Desert view

 

We're in North Las Vegas at a hotel about 2 miles from my sister's home. We actually have a nice room, although the view of busy Ann Road and the hotel pool not exactly Las Vegas postcard material. 

The Strip is about 45 minutes south of here. Frankly, it's been years since we set foot down there, other than driving through to the airport gawking at the new hotels and occasional showgirl on the sidewalk. 

With the weekend crowds and heat, the thought of tackling The Strip is pretty overwhelming. I like it much better out here, and anything you possibly want is within a mile or so. As for gambling, the machines eat my money as fast as I can shove it in and I'm not quick enough at numbers to play Blackjack anymore without becoming the table embarrassment. No fun in that.

Everything went well yesterday, flight left Seattle on time and SeaTac not nearly as busy as we expected for the start of the holiday weekend. The longest line all day was 45 minutes for John at the rental car desk in Las Vegas. But everyone was friendly and helpful long the way. 

It is hot. Record heat for this late in the summer-- close to 110 for the next few days. Honestly though, the sun is already at a gentler angle, and by late afternoon it's actually kind of pleasant to sit outside and enjoy the warmth, like a bun in a low oven.  Might as well enjoy because this is the warmest we're going to be for another year. 

A couple of busy days ahead. We're going with Dad and Marji for lunch today at Firerock Steakhouse, just around the corner. And tomorrow night, Marji has planned an amazing party with a barbecue and lots of friends and neighbors to celebrate Dad's 98th birthday!

More pictures later. I'm going to check out that pool now.