Vegas in June

You know what brings me to Vegas in June. Kate! Well, let's be honest, Kate's birthday makes me consider Vegas in June. The firefighter auction is what actually gets me to book a flight. This was my first time going to auction sans-partner. Ladies and gents -- there was availability to brazenly flirt with firefighters. I will not say I was "determined." I will say I was "open to the possibilities." And I will giggle. Though, in all seriousness, it was going to be great to see Kate. Yes, we talk several times a day. No, you might not think that healthy. But it does keep us sharp. We're in the same business, doing the same job. We trust each others' opinions and rationale. It's great to be able to exchange ideas and outrages. It's even better to do that in person. Besides, San Francisco was full of rain & clouds anyway. 

It ought to be noted, so much has changed in the "Danie going to Vegas" process. On my end, I over pack and don't care if that means I have to check a bag. I choose the most convenient flight, not the earliest and not always the cheapest. Kate & I don't schedule every minute of our time with lunches and dinners. I can tell the world where I'll be, and few will care. It's all very grown up now. That was bound to happen. It just happened sooner than I thought it would.

I bought the most adorable luggage. It was a limited edition and that particular piece had to be cut out of a store display.

Kate was late picking me up from the airport. I had to laugh at that, because that's Kate. She just will not get there on time. She makes me seem early. And I appreciate that.  Kate & I met Melissa for lunch, and with the doctor's visit from the day before still fresh in my mind, we ordered cheese, which I followed up with more cheese. And wine.

Brie.

Chicken Gorgonzola

We sat outside and gabbed. We talked dresses and stared at boys. It was just as nauseatingly girly as it sounds. Kate and I had to tell Melissa why women's don't like her. Answer? She's beautiful. Somehow she doesn't see it. I mean I'm sure she thinks she's pretty, but she really is beautiful. I'm talking people-stop-when-I-have-her-picture-up-to-remind-me beautiful. Although I guess I'm glad she doesn't see it. Her beauty is in her humility. And in her eyes. And in her dimples.

After we ate, we went to Melissa's new place for the grand tour. We then all went to Retro Bakery, which became the thing to do after I left town. Not to worry, I have since made up for lost time. I encourage you (if you like delicious cookies, cupcakes and other confections) to follow Retro on Twitter, and to go there when you're in Vegas. Tell Kari @danie_d sent you. I doubt that will get you anything special, but I like reminding people how connected we all are.

With food in our bellies, friendship in our hearts and cupcakes in the fridge, we set out to watch Melissa & Dayna auction off firefighters. You know, for the children.