Val and Michelle, I live the closest to the L.A. airport (1/2 hour drive). Richard lives a bit further away and Kelly is now quite a drive away. Sara lives about an hour and a half away.

People have stayed for a week - or just a few days - or just overnight and have driven back home the next day.

I have a Toyota Highlander (better known as Scotty) and it can seat four people and a lot of luggage.

But here is the problem that I have encountered. Last year people flew in from Canada, New Mexico, Washington D.C. and other places around the country. Where I could, I tried to pick them up at the airport. The problem is that not everyone arrives at the same time - or even the same terminal........so it took some planning to coordinate flight arrival times and days of arrival.

I had to speak up and say that I just cannot drive to the airport on the day of the BBQ - Saturday. It just became difficult to have a house full of people - a BBQ to prepare for - and leave to go to the airport. Just not enough hours in the day.

Because of gas prices, the taxi services, shuttles and cars have become very expensive. I just flew back from Boston in December and encountered this in Boston as well as L.A. It added a considerable amount to my flight cost.

Last year it was costing $40.00 one way - and this year it is closer to $50 - $60. Outrageous in my mind.

Due to that fact, I am very sensitive to the cost for all of you and want to try to pick people up when I can do it.

I think the closer we get to the actual date and people have reservations we can make better plans.

As to housing or hotels - Richard does have a good idea about finding a house to rent for a week..........but where? It's a good idea - but not so easy to find someone who would be willing. (a furnished house, of course).

My house isn't that large and last year I had three house guests and Richard spent the night in a sleeping bag in my backyard office. One guest slept in my den with the hideabed - one on a blow up bed in my breakfast room and another on the sofa.

I have one bathroom - and if you followed last years thread you heard that I had plumbing problems (no ones fault - it was just ROOT REVENGE!).

Ha, and I know what that comment will bring - just abuse about my shaving my legs!

I just had this idea of possibly renting a motor home..........hmmmm, I have no idea how much that would cost or if we could even park it at my home.
But it is a thought.

I know as we get closer to the date these things will work out - they always do..........and I am very sensitive to the costs for everyone.