conversations going, not letting other people remain silent for too long. He's friendly and welcoming, always eager to hear what others have to say and ready with his own thoughts or a new subject should conversation flag. As one would expect from this site, he's usually got some idea on the boil, which he's ever-eager to share. He was very generous both with his time and in offering myself and Sharkû somewhere to stay, and meeting him clarified in my mind why this site has become so successful. As with most of the members with actual lives to lead I'm amazed that he can hold down a career, a family and the ubiquitous Downs with only twenty-four hours to a day.

As Estelyn mentioned, Sharkû is a man who speaks when he has something worthwhile to say and doesn't seem to have much time for small-talk. Given a decent subject, though, he can discourse at great length, particularly on Tolkien. We had a marathon conversation on one night when we were supposed to get some sleep that began with a quotation he'd unearthed in the depths of the Histories of Middle-earth (of which we had two volumes between us, taken for the journey). We covered a lot of ground and though we suffered for it in the morning it was an absolute privilege to hear what he had to say. When Sharkû gives his considered opinion wise people listen.

Estelyn is a great organiser, as one would expect. I received a lot of help from her with my travel plans and as I mentioned earlier she made a great tour guide. Also, like the others, she has a lot of interesting things to say and an enthusiasm for Tolkien that encourages that sort of conversation. Her other enthusiasm for RPGs, particularly The Revenge of the Entish Bow is quite infectious, and I came up with quite a few ideas while I was in Germany, although there were mild complaints from certain quarters about the volume of roleplay talk. Estelyn's seldom idle for long, and always seems to be looking for something to do (possibly the source of the boundless energy required to carry out so much moderating work). She also plays some mean jazz piano and can sign her name in music, which is a rare skill.

All in all my trip to Germany was a lot of fun. Not only did I meet three of those who put the most into the Downs, but I had a great time with some fellow fans into the bargain. We laughed, we got lost in Roman tunnels and we Balrog-winged as though the books were going out of fashion. Also we had the opportunity to find out a bit more about some of the other people who spend their lives in this realm of the unquiet dead. I can recommend such activities wholeheartedly.

[The Barrow-Wight]

Greeting fellow Downers,

I have at last returned from the blistering heat of central Europe only to smolder in the swamp-like sauna of late August in central Virginia. But here there is air conditioning!

PART ONE: Squatter’s Eviction
As others have already reported, four members of the Barrow-Downs administration team conspired to meet on 19 August 2003 in Germany’s oldest city, Trier, a beautiful and ancient community near the border of Luxembourg, and once the seat of the Holy Roman Empire. The venue was chosen mostly because of its central location to all of the participants, but I particularly supported it because it was only 30 minutes down the Autobahn from where I was spending my vacation. Though I traveled 4,000 miles to get to Germany, I only had to drive 60 kilometers to find my friends.

Our journey actually began on the afternoon of the 18th, when I found myself racing through familiar countryside on a quest to rescue a certain Squatter from the bowels of a great flying beast. The winged creature, for it was no Balrog, had landed at Hahn Airport, formerly Hahn Air Base and property of the United States Air Force but now an auxiliary airport for the massive Frankfurter Flughafen. I had worked on Hahn for three years back in the 80s, but it had changed a lot since the Americans had given it back to the Germans. Still, it was not difficult to spot the beast’s lair, and as I waited stealthily outside it’s great sliding doors, I knew that soon my chance would come to snatch the Englishman from within.

Squatter must not have pleased the dragon’s palate, for he was ejected quicker than I could raise my “Lord Etceteron” sign. Though we had never met in person, I knew him immediately by his long, flowing locks and stylish hat (http://www.barrowdowns.com/meeting/hairandhat.jpg) (though he would have been easier to recognize if had been wearing his nursing gear (http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/chat/squatter2.jpg)). He knew me as well as soon as I approached and gave the super-secret and severely-sneaky BD hi-sign. With greetings out of the way, we proceeded to my car, which, in typical island fashion, Squatter attempted to enter from the wrong side. I wonder if Númenoreans also drove on the left-hand side of the road.

PART TWO: The Quest for Holey Sharkey
Finally free of the flying menace, Squatter and I preceded to drive with all haste toward the aforementioned Trier where we hoped to purchase Sharkû’s freedom from a train of Dwarven merchants. The Old Man had been sitting in a boxcar for many hours, and we were determined to rescue him from his captivity. As expeditiously as possible, we two sped through the hilly Hunsrück (Dog’s Back) region under the shadow of monstrously large, power generating windmills, across the Mosel wine country, and down into the ancient city where Sharkey would soon come.

Typically (for me), we were very early in arriving to the station, so we dropped by the nearest pub for a glass of Germany’s finest product – beer. Unbeknownst to us when we chose the establishment, but certainly not a problem as far as the two of us were concerned, the business next to the bar turned out to be Germany’s second finest product – the Eros Center. Rest assured that we did not let ourselves stray. We had a mission, and we stuck to it (at least once the beer was gone).

Back at the station, after some serious bartering for which neither of us was well prepared, we procured Sharkû’s release and he was left by the Dwarves wandering aimlessly about the platform. Neither of us knew Sharkey’s true appearance, so, in order to spot him we decided to use the Chat Wights Page (http://www.barrowdowns.com/chatwights.asp) as our visual reference. Surprisingly, there were no lederhosen-clad, accordian-playing Bavarians to be seen, so we resorted to our only other possible picture of the Old Man - Barrow Comics (http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/comic/bwcomic02.jpg). Though the sneaky orc-lover had his hair tied back, we found him! Ha! Take that, Trebeck! The day is mine!

With both barrow-dudes in my chariot, we quickly left Trier and drove into the beautiful Eifel region of Germany. There, nestled among high hills where the great Eagles made their homes, lay the quaint village of Kinderbeuern, which we proceeded to plunder and pillage for several long hours. Again and again we raided their cellars, emptying countless Stubis (,33’ bottles) and consuming mass quantities of roasted flesh. Squatter and I did so well in our reveling that the Old Man branded us with the White Hand and gave us incredible magic rings that change color with the wearer’s mood. Wow! (I made that last part about the rings up.)

Our main topics of the night were:
1) Celebrity Jeopardy
2) The Young Ones
3) Who we’d most like to IP ban
4) Who we most enjoyed banning
5) Beer and bratwursts
6) Middle-earth

At last, after such a long and adventurous day, we decided to take a break in preparation for The Meeting.

PART THREE: The Four Downketeers
The morning of the 19th arrived at last, and we three arose to meet the day. Squatter had put on his head a tall shapeless felt bag, which he called a hat (actually, it was the same hat as before), and Sharkû wore a robe of many colors (well, it was really a black T-shirt (http://www.barrowdowns.com/meeting/BDSharkuinRomanbath.jpg).). Soon we found ourselves again in ancient Trier, but this time we sought out the crumbling ruins of the Porta Nigra where our tour guide awaited us. Sure enough, when we arrived at the black gates that had stood for more than 2000 years we found what we were looking for – Estelyn.

In no time at all (and for only 5.50 Euros each, what a bargain!), Esty guided us through the city (http://www.barrowdowns.com/meeting/BDSquatterSharkuandEstelyn.jpg), showing us the many interesting architectural features of the Cathedral (where she helped herself to change found in the baptismal), Basilika (where she sang the “McDonald, KFC, Pizza Hut Song”), and Roman Baths (where she led the procession to the inner tomb (http://www.barrowdowns.com/meeting/BD3wightsenterthebarrow.jpg)). It was in the latter that we were most comfortable, for they resembled our beloved barrow (http://www.barrowdowns.com/meeting/BD3Wights.jpg).

Unexpectedly, Europe was experiencing an extreme heat wave during our meeting (41C / 100+ F), so, except for the clammy comfort of the tomb-like baths, we were hard pressed to find a suitable place for the official sit-down part of our meeting. Thanks to Esty’s sharp eye, we managed to spot another underground establishment, and preceded to sit, eat, talk, and laugh for a few hours, during which we discussed many things. Our main topics were:

1) Zones for Ops
2) REB, REB, and REB accompanied by bored sighs from the Old Man smilies/smile.gif
3) Bohemian poetry
4) Strongbad – Eru or enigma?
5) Various old television programs
6) Admin stuff too boring to repeat
7) Middle-earth

Eventually, all good things must end, so we returned to the Porta Nigra where we all awaited our rides. Mine was Mrs. Wight who had the pleasure of meeting Estelyn. She took Squatter, Sharkû, and I back to the valley where we repeated what we had done the previous evening. The next morning, Sharkey and Squatter returned to the train station and took off for destinations unknown (actually, they went to Heidelberg, but ‘destinations unknown’ sounded cooler).

PART FOUR: Impressions (in order of appearance)
SQUATTER: A fine fellow with an entire library stuffed under his hat. He has more quotes than an insurance agent, and every one of them it right on target. With such a wealth of information crammed into that cranium, it’s a wonder he doesn’t have a constant headache. He’s quick with a joke, some of which aren’t over my head. Squatter is a hilarious guy with a great sense of humor and a great ability for enjoyable conversation. We had a great time talking about a variety of topics.

SHARKEY: Noisy. Never stops talking. Always interrupting. The Old Man is a great thinker, and I still complain because his English is better than mine. True, his accent is slightly stronger than mine, but he still knows more about my language than most people I know do. Intelligent and funny, and always ready to do a Sean Connery impression. Sharkû is a lot of fun to hang out with.

ESTELYN: A natural organizer. Give her and idea and she’ll have it flowcharted in 5 minutes and a proposal in triplicate on your desk by morning. With grace and ease, she managed to lead us three bumbling trolls through a bustling European city without losing even one of us. Esty is incredibly nice and extremely smart and it was a pleasure to finally have a real conversation (more than one, actually) with her. A lot of fun!

PART FIVE: Back to the Barrow
As always, vacations go too fast, as do meetings with friends. Seven or eight hours was not nearly enough time to spend with such grand company, and I wish that we could get together on a regular basis, but it’s a big world, and we’re just little hobbits after all.

[Gorwingel]

*Applause* What a wonderful report Mr. Barrow-Wight sir!!!
I am so glad you had such a wonderful time! It sounds like it was great fun!

So Squatter is as smart in real life as he is on computer *thinks*

[Diamond18]

Many thanks for that detailed account of your meeting, BW and Squat. I enjoyed reading about it, especially the daring rescue of the Englishman from the bowels of the flying beast. And pictures, ooooh! So now I know what Sharkû looks like. (Quick, Alk, another Mod for your page!)

That was almost as fun as being there. smilies/smile.gif Well, not really, because now I'm insanely jealous of you for having all those REB discussions without me. smilies/wink.gif For Revenge I will have to make some kind of joke about Lord Etceteron dressing like a postal worker in my next post... smilies/tongue.gif

[Estelyn Telcontar]

For all those who were shocked by the nice smile on Sharkû's face, here is the real Sharku (http://www.theonering.net/scrapbook/movies/rotk/view/7369), with his pet. Be afraid, be very afraid!!

[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

No-one will ever know how relieved I was that we managed to persuade him not to wear that ridiculous outfit into Trier.

I should be concerned about annoying someone who's inclined to go postal if I were you, Diamond. Still, perhaps this just means that postal workers in your neck of the woods are pretty well-dressed folk.

[ August 31, 2003: Message edited by: The Squatter of Amon Rûdh ]

[Orominuialwen]

I met a fellow BDer while at camp this summer, but I didn't even know it until I e-mailed her after I got back. Unfortunately, I haven't found out her Downs name yet.
Also, greetings, Pyroclastic, I am a fellow Wisconsinite :D ! If there's anyone else from the badger state on the Downs, maybe we could all get together and have a cheeseheads in Middle-Earth party! That would be quite fun :cool:!

[One Axe to Rule them All]

Anybody else live in or near Austin, Texas?

[Yavanna228]

Greetings, One Axe. smilies/smile.gif
Try this thread: Well, What About the Midwest? (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=14&t=000960&p=). I'm sure you'll find some people from Texas in that thread. Good luck.
Peace

[Samwise]

Anybody else live in or near Austin, Texas?

Alatariel does. I believe Austin is where she resides. smilies/wink.gif

[Finwe]

That's interesting, because I live in Brownsville, Texas which is about a 5 or 6 hour drive from Austin. I have yet to meet a fellow BDer, but I'm trying to get one of my friends from school to join.

[Alphaelin]

I met a fellow-BD-er for the first time Saturday - our own Estelyn Telcontar! And I *finally* have time to post a report!!

Estelyn was in my area for a college reunion, and we were able to get together for a couple hours that evening. The Valar smiled upon me! I was rushing to her hotel to meet her, sure that she was in the reception area wondering if she'd been stood up. But I pulled into the parking lot only to find a woman with a sort of glowing 'BD aura' just getting out of a car. And it was Estelyn - I didn't even need to show her my Boromir notebook. (Actually, she had given me a very good description of what she looked like. But I'm glad she didn't have to wait.)

After she got her things into her room, we headed out again to our Old Market area so we could sit and talk. The weather was unusually warm for autumn, so we were able to sit outside comfortably for awhile. Over hot cider and cream soda we had a lovely conversation, which ranged from being introduced to Tolkien to RPGs at the downs (pouting: I still wanna do a female Dwarf somehow). And we frequently branched off to talk about our families (I have a Leggy-bopper), our hobbies and avocations, and life in general.

I was especially intrigued learn of some lesser-known weapons in BD lore - particularly a type of bow Estelyn mentioned. And I am off to search for the poetry of Vogonwe!

This post doesn't do justice to our meeting. Estelyn is funny, intelligent, kind and gracious - it was wonderful to meet her.

[Estelyn Telcontar]

Let me add my side of the story to Alphaelin's - I'm very glad we had the opportunity to meet! Since I was later than I had planned to be, I thought she would have to wait and am glad our timing was perfect. Her friendly smile made it easy to get to know her right from the start, and we never ran out of conversation topics. The setting was suitably exotic - the Old Market feels more European than Midwestern; it's one of my favorite places there, and the evening was gorgeous.

I took a picture of Alphaelin, which I will add to this report as soon as I have it ready. She's a lovely person and additional evidence that Barrow-Downers are special people not only here but also in real life.

[the phantom]

I was in the Old Market on both Friday and Saturday night. I just missed you guys. smilies/frown.gif

[Estelyn Telcontar]

I’m sorry that we didn’t meet you there, phantom – it would have been fun to get to know you! Unfortunately, I was not able to do any long-term planning, since my schedule for that day was sketchy – and that’s an understatement. I’d previously corresponded with Alphaelin and had her phone number, so that we were able to arrange a meeting at the drop of the proverbial hat. I’ll try next time; don’t hold your breath though, since I’ve averaged a visit to Omaha about every ten years so far – but who knows? I may get there sooner than I think!

In the meantime, you and Alphaelin could get together – let us know about it if you do!

[burrahobbit]

Estelyn drove past my house and waved.

[Bêthberry]

Yeah, and she waved down at me as her plane flew over my city. I didn't think that was her, because I couldn't make out the face in the window too well, but she told me it was.

[burrahobbit]

I didn't know it at the time, I was still asleep and she didn't say that she would be in town until yesterday. But it happened.

[Finwe]

I met Rowan Earien (a very new member) last week (well, she goes to my school, so you can say that I've been meeting her almost every day!).

[Cuthalion]

I can resist no longer, though I fear my head may roll for it...I'm off to Denmark in 2 weeks to see my beloved Maika! I realise I'll probably freeze to death...but what a way to go! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Maikadilwen]

No freezing! I'll make sure of that! smilies/wink.gif smilies/tongue.gif
(*sigh* subtle, Maika, always be subtle!)

[Cuthalion]

Ahhhhhh, one week...Helsingor, here I come!!
Maika...can't wait to take the mint-chocolate mousse...and I'm not forgetting the whipped cream either! smilies/wink.gif smilies/evil.gif

[Finwe]

Let's not traumatize the baby BD-ers, shall we love-birds? smilies/wink.gif smilies/wink.gif smilies/evil.gif smilies/evil.gif

[Cuthalion]

Nay, Finwe...I have no intention of doing so!

With that said...to say I enjoyed my stay in Denmark is to say far too little! I am getting one incredible package...not only is she beautiful, charmingly frustrating and caustically witty...but...wow! Can she COOK! Eat your hearts our my fellow male BDers. She's all mine! smilies/biggrin.gif

Oh, yeah...Denmark was cool too. smilies/wink.gif

[alaklondewen]

I hoped to post this much sooner than now, but with the end of the semester hitting me with full force I am only able now to tell of my wonderful Thanksgiving with Sophia the Thunder Mistress.

Sophia and I first met over the summer at the first annual Midwest Downers Meeting. When I met her, I felt I'd known her for years, so we've continued to stay in touch. I found out in late September or early October (correct me if I'm wrong, Sophia) that she would be unable to go home for Thanksgiving, and since we go to school in the same state, my family adopted her as an honorary member for the holiday festivities.

I picked Sophia up the afternoon before Thanksgiving, and we spent the first evening catching up. On Thanksgiving, we watched the Macy's Parade and rented several movies as our tradition goes. The next couple of days we shopped, had dinner out, went to see a movie, discussed the issues we have faced in all of the RPGs we've ever played in smilies/wink.gif, and I learned to speak Chicken.

My daughter claimed Sophia after, I think, the first night. You would have laughed to see them going around the house like a couple of girlfriends (my daughter is two). After Sophia returned to her current place of residence, my daughter asked about her for two days...very sweet.

Sophia made an impression on all of us, and I'm looking forward to visiting her at her school after the beginning of the year.

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

You guys should now better: Never let me know where you live, or show me a photo of yours. I'm the serial killer your parents all warned you about. Mwahahaha!!! smilies/evil.gif

On a serious note, I've never met a Barrowdowner, except Lhunardawen(duh!) We've known each other so long, I don' know the answer to "Renech i lu i erui govannem?"

I want to meet a Downer(or Gorthad-dir/wen, if my Sindarin is correct...), but probably not. I'm not that great a host... smilies/frown.gif smilies/wink.gif

EDIT: Who am I kidding?!?! I'd love to meet a Gorthad-dir/wen!

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 1:44 AM January 16, 2004: Message edited by: Nilpaurion Felagund ]

[Saraphim]

Huzzah! I met a fellow Bder! She was sitting next to me for weeks in Chemistry before I finally wore my Barrow-Downs shirt and she squealed and pointed. Now, no work gets done and all we do is talk about the Downs and LotR. Yesterday, our professor yelled at us for talking, but it was so much fun to have someone to argue with over the exact meaning of Arwen.

[burrahobbit]

On Christmas Eve Eve I went down south of the border and met some people. Tinuviel of Denton, her special friend OniGene, and her sister durlossiel.

Tinuviel is a FREAK
http://www.geocities.com/hechooseswitnesses/tinuvial.txt

[Tinuviel of Denton]

So I am, and who was it carrying the Bibleman costume around with him? smilies/tongue.gif

The three of us had fun, though the end of the evening got interesting. Burra wanted to hitchhike home, and Durlossiel and I wouldn't let him. So he slept on our couch (rather to my parents dismay) and we sent him home on a bus in the morning.

Show them the rest of the pictures, Burra.

[burrahobbit]

Leave me alone, freak.

[Raefindel]

Show us the rest of the picture, Burrahobbit.

[Galadel Vinorel]

Man, I wish that I knew or had met other Barrowdowners. *Sigh smilies/redface.gif

Amyone else live in Kentucky in the USA?

Anyone going to the Stuebenville Youth Conference at the Stuebenville University in Stuebenville Ohio? It's in the US. Hope so. smilies/redface.gif smilies/wink.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

[Eorl of Rohan]

Any BDers living in S Korea? Unlikely, but I still have hopes…

[Galadel Vinorel]

Just saw this post:

quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maikafanawen,
Myself,
Nuranar,
DaughterofVana,
Bulelainwen,
Eressie Ailin,
BethoHOG,
and One axe to rule them all,
we all live in Texas.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Me too! I'm from Texas! A Texas BD convention would be great! We deserve a convention of our very own!

YEAH!!! I will be visiting relatives in San Antonio, Texas this December. Do any of you want to meet somewhere? We could have our own 'convention ' or something in December.

I promise, I'm not a stalker nor a kidnapper. smilies/biggrin.gif You all aren't either are you? smilies/wink.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 12:16 PM February 01, 2004: Message edited by: Galadel Vinorel ]

[Finwe]

Add me to the list!

I live in Brownsville, Texas!

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Strange people in strange costumes??? Aren't there statutes against those??? smilies/confused.gif

[Everdawn]

I met a pretty new member Aredhel Ar-Feiniel in the flesh about six weeks ago now. (and only just found this)

We have been chatting on another chat room for around a year and she lived in Sydney (Aust.) and i lived in Brisbane (Aust.) I had tried perviously to meet her when i was in Sydney the numerous times ive been there over the past year but weve missed oneanother. So imagine my surprise when i got a e-mail saying she was moving up to Brisbane!

We arranged to meet at the Queen Street Mall outside of Myer. I was late, (as i usually am) but i told Aredhel i probably would be, but we met at the same time outside which was wierd. You know what, it's so strange meeting someone youve been chatting to for such a long time!I knew her right away becuase I had a photo of her and she of me. We went to a cafe and did lunch on the Brisbane River, and talked about everything that we usually talk about on the net. Guys, clothes, the downs, more lotr and our fave topic of conversation Karl Urban.

After that we went shopping and paddled in the fountain in the Queen Street Mall, (getting many strange looks form everyone). Since then we have hung out a lot and she has become one of my best friends.

(real Oprah moment here)
Thankyou Barrowdowns!

EDIT: I forgot to say, anyone in Brisbane who wants to get together there are a few of us here... mostly my friends who come on the downs every now and then, so just send a PM and well see what we can do.

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 2:08 AM February 02, 2004: Message edited by: Everdawn ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Another Texan here!

Cami

[Galadel Vinorel]

Edited list of People living in Texas:

Maikafanawen,
Nuranar,
DaughterofVana,
Bulelainwen,
Eressie Ailin,
BethoHOG,
One axe to rule them all,
Finwe,
and Child of the Seventh Age.

Anyone else?

Also, I, Galadel, shall be visiting San Anotonio, Texas this December. Anyone who would like to join me in meeting some fellow BDers, please either post a response saying so here, or PM me. I would definately like to meet you all. smilies/biggrin.gif

[Samwise]

Sigh. I'd like to visit Texas one of these days...very much want to meet Texan Barrowdowner Alatariel....

[Luthien_ Tinuviel]

I've actually posted this here before: I'm from Texas, too! Dallas, to be specific. Yes, that's me. It's weird how many Texans there are here. Not sure if I could make it to San Antonio, though....

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

If I say I'm a Texan too, would you believe me?

Of course not, you oaf!

(Above statement made by Adam, alter-ego of Mr. Felagund)