1.11.07

Reno, NV


After finishing my work in Carson City, I decided to drive to Lake Tahoe and then back to Reno (where I had a room for the night). It was the first time in my life that I drove on a road like US Route 50. It wound its way through the Sierra Nevada Range continually offering amazing vistas and dramatic scenary. There wasn't any traffic either, so the drive was not only beautiful, but also 100% stress free. Everyone should have a similiar experience as I did on this drive.

I eventually reached Incline Village, NV - an upper-class lakeshore community on the northern edge of the Lake. I worked my way through the neighborhoods, past Sierra Nevada College, to the lake itself. Not only was it deadly silent at the Lake, but it was absolutely still...hardly a ripple. Someday I'll have to head back there to get some skiing or camping in - hopefully soon.

I decided to stay at the Reno Hilton which was situated only 7 minutes away from the airport (an ideal location for my early AM departure on Thursday). Of course, I hadn't realized the


Hilton had changed to the Grand Sierra Resort 18 months ago - so here I am, at a totally tacky, glitzy casino in Reno...on Halloween. Perfect. If any place warrants a visit on Halloween, it's the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno.

I decided to play blackjack. I'd only ever played once or twice before - typically either winning or losing $20 - $30 each time. I withdrew $100 from my bank account and decided that I'd play as long as that $100 was still around. Fast forward 3 hours and 3 Bud Lights later, and I find myself with $850 in my pocket. For whatever reason, I did really well.

All in all, Reno was good. Glad to be back home in Washington though - and getting ready for another long week of travel ahead.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

excellent picture of the lake, matthew. i commend you for that and for drinking three bud lights.

i do not commend you for gambling. gambling makes jesus cry.