A Final Look
I had a great time in Vegas, but I was ready to return to more familiar settings by the end of the week. I didn't feel compelled to kiss the ground or anything, but I was happy to be driving my own vehicle.

That last night, Friday, I stayed up gambling until around 5am (my flight wasn't until a bit after 12pm). I took a shower after I got back to my room (Motel 6, where we stayed after the return to Las Vegas), and then I decided to call Delta and see if there was a better flight back. I was supposed to go through Atlanta, which made absolutely no sense. Actually, the rep who took my phone call believed it was the most direct route. Is it not common knowledge that Atlanta is not between Las Vegas and New Orleans? Anyway, she got me onto a flight through Dallas, but it was leaving LV around 7:45am, which was only two hours away (after showering and all). But I packed my things, and I made it alright. The walk through DFW was a bit lengthy, and by the time I got to my gate, they were already boarding.

Turns out Las Vegas was both a good and bad place to quit smoking. It was good in that it deviated from my normal work week schedule, so I didn't think about cigarettes as often as usual. I'm used to having a cigarette when I wake up and when I get back from work. And I usually have one before I shower to turn in. But since my daily activities were unpredictable and not locked into a schedule, they just didn't cross my mind. Unfortunately, LV is one of the most cigarette-friendly places that I've been to, in the US. Smoking is allowed in almost every indoor setting. Aside from the free drinks, cocktail waitresses also bring cigarettes (that's one of the great things about table gambling; the waitresses bring you whatever you want for free, as long as you keep tipping; I tried a Red Bull for the first time). Eventually, I gave in, and I did smoke. I cheated a lot during the week. But instead of just admitting defeat, like last time, I'm still trying. I'm taking it as a "lost the battle, but I haven't lost the war" situation. So cold turkey didn't work for me, so what? I've committed myself into a continual quitting mode, until I'm done for good.

Overall, I enjoyed the MGM Grand immensely. It was a nice room (though I was only there to sleep), and I liked the atmosphere of the casino. I'm almost ready to say that's the hotel I want to return to next time I'm in Vegas, but my brother's suggested trying out more before I really decide. He's suggested Mandalay Bay and the Hard Rock. I know, my initial reaction to Hard Rock was all "ew," but from personal experience, it does appear to be packed with a fairly young crowd.

If you ever find yourself in Flagstaff (for some weird reason), I heartily support Inn Suites. They're right on Route 66, or whatever the major roadway is. For about $60, we got two adjoining rooms, each with a king-sized bed (maybe queen-sized; I don't know mattress sizes). The included breakfast was pretty crappy, though. Best part? FREE INTERNET ACCESS! I almost cried. No, I didn't. But I was pretty excited. It wasn't just because it was free free free! but because I didn't have to go through the trouble of trying to find some place in town to get connected. I can't wait until the entire country goes WiFi. Why not? Of course, by the time that happens, I'm sure I'll have convinced myself to buy a laptop.

I really have no idea how to end this entry.
- posted by roger @ 4:28 AM