Ok, so it wasn't that bad. We had a Student Life conference, with most of the leaders in their respective divisions/departments. It was good to meet new people and take in all of the ideas they have for the future. We also had the pleasure of sharing dinner and drinks with everyone, which is where you get to know people. It was a solid trip, and needless to say ... I had a hell of a time on Bourbon. What an odd place ... strip clubs, sex clubs, bars, hurricane quick stops ... too much trouble to be had, and so little time. Hell, I even won $30 in the casino. So not a bad trip at all!
So it is done. Matt and Mel are happily married and chillin' on some beach in the Bahamas. Damn, must be nice. The rehearsal dinner and wedding were a lot of fun. Both families are pretty damn cool. I ended up spending most of Saturday hanging out with Matt before the wedding. He seemed to have nerves of steel. It must be an odd feeling knowing you are hours away from committing your life to someone. Not a bad feeling, just odd. Although, throughout the entire day I was finally reminded ... that yes, ladies and gentlemen, I still have a romantic bone in my body. I found myself really enjoying the day and seeing everything come together. The ceremony was nice, short and to the point, yet also allowed the family and friends to feel the love. They are happy, and that is what it is about. I suppose I found myself thinking what it'll be like for me some day. Nerves? Oh yeah, but a ton of excitement will be around. And by damned, it'll be a party. We all danced our butts off Saturday night, so you can expect nothing less from me one day.
After the reception, I made my way to Athens to see Doug and some other folks. Hey, I'm that close to Athens, I had to go. Unfortunately, I was unable to find time to visit with Keith, but I was fortunate to see Jessica and Matt (a different Matt) Sunday for lunch. I haven't seen these two in years. They are a happily married couple, and long time friends. I met Jessica in the summer of 1999. Wow ... six years. Anyway, they are both very good people, so it was a blessing to see them again and see them so happy. I've invited them to Nashville for the October Vanderbilt/Georgia football game. As a matter of fact, ANYONE is invited. I'd love to host a bunch of friends for the game. Yes, I'm busy, but I can still find some time over the weekend to enjoy it.
Odd stretch for the Blue Jays. They won 2 of 3 from the cubs, then got swept by the Astros. Today, they took game 1 from the Cardinals ... with Halladay getting his 10th win of the season. Guy is a stud. I'd love to see them win this series, mainly so I can talk shit to Nichols.
Ok, so I am off to Orlando tomorrow for NACDA. It should be a great opportunity to see old friends (Jessica at FSU, Tim at Oklahoma, Ward at ECU), but it should also provide me the opportunity to meet new people. If you know me, you know I love to network. I suppose I can be a shameless self-promoter. The thing is, I promote and I deliver. I can't stand people who just kiss ass and expect to get somewhere. I will get to know you as a person. I will pick your brain. I will ask questions of you. I'll make sure you remember just how inquisitive I can be. This convention is the opportunity to do just that, be inquisitive. I'm surrounded by peers who've "been there, done that," so it is a great opportunity to learn from others' mistakes and successes. I'm thrilled to head to this conference ... and I'm sure we'll have some silliness down there too!
Well, here's to another week on the road. I'll be glad to chill in Nashville Saturday night.
If you are going to be at NACDA, give me a buzz! 615 238.4131 ... later fools!