As requested; here is the trip report -

THURS PM - arrival and check into FS Airport Marriott. Disappointing stay -for those who are interested, check Marriott thread. Dinner @ Max & Erma's (it was late, we were close) which was decent, if not inspired but we did have great waitress. Took our friends (1st timers) up to Mt Washington.

FRI - Shopped the Strip which was great except for "blizzard" conditions. Late Lunch @ Church Brew House - best Onion Soup I have ever had. Went to Heinz Museum - very nice; 2 sports buff among us, so Sports Museum was particularly interesting. Checked into Renaissance - absolutely great hotel (known from a previous visit). Highly recommend. Dinner at Grand Concourse - great waiter; food above average but not superior - especially for the price. Beautiful building, view of the city, etc make it worthwhile. (also location of our 1st date - so....) Watched fireworks etc. Great day but cold. And snowy. Did I mention cold?

SAT - Nostalgia Day. Mr. Sophie drove us all over Pitt showing us "stuff" - both landmark (Cathedral of Learning, etc) and personal. Rode the Incline. Got stuck on Parkway for over an hour. (some things never change!) Lunch at Eat n Park (long story). Food and service was - well, Eat n Park. On to Cannonsburg to Sarris Candy. Yum. Dinner with friends.

SUN - Brunch at Ren. Over to PPG place to see Christmas Exhibits & Ice Rink. Close up of "Horne's Tree" and "Kaufman's" Clock. Walked the block around Macy's to see the windows. Parkway construction - so headed to the airport. Stuck in traffic once more.....

The airport saddened me. I remember the old one, and all the hoopla, excitement, etc for the new one. The shops were great, and it quickly became one of my favorite airports. Still nice - but feels like a ghost town. USAir club is huge - I can't imagine that it ever is crowded!

A great trip and thanks to all who made suggestions!