ecurbh and I are having serious doubts about being able to go to shootmoot... I just haven't wanted to say so yet. We really want to see all of you, and also make our side trip to OK to ride with Becky... but we just aren't so sure we can.
First we have the situation with ecurbh's new job. His job is going really well and is a good opportunity for him that we don't want to risk with time off requests... and he won't have a week or two paid vacation to burn yet in June.
Second is the farm sitter situation. After the headache and expense of having to fly in a farm sitter from OHIO for this last trip, it fatigues me to even think about finding animal care for an even longer trip in the near future.
Third is money... we want... no NEED to buy a horse trailer this spring. We NEED to go trail riding this summer, any one of these years might be Bay's last, and we've built all our plans on this hobby that is taking up all our time and money and worry. We'd easily burn up the cash for half that horse trailer in this trip.
So that's our situation. The situation isn't making it ~easy~ to go.
I understand the doubts. It's not a clear decision for me either. I've been going back and forth. I'd like to get together with everyone.
At the same time, I live in a three ring circus. I have to think seriesly about adding any stress factors.
I've got enough frequent flyer miles for the trip. And I've got the time. Although clearing things with Rasputin could be tricksey, especially since I HAVE to be in Kentucky two weeks later for my 25 college reunion. I'm hosting AND I'm VP of the Alumni Board.
On my end, I've got to wait 'til things settle down with Nana before I can discuss this with the Mrs.
Well, you know that I want you both to be at ShootMoot.
That said, I can understand your situation at the same time. Being your friend, I can only hope that everything sort of falls into place and you're able to make it when the time comes.
Prayer has never failed me before, so I'll keep working on this request and see how it pans out.
Worse comes to worse, I'll take another trip later this summer to do the tourist thing in Washington and invade your privacy then! ;-D