In Tandem

I survived my birthday tandem jump.   Overall it was a great experience.   I was actually okay on the plane ride.    I was only nervous when it was time to do the actual jump.   I had completely forgotten the quick lessons that my instructor gave and he had to open my hands and open the chute.   I kept my hands in the initial prayer position that they told us to put it in.    Now that I think about it, the reason they tell you to do it that way is so that you're not pushing your hands against the side of the plane trying to keep from jumping out.    Something like this scary video:

In a later interview she said basically her knees had given out and she needed to use the side of the plane for support.   Unfortunately her diver didn't secure her properly to the harness and that's when all hell broke loose on the air.

Luckily my dive went much better.   So I can cross off one more item off my imaginary bucket list.

Next stop...Reno!

Slot Fever

I found myself a new hobby.    About nine months ago while enjoying another hobby (I bowl for a local gay league), one of my teammates invited me to go hit Ameristar Casino.   I'm not a regular casino gambler but despite not ever winning anything of significance, I thought it'd be fun to hang out.     I even went up and got my first membership card from Ameristar.    Staying true to form, I didn't win anything on that trip, spending about $50 in playing various slots.

Fast forward to today and I've been to more than a half dozen casinos.    These include Grand Victoria, Harrah's Joliet, Blue Chip, Firekeeper's, Four Winds, Magestic Star, Horseshoe, Hollywood, and Potawatomi (or Pochantas as I affectionately call it).   Of course I can't forget the newest addition to the casino family Rivers.    I've even joined a slots forum to share my experiences with other slot players.

Each of my visits I average losing anywhere from $40 - $200.   I do enjoy playing the slots and I have had temporary wins that I've wound up giving back.    My friends think I might be an addict.  Maybe I am.    I do get lured back whenever I get promos for free slot play.   But all it takes is that one elusive jackpot and I'm back on top.    Or maybe I just enjoy the pretty flashing lights.   LOL...yeah that's the ticket.