Tuesday, November 10, 2009

What Happens in Vegas -- Goes on the Blog!

As normal, we always try to get a short vacation in just before the holidays. This year we had hoped to go somewhere close but with nice weather so we could take the Wing. Las Vegas was the destination winner. As everyone knows, Las Vegas is a Gambler's dream trip, so why are we going? Well, Vegas has alot more to offer than slot machines and dinner shows.

Just before we left, snow set in and even worse, Keith got orders to report to Wyoming for work for three days. Not to be discouraged, we loaded up the truck, left our beautiful Wing at home and headed out. Our first stop was in Cedar City. The weather was not cooperating at all and we battled snow, wind and cold most of the way. At least when we arrived in Cedar City, we were able to enjoy some great Mexican food and margaritas at our favorite restaurant, Lefty's Hideout. Next morning, more snow, more cold, more wind, but at least it improved the closer we got to Vegas.

So now is where we will fast forward through the part about shopping for food, moving into the condo, driving through the world's worst construction to get Keith to the airport, me spending 3 lonely days in Vegas, driving again through construction to pick Keith up at the airport and now to the fun stuff!

The first road trip out of Vegas was to Death Valley. For a place with such a dark name, it was really quite beautiful. We enjoyed traveling through some unique mountains and hiked over slopes littered with rock from the Ice Age. Our first stop was at the Lodge and then the Visitor Center and Museum where we discovered we were 190 feet below sea level.

Sitting out by the truck, we had a close encounter with a Road Runner. We were so surprised when she came right up to us and tried to hide in our shadows (obviously, she was looking for a hand-out). Our little escort followed us around as we looked at the old equipment that was used to mine and haul Borax from the valley. We passed lots of signs warning about rattlesnakes, so we didn't get in too much hiking.

After spending a day traveling through Death Valley we headed back to Vegas for dinner and some casino cruising. Yeah! We were winners (for a day at least)!

The next day we headed up Green Canyon and then on to Hoover Dam. We were amazed at the construction that was going on and really look forward to our next visit to see the progress on the new by-pass highway.

The last day we spent down on the Strip and walked in and out and up and down all the streets, enjoying the sidewalk entertainers, some great food spots, shows and exhibits and of course the "people watching" was pretty good too.

The week just flew by, but it was good to get away. Now it's time to get back home and start planning for Thanksgiving Dinner!

Until next time - Happy Travels!