More then I can count now – I’ve been reminded that my Blog is in the need of attention!
Another summer in Las Vegas has found the three of us have settled into a life of comfort surrounded by sunshine and everything that comes with it on a daily basis!
The heat came upon us this year about the last week of June. We went from leaving the doors and windows open in order to experience the cool breezes of spring and within a heartbeat – slamming them shut and cranking up the air conditioners! It didn’t get as hot this summer as the first one here. Nor, did we experience the monsoons like the year before. We only had one big rain that passed over our neighborhood….causing a river of muddy water to wash down our street for about 20 minutes. I had one of those ideas that some of us get when later reflected on cause us to say, “what the heck was I thinking!” I ventured out with my trusty camera to take some video of the downpour…during this blond moment – flooded it and the kitchen/dining room too! (I left the patio door open) A couple of good things came from this though – my tiles were left sparkling clean and hubby bought me a new camera!
Robert is knee deep in changes at his place of employment! He is still working for NEC and employed on the Mandalay Bay property, only now he’s moved up the chain of command to a higher position. We’re still in the dark as to exactly which position he’ll be maintaining (Hotel or Convention) as the folks stepping aside are still trying to figure out exactly WHERE in the country they wish to transfer to. We’re crossing our fingers that decisions will be made soon and we can fall back into somewhat of a routine of schedules. At it looks now – Robert will be doing the 9 –5 thing…..Monday through Friday. We’ll see! Whatever the decision, Robert still enjoys the responsibilities and environment of the "Bay"!
Randall is still employed with Allied Barton and working the graveyard shift – his “dream job” as he refers to it! A real night owl this one is! He recently celebrated a couple of things - first, he’s been with the company for a year now and qualified for his first paid vacation! He’ll be taking that in October and a trip back to Beaverton to visit friends and family is planned.
The other celebrated event – our kid turned twenty one on the 20th of September! We were fortunate to have guests visiting and together we all helped make his birthday a pleasant one! Our day was spent down on the infamous Fremont Street! Old town Las Vegas! Lots of laughing, exploring, walking, some gambling, a nice dinner and the whole Fremont Experience topped off a wonderful day! An 80’s band hosted the live entertainment on the street that evening with lots of sing-a-longs and dancing included! The light show that is held nightly on this street was incredible….with flashback videos and music by Queen! This won’t be a birthday that he’ll easily forget – especially since his pocket jingled with cash from his winnings on the slot machines!
Me – well, I’ve settled into a much enjoyed lifestyle too! I still miss my best buddies and the get-together functions that we enjoyed throughout the year in Oregon! However, they keep me updated through our frequent hour or more telephone conversations!! And we’ve been fortunate to have a few of them visit since moving! Now….when are the rest of you coming out here!!
Birds! I’m still involved with birds! This past month, I signed up the business and attended the huge Super Zoo Convention held at the Mandalay Bay Event Center. Originally, my friend Kimberly and I only planned on attending one day of this event……but after 7 hours of festivities, we were invited to attend the Meet & Greet party hosted by the Super Zoo Organizers! We had so much fun meeting so many wonderful pet lovers that we came back the next day! One thing that really amazed us – how much product is distributed at these conventions! We were told to bring totes and such for taking home samples but we brought carts/wagons and ended up stashing stuff in Robert’s office before going back for more! If it was pet related – this convention carried it! Anything from food, treats, clothing (human and pet), books, etc… it was there and we brought it home! For me – I only have …….yes ONLY have seven birds and a guinea pig! Pretty spoiled ones at that! We picked out a few of their favorite items and donated the rest to several pet organizations that Byrdbell Company helps support throughout the Country.
Our calendars are already marked for next year! Should anyone want to read more, here is the link to the SuperZoo website.
http://www.superzoo.org/exhibitor.html
Before I put this writing to rest – I wanted to let you all know that I’ll be on a Sabbatical of sorts for awhile. Nothing as exciting as a vacation from work, a book writing, or to fulfill some goal! Unfortunately, I’ve had some medical issues over the last few months and a total hysterectomy is in order. Without going into detail, lets just say that while I’m apprehensive about the whole surgery thing and especially the recovery period, I’m excited that I’ll finally have my health back and along with it ENERGY and a pleasant nights sleep!
My surgery is scheduled for October 22 and we’re told that I should expect to remain hospitalized for 4 days or so. With the help of the two men in my life – I’m confident that things will be back to a happy normal in no time!!
Thanks bunches to all of you that write, phone, email, and try to keep in touch! Especially in the last few months! You’ve helped me through a difficult time and supported us with your love and care long-distance! We miss you!
Lots of Hugs!
Crystal
PS> Below is the link to our YouTube account. Anyone who enjoyed the antics of our birds in person can view their silly behavior online now!
http://www.youtube.com/user/LadyByrdbell