BTW Sabine could you e-mail me a copy of your photo? Thank you so much.

(Lizza J)After all it was all in a day's work for him and I would doubt has any special significance for him, while of course for us it is different!!! I've said that before, too, haven't I? It actually stroke me Sunday evening, when I was strolling not far from the theatre, that he was probably going through the same again...equally affable with 200 other people...and would do it again next day and the next...

Bless you, Elena! How wonderful that you will be a face for me now. We should have a separate drool category for the rest of us to post pic of ourselves so you can know us better. I guess your husband knows now!!! LOL. Many a husband has benefitted from repressed lust for Darcy. Of course this harmless fantasy is healthy!

Quite right too Marcia. I find other women's reactions more interesting than men's. I was treated to a really vitriolic tongue tirade by a female colleague on my return about the whole thing. despite being the same age we obviously have a very different outlook in life!! Normally I would have rushed hotly to our DB's defences but I just smiled a very serene smile, nothing could puncture my mood!!

Possible visitors at Drool Some of you said they feel uncomfortable at the idea of Colin and Livia visiting drool (me, too, actually). There's a direct link from firth.com to Spring - do you want me to remove the link? *** .even though Allison doesn�t want to hear about photographs anymore, I don't want to hear about them, I want to SEE them!!! LOL! Me too, me too! I would love to see *any* pic taken at the Donmar, with or without Colin (but I guess you know which I prefer, sorry, girls). Perhaps it is possible to edit the pics in a way that only Colin is left, and then the pics could be put up. Or, an alternative, they don't need to be posted publicly on Spring. We could put them on a "secret" page, only for those who know the link. What do you think? Send me whatever you want to share, to be put up or not. And let me know which must not appear, and which can be up oaded. Also if you have something that still has to be scanned. renate@twinwave.net *** America Off Line Oh, Marcia, thank you very much for a good laugh!

Alas, My Email (except for AOL) is still shooting blanks. Nothing coming through. But what pleasure I will have when it does. Gi, have you gotten your sound files yet?

Lizza, your colleague was jealous! Just ignore the boorish attitude. Renate, a secure place where we would have to login would be ideal - like we have to do for chat and for here. Excellent idea!

Marcia, I'm desperately trying to send you an e-mail via aol.com with the CF pic, but the connection keeps crashing (Loved "america off line" too!) Renate, I think I'd probably be more comfortable if the link to Spring were removed... But {I confess I haven't really explored colinfirth.com recently, except go there to look for (im)possible chatters)}is there another possibility for people to leave posts there? So we know they've been there ;-)? Also, the secret page sounds good (kind of an Enyd Blyton mystery) although I don't really mind showing my face - and at least Elena doesn't anymore either :-)

Let me try this again:

Did it work?

If Elena can do it so can I. Don't cut me out from the group pic if you place it on the Internet--after all we do want to see where his other hand is. (Please don't consider that snide. I just really want to see where it is too since all I could remember was the feel). Gi, your very lucky to have Antonio. Could you please email me a copy of the pics you have. My address is jclark@azstarnet.com. Thanks! Karen where are you?

Well, Gi, you did it. Between my hanging-up AOffL and your crashing server, it is a wonder. The Picture is wonderful! And, it is so appreciated. I have a special folder for "real" pix of the man himself and the ladies who were there. =)

I imagine that Karen and Evelyn, who have both been affected by the huge snow storm are hopefully putting down their thoughts to be posted later. Renate, the link for drool should go to the colinfirth.com topic(I forget the number, definitely not here). ;-)) Also Renate, check Time Out when you're in London because they do list cyber-cafes. We would love to hear you opinion ASAP on 3DOR. I'm happy you have all decide to post the pix and look forward to seeing them. Heide, I'm still in awe from your CF encounter. I'm sure you're in dreamland.

Renate, the link for drool should go to the colinfirth.com topic(I forget the number, definitely not here). ;-)) That way we can have another birthday celebration for him on its first anniversay, a party he would not mind attending (heehee). Just a thought.

(Marcia) Renate, a secure place where we would have to login would be ideal - like we have to do for chat and for here. Excellent idea! Nothing with login, I'm afraid, don't know how to do that, but it is safe enough to upload to some unconnected page, and then it's up to you if you pass on the URL in email only, or publish it here. And, Gi, please email me the pic(s).

Gi has just sent me a picture of you all and what an elegant and lovely group you are. I am so happy to meet you!!!

Well, we were all trying to look good for one another and you-know-who...

(Marcia) Renate, a secure place where we would have to login would be ideal - like we have to do for chat and for here. Excellent idea! Nothing with login, I'm afraid, don't know how to do that, but it is safe enough to upload to some unconnected page, and then it's up to you if you pass on the URL in email only, or publish it here. And, Gi, please email me the pic(s).

This is all very fine but I must work tomorrow! Ta-ta!

I did, Renate, hope you got them. See you all tomorrow!

I've tried to put in the link for colinfirth.com, but apparently this works with the "restricted" link only. The "public" sends you to the main page automatically. And to register you have to go via the drool main page, and from there you can choose all boards. Have to check with the geeks if there is another way.

Renate, did you get the pix Gi sent you? Yes, check with the geeks, but I'll bet they won't be of help. I was horrified to see my button snipping from the day before posted on the public reading place.

--My Mommy always told me never do (or say) anything you didn't want appearing on the front page of "The Times"...!!! Now I see what she meant!

And now...for something COMPLETELY DIFFERENT... Chloe--In spite of your (I am sure impeccable) powers of observation, the last data I have last seen quoted on the Brothers Firth give Jonathan's height as 5'11" and Colin's as 6'1". So RANGIER, I'll agree with, but TALLER must have been a trick of the light or of position. And don't look to the father if you want evidence of the hair-loss genes so feared for our DB...look instead to the grandfather on the mother's side. Sadly, it is passed from mother to son and then father to daughter...

We are rapidly approaching "the year 2000" response-wise. Might we set up a new topic site cleverly disguised as something entirely different to put you-know-who off the scent?? :-)

Yes, let's make a switch. I remember that immediately after my (meager) encounter with the DB, we had 116 created. Let's just create new topics every time someone from drool meets him!

Renate, we hoped the pictures could be put up privately at colinfirth.com. I'm still hopelessly techno-phobic but Karen has become quite adept. Perhaps you two can work out the details. I'm sure Karen will post soon. Her views on the evening are too good to miss. Evelyn? Are you still driving? Just waiting to hear that everyone got back safely. I understand the concern right now about our thoughts being available to the world but nothing has really changed. Does anyone have any ideas how to remain accessible to newcomers if we delete our links? This page is not for Colin but for us. I'll listen to options but I, for one, am against deleting our link at colinfirth.com. I've tried to put in the link for colinfirth.com, but apparently this works with the "restricted" link only. The "public" sends you to the main page automatically. I'm a little confused here, Renate. Easy for me, I know. What and to what are you trying to link? Anyway, I am dying to see the photos too. Like Lizza and Gi already posted, the event was much more significant to us than to him. ;-) Sending him a photo would not have any meaning to him really. But it's going to live in our memory for a long while. I'm afraid my mind is pretty much a blank when it comes to being photographed with him. When Dame Winter posted her story I had a hundred questions but now I understand that composure goes out the window along with attention to detail. I just had this sense that he was next to me (actually above me, I think I was standing on the step below). I do remember the rough feeling of his coat under my fingers but that is it, I'm afraid. I think there's something to be said for going back the next night and ju t hanging back and drinking it all in. Unfortunately, there was no performance the next night. Renate, when are you leaving for London? Please stay after the performance. It only took about 15 minutes and there is strength in numbers. The last performance should be extraordinary.

I haven't formulated an strong opinions as to whether the Spring link should remain on colinfirth.com, but I will say that it takes a hell of a lot of know-how to even register for the darn place and a pretty fast computer to download all messages. I'm sure, even if he saw it, would be deterred by the technolgical obstacle course of it all. Maybe if you just posted 'spring.net', at least you will stil have the link, but knowing how to get into "Colin Drool" would require asking someone how to do it.

MarciaH-- had a great chat with you the other day. Thanks for a lovely time. Unfortunately, that phone call that came in ended up being a 4 hour call!

Hi Everybody....just got home today. Took me 24 hours! Got stuck in the snow storm in Chicago!!Will you forgive me if I don't post my report tonight...it wouldn't be lucid....Promise to do so tomorrow and will answer all questions. I just want you all to know how v. proud I was to be part of the Spring Group in London last Saturday ..and I include "the boys" too! It was apparent that Colin caught the energy and warmth that bonds us all together.To those not physically there....you were there with us in spirit and made us a better group. It was Pure Magic; like Elena, I shall never forget Colin and Heide, both beaming ...while the flash bulbs popped all over the place. A Great Night for Spring!!

All is forgiven. You are home safely and still drooling. We will wait upon your convenience. I have given you all a good look-at, and I am so very impressed and more than a little intimidated. You look so professional and so important. Then there's the one with that Cf person (the one with the loose curl on his forehead..=P)..and I saw that you were all just like me. We can put up a very decorus front, but underneath is an ardent Firthophile. Your secret is safe with me. Winter, loved the chat with you. Look forward to many more. The longer I know the lovely people here the more you become family!

Evelyn, so glad you're home safely. Heide, Lizza, Gi, Elena, Jana, Ann, Sabine, Emma (did I forget anybody? I hope not) thanks so much for the details of your adventures. Karen, we look forward to yours! I've been rushing home every day from work and flipping on the computer, and hours later staggering off to bed. It is difficult to have missed out on the adventure, but it would be much more difficult if we could not share in all the details with you. Thanks for every little tidbit you remember. Looking forward very much to seeing the pics!

We are rapidly approaching "the year 2000" response-wise. Might we set up a new topic site cleverly disguised as something entirely different to put you-know-who off the scent?? :-) It's no use to hide the newest topics - where we behave very ladylike most of the time - when the old topics are still there to see for everybody. And I recall some pretty raunchy stuff in the past, including FanFic. There must be at least a dozen topics we filled over the year. but I will say that it takes a hell of a lot of know-how to even register for the darn place and a pretty fast computer to download all messages. Good point, Winter. Renate, we hoped the pictures could be put up privately at colinfirth.com. I'm still hopelessly techno-phobic but Karen has become quite adept. Perhaps you two can work out the details. I will not be available for 4 days of rain, from Friday on ;-D. So I guess it's best Karen takes care of the pics.

Welcome home, Evelyn. We are all looking forward to your travellers tales. Re Spring and privacy. As you are probably aware, I am a v private person so I understand people's concerns but Spring is such a great way for other Colin fans to find out more about their hero. It would be awful if we became a clique to which others were excluded. I think the chances of Colin or Livia really working their way through all that is posted here, are very remote. With regard to photographs, then I understand that some more secure page is necessary and I bow to the more computer literate as to how that might be d ne. Cutting the link from Colinfirth.com to Spring would be a bad idea IMHO. We should be as inclusive as possible. Gi, am off to do battle with my E-mail. I do hope I shall find you all there (minus Ann...booo...hooo). Mant thanks. BTW hold tight onto Antonio, he sounds perfect.

Evelyn, glad you made it back safely. Can't wait to hear what you told Colin when you met him outside the theatre with Karen. Heide, what Renate is trying to do is to have the Spring link from colinfirth.com go directly to topic 110 (where we had his birthday celebration), this makes perfect sense.

BTW, Renate, have a wonderful time. The last performance should really be special. If you get to wait for him, ask him about his other films's release date and if he plans to attend the premieres and of course mention cf.com. Buon viaggio!

and also Renate will you ask him when he is to start filming Donovan Quick, have a lovely time.

Agree with all who wish to keep the Spring link intact at cf.com. Agree with Winter's comments about needing time to register and download all posts. That's what kept me away from here for so long. If C&LF have only been to the internet once, IMO they won't jump in here. (Good Lord, I hope not, especially to Fanfic. **BLUSH** ;-)) Glad to hear of your safe return, Evelyn. I thought you and Karen would be affected by the weather. Look forward to your recollections--don't forget to include your 'maiden' encounter with the DB on Friday. Aren't you glad you didn't stay home and do your spring cleaning? Speaking of staying home, I would like to thank the lucky ladies who went for keeping us Firthless few included in your comments. IMO after such a thrilling experience, there's a natural inclination to gear remarks to those you've met. Lastly (for now), thanks to those who've been chatting (esp. "chatmaster" Marcia). It really helped me this weekend!

Goodness. What an experience, and what boldness! Fair reward for your adventurousness, say I. It sounds like you had a justifiably wonderful time. I was trying to imagine JE posing happily for photographs surrounded by bunch of drooling men, flown in from all round the world, and somehow I can't see it. Life's so unfair. Having said that, your success owes a lot, I am sure, to your own collective charm, CF's grace and the ingenuousness of your regard for him. If he was at all worried before that you were all like so many Monica Lewinskys he can't any longer be. Where did you eat, in the end? And where did you manage to stay?

A thought -- I agree that sending a copy of the group photo to CF probably wouldn't mean much to him, but it might be cool to send a thank-you note to his agent or whatever saying how much his consideration and kindness toward Spring was appreciated. That might encourage him to keep it up. BTW, did we Spring-ers end up sending flowers or a good-luck telegram backstage? Also, re: the great "to-clap-or-not-to-clap" debate -- did people clap when he first appeared on stage, or restrain their applause till the end of the act? And thanks to everyone for your reports, no detail is too small for me;-)

After reading the different views on whether or not to keep the link, I changed my mind and agree it's probably alright to leave it. Anyway, either the embarrassment would be mutual and they would leave us alone here after reading a few posts, or they would enjoy themselves madly and keep reading, or eventually they would stay and the quality of the debate would change, and how can we foresee if for better or worse? So, let's just be who we are and hope we're good enough!:-)

After reading the different views on whether or not to keep the link, I changed my mind and agree it's probably alright to leave it. Anyway, either the embarrassment would be mutual and they would leave us alone here after reading a few posts, or they would enjoy themselves madly and keep reading, or eventually they would stay and the quality of the debate would change, and how can we foresee if for better or worse?

(Susan)I agree that sending a copy of the group photo to CF probably wouldn't mean much to him, but it might be cool to send a thank-you note Exactly, and I do not understand why we couldn�t send the photo to him as well with thanks. It�s quite clear that it wouldn�t mean anything special to him, why should it! But what it would mean to him is that his fans appreciate his friendliness very much. When I suggested that we send the photo to him I really didn�t mean to try and personify us to him somehow. I just think his way of treating his fans is quite unique and deserves to be thanked in some nice way.

Antonio's report as dictated by himself at 5 a.m. at the airport waiting for our plane Dinner was pleasant but short; it was practically impossible to get to know everybody. Only two men being present, I dare suppose that some of the ladies came unbeknownst to their husbands. I think that any sensible husband should be happy that his wife have a few small fantasies, because they work as a safety valve for the routine, and a little fantasy colours life. The play: the acting was better than the production itself, or the play. Colin was possibly better than the others, but my judgement is not unbiased. I had heard so much about Colin that I felt I was part of the "family". Anyway, it was a good experience, made me want to go to the theatre more often. The male actors were definitely the better ones, they played their characters very differently in the two acts. EMcG, to my eyes, didn't almost change, either physically or in her acting. A deaf person wouldn't know the difference. Besides that, she was very uncivil. Unlike Colin, who gave autographs with a smile and talked to his fans, she never even looked at me when signing the program. I don't usually ask for autographs, but my pride wasn't hurt, I just thought it was bad taste. I extend my best wishes for you Internet group and hope that from this interaction something good may develop.

Elena, I am so happy to have seen you at last. It would have been so sad not to see the lady who shares so much with me in many ways. You and I do not like cameras and freeze, but in the photo with CF, you are all happy smiles and I adore it. I have printed out the pictures to remind me of what great people are on the receiving end of my postings. Thanks again for reconsidering!

Emma, e-mail me your address, won't you, so I can send you some pics!

Thank you, Antonio. How wise his observations. Gi, it sounds like he would not oppose another intra-continental journey to see something worthwhile. I think he can put down EMcG's bad manners to either shyness (in theater?!) or not caring. Either way, she is the loser because her life will never be enriched with an attitude problem like that. Antonio is welcome here anytime. How kind of him to take the time to further our understanding of this encredible event.

Evelyn, it is great that you are back again, safe and sound amongst us. We are all looking forward to hearing all your impressions. Renate, have just the most wonderful time. There can be no doubt that you will. I shall think of you at about 10.08pm when the play is about to end for the last time. Could be emotional!!

Btw Susan, on my way to the Donmar I bought a bunch of flowers in a nearby shop, having great difficulty deciding what to get!! What flowers are you supposed to give to a man anyway? I�ve never done that before, like many other things I did that evening. Tried to find a card of some kind to attach to it but found nothing suitable. I ended up writing in the wrapper, luckily it was a nice green one, in big letters �To Colin with love, Helena S�. They told me in the box office to just leave the bunch in the foyer on a box where there was just one other flower thing, a big and very artistic arrangement with a majestic card. And? It�s possible that he never saw it or just threw it away because I didn�t see any flowers in anybody�s hands that evening, not even the big arrangement. Possibly he just left the bunch backstage and all right, I just hope he at least saw it.

Dame Winter , never say your experience was meagre. Could we each have achieved so much alone?? You were our inspiration. BTW I had quite forgotten to post a comment I heard from the row in front of me on Saturday evening. Apparently our DB had been in the audience on "Morphic Resonance" the previous week. Obviously doing his homework like the thorough professional we know he is.

Your flowers were a lovely gesture Elena and he will not have ignored them, it would not be like him. Do you all want me to send some flowers for Saturday to thank him for his kindness, consideration ( and damn fine looks)!!, no seriously,I will do that but is the message better relayed via his agent?

Gi, I loved Antonio's comments, please thank him, he is very kind and considerate. On second thoughts, I won't send ANY flowers until someone sends ME an e- mail picture. Marcia I may have to rely on you!!!!!!

(Antonio)The male actors were definitely the better ones, they played their characters very differently in the two acts. EMcG, to my eyes, didn't almost change, either physically or in her acting. A deaf person wouldn't know the difference. Antonio, you are smarter than my DH. He keeps going on about how wonderful EMcG was. I agree with your comment about her not changing between the two halves. What happened to her Southern accent? I know about Southern accents. We have a lot of friends from the South and they do not sound like E McG! Re sending photos. I am probably not the one to say this as I am too much of a wimp to "come out" for Colin but IMHO it is a bad idea. It all looks a bit too "groupie". I think you should try and give the impression of a bunch of cerebral women who really care about acting and the theatre. If you want to send him something, make it a reasoned thanks for his acting. If he secretly hankers after women droolers, he has only himself to blame for denying it so often. And if that is what he really wants.. .I am out of here.

Thanks, Marcia! I�d love to see your face too. Please, email me a pic!! Btw, you were so right when you assumed before the Big Saturday that we were nervous mainly because of meeting each other. I remember nobody cared to comment that! Truth is I really was worried about being possibly quite different from what the others had expected. What a strange and fantastic situation it was to meet everybody and how lovely it was too. Which reminds me....Hi, Evelyn and Karen! Like everybody, I�m waiting eagerly for your reports!

I think flowers and a note, rather than the photo (and thats not because I am not in it!!)thanking him for his patience and kindness to his fans and complimenting him on his acting would be a wonderful idea Lizza and I would be only too pleased to contribute if you will email me.I just really can't get over the fact that he spent so much time with his fans and apparently he is doing that every night, what a gentleman, I shall never believe that he resents his internet fans or any of his fans come to that, he was absolutely charming.

Ann, Lizza, Gi, Emma, Heide....my husband wants to know if we can email you pics in JPG form, whatever that means (I know practically nothing about these things). He could do that with the help of a scanner at work. Email me if you�re interested.

I hope Gi will not be upset with me - I gave her the credit! Lizza, the pictures are entering your mailbox about now. Anyone else?

Elena, would you include me too? Use my alternate Email as my regular server is down.....critter514@aol.com Thank you!!!

Wow! Thank you everybody for sharing your wonderful adventures! I am so thrilled for all of you and look forward to seeing as many pics as possible :) Lizza, i too would be willing to contribute to the flowers and card, just let me know how much and where to send it Evelyn- mailed off the tape yesterday, it should arrive soon. Thanks a million times! :) I am eagerly waiting for your and Karen's reports! SBR

Elena, unfortunately I think my computer needs updating cannot accept email photos but I could let you have my postal address!!

Marcia- i'm at work- i'll meet you in chat if you'll tell me what the url is again.:)

SBR meet you there... http://firth.com/chat/talk.cgi

Hi all! I've finally caught up on all the posts and relived the experience of a lifetime through your words. Unfortunately, I can't imagine there is much to add. (Other than what he might have been carrying in his pockets - did anyone grope around there??) As has happened before, my brain turns to mush in these types of situations. I recall the well-behaved "mob" surrounding him on the stairs, flashes going off wildly, and am thoroughly amazed at how well he took it all and wonder what he was thinking hroughout, especially when he heard where people had come from just to see him in this play. First off, I want to say how incredibly wonderful it was to meet each and every one of you: Lizza, Ann, Gi, Helena, Emma, Sabine, JanaC and my buds Heide and Evelyn. From each of your accounts, I can tell this experience meant as much to you as it did to me. While seeing Colin on stage was the trip's objective, getting to know each other--albeit for a short while--was the icing on the cake. Also, it was truly fun to meet your friends, fiances and spouses and to watch them get caught up in the craziness To Deb, James, Antonio, Susan, Delia, and Helena's friend, a pat on the back FOR putting up with us and being such good sports. In my capacity as one of the hosts and official bestower of honors, I must confer a title on a certain gentleman, and a true gentleman and knight in shining armor he is!! For his unselfish gesture in offering his first row seat (at the foot of the bed) to a damsel in distress, I dub thee Sir James! Ann, you are the luckiest of women. What a dear man. BTW, did he comment on all the black and blue marks from when I kept poking you in the arm? ;-) I am eternally in your debt and I would offer up y first born child in recompense, but you have two grown children already and would not likely want the bother again. ;-) Also, thank you for all the newspaper clippings. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you. (I'll see about putting you into the group shot!) To join the chorus, I thought Colin was positively brilliant in the play. Those parts (both Ned and Walker) were tailor-made for him. His accent to me was very nondescript. Didn't seem particular to any region (except when he said Bahsten), which is fine with me. After getting over the jarring experience of hearing him with that deepened monotoned American accent doing his opening monologue from the bed, it all fell in place for me and I didn't think about it again. Alan Alda-ish? Yes, somewhat. I d dn't hear him slip in and out of the accent the way the other two did constantly. Being so close to him throughout the matinee performance, while trying to maintain my composure, was extremely difficult. At one point in the second act, he came over right in front of me to turn up the stereo (while Theo and Lina are arguing) and we are at eye level. Arghhhhhh! I am trying to keep my expression calm, but I'm sure my eyes opened wider than they ever have. There is so much to praise in his performance. Yes, that Look of longing with Lina; actually there was another - the first time she gets close to him when they come into the apartment. But in the bed scene, if there was ever a time when I wanted to change places with someone, it was when EM was curled up against him. She kept slithering over him and sliding around and it appeared she was looking for that flared area in one's pelvic bone to crawl into. (Far more intriguing than a supersternal notch!!) hen she couldn't keep her hands off of him. Good thing I had hot-glued my feet to the floor as a preventative measure and I sat on my hands!! I am going to have to go over the script again to remind myself of the particular scenes and lines that I loved. However, I did adore the way he hectored Pip after the Oedipus comment, when he pulled over the stool and sat there with this legs crossed, awaiting his pearls of wisdom. The man's body language speaks volumes. Another little bit was the demonic look in his eye when he burns the journal and exclaims that he feels like Hedda Gabler. But the speech, when he explains to Nan about an ambitious a chitect wanting to jot down his deepest darkest thoughts and his incredible disappointment with cryptic journal ("three days of rain." A weather report. A fucking weather report"), it doesn't get any better IMO! Now, EM was another story. I really don't understand any of the praise she received. Pardon my bluntness, but she sucked, big time. Colin deserves far better. About the only thing I thought she did well was the coquettish stuff in Act 2. David M was good. I liked his suave "daddy-o" (Joan of Arc song) at the beginning of Act 2. That was a very nice interpretation of a cool character from the early sixties. Reminded me of old Sinatra moves. (Sort of a "Come Blow Your Horn"-type character, but nice. But he didn't know how to work the "Walker is in pain" monologue to its rallying crescendo. We'll discuss the play in more detail next week, after Renate, Maria and Kirsten see it. Wouldn't want to ruin the experience for you. The Friday encounter: That's what you all want to hear about, huh??? Eagle-eyed Evelyn (filling in for our MIA sharpshooter Bethan) spotted him alighting from the taxi that dropped him off in front of the theater. We were on the other side of the street, in front of Belgo's. Evelyn and I zipped over. Colin appeared to be looking at the pictures in the lobby. Evelyn definitely took the initiative, asking for a couple of programs to be autographed, which he glady did. Don't ask me what the conversat ons were all about as I was in nearly catatonic state. Then it was my turn. I too asked for the autograph and he asked how my name was spelled. Such a considerate guy, wanting to get all the little things just right. I mentioned that I had seen the play in Chicago, and he looked at me and asked how it was. I said it was difficult to be objective in that I had been visualizing him in the performance and how differently he would have played the role. He smirked at that and said "I expect so." Idiot t at I was, I should have asked to have my picture taken with him then and there. It was so empty and I had my camera in my purse. BWAAAAA!!!! About the only thing that makes me feel decent is that he asked where the one from Chicago was after the show, when we were doing the group shot. He then asked again how the shows compared. I still haven't stopped beating myself up over this one yet. Both Deb and Heide can attest to the fact that it kept me up all night. I believe all I could manage was something to the effect of: "You and the other Chicago cast would have been perfection." Robert Lawrence had 40 percent of his brain blown away and e was more coherent than I. What a waste is that thing between my ears. :( I'm sure Evelyn can fill you in better. One last nomination. If there is to be a Spousal Support Group, I nominate Antonio to be the group facilitator. He certainly has the right perspective. Gi you are such a lucky girl, or should we say that Antonio is such a lucky guy! There were a few comments from last week that I wanted to respond to so here goes. (chloe) Colin's dad...hasn't lost his hair...but it had receded from front hairline...and, genetically speaking, that's what may happen to Colin's 'bonce, so there's hope yet. Sorry to burst the bubble but baldness is inherited from the mother's side. (winter) Any of you make it out to Highbury today (unless this match was ages ago)? I believe the "bear" and "Pope" analogies apply here. ;-D Went to Highbury on Sunday even though it was cold and rainy. Gift shop was closed. Damn!!! Heide had her eye on a "Double" duvet that was marked down in the window. I wanted the socks and boxers (but not the same ones as in the film; those must have been available inside). Took pictures of the WRONG house (the one that Paul and Sarah looked at was the first or second from the corner) and the street at the end when they walking toward the tu e station. (Winter) BTW, Any sign of NH in the Donmar audience? No, and I was looking for a shiny pate from on high! (LisaJH) IMO, it is CF's combination of intelligence and kindness that makes him the thinking woman's man. Amen to that!! (Winter) When I told him that CF was co-starring with Elizabeth McGovern, he paused for a moment and then said (in disbelief), 'Elizabeth McGovern??? Wasn't she just in a bunch of those 1980's 'screw-movies'? What could she possibly know about theatre in England!" Please tell your friend the answer is "nothing," except how to get glorious reviews from the male critics. (Gi) Elizabeth McGovern came down first...Someone questioned her about the southern American accent she tried to do on the second act, and she explained it wasn't easy to do because she actually came from Chicago. ROTFLMAO!! Does she mean to imply that we are speech-impaired here? (Didn't Gary Sinise win an Emmy for portraying George Wallace?) Honeychile, being a room with Southerners for 10 minutes will cause one to speak in a decent southern accent. It is by far the easiest to do, especially if one doesn't have to be specific to a region! Lina is southern. Doesn't say if she is from Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia or wherever. What a copout!

My vote on the link to cf.com. is leave it there. Winter's point about how technically difficult it is to access us is enough of a deterrent! Spring Drool is not for the faint of heart. If he or Livia could wade through the tens of thousands of postings, my hat's off to them. Also, please do not send any photos to my hotmail account. I have exceeded the maximum amount of space allowable and its administrators are threatening to delete some of my messages. Must do some housekeeping. Thank you Sabine and Susan for the picture. Hard copies, anyone?

Lizza, I would be very willing to contribute toward flowers for the closing performance. Have some pounds tucked away.... ;-)

Oh,Karen! How exciting! How very much we looked forward to hearing your story. And I am looking at your picture and realizing you are as good on the outside as on the inside. Thanks for allowing us along on the most incredible adventure. I am delighted for you and more than a little jealous;)

Lizza and others - Regarding his agent, I don' t recommend you trying to get a message to him through that channel. I know for a fact that gifts and messages sent via ICM London often never even get to his agent, much less through to CF. But others did enjoy the macadamia nuts...

Karen, considering that you once said you would probably freeze if you met him, you should congratulate yourself! You have a conversation with him, and the wonderful critic in you must be delighted. Remember way back when, we onced discussed his hands, any comments? Is the ring finger longer than the index finger? :-) Ladies the flowers and note for the last performance is a wonderful thank you to Colin. Make sure you mention both Spring and colinfirth.com My e-mail will not take photos so I am looking forward to seeing the pix's here. Gi and Ann what great guys you have. Mine will not tolerate anything to do with CF. (And I have some friends who are screen writers whom I would love to have offer him scripts) I am still hopefull that I will meet him someday. Evelyn, waiting to hear from you.

Thanks for offers of help towards flowers Ladies, I will be in touch. Is it from "Spring" that you would like it signed? Please advise. You all have the incomparable, wonderful Marcia to thank as she sent me the photos , great stuff Gi and Antonio. Karen a wonderful report, brings it all back. I couldn't agree more re E.M Allison, my friend also praised her, I was surprised he was "taken in" by her!!

O.K you just answered that one Moon!!

I agree with luvvy, send the flowers to the theatre. He will see them there and with Livia, might even take them home.

Gi please ask your husband to send one to me too. Thanks again.

I just saw E.M. in A&E's Scarlet Pimpernel, and she was terrible. No feeling for the part, no accent and her eyes were very puffy and she looked old. Don't have to guess who she scr... to get that part, her husband probably set it up. Lizza, you may also remind him all the countries represented from drool who came expressly to see him. It is very touching.

"After all it was just a day's work to him...I would doubt [it] would have any special significance for him". You want this to be an event of specisl significance for him because it was...all his netfans expressing their appreciation. Please pardon me, I have not had a chance to read any posts since last night and cannot post again until tonight, but suggestion has been made to: 1) send him the group photo. That was nixed for reasons above. I think the gift of flowers and the group photo (and any others not in the group) would mean a great deal to him and remind him of his allies around the world and the special trouble they took to support him. And 2) I began to feel, like Marcia did initially a bit left out. It was as if the Drool "family" was beginning to split into an "In" contingent and an "out" one with all sorts of suggestions of how to pull us out of general circulation. I thought that was what Spring net was all about...sharing with all. I HOPE all are having second thoughts about this...( there is still e-mail for the exclusive your-eyes-only outrageousness sometimes rampant here!) The shoe's on the other foot! "There's too much information out there. ...don't think it is appropriate to be peering into what others are doing [or thinking or saying] all the time....the internet is where [you get} it". Sound familiar? This forum is needed to share with all of CF's fans our appreciation and admiration...it is needed to spread this all over the world. Keep it public and if there is something you don't want out there, then don't put it there!!! Long since out of my meager time. I pray I am not soap-boxing unnecessarily...with love for all you guys, KJArt

Welcome back, Karen! Hope the snow's under control. I enjoyed reading your detailed post. he asked where the one from Chicago was after the show, when we were doing the group shot. He then asked again how the shows compared. I still haven't stopped beating myself up over this one yet. Will you please bask in the enjoyment that HE REMEMBERED YOU and stop beating yourself up?! Same to the rest of you! Everyone's regretting something (what they said, what they didn't say, where they stood, pictures, etc.). Take a deep breath and savor your experience for what it was! It was great, I'm sure! BTW, I thought EMcG flopped in A&E's Scarlet Pimpernel. Her performance seemed flat and she played a Frenchwoman with a British accent (hmm, seems she's got a thing about accents). Pictures please! Whatever and where ever! Just post 'em somewhere!!

I just saw E.M. in A&E's Scarlet Pimpernel, and she was terrible. No feeling for the part, no accent and her eyes were very puffy and she looked old. Don't have to guess who she scr... to get that part, her husband probably set it up. Lizza, you may also remind him all the countries represented from drool who came expressly to see him. It is very touching.

I'm very very sorry Karen if any of us who were lucky enough to go to London made you or Marcia or anyone else feel "left out", I can assure it was not my intention or anyone elses I am sure and I take you point that there is always email for one to one comments. It was just such an amazing experience that I guess we all got carried away. BTW Karen, James said he will be pleased to accept the honour bestowed on him and any time you need a front row seat just get in touch!

Sorry about the double post. And Lizza I mean the countries represented by Spring, do not mention drool. ;-))

Karen, what a geat report! And news to me, I didn�t know that you talked to him about the Chicago performance after the group shot. Seems to me that you handled that situation wonderfully even though you seem to doubt it. Isn�t it terrible, whatever you do or say in a situation like that, afterwards you unavoidably feel that you blew it more or less. Lizza, please, I want to join in the flowers/thank-you card too. Luvvy, could you tell us everything you know about the mail handling in the agency? No use sending him anything through that channel then? I actually sent Colin a message (first ever) last week through ICM, naive that I am.

(Lizza J)Do you all want me to send some flowers for Saturday to thank him for his kindness, consideration ( and damn fine looks)!! You have my vote for the flowers and note, how can I contribute? (Lizza J)On second thoughts, I won't send ANY flowers until someone sends ME an e- mail picture. (Marcia)I hope Gi will not be upset with me - I gave her the credit! Lizza, the pictures are entering your mailbox about now. Marcia dear, I consider those pics Drool property, to be shared among us at will. I have sent them to Renate for her to put up somewhere where we all can see them, and hope the others will too! (Elena)Truth is I really was worried about being possibly quite different from what the others had expected. Younger and thinner, for sure... I think everybody was a revelation for me; I didn't know what to expect - Antonio asked if you would all look like computer nerds - now we Know better! (Elena)....my husband wants to know if we can email you pics in JPG form... Yes, but I'm not sure they'll print very well with my equipment, so I'd prefer the hard copy version, if it's alright with you. Of course, you can also do both! :-) (Karen)my brain turns to mush in these types of situations... What about mine! Nothing to say but that he is very talented and that we came for far away...Yuk! (Karen)We'll discuss the play in more detail next week, after Renate, Maria and Kirsten see it. Wouldn't want to ruin the experience for you. Good idea! Has Tumbledown been thoroughly discussed, or do we open another topic?

Karen R, sorry about this after my last post but I just wanted to say that please don't go to the trouble of adding me to the photo, I'm not bothered about not being in the photo I just wish I had actually been there when the photo was taken with CF. hope that makes sense, sorry to go on that is the last time I will mention it.

And , Karen, your brain seems to be in perfect order... He remembered you, and also Evelyn!I can only hope that Livia might have remembered to tell him of our talk...

I really don't know where to start...I keep reading and reading and reading, and thinking "I must comment on this" and then another message is posted, and I'm totally distracted! All I can do is post a few random thoughts...no coherence at all. I think what really amazes me is the closeness of your contact with him, the intimacy of the theatre, the fact that you could observe so much about him,( from zippers to hair!), and then that you actually met him, talked to him, were hugged by him, talked to his wife, sat near his parents... As a "worshipper from afar" who would have been more than content with a distant glimpse from the Upper Circle back row, I am truly all amazement. Has it altered your perception of him at all? For me he's still the slightly fantasy-type Darcy figure, athough now for some reason, when I think about him, the strongest image I have is of his ever so nice parents applauding and beaming with pride! I shall never watch "Playmaker" again! I've thoroughly enjoyed all reading your reports. Karen, I thought that it was particularly significant that he picked up on your Chicago comment and was interested in hearing about the differences in the productions. Great opportunity for a one-to-one serious discussion there! But I think you did well to say ANYTHING!! On husbands/partners...I'm working on mine, but it'll be a long haul! He liked SIL, well, that's a start I suppose, but the whole CF thing, I'm just not sure about!:-( Antonio and James and Allison's husband (despite the EMcG wisecracks!) sound great! But, on a more serious note, one thing my DH would respect Colin for is his involvement in supporting asylum seekers. My husband is on the committee of the local Action for Refugees group...I don't know if this is the group Colin and his mum support. But I've been reading some case studies of the refugees (absolutely heart-rending stuff)and the less than humane treatment they can receive in this country. I really admire CF for getting actively involved in this cause and wish his views had been reported roperly in the Telegraph. Too much of a serious diversion...Back to 3DOR! I was interested to read your reactions to EMcG. What I can NEVER understand is why British theatre critics nearly always give female actors rave reviews and savage the males.(CF being an honourable exception, thank God! ) I've always suspected them of bias...now I know... BTW, where was Colin in the billing? The pre-performance publicity all seemed to stress that EMcG was the lead (Perhaps at EMcG's insistence, or her agent's? :-)) Allison, did you say that Alan Yentob was there and wanted to speak to Colin. I was trying to remember what is Alan Yentob's current job (if "job" is the right word). He was Head of Drama for BBC2 wasn't he, or was it some other channel. There have been so many changes recently. Am really rambling from point to point! Big news item in the Telegraph on how Harvey has spent �10million promoting SIL for the Oscars. Other studios are calling "foul!" BTW I was really pleased that both GP and Rupert Everett mentioned Colin FIRST in the SAG awards!! About time too! Ben, I hope that one day CF and JE will appear on stage together, and I'm sure that they'll both have their full compliment of admirers! Did you see my quotes about JE from the dubious weekly "Now" magazine? Those of you yet to see The Man Himself, do enjoy! Renate, the last night should be something special...maybe there'll be a party after the show. That's me done...Evelyn,it's your turn, you're the one with real news..I only peddle second-hand trivia!

On another note, thank you ladies for your kind comments on Antonio (IMHO all perfectly deserved); he is very flattered and I think is starting to feel like one of us. Hope your husband feels the same way, Ann!

(Ann)I guess we all got carried away You bet. Completely, I can say for my part and I�m still there more or less, it just has to be poured out. I think all of you who weren�t in London with us have endured our endless 3DOR reporting VERY patiently.

Please, please, Bethan, KJ, Marcia, anyone who feels "left out", stay with us! Can't you see the reason we go into so much detail in our accounts is to share with you who were not so fortunate this time? It is so that you will not feel left out!

I made a word-for-word report so that everybody could share with me!So no more in-circle and out-circle. Not even we and you, OK?

Karen, Evelyne, Heide, Ann, Elena and all the other London-goers, I'm so glad you had such a great time meeting in London and that you enjoyed the play as well as the "signing" afterwards. It's so exciting to read all your stories and personal views. Thanks for sharing! I still can't believe I'll see him on stage on Friday. Reading all your reports about the play even rises my anticipation (if that's possible at all). I have a great respect for your asking him to pose for a group picture. I'm afraid I wouldn't even have the courage to ask for an autograph nor to take pictures. So I'll restrict myself with enjoying his performance - and the rest of the play, of course) what's already more than I'd ever have dared to expect. So it'll be a very happy weekend for me, I think, and not the least because I'll be able to meet some fellow Firth fans in person. I'm really looking forward to this as much as to the play. It's a pi y I couldn't make it to meet all of you too. But perhaps we'll have another chance.

Oops, Karen, I nearly forgot: re: Arsenal Shop closed. Arsenal has a website (sorry don't remember the URL, but it may easily be found via yahoo or something) and as far as I remember you can do a shopping there. So you may be able to find the famous boxer shorts after all :-)

The best part of being last is that I can always say that I don�t have much to add!! Thanks for your patience. FRIDAY NIGHT: I had gone to see Monet Exhibit at the Royal Academy (skip it...too crowded).And was to meet Heide and Karen in front of Belgo�s .I got there early and chatted with the guy at the box office. I had promised Nan a program and really wanted it signed. He told me that CF signed them but it would take a few days...�What? I�m leaving Monday�He then said CF was due at the theatre any minute.H&K arrived. We were waiting in front of Belgo�s when I saw Colin entering the theatre lobby (recognized the back of his head....so would anyone who has watched P&P as many times as we all have).K& I bolted across the street. Very politely, I asked if he would kindly sign the program....�Sure�. I had one signed for Nan and one for Heide who stayed in front of Belgo�s.(Twenty -four hours later she being photographed with The Man Himself!).Karen commented about 3DOR in Chicago.She told him that she had not liked the Chicago Walker/Ned ...and ...she felt sure Colin would play it differently.I then told him that we had come from the US expressly to see the play. His face lit up...and he said �I hope you�re not disappointed�. I said �You never disappoint us...never.� Then....he beamed us one of those Dutch Girls smiles.....replete with dimples.He signed two programs for some guys and went up the stairs.

SATURDAY Excitement was running high...Heide couldn�t eat...Karen couldn�t sleep OR eat. I ate and slept for the two of them!! We arrived at the theatre at 3:30 to meet all the Spring FirthFans. (We had decided to bag the term �Drool�!)What a treat to meet everyone. I hugged James without thinking!! (Sorry Ann). The play was superb. I particularly noted that he has a different acting style on stage. Uses those gorgeous hands a lot...more so than on big screen and tv.I am a New Yorker and the accent was great.Anyway Ned was from New England and chances are that Walker was educated at a fancy architectural Ivy League college;the accent was probably trans-Atlantic.Thanks to Marcia�s suggestion, I took my opera glasses and was able to discern every subtle nuance on his face. (Saturday night we sat in the first row of the balcony and I was too embarassed to use them much....I was the only one....) After the show we had a lovely dinner at the Nuovo Restaurant beneath the theatre.(The waitress was from Ft.Lauderdale.....Gi, I am sending you a darling pic of you and Antonio at the restaurant). Thanks Lizza for making the arrangements...(and yes I vote to send him flowers on Saturday). I had told everyone to stay after the show since the guy at the boxoffice told me Colin always signs autographs. Whe he started to come down the stairs all you could see was flash bulbs going all over the place. Talk about fever pitch!!He worked his way down and finally we convinced Heide to pose for a picture with him. By now he knew we were a group from the Internet who had come from all over. But lest you think we were unruly...let me assure you that we were dignified.....pretty cool. There were even some fashion-plates amongst us....Emma in an outfit that she had purchased in London...Gi looking v. Paris chic.Most of us wore black or subdued colors.I think I told him where everyone was from. I can�t explain the feeling in the room at that time....suffice to say that the admiration and affection was �palpable�.He was obviously quite moved.and he reciprocated in the way he knew best...by giving of himself. Witness that on Friday night he signed the programs �Best Wishes�...For our group, he signed �Love�. At this point he looked at me and said...�I remember you�..and I silently mouthed, �You were wonderful�. You know Marcia...the group photo was your idea....remember you said...facetitously....�Bring back a picture of the group in front of the Donmar with ODB�... Well....here was the moment..(Bethan, take note....one must seize the moment...it never comes back) I went up to him...patted him on the arm and said �Would you spring (no pun) for a group photo.?� He said, �Sure, if it doesn�t take too long. Should we do it outside?�. Me, �No, it�s cold and wet out there�. He suggested in front of the boxoffice.So I called out for all the Spring girls to gather. (I did not explain what Spring was ...maybe he thinks we�re a spa!).At this point he asked Karen how this production compared with the one in Chicago.Ann, I called you , but you were chatting outside and I did not want to keep him any longer. I was arranging the group...and so was he. He told me I was not going to be seen and took me by both shoulders and placed me in front of him ...as if to say...�Get over here and shut-up�.At this point he spread his arms wide around the back row like the cast pic in the Making of P&P. I think they are on Jana and Lizza�s shoulders. Sorry Lizza that you were not seen...you were probably too busy drooling over his hands!!The flash bulbs went off like Roman candles. And he took off....To our credit, we knew he was going to a pub, but we went in the opposite direction....he had given us so much...time for him to enjoy his family and friends .For those who keep a diary (�boys keep journals�) we had drinks at the Mountbatten Hotel bar courtesy of our host Heide. On Sunday I went to see Jennifer�s new film, This Year�s Love...twice (once for Ben). I had to give her equal time.

More, Evelyn, more! Please! Karen, I'm still thinking about how he asked you ..twice..about the Chicago play. You are in the unique position of having seen both productions. I'd be tempted to actually write to CF and give a good unbiased comparative critical review of the two productions, emphasising differences in interpretation, performances, audience reactions, staging, good and bad features etc. Not a "God, Colin you were GREAT, and everyone else was rubbish!" approach (not that you would!). I think he would be genuinely interes ed in this, as he remembered you and asked for you (WOW!!) But in the bed scene.... she couldn't keep her hands off of him. Lowering the tone here, how did he (or his character) respond? And you were only two inches away?! Unbelievable! Re EMcG in "The Scarlet Pimpernel"...can you appreciate why I really winced when 3DOR was promoted as "starring EMcG, fresh from "The Scarlet Pimpernel" with no mention of Colin, and when CF was described as playing a "Southern weirdo, as sexy as a breezeblock" Talk about getting it all WRONG! Fortunately the reviews were excellent!

LOL Evelyn! Loved your report, but find it curious that you need to reassure us that you very politely asked him to sign his autograph. How else would the ladies of Spring act?! The more I look at your pictures and the more I hear of your travels the more impressed I am with all of the people here. Every one a lady (or gentleman) *with* a sense of humor so attuned to mine that you all make me feel like I was right with you. bethan, we worried all weekend about you and your missing your chance to be there. We were afraid you might do something drastic ;) Now, if anyone would like me to Email them the Photos Gi sent to me, just let me know at (Ugh) my alternate Email address critter514@aol.com. Then claim your 3DOR keepsake on 113 =)

Gi, what a lovely report from Antonio, you guys are starting on the right foot, the beginning of a great marriage. Elena, jpeg files are great, I can view them in photoshop. Thank you so much for offering. Flowers for Colin: I think that would be lovely, let me know if we need to send money, I too still have pounds left over. Did anyone read the program? Charles Dance is scheduled to appear at Donmar in "Good" by CP Taylor, playing from March18 till May 22. My friend witnessed the interaction between CD and CF outside the theatre, CF thanked CD for coming and said he'll come to see CD in his play...so laides, CF will be in the audience...but when? Press night? It's sort of nice to see actors supporting each other. It's really nice to have such an active board right now, our reward for being patient for the past 2 years. BTW, are we discussing the play here or should there be a new topic just of 3DOR?

I could listen to you all night and next day, Evelyn. How immediate it sounds and nothing got away from you. Kudos! You did take notes...and I am delighted you took the opera glasses. One cannot be too close to the DB!!!

Was looking in a shop for some socks to wear on the London trip, and came across a pair with a "Walker, walker walker" inscription. I postponed to buy them until I find the according "Ned Ned Ned" socks. ;-P

Lucie, come back!

So, Renate, did you??? Then you will have a matching pair for two days running. Love that!!! Remember to take the group picture when you are there this weekend and one of you holding your prized poster!

Evelyn-- great report! You definitely seized the moment! Also, as was expected, everyone handled that situation with real class...