Viva! Viva! Las Veeegggggaaaaas

Back from Vegas. The good news, is that my wife, Rabbitteach, has finally decided these aren't boondoggles. She even said something to the effect of "I didn't realize how much you work on these trips." Apparently she got bored while I was working in the booth. Anyway, Vegas was good. No serious flight delays (coming home I had about 45 minutes in DFW but it wasn't horrible).

Vegas has gone through some serious growth since I lived there. They added the Wynn resort (and a 2nd tower), THE Hotel at Mandalay Bay, and they started on a huge building project called City Center. Back in the day people used to go to Vegas for a cheap buffet and gambling, but the nightlife and gastro scene is incredible. However, it isn't cheap anymore. Even the crappy buffets are $27 at night.

While there we decided to go for a good dinner (completely breaking my diet). I had Fois Gras Sliders, Duck Fat fries (Amuse Bouche) , a big dry aged steak, scalloped potatoes with goat cheese and onions, and Creme brulee. It was lovely.

I also managed to win a little cash playing Black Jack while there. In the end, I walked away with a little over $500 in winnings. Rabbitteach lost $40 or so in the slotmachines. We had a good time. Back on the diet wagon this week. If I can get down to my target goal of 205 I get a new tattoo. I'm thinking Foo Dogs this time.

Watermelon Salad

On the fruit hierarchy chart, watermelon is near the top. Not the tip top, that is saved for the President of Fruits, the Peach. Directly under the Peach is the pineapple (consider it the Secretary of Defense), then the watermelon (Secretary of the Interior maybe?). Anyway, there is very little that beats a slice of cold watermelon on a hot day. However, it lacks a certain sophistication. Enter watermelon salad.

Watermelon Salad with Cracked Pepper Vinaigrette

4 cups watermelon - cubed
4 ribs celery - diced
1/2 cup red onions - diced (I used a full cup)
1/2 cup feta cheese (not the block)
1/2 cup Cracked Pepper Vinaigrette (I Used Cookwell & Co.)
Pinch Fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)
Pinch Grey salt (Flake Sea salt can be substituted)

Add together, chill, then serve.