I haven’t written anything in awhile because I’ve been away. My husband had to work some trade shows and so I went along. We were in Vegas and Orlando. Tough job but somebody has to do it!

Going to Vegas is like going to the moon… another world. I definitely felt like an alien in that environment. I played the machines; waiting for the feeling of gratification that was evident on so many players’ faces. Put the money in, press the button and wait for 3 bunches of bananas to line up. No, nothing. This time I’ll pull the lever to change my luck. No. Still those bananas just won’t line up! I keep trying. My neighbor’s eyes have glossed over and his machine is making all kinds of noises. His bunch of bananas is cooperating. Keep trying Mary. It’s only a matter of time. I spin again. There it is... one, two, and can it be? Yesssss!!! Three bunches of bananas all in a row. I just won 50 cents. It only cost me ten bucks, although I soon learned that we don’t talk about what that 50 cents cost us. We cash out. Tell people we won 50 cents. Move on to another machine.

When in Vegas you can spend your day playing these mindless games but only talk about what you won. Do not refer to what that “win” has cost. I guess I’m not cut out to be a gambler. The machines and tables hold no allure for me.

Now shopping in Vegas is another story! There is an endless selection of stores to fit all tastes and budgets. The one thing they all have in common is the service. Wow! You can’t walk in a store without being acknowledged by the staff. Not only do they know their product but they make you feel as though they appreciate your business. They have a knack of making you feel important to them. I think all business owners in these small towns should go there to take some lessons on how to “win” a customer base. They don’t whine that people aren’t shopping there. They make it their business to get the consumer traffic into their door and to sell them something while they are there; making you feel as though you really need it. They aren’t leaving anything to chance. I guess that’s what having competition does for a business. They have learned to take control of their bananas!

All in all, the trip was a real positive for me. I had no trouble with security at the airports. My energy held out. My dialysis supplies were delivered to the hotels as promised. I was able to do my treatments with ease. It was a boost to my confidence and my moral. This was another big step in my healing process. I’m so grateful that my good health allows me to travel.

Until next time, take care. MD