Ready or Not It’s Vegas Time

“Are you really taking Emily to Las Vegas for the week?” asked Todd. His tone is full of dismay. Is he married to a crazy person about to do something insane? Well, I guess the answer is yes, and I might just be a little crazy, but I will never tell him that. I will not admit this seemed like a better idea last month than it does tonight as I pack.

After taking Emily to the desert for the weekend to see Lizzo in concert, I decided to book another trip. This time a trip to Las Vegas. I wanted to book a timeshare that Justin loved and go for a few days while he’s on summer break. I wasn’t able to get a reservation at the timeshare that our family really liked. I ended up settling on the mediocre and slightly run-downed timeshare that does boast a great location. We are within walking distance of many casinos we enjoy on The Strip, but the place is less than pristine. Since Emily still crawls at twenty-two, she will definitely let us know if the carpets are clean. (I place my bet on NO for $5.00.)

Todd wasn’t able to get the time off work (or at least that’s his story and he’s sticking to it). I was able to enlist a wonderful friend to be my partner in crime on this adventure. My dear friend, Corry, is brave enough (and kind enough) to make the journey with us. I am grateful and thankful Corry is willing to roll with whatever will be and fly away with me, Justin, and Emily to Vegas. Well, drive with us in the car for almost 5 hours because not even I am brave enough to fly with Emily. It is highly likely that Emily will fuss and vocalize otherworldly sounds for much of the journey. I was talking with Corry yesterday and warned her (again) that Emily will probably be loud and the ride will not be pleasant. She was not phased by the prospect. She said, “Oh well. Emily is going to be Emily. It will be fine.” I may have got a little teary-eyed.

We cannot predict what will happen this week. I cannot begin to know if Emily will rise up and embrace the adventure or if she will be overwhelmed and anxious. Probably a little of everything. I will work on being present, planning for hiccups and obstacles, and going with the flow. Any trip with Emily is filled with lots of baggage, real baggage, and because of that, this post is short and sweet because I have a lot more packing to do. I will practice my Tetris skills to fit it all in the minivan. Will everything fit in the van? You can place your bets on YES.