Five years ago, when I drove off the lot in my new Honda Accord, something interesting happened.  I started to notice all the other Honda Accords on the road.  One, two, twenty, three hundred.  The freeway was crawling with them.  At the grocery store, I inevitably parked next to one (or came out to find one parked next to me).  At work meetings, the library, bars, malls…you name it, the Accord was there.  Why had I never noticed this before?  It’s a simple answer, really.  I wasn’t looking…because it wasn’t a part of my life.

The last week or so, I’ve been experiencing the same phenomena…except it’s no longer about Hondas…it’s about Vegas. 

As some of you may know, I’m headed to Sin City on Friday (could time creep by any slower), and baby, have I got Vegas on the brain.  Apparently I’m not the only one. 

Oprah preview today:  “OPRAH, TINA AND CHER IN VEGAS!  What happens in Vegas ain’t stayin’ in Vegas!”

American Idol Results Show:  The final four take a quick trip to the Strip for a viewing of Love - Cirque du Soleil’s tribute to the Beatles.

Wish (clothing shop on Westheimer…c’mon, I had to get some new threads for the big weekend): 

Salesperson:  “What are you looking for?  Something special?” 

Me:  Just something cute…something sassy.  I’m going to Vegas this weekend.” 

All salespeople:  “VEGAS!  WE LOVE VEGAS! CAN WE GO????” 

First salesperson:  “I went there for my birthday last year.  Whew, doggie!  Have I got some stories!”

Random Young Male Customer (who appeared out of thin air):  “You’re going to Vegas this weekend?  Me too!  Where are you staying?”

Me: (Should I answer this?  I do.)

RYMC:  “Cool, dude (did he just call me dude?).  Best of luck on the green!” (Huh)

What is it about “Vegas”?  The mere mention of the word incites high pitched squeals, “put $20 on black for me” requests, and dozens of suggestions for the best food/casino/show/club.  Just the thought of the place breeds happiness.  Infectious happiness.  And I, for one, can’t wait to dive, head first, into that pool of joy.

So, this weekend, as you’re folding the laundry or cleaning out the garage, please don’t hate me for lounging in our poolside cabana, sipping on a cold beer (the mixed drinks are severely watered down).  And don’t curse my name when I send you a picture message from the VIP section of Foundation Room or Mix…the one where I’m sitting on the lap of Johnny Depp (or Johnny Knoxville…whichever).  Because, that’s the life I lead.  I am on top of the latest trends…I know the hip hot spots (someone told me what they were yesterday).  Anyway, the point is, Momma’s gettin’ out of dodge…and damn, does she need it!

As I toil away, working feverishly to finish the rough draft of my book before my Friday morning flight, please do me a favor.  Rub your lucky rabbit’s foot and kiss your grandfather’s 1941 collectable penny.  I’m gonna be playin’ me some Blackjack in a matter of hours…and I need a wave of good vibes to carry me home (with a wallet full of cash).  Wish me luck!

Sidenote - Plot Thickens:  It’s possible that I just found out a certain someone who plays a leading role in the ongoing ”How I Served My Country” blog series will also be kickin’ it in the desert this weekend.  This could make for some interesting blogging.  Stay tuned…

<< Back to the blog