Glad To Be Home

I am now home from California. It was a whirlwind of a trip. I drove Katie's car across the country, which was quite enjoyable; I had been wanting to get some alone time, and that trip pretty much provided that. I rolled into Los Angeles on August 18, and I met my wife and daughter on August 19th, which happened to be Betsy's Birthday. Our objective was to move Katie off campus (USC) and into an apartment with her roommate, Amanda. Mission accomplished. There was lots of schlepping and lots of shopping, but we got it together. Unfortunately I didn't have the time I would have liked to have had to visit friends, but that will have to wait until next time. Now that Katie is settled in, there will be lots more time for leisure on our next visit. I am kicking around the notion of going to the TAXI Road Rally in November.

We stayed at the Westin Bonaventure. I wasn't entirely happy with the hotel, as they seemed to hold an archaic business model, e.g., they charged for internet service which I thought was stupid, because even the most mom and pop motels across the country include that service for free. Plus, parking was $34.00 a night, which I suppose is the going rate for downtown, but it pissed me off anyway. The Bona Vista lounge at the top of the hotel was interesting. It is a rotating bar, offering you a 360 degree view of Los Angeles each hour. That was fun.

Next time, more time will be my own. But I knew that going in.

I also realized something on this trip. I need to get in shape....

Fight On!

It's official. Katie has chosen The University of Southern California for her College career. As soon as we walked in to the campus I could tell it was special.The school spirit was off the charts, and I know Katie likes that a lot. We toured the entire place. The student who was walking us through was really nice and helpful, which was cool. We sat in on a sample lecture on neuroscience, which was fascinating. The professor who was doing the lecture was extremely gifted, and he knew how to keep us interested. I was also happy to know that the classes are not super large. That was one of my concerns, but that is not the case. I am not a huge sports fan, but their little football team is supposed to be pretty good as well! It should prove to be a wonderful life experience for Katie. It's ironic that she is going to L.A., as it is where I grew up. Another benefit of Katie going there is that I get to visit quite a bit. Next up is the orientation sometime this summer. Away we go in to a new phase of life. I am happy for Katie, as well as a bit nervous about this big change. L.A. is a long way away, but she seems excited about going, and I am happy for her and excited for her as well.

The only problem is, being here in South Carolina, I have to be constantly telling people that the USC I am referring to is the other one. The real one (I kid, Gamecock fans). That should be fun.