I think bigjohn's pretty much got it nailed.

It's over 2900 miles each way for me (and more for the Californians), and there's no way I'm spending that much time in the car with ANYBODY. I doubt I could get Mrs. Tuttle and the little tuttles on board for that kind of commitment without mouse ears or warm beaches. So, bigwill and peter will have to handle the keg of La Fin du Monde without me.

It's a pity, too, because MY wife makes the best potato salad

Amie, this is a wonderful and gracious idea. I really think you should do it.

bibere usque ad hilaritatem