VEGAS, BABY!!

Robin and I will be indulging in what is surely the epitome of American gluttony - a trip to Vegas. Now, I could rant and rant about how disgusting I think it is to throw one's money away in a vain attempt at monetary glory. I could easily illustrate this by pointing out all the 60-something, tracksuited, schelacked, bedazzled grandmas plugging the 10 cent slots. But, we're *better* than that. We shall be taking in a few shows, sampling the champagne buffets and otherwise carousing with the Vegas vacationers.

We'll be flying out of Eugene, which for this trip, isn't much more expensive than flying out of Portland (it usually is for most destinations). So, that's a plus. The minus is that we have to spend over two hours in layover at the Salt Lake City airport. Now, I'm as wild about the Mormons as the next person, but I won't be in any mood to deal with their shenanigans. Instead, I will endulge in some 2.5% alcohol Budweiser or maybe some 3% alcohol wine. You can just feel the buzz a-comin' (54, 093 beers/wines later...)!

Upon arrival, we shall be checking in to the Luxor Hotel. If you know about my 'thing' with Egyptology, then you know that this hotel is the perfect place for me. I mean, it's just like a real pyramid, only made with steel and glass and inclinators (slanted elevators), a food court, a casino, fountains, restaurants and shows. It's totally authentic. Kidding aside, I am really excited because we'll be staying in the pyramid, in a Deluxe Pyramid room of a 4-star hotel. Not too shabby for our first trip to Vegas...

Haven't decided what shows we'll be taking in, though there is heavy pre-approval for Avenue Q and Mystere. Oh, and don't get me started on the Star Trek Experience. Robin and I will literally be there for, like, two days. They have the BRIDGE OF THE ENTERPRISE-D, PEOPLE. THE Bridge. No, we're not obsessed. I've just been waiting to sit on the Enterprise bridge since I can remember. I have to remember to schedule that meeting with Lt. Cmdr. Data.

A few of our friends will be joining us. Evan might make an appearance. You know, cuz' that'd be, you know, great...

A plan is also in the works to rent a Pool Cabanna for the day! Basically, you get this little slice of Vegas heaven all to yourself and your closest friends. They assign servers to your heaven and you get drinks and food (which you have to pay for, surely) all while you splash around in the pool. Unfortunately, you don't get your own pool, which means you have to hob-nob with some of the lesser aspects of society (e.g. people). Oh well.

That's all I can think of for now, but I'll keep you posted as developments develop.