Bright light city

“Bright light city gonna set my soul on fire.” – Elvis

Yep, that song played at our wedding. Because we got married in Vegas, baby!

Sweet Las Vegas, I love you so. I lost count on how many times I’ve actually visited this desert oasis. It’s in the neighborhood of 22-25. Every time I go the whole city is transformed and that is one of the most appealing aspects, I think.

My parents took us there on family trips when I was little. I remember wandering around from one carnie game to the next upstairs at Circus Circus with my brother. I loved to eat silver dollar pancakes at their restaurant. My husband and I went back there a few years ago and let’s just say that it was an interesting experience. I wanted those mini pancakes for old time’s sake so we headed over to their garish restaurant. We were sat next to a hooker/stripper coming down off something who was extremely enamored with her straw and its paper covering. Good times. Not quite the memories of my childhood, but hilrious just the same.

I’ve been back so many times as an adult and I just love the new buildings that pop up seemingly over night, the new breeds of tourists each year and the heat. I do love the heat. We got married in August back in 1997 and it was 115 the day we got married.

Probably one of the best things about this city is that you can be anyone here. Nobody knows you. You can dress up, dress down, or not dress at all (at some of the pools!). You can stay up 24 hours and drink the whole time if you choose. It’s the indulgence of it all that I love so much.

I went for my 21st birthday and several other birthdays after that. I’ve gone with just my husband, with large groups, with one other couple. I found out I was pregnant the morning before a flight to Vegas. I waited for an elevator at the Hard Rock Hotel with C.C. Deville. I waited for a light to change in a cab next to L.L. Cool J. I’ve had $5.95 steak and lobster and lived to talk about it.

We are making plans to go back this year again. I think this is trip 25 or something in that neighborhood. We should probably celebrate this anniversary somehow, but just being there is a celebration. It will also be my 36th birthday and our 14th anniversary. Odd numbers, but they all add up to awesomeness. If you’ve never been to Vegas, book a trip and go. You won’t regret it.

Have you gone recently? Where did you stay? We went last year and stayed at Caesar’s Palace, but I wouldn’t stay there again. I would love to hear your favorite hotels.