The Biggest Little City in the World

Hi all,
Happy Friday!

I'm headed to the Biggest Little City in the World - Reno, NV. Our friends were able to score free rooms, mud baths and a steak dinner; how could anyone pass that up? So, we're heaed out of dodge today.

I don't predict I'll be doing much gambling (unless they have penny machines). I hate losing money and would rather spend the cash on something tangible.

The victims in tow will be: me, Breanna, Peanut, Monica, Victor, Roxy and Carlos. It's the party crowd -- Reno will never be the same. Be sure to check back for an update!

Enjoy this day and the upcoming weekend.
Cheers,
V

Starting Off Well

Hi all,
Today was my first competitve racquetball game in the Women's League. I am proud to report I won the game 3 to 0. I have nine more weeks to go. I'm hoping to learn a lot of new skills, work on my endurance, and have challenging games against great players. It's fun playing against a completely new person -- it really tests your skills.
Stay tuned for more ball reports.
V

Spring has Almost Sprung

Hi all,
Well, March 20 (First Day of Spring) isn't that far away -- it couldn't come soon enough! I am so ready for spring! I am already seeing signs of this wonderful season right around the corner: new blossoms, bright blue skies, daylight savings time, flowers, fresh, clean air, and the calmness of the day. I love it all.

Attached is a photo I've taken as a little reminder that spring is soon to be sprung! Enjoy this day.
V

Catching Up

Hi all,
OK - I survived my cold (although it's still somewhat hanging on) and another fabulous weekend in Las Vegas. It's was beautiful there! The temp was 69 degrees, sunny skies, and not too crowded.

We got to witness Cher in concert at the Colessium in Ceasar's -- she's awesome! So very talented. The stage show was tremendous! Of course she had tons of wardrobe changes, set changes, and video clips. She's had quite a life with all her movies, Sonny and Cher Show, and her solo career. We thoroughly enjoyed the 2 hr show; if you like Cher, I would recommend it. I think that's the fifth time I've seen her.

We were fortunate enough to stay at the Wynn Resort for one night; we had a promotional stay of $109/nt. which included $200 in slot play. The room was phenominal! We had a view of The Strip -- the room was equipped with automatic drapes, plasma screen TV's (also in the bathroom), a tub for 2, a fully stocked bar, leather furnishings and a very comfy bed. With our $200 in slot play, we won $165 --thus our stay was basically free! This is a 5-star hotel and it well merits it's ranking.

I love the Conservatory at the Bellagio. They had a fabulous spring flower exhibit; tons of vibrant tulips (will post photos tomorrow). Since we got married at this hotel, I will forever say it's my favorite!

Now it's back to work -- tons of it! It's so hard being gone and then playing catch-up. You have to pay to play! I loved every minute of my weekend -- thank you Greg for another memorable, fabulous, fun and fulfilling weekend in Vegas -- our home away from home!
Cheers,
V
P.S. Please check back tomorrow for photos!

Good Times

Today I was able to meet up with my friend from Wisconsin. She's here visiting her family and we had time to meet up for lunch.
So good to see you Lorraine! It's always nice to catch up face to face, giggle, and gossip!
I'm glad you dropped by!
V

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Happy 22nd Birthday to my dear daughter Breanna!! It's so hard to believe 22 years have come and gone so quickly. She has another 22 years of a bright future ahead. She'll be graduating from college in May (yes - I can't believe it) and begins her internship on June 1. I am so thankful she's MY daughter -- I love her so much and am very proud.

Another Happy Birthday shout-out goes to Meghan! 30 years young today. Thanks for having a surprise party -- we all had a great time!

Enjoy your day ladies -- spoil yourselves and be happy!
Cheers,
V (alias Mom)

March On!

Hi all,
Happy March! Yep - it's already here! So hard to believe.

March is a happy month for me:
- My daugther's birthday is tomorrow
- Spring is starting to be in the air
- St. Patty's is a time for celebration and fun
- The first day of spring is approaching (March 20)

We ended February with a bang! Friday (2/27) we went to dinner to say good-bye to a friend that is leaving for Mexico City. We did some reminiscing, laughing and lots of hugging. We are hopefully to meet up with her some time this year in Acapulco.

Sat. (2/28) we attended yet another wine event at Alpha Omega in Napa. It was a release party of their 2006 Cab. They had some delicious rib eye steak to accompany their wine. There was an attendance of 140 (70 of which were from out of state). Napa is beautiful right now with all the mustard flowers in bloom (see attached photo).

Upon leaving Napa, we headed for our friend, Meghan's, 30th surprise birthday party in Danville. It was tons of fun! Matt had rented a limo to escourt us to dinner, dessert and to various wine bars/pubs in the local area. We laughed tons and made a lot of great memories. Meghan and my daughter share the same birthday so it's always bittersweet for me. Great celebration amongst friends! What I wouldn't give to be 30 again!

Yesterday (March 1) we celebrated Breanna's birthday with a family dinner. I made a Lemon Velvet Cake and my dad brought the best stew. I made homemade sourdough bread and we made Breanna's favorite pasta (her grandpa's recipe) accompanied with fresh zucchini. Breanna was spoiled with gifts, attention, and love. I am so very thankful she has her grandparent's influence, support, love and character. She will forever look back on these times and be grateful.

Enjoy this rainy week,
V