Wreckmania # 4

[Walter]

Hi Wreckmaniacs!

Wreckmania will be July 19 - 23 in Deerfield Beach Florida.
YMCA Wreck specialty class and trip. I'll be teaching the class and keeping an eye on the diving while Natasha handles the rest of the trip.

"Rettger Resorts Beach Club http://www.rettgerresorts.com
Address: 100 NE 20th Terrace
Deerfield beach, FL 33441
Phone 954-427-7900
The trip will include:
4 night stay July 19th to the 23rd 2002
YMCA Wreck certification
3 days of 2 tank wreck dives
48' dive boat: Lady go Diver
Rental equipment available from: Dixie Divers http://www.dixiediver.com
All hotel taxes @ 11% a day
Daily continental breakfast
Daily Bar B Que lunch .. Hot Dogs, Hamburgers, and sides
Daily Bar B Que Dinners.. Pork Chops, Chicken, Brats, Italian Sausage, and special surprises ...
Also, included is a guarantee to have a great time, and meet lots of life long friends!

Send and make deposits to:
Coast to Coast Travel
1135 Elder Road
Homewood, IL.
60430"

Dive schedule:

7/20 Dive 1 - Ancient Mariner 70 ft
Dive 2 - United Caribbean 70 ft

7/21 Dive 1 - Captain Dan 117 ft We'll stay at 100 ft or shallower
Dive 2 - Jay Doorman 83 ft

7/22 Dive 1 - Captain Dan 117 ft We'll stay at 100 ft or shallower
Dive 2 - RSB One 107 ft We'll stay at 100 ft or shallower

There are still a limited number of slots available for those interested contact Natasha via PM.

DivingGal and I dived the Ancient Mariner and the United Caribbean on Thursday. We spotted three large Blue Parrotfish and a couple of Midnight Parrotfish along with the usual large schools of Glassy Sweepers on the Ancient Mariner. We saw a 5' - 6' Southern Stingray buried in the sand near the United Caribbean. Seas were calm, current was mild the water is warming up. Temps are already in the mid 70's, by July it should be absolutely sweltering.

[Natasha]

Good news and bad news.
Bad first: Cindy and the Chicago OW woman will not be joining the trip now.
Good news: DivingGal will take Cindy's place and room with Sandy, if that's OK with Sandy.
This leaves two rooms open for up to 4 more divers.
Also Scywin or Steve, wants to go to Wreckmania.
He was on my Bonaire trip and my Cozumel trip.
He will either room with Bill or take his own room.
Bill and Dave we need a decision this week, OK?
Thanks guys!
Over and Out.
Mom

[SunshineFish]

And here is a direct link to the webpage that describes some of the wrecks we will be diving:

http://www.dixiediver.com/shipwreck.htm

[DivingGal]

Though I do have my travel agent looking for a great deal.... I don't think anything will come through. Right now airfare down to Fort Lauderdale will be close to 400 USD (ouch)....

As I have loads of vacation time, I figure I will be taking extra time and driving down.

I have space for one (and dive kit). So if anyone that is coming is along my route, and has the time to drive.... I should be able to accommodate. My "roomie" unfortunately has job commitments so she must fly.

If a wreckmaniac is interested, drop me a PM, and we can discuss.

[Wendy]

Have you checked the cost of flights into other airports near by like Orlando or west palm? Maybe someone could pick you up on your way down or you could rent a car. Just an idea.

[DivingGal]

It's really the cost from Canada. I can save maybe 100 if I cross the border and pick up a flight from Syracus, NY - but still in the 300 range. Now if I can get in the 200 range.....

The drive down (and back) won't cost that much, and I'd have the car available to use.

[livestodive]

My wife and I are leaving out of bradley in hartford CT. We are getting these flights for around 150 each rd trip. You are more than welcome to take a flight from here and leave vehicle at our house. we are in MA. So you would need to travel east on I90 to get here but would sure be a lot shorter drive than what you are undertaking. Drop me a pm if you want.

lives :)

[SunshineFish]

I made an offer for DivingGal to leave her car at my house too but as I am 4 hours from MA, she would save driving time by flying out of CT.

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by livestodive
My wife and I are leaving out of bradley in hartford CT. We are getting these flights for around 150 each rd trip. You are more than welcome to take a flight from here and leave vehicle at our house. we are in MA. So you would need to travel east on I90 to get here but would sure be a lot shorter drive than what you are undertaking. Drop me a pm if you want.lives :)


Originally posted by SunshineFish
I made an offer for DivingGal to leave her car at my house too but as I am 4 hours from MA, she would save driving time by flying out of CT.

Wow - you guys are super! PMs are on the way.. :D

[DivingGal]

Got a question for you Walter. The dives on the 22nd - morning dives? Finishing around the same as we had (around 11)?

The reason I'm asking, is to ensure my 24hr "no fly zone" before heading home if I take up a offer to drive to the States, and fly from CT (thanks Livestodive).

I'm still looking at the possibility of driving - and maybe stopping off to visit friends in NC (and maybe even dive hehehe. . . ). If I do drive, I would like to bring my own tanks (and pony bottle) - anyone know of any restrictions crossing the border with scuba tanks? Or who I should ask about this?

[Walter]

The morning dives will be approximately the same times as your recent trip, but always give yourself some leeway.

[DivingGal]

Who's all coming to this party? Is everyone doing the course with Walter?

[Natasha]

June:
Marci and I talked it over, and think you should call your local police and ask for a number to border control.
If you can call them directly you should be able to get an answer to your tank question.


Here's the list for Wreckmania
Heather and Jeff
Mike and Pete
Bob and Keith
Dee and Doug
Sandy and June
Charlie and Pam
Bill and either Dave or Steve
Susan and Lydia
Herman and Kathy
Natasha, David and Walter
Everyone is doing the class but Kathy. She will be helping me cook and shop!

[DivingGal]

I've got a call into US Gov't about the tanks - it will be useful to know not only for this, but for the jaunts over to NY that I have planned this year.

Quite a gang we've got coming....

[DivingGal]

Ok, I really didn't feel like working -- too much snow out there. So I've spent a good portion of my time reading (and laughing) the other Wreckmania threads.
As a late commer to the party, here's what I've gathered - please correct me if I'm wrong.

Natasha you need balance by May 15th
Do you need copies of my certifications -- or if Walter's seen them, do you still need them?
asking for additional diving - afternoon and night - count me in
asking for additional diving - beyond wreckmania - let me know what is planned, and I might be able to extend my visit
Walter dive equipment required: bc, reg, tanks, weights, gloves, reel, slate, "attention getter", bottom timer, computer is nice
First class 19th at 4 or 5pm


Many thanks to Livestodive and Sunshinefish, although I'll still look for a bargin flight, I'll more than likely driving, as a friend and I are now talking about meeting in NC to dive the sub after I've done Wreckmania. Anyone else?

[Big O]

I just got approved for the days off Folks! The Monday thru whatever works fine for me, but the Friday was tuff, but I finally got it off.


Natasha, The check is in the mail....

You should have a VM from me!


Dave

[Dee]

That's good news, Dave! See ya there :D

[Dee]

I just finished what I think is an excellent Dee-Rag for Wreckmania. All the digital camera stuff is packed for the trip but I'll post a photo of Beast wearing one as soon as we get back.

Walter, I'm sending you one...let me know what you think.

[DivingGal]

Well last night I didn't have anything to do -- other than going outside and clearing more snow (sigh).... so I put together these highlights forom the previous Wreckmania threads (and this one to this date)....

It contains the where, the equipment, the training.

[TexasMike]

Originally posted by DivingGal
....as a friend and I are now talking about meeting in NC to dive the sub after I've done Wreckmania.Be sure to understand that getting off-shore to the U-352 can be very dependant upon the weather. Though the charter operators try, weather and sea conditions can limit just which wrecks you dive on.

For information on what's out there, here is a good site for info: www.NCWreckDiving.com

and PM me if you want a recommendation for a nice charter.

[Natasha]

Yes: May 15th is when final payments are due. From now until then, all deposits are refundable. If you cancel after May 15th your money is non refundable. This is because the resort will be paid then.
Walter and I briefly talked about the times for the class. Since dinner is on your own Friday (Lots of cute places around the resort to eat) we could move the class time up a bit to allow everyone to eat first.
Saturday, Sunday, and Monday breakfast will be continental and at the resort with lunch and dinner included, by yours truely.
I've been practicing my Bar B que skills.
Last night we had lemon pepper chicken breasts, Greek salad with feta cheese, and asparagas. Chocolate chip cookies and vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Sound good?

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by Natasha
Marci and I talked it over, and think you should call your local police and ask for a number to border control.
If you can call them directly you should be able to get an answer to your tank question.

By golly if I had looked in the phone book --- there was a number for Customs in Ogdensburg. The chap said no problem with crossing with the tanks, though they might ask me to contect to test the contents.

[Natasha]

If you're looking for a December trip: Belize details are posted now.
This is a trip for singles only. We are looking to hook people up, to create life long dive partners.
If you know anyone interested ..send them the link.
Thanks!

[TexasMike]

Originally posted by Natasha
Last night we had lemon pepper chicken breasts, Greek salad with feta cheese, and asparagas. Chocolate chip cookies and vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Sound good? Only thing better would be warm brownies!

Also, can you PM us with our final totals that are due May 15th? And do I send my c-cards to you or Walter?

[Natasha]

Actually, warm brownies would be easier then the cookies.
I'll also be making a beef brisket over the weekend, so hopefully that will turn into a wreckmanic dinner.
I'll Pm anyone that wants final payments. Most people sent C cards to me, but Walter will take them too.
You can send them with your final payments to save a stamp.

:gorgeous:

[DivingGal]

and here's Walter

strange - the picture didn't post.... I'll have to check the size etc.... please check later

yup file is too big, I'll have to rescan, with a lower resolution.

[Big O]

Did you get my message the other day saying I was coming and I had mailed you a check?

I would think you should get the check around Monday or so.

Dave:blfish:

[Natasha]

Dave:
Yes, I got your message. You're confirmed to go. I've been tied up with the Matchmaker trip.
You were supposed to send 200.00 but it's Ok. Final payments will be here in May and you can just send it all in then with your C card copies.
You're sharing with Bill. That room was 592.98 a person.
Also welcome Steve Cywin to the trip. He is on this board just not too often. He was on my last Bonaire trip and my Cozumel trip.

[SunshineFish]

Welcome wreckmanicac Dave and Steve! :clap:

[Barnacle]

Talk to you soon.

DivingGal....I'm possibly stopping in NC to dive out of Beufort or Morehead City also. I will be there Easter as well. July weather is usually good and seldom get blown out. To me NC wreck diving is it! I'll tlk to you more about it later if you like. I live in Ohio ( near Youngstown) and also will be driving.

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by Barnacle
Talk to you soon.

DivingGal....I'm possibly stopping in NC to dive out of Beufort or Morehead City also. I will be there Easter as well. July weather is usually good and seldom get blown out. To me NC wreck diving is it! I'll tlk to you more about it later if you like. I live in Ohio ( near Youngstown) and also will be driving.

Bonus, bonus.... thanks for the news, and we should chat about this stuff.

[SunshineFish]

Sigh, all these great plans post-Wreckmania and I have to fly back home right away for work! ;-0

On the bright side, the reason I couldn't extend my stay was b/c of a project at work that I really really wanted to be assigned to. (I've waited 2 years!) I figured that I had a pretty good chance of getting this assigment when I booked my air tix for this trip and I WAS RIGHT! My boss has put me on the case and I will be going to Seattle right after Wreckmania. I may even dabble in a little NW diving (altho water wimp that I am.....and after Uncle Pug's report about man-eating barnacles....eek :eek: ....i'm not so sure yet).


SF

PS - Natasha, I will be in Chicago April 18. Maybe we can meet up for dinner if you are available.

[Natasha]

Sandy:
Will you be here for the one day only or through the weekend?

[Barnacle]

[.....and after Uncle Pug's report about man-eating barnacles....eek :eek: ....i'm not so sure yet).


SunShine Fish



Hey now, I recent that statement! Just isn't so. :(

[SunshineFish]

Of course I didn't mean you Barnacle. :D

[Barnacle]

I feel so.....much better now!

Is it July Yet?

[DivingGal]

Only around 115 days to go before the 19th (of July that is)

[Natasha]

It's not July yet. But I'm still testing recipes.
Tonight is Pork Chops stuffed with an apple stuffing... mashed potatoes, green beans, and banana cake.
For the grill I might have to do a cut up baked potato thing and put butter and sour cream on the side.
Not sure how a banana cake will turn out on the grill either. hehehe

[Walter]

The Special Edition Wreckmania Dee-rags are colorful and definately keepers. I'll be diving one on the wrecks on Saturday. I'll try to get a pic of the Dee-rag to show.

Thanks Dee!

[Barnacle]

Originally posted by Natasha
It's not July yet. But I'm still testing recipes.
Tonight is Pork Chops stuffed with an apple stuffing... mashed potatoes, green beans, and banana cake.
For the grill I might have to do a cut up baked potato thing and put butter and sour cream on the side.
Not sure how a banana cake will turn out on the grill either. hehehe


If I would have....I might just be stopping by your place for supper! :)

[Natasha]

Next experiment is bobs. Shrimp K bobs, chicken and beef.
I personally don't eat shrimp. Is there anyone else that will not eat shrimp?
PS The pork chops were a hit. I ended up making a garlic bread with sun dried tomatos, garlic slices, and olive oil on it.

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by Natasha
Next experiment is bobs. Shrimp K bobs, chicken and beef.
I personally don't eat shrimp.

I'll eat your shrimp.....

[SunshineFish]

And I'll help! Pass some yummies over!

Walter- will we get a sneak preview of the special edition Dee rag?

[Walter]

I'll try to get a picture of it. It's very colorful with pictures of anemones, clownfish, butterflyfish, moray eels, puffers, filefish, lionfish, triggerfish, grunts............it's beautiful. You'll love it.

[Swamp Rat]

Natasha, being the sole surviver at my house that walks on two legs. I'll eat anything that just stop moving. About the only things I cant not eat is a Mader and Asparegass. Oh... by the way that is a Tomato.

Walter you not worried about something trying to take a bite of one of those fish you going to wear on your head? :shark:

[KC_Scubabunny]

Originally posted by Natasha
Next experiment is bobs. Shrimp K bobs, chicken and beef.
I personally don't eat shrimp. Is there anyone else that will not eat shrimp?


Jeff and I eat shrimp. In fact we eat anything but Sweet Potatoes. That is how I knew he was my soulmate, he was the first guy I met who, like me, will eat anything except sweet potatoes.

Natasha - are you looking for recipes to try? Jeff has a few good ones for Orange Roughy that he makes on the grill in foil packs so they are very easy to clean up. I could send you the recipes if you would like.

:bunny: Heather :bunny:

[Natasha]

I really like Orange Roughy. When we get down to about 30 days send it on over and I'll print it.
Thx sounds like a winner!

[TexasMike]

On the K-Bobs, one idea that I've done that was a hit for the party was to lay out all the meats and veggies and let folks skewer their own to hand over to the Grille Meister. This way they get what they want and have some fun "experimenting".

Oh, if Don's coming along, can we add Iguana to the menu??? :tease:

[TexasMike]

Lessee.....Wreckamania Check List: Great Diving
Great Friends & fellowship
Great Food
Great Beer (or whatever you prefer)Did I miss anything? Or did I just create saying for the back of the T-shirt?

[SunshineFish]

How about a top 10 list? I'll try to put on my thinking cap (NetDoc - maybe you can share some of your creative juices...I'm running low :mean: )

[Iguana Don]

Originally posted by TexasMike
Oh, if Don's coming along, can we add Iguana to the menu??? :tease:

No we can't, that would be cannibalism

ID the Social Reptile

[NetDoc]

without having a fat juicy Manatee steak! :tease: Marinated in Orange wine, you know it has to be great!

[SunshineFish]

Originally posted by NetDoc
without having a fat juicy Manatee steak! :tease: Marinated in Orange wine, you know it has to be great!

You don't really eat the Manatees...do you? :(

[Walter]

No, but Bottlenose Dolphin is excellent fried in Manatee fat.

All teasing aside, our ancestors did eat Manatee. There's a place between Key Largo and Tavernier in Florida Bay called Cow Pens because that's one place where "Sea Cows" were coralled.

[NetDoc]

Originally posted by SunshineFish

You don't really eat the Manatees...do you? :(

Uh... not me... carving them up like that only ruins the hide and then I can't make manatee purses and belts and shoes... :tease:

Actually, them thar sea cows are quite protected! It is illegal to even PET a manatee in a state park. They are too cool to even think about destroying for whatever reason. And besides, I wouldn't want to get Jimmy Buffett on my back, now would I???

[SunshineFish]

Whew! Scared me for a second. I know I eat strange things but between fear factor and survivor I don't know what people will eat these days.

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by SunshineFish
Whew! Scared me for a second. I know I eat strange things but between fear factor and survivor I don't know what people will eat these days.

I'd save you from that strange stuff... and feed you good safe Canadian food like Beavertails and Poutine.

[Natasha]

Wreckmaniacs:
I have posted a new pic on my profile. This way you can see how I'm much more "Momlike" then my old pic.
I hated when people would meet me and be disappointed that I didn't have that tan, or that dress on from the other picture. Oh yeah, and that I didn't walk around with the champ!
So here's mom, older .. but still happy.
PS That's Marci with me.

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by Natasha
Wreckmaniacs:
I have posted a new pic on my profile. This way you can see how I'm much more "Momlike" then my old pic....

You still look good girl!

[Dawn]

Hi Walter, My husband is interested in your July wreck dive class. First are there any spots left? If so what's the cost and is this certification for wreck penetration dives? By the way, we like the idea of diving with Paradise Charters. Thanks for the tips.
We'll be down there July 10th thru the 19th.
Dawn

[SunshineFish]

ditto!


Originally posted by DivingGal


You still look good girl!

[NetDoc]

"HOTasha"

[Natasha]

Thanks for the all kind words! You guys aren't trying to butter up Mom to get a bigger Easter basket this year, are you? Nah, not my kids!

:gorgeous:

[Natasha]

I almost forgot.
A very special 'Thank You' to LadyDiver for making a really cool spot for my Cozumel Pics.
Go to www.scubaphotos.com/natasha

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by Natasha
I almost forgot.
A very special 'Thank You' to LadyDiver for making a really cool spot for my Cozumel Pics.
Go to www.scubaphotos.com/natasha

Ah so that's what you were doing.... looks like you had fun.

[Walter]

Irene & I met Moo on the Lady Go Diver for a morning of diving. Irene is a new member of the Caloosa Dive Club http://www.diveclub.org/ and excited about diving. Captain Rob put 29 divers on board the Lady which is more than I've seen on board before. It worked well because the crew is excellent, but it is a tad crowded with that many divers.
Our first dive was not the Sea Emperor as advertised, but the Ancient Mariner instead. I'm not complaining because they are about the same depth and I actually prefer the Ancient Mariner. (our first scheduled dive during Wreckmania)

We were the first divers in the water, descending in order - Moo, then Irene with me bringing up the rear. Moo soon disappeared into the depths while Irene took her time equalizing and descending. When we arrived on the wreck, Moo was patiently awaiting our arrival. We toured the entire wreck, inside and out. It was Irene's deepest dive ever and her first wreck penetration. Moo was diving his brand new AL 100 with nitrox, so he stayed quite a bit longer after Irene & I ascended.

Our second dive was on Separated Rocks. This was a float dive. I took the float while Moo stayed with Irene on the descent. Reaching the bottom, I immediately spotted a sleeping 4 ft nurse shark. I anchored myself on a rock and let Irene pull herself down the line too me. It was her first shark. It's always exciting to watch someone seeing their first shark. Later in the dive, we saw 2 Caribbean Reef Squid. It was a very relaxing drift. A grand time was had by all.

During the surface interval, Moo broke out his cooler and provided sandwiches for our group as well as oranges for us & those nearby.

Upon arriving at the dock, we headed up to Delray for a visit with Jo & MB. Moo, Irene & I sat on the front step and broke into Moo's cooler again for more sandwiches while waiting for our hosts to arrive. We spent several hours visiting with Jo & MB before heading back across the state.

Dive 1: Ancient Mariner - 74 ft, 38 minutes, EAN 40, viz 50 ft

Dive 2: Separated Rocks - 43 ft, 55 minutes, EAN 40, viz 40 ft.

I wore the Limited Edition Wreckmania Dee Rag the entire day. Moo took some photos, so we should have some examples posted soon.

[Natasha]

Walter: Great dive report! Thx for sharing it.

Over the weekend quite a few people had time to write to me! My email box was so full!
Seems tons of people want that last room for Wreckmania.
I had to put everyone on a wait list for now.
The reason is I have had divers in upper management that might also want the room.
I also am thinking of 'saving' the room and not selling it at all.
The reason for this is, if anyone has a small problem with their room, such as a shower not working, I want to be able to have somewhere to move them.
So, unless upper management wants the room, I am going to hold it out and not sell it. So sorry. I do think that is the best thing to do, really.
Walter and I have already talked about Photomania (an underwater photography class) for the future, with a well known underwater photographer, and Wreckmania II for next year.
Save up and join us next year, if you weren't able to now.
Thanks!

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by Natasha
... Walter and I have already talked about Photomania (an underwater photography class) for the future, with a well known underwater photographer, and Wreckmania II for next year.


whine, whine.... love the idea of "photomania" -- but if held this year, I can't go;-0 (not unless someone pays my way :D)...

looking forward to seeing that stylish Dee-rag Walter.

[Natasha]

June:
This year is already full for me too.
I am working on trips for 2003 now.
So far I have decided on Curacao March 1st to March 8th 2003.
I would like to put Photomania in Florida in June 2003.
I am also thinking of Wreckmania I "Continues" .. for the divers that have dove Wreckmania I and want to dive different wrecks. {This might back up to Photomania dates}
And Wreckmania II for new wreck cert divers, doing these wrecks again July 2003.
I will also offer Bonaire every year in the fall since it's a good place to dive in the fall, and known to be out of the hurricane belt.
Also June:
Please post the idea you emailed to me over the weekend. Let's hear the feed back. Ok?

[DivingGal]

Pheww - glad the Photomania will be next year. Pair it up with Wreckmania Continues -- great idea. Where do I send the deposit again? hehehe :D

Here's the idea Natasha mentioned.

I am really looking forward to Wreckmania and meeting folks I (so far) only know through chatting with through the magic of the internet. I got to thinking, as part of Wreckmania that as the only non-American I would host/sponsor something uniquely Canadian.

My original idea was for one of the meals.... however, Natasha has informed me that there are 20 of us involved in this party, and my budget won't stretch for a whole meal. So instead, I would like to host a nibbles occassion - a sort of mini-Canuck party. On one of the Wreckmania days, I would put together a "whole mess" of snacks for you Americans to try out. Nothing too weird, but all of it interesting.

What do you say? Are you interested?

[SunshineFish]

Roomie - That is a great idea for cultural awareness! And I also say "YES" to anything that has to do with food. :lunch:

[DiverG]

Well looks like I waited to long to join wreckamania. I'm still thinking of going to Florida during the week of Wreckamania. Is there any plans for diving after Wreckamania is over as I would love to meet you guys?

DiverG

[TexasMike]

Lessee....fried moose antlers, stewed beaver tail, hocky puck pate, and roast mountie. Hooo-Doggies! Them there is enough fixings to make even Granny Clampitt shed a tear.

[TexasMike]

Natasha and Others.....

I will be headed to Florida before Wreckmania starts to meet up with and dive NetDoc out of Orlando and that area. So if anyone wants to link up for the earlier stuff, let us know.

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by TexasMike
Lessee....fried moose antlers, stewed beaver tail, hocky puck pate, and roast mountie. Hooo-Doggies! Them there is enough fixings to make even Granny Clampitt shed a tear.

I gather --- somewhere in there is a "yes" TM?

Trust me (she says with manical laughter in the background), trust me :tease: there won't be anything strange, more than likely something done up with real maple syrup (vs that yucky stuff I always see south of the 49th). Just some interesting sampling.


Originally posted by Sunshinefish
Roomie - That is a great idea for cultural awareness! And I also say "YES" to anything that has to do with food.

good thing you're saying yes, you might end up being my sous-chef!

[TexasMike]

Originally posted by DivingGal
I gather --- somewhere in there is a "yes" TM?Si, mi amiga.
good thing you're saying yes, you might end up being my sous-chef! So when does your episode of Iron Chef appear?

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by TexasMike
Si, mi amiga.[b]So when does your episode of Iron Chef appear?

It was on already. You mean you missed it? Well there goes the possibility of me coming back --- low audience numbers...

[SunshineFish]

Originally posted by DivingGal
good thing you're saying yes, you might end up being my sous-chef!
Sign me up - I will gladly help taste, er, prepare the food! ;)

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by SunshineFish

Sign me up - I will gladly help taste, er, prepare the food! ;)

Thanks roomie.... I'll e-mail you with some ideas that I'm bashing around --- but shhhhh we don't want to tell the maniacs about it just yet. ;)

[scuba-sass]

Wow, a girl goes to French Polynesia for 2 weeks, and she sure does miss a lot! You guys have been very busy.

The trip was fabulous, and I promise a trip report soon. I'll try to include some pics from the 26 rolls of film we used....

As for food, a subject second only to scuba in my book, Lydia and I will eat almost anything, with one exception. Lyd is Lactose Intolerant, which means no Bovine Dairy Products. This includes milk, cheese, butter, sourcream, yogurt, etc.... She can enjoy goat or sheep milk cheese (which all GOOD Feta is made from, although the common grocery store variety seems to be made from cow's milk these days.) and a wide variety of soy products. She hates to make a big deal about this, but if you could try to leave the butter and cream sauces on the side it would be greatly appreciated.

Also, if any of you Florida Cowboys or girls have figured out how to milk a sea-cow, she might be willing to sample!

We're really looking forward to this trip!

Happy Diving,
Scuba-sass :-)

[DivingGal]

Scuba-sass's comment of Lyd's lactose intolerance, brings up the question:

Wreckmaniacs - anyone else have eating problems? Allergies?

I can't eat onions or peppers -- I like the flavour, just can't really eat them.

I'd hate to bring something that everyone couldn't have a taste of.

[NetDoc]

Originally posted by scuba-sass
Also, if any of you Florida Cowboys or girls have figured out how to milk a sea-cow, she might be willing to sample!

Your wish is but my command... I will bring some for your enjoyment. But, don't call us "cowboys" or "cowgirls"... We are known as "Florida Crackers". We were named thus for the whips we used when driving cattle through the swamps and grass lands of our fair state. Who says we're not a kinky state??? Whips and manatee milk... what a combination!!

[Natasha]

Sass:
Welcome back! I can't wait to hear about your cruise. My Olivia catalog came, and it sure looked awesome!
As for the food stuff ..
It might have looked like I wasn't sure what I was doing ..but being a Mom for 18 years and having a son that is 6'1" and 167 lbs. .... qualifies me to be a cook! heheheheh
So no worries. I would have left the sour cream and butter on the side .. and the onions and garlic too .. but I will spice some of the meats up a bit for those that want them. (Me) I will post a purposed menu soon..and you guys can make the changes ..how's that?
Also, who else has "special needs," and what are they? Pete ..not those needs ...

[scuba-sass]

Thanks, Natasha - I knew we could all count on you to please our every culinary whim.....

What, no Chateau Briand? That's it, I'm not going to play....

Just kidding, of course! I'm sure your menu will be delightful, and I'm looking forward to the spicey side of things.

Everything about our vacation in French Polynesia was fabulous. So wonderful, in fact, that I'll have to wait for some free time on the weekend to compose the trip report!

Happy Diving,
Scuba-sass :-)

[Natasha]

Sass: I can hardly wait for that report. I want to hear about the ship too. I've heard it's awesome.

Now for the food ..
Here are some of my thoughts.
Thought #1 I like good food
Thought #2 Since there is so many of us.. we have enough money to buy good food!
So Thought #3 ..I wondering if anyone (Beast) might have a smoker they could bring? It would be great to smoke a turkey and a brisket.
If not we can still put good food on the gas grills.
So let's talk Food! I was thinking of a seafood night on the last night (Monday) and buying shrimp and orange roughy and such for that night .. a steak night and getting sirlion, and the first night being chicken and pork chops if we can't have a smoker.
Your hungry thoughts please ...

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by Natasha
... So Thought #3 ..I wondering if anyone (Beast) might have a smoker they could bring? It would be great to smoke a turkey and a brisket.
If not we can still put good food on the gas grills.
So let's talk Food! I was thinking of a seafood night on the last night (Monday) and buying shrimp and orange roughy and such for that night .. a steak night and getting sirlion, and the first night being chicken and pork chops if we can't have a smoker.
Your hungry thoughts please ...

No smoker, but I do have a small portaable bbq if you think we need it.

Only one thing to say about the food - "You cook it we will come.... "

[scuba-sass]

I'm going to need to get a "drool protector" for my PC!!!

[Dee]

Originally posted by Natasha
.....So Thought #3 ..I wondering if anyone (Beast) might have a smoker they could bring? It would be great to smoke a turkey and a brisket....

Smoker? You mean one of those lightweight aluminum bubbles that you yankees use to smoke meat? :tease: No, we don't have one of those. What we DO have is a regulation, pipe constructed, TEXAS Bar-B- Q pit that would require a low boy trailer to get to Florida! :D

Seriously, I'll ask Beast if we'll have room to take the small pit.

[Natasha]

OK I admit it. I didn't know what a smoker was until I started living with my TEXAN husband. (Yankees go out to eat a lot)
He has some heavy thang .. big, black, scary lookin, but makes all the neighbors jealous when he smokes meat in it.
If Beast sees it in his big Texan heart to fit that pit in the van.. we can have some really good down cookin food.. along with some special "Oh Canada" fix'ns too!
From Chicago all I can offer is some deep dish pizza ..which would get soggy on the plane.
Now if Sass is willing to bring some lobsters down .. and KC some Kansas City Bar B Q we just might have a real food frenzy going ...

[scuba-sass]

Bugs don't fit into those airline seatbelts too well, and besides - they tend to give the flight attendants the willies...

Now if y'all want to head on up to New England some time, we can have chowder, and bugs and killer apple pie!

Scuba-sass :-)

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by scuba-sass
Bugs don't fit into those airline seatbelts too well, and besides - they tend to give the flight attendants the willies...

Now if y'all want to head on up to New England some time, we can have chowder, and bugs and killer apple pie!

Scuba-sass :-)

You're too funny girl.... can I head "down" to New England?:D

[Barnacle]

I'd be glad to bring the one you guys gave me...BUT....it went the same way as so many other things, lost in the divorce. Oh well....worth every bit of the cost. But I digress.


Natasha....Hate to be anal about it, but I do have a peanut allergy. All I ask is if you are cooking with peanut oil you let me know, or not, and I can furnish some entertainment for you. When you've enjoyed the show enough, just hit me with my eppy-pen and I'll be ready to dive.

AND......you sure are making me hungry!

IS IT JULY YET!!!!!

[NetDoc]

I have three compadres who have their smokers with trailer wheels attached. I will check to see if I can talk one of them out of it for that week... of course, thats almost like asking them to let their wife come over for a spell... I will also have to be sure that my little Nissan truck can pull them!

[scuba-sass]

Diving Gal - So Sorry! Didn't mean to be so geographically prejudiced! You can come on down any 'ole time. :-)

NetDoc - some folks, if offered a choice of losing their SO or their Smoker for a week, wouldn't hesitate to be without companionship, as long as they could still BBQ! :-)

[TexasMike]

Originally posted by NetDoc
I will also have to be sure that my little Nissan truck can pull them! Just remember....you've already broken one toe using your truck....

[Natasha]

Pete and Dee:
Thanks so much. But if it's too much trouble don't worry about it. The smoker was just a thought. We can still have peanut butter and jelly sandwiches on the grill. (grin)

[Barnacle]

Originally posted by Natasha
Pete and Dee:
We can still have peanut butter and jelly sandwiches on the grill. (grin)


PEANUTS??????:(

Did you not read my post.
I got it..................You want the 'show'!

[Natasha]

Hehehe I was only kidding. The only thing I would use peanut oil in would be the deep fryer. (Another one of those Texas toys)
So if anyone wants to bring a deep fryer ..we can make a turkey in there too. Yeee Hawwww
PS Is anyone bringing the kitchen sink? Mike and Pete volunteered to do dishes. ;)

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by Natasha
Hehehe I was only kidding. The only thing I would use peanut oil in would be the deep fryer. (Another one of those Texas toys)
So if anyone wants to bring a deep fryer ..we can make a turkey in there too. Yeee Hawwww
PS Is anyone bringing the kitchen sink? Mike and Pete volunteered to do dishes. ;)


Peanut oil would be a no-no too for Barnacle... if you were use a deep fryer (unless you DO want the show)

Heck if I knew the boys were going to dishes --- I think I'll change the "Canadian" nibbles to something that will use every available pot and pan. hehehe

[Dee]

A friend of mine is also allergic to peanut products. She uses Safflower oil in place of peanut oil when deep frying various things.

On the other hand.....I'd kinda like to see the Barnacle Bill show! :mean:

[Walter]

As long as the Barnacle Bill Show doesn't include a tattoo that would freak me out.........

100 responses is plenty for a thread. http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=8026 Wreckmania # 5.