Reno update 3: Starting to get REALLY good.

Reno update 3

We made it. And just in time, I was losing my mind in the jeep and wanted out.

 When we arrived Stacey and I let Ben and Jered handle check in while we found some slots and a couple cocktails. We're not messing around. Our room seemed to be a mile from the lobby but when we finally got there it's surprisingly nice. 

First night was pretty calm, got a little buzz, played a few slots, Jered and Ben were in bed shortly after midnight. Stacey and I stayed out a little longer. This morning started early, we grabbed Starbucks and headed to Peg's Glorified Ham and Eggs- named by Esquire magazine as the 13th best breakfast in America. It was great, but I'm not sure if I'd take it over Word of Mouth.  

Then the day took an amazing turn. 

These guys took me to the Nevada Museum of Art. Two amazing exhibits were on display. Ansel Adams: Distance and Detail and Chris Jordan: Running the Numbers. 

Oh. My. Goodness. Can you say best birthday ever? The Chris Jordan exhibit is one I've always hoped to see. 

"Jordan takes statistics that are too big for the mind too grasp and makes them shockingly beautiful for the eye to behold."

Shockingly beautiful is exactly right. I've seen Jordan on TED and loved his work- needless to say I was ecstatic to find myself standing before the actual pieces. Take time to look at it, it's somewhat heavy material to chew on, but really beautiful. http://www.chrisjordan.com/gallery/rtn/#moon

After the museum we hit another casino, played some blackjack, had a handful of free drinks, and made our way back to the room to change and finalize plans for the evening.

More to come tonight...


N.

Reno update 2 - already a little behind, but its Reno, what did you expect?

Reno update 2 
This update coming in a little late, but putting it up for continuity.

Klamath Falls for lunch. What a hole. For some reason (don't ask me) the group landed on Dairy Queen for lunch. Seemed pretty perfect for the town we were in. Barf. That place was bizarre. Don't know if there would ever be a reason to go back. I officially hate K-falls. 

We're in California now- somewhere. I don't have a clue where, but northern California looks a lot like southern Oregon.

Miley Cyrus just came on. Neither Jered or Ben changed it. Hmm...

I'm tired of being I'm this vehicle. Its comfortable enough to make me sleepy, but I can't seem to get comfortable enough to actually sleep. There's been constant conversation but I cant tell you what we've talked about. It's all been chit chat and trivial pursuit.

Just hit halfway and our next smoke break. Lord knows I need this.

Reno update 1

I'm about two hours south of home, in the back of a rental, on my way to Reno for the weekend. It's my birthday trip, should be interesting. I'm going to try to blog the entire trip. I feel like I'm on the verge of something great, regardless of recent changes that may or may not have a dramatic impact on things in my life- more on that later. Maybe.

This morning I was weighing two choices. Do I bring sufficient clothing and toiletries to survive the weekend like an adult or do I bring my light kit? 

I often find myself in this situation, and I don't bat an eye at leaving necessities behind in lieu of gear. It's just that way for me. I don't need a lot. I don't mind staying at a hostel over a hotel. I'm don't think I'm "special". 

I don't need  a lot.

When my travel mates arrived in a Jeep Grand Cherokee and not a Mazda 6, I (happily) didn't have to sacrifice either. Score!

The weather is gorgeous, The Blueprint 3 in the cd player, bottle of fireball in the back, Jered is passed out in the front seat. 

I've reached my limit and it's time to pull over and smoke. I can't make it very long before I want to claw my own skin off.

Ok, smoke? Check. Couple shots of fireball? Check. (our driver is obviously not drinking- safety first kids!) back on the road? Check. 

Jered's awake now and snapping pictures, Stacey's turn to nap. I can't put down my iPhone. Ben, the trooper he is, still at the wheel. I'm going to get back to my campaign on my newly downloaded NBA Jam game. I'll holler at you guys in a bit. Hope this is fun for us, and you all.

N.

Love [grove]

Sandi Lovegrove and fam...

I am not playing with you, these people are seriously funny.

If you live in Salem, and are at least semi fun to be around, (you know if you're not) then go check out the Capitol City Theater (in the Reed Opera House downtown, smartypants. Sheesh, that's what google is for. I'm not going to be here to hold your hand forever.)

Or check them out here http://www.facebook.com/capitolcitytheater

They do improv comedy. It's funny. Go.

Jamalia

What are you doing this weekend?



I've been a long time fan of Jamalia and have always loved photographing them. They're playing a show this weekend and providing a safe transportation option (aka drinkfest in a strech limo) for fans that want to make the trip to Eugene from Salem. Check them out on Facbook: www.facebook.com/JamaliaMusic

From the facebook event page:


"We are trying to coordinate a stretch Escalade ride for those interested in joining from Salem leaving about 7pm. A small reprise of the Halloween party bus adventure. Again, why drink and drive when you can party and ride? $20 or so per person, contact Christina Lynn on Facebook if interested."

Rainbows Project: Update

I'm having a blast. I think everyone getting involved in this project is too, as evidenced by this photo of Jacob and Clara.

Remember the Rainbows Project is still going through Wednesday.