Conference Chaos, Cirque Corteo, and Chocolate Crimes in Vegas

During an unforgettable year, I had the privilege of being selected along with four skilled colleagues from South High to attend a collaborative learning conference held in Las Vegas. This remarkable experience combined excitement and learning, presenting us with a rare chance to engage with professionals nationwide, share groundbreaking ideas, and explore the latest advancements in our fields. Navigating the vibrant energy of Vegas, we balanced long days of insightful workshops and networking sessions with evenings exploring the city’s dazzling lights and iconic landmarks. The conference fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among our group, and we returned to South High not only inspired but also equipped with fresh strategies and renewed enthusiasm to implement in our work, making it a milestone event in our professional journeys.

On a bright Sunday afternoon in July, the four of us, accompanied by two husbands tagging along, embarked on our eagerly anticipated journey to Las Vegas, perfectly timed just before the conference began early Monday morning. The flight was filled with a lively mix of anticipation and camaraderie as we chatted about the upcoming sessions, networking opportunities, and, of course, the chance to experience the vibrant energy of the city that never sleeps. After landing, we hopped into a taxi and admired the glowing lights and lively street scenes enroute to our hotel. While taking in the rather plain accommodations slated for the conference, I silently hoped that my first visit to Vegas would prove not only productive but also memorable.

Upon arrival and check-in, we quickly realized that the school had failed to prepay for our lodging as expected, thrusting us into an unanticipated scramble to cover the costs ourselves. This discovery forced us to swiftly arrange payments using personal funds. Some of us transferred money to our debit cards, while others relied on personal credit cards to secure our rooms, all the while striving to maintain a positive outlook. The sudden financial burden was particularly stressful for one colleague who lacked sufficient funds to pay for her stay. Thankfully, Brad stepped up to cover her expenses after confirming with the school district that reimbursement would follow. Despite this unexpected hurdle, we handled the situation calmly, settled in comfortably, and continued with our planned activities without further interruption.

While we immersed ourselves in the insightful conference sessions during the day, Sara's husband Brad was busy orchestrating an unforgettable evening for all of us. Knowing we needed a break from the intensive discussions and networking, he stood in line to get us inexpensive tickets to Cirque du Soleil, a world-renowned show celebrated for its breathtaking acrobatics, mesmerizing visuals, and captivating storytelling. As the sun set, we left the conference center behind and stepped into a dazzling world of color, music, and theatrical wonder, perfectly crafted to recharge our spirits. Brad’s thoughtful planning not only gave us an opportunity to relax and bond outside the conference halls but also added a magical highlight to our trip, creating memories that would linger long after the final curtain call.

After the conference the next day, we decided to take a leisurely walk along the strip, eager to soak in the buzzing atmosphere and vibrant sights. However, under the relentless July sun, what started as an enjoyable stroll quickly turned into a grueling test of endurance. The scorching heat was unforgiving, pressing down on us and making every step feel exhausting. Sweat poured down our faces, and the shimmering pavement seemed to radiate waves of heat. We desperately sought shade and water, but it was scarce amidst the bustling crowds and endless stores. By the time we made it back to our hotel, drained and parched, we realized just how easily the sun in Vegas can turn a simple walk into a near battle with heat stroke.

The sole positive aspect of that challenging walk was spotting a liquor store, which prompted me to purchase a few bottles of wine for a pleasant evening by the hotel pool. Yet, in my eagerness, I completely overlooked one crucial detail – I had no corkscrew. Back at the hotel, as I attempted to uncork a bottle before heading to the pool, the situation became challenging. What ensued was a comical yet exasperating effort to open the wine without the right equipment. From poking the cork with keys to pushing it down with a spoon’s handle, each method grew increasingly more frantic. Eventually, through creativity and perseverance, I managed to remove enough of the cork to pour a glass. While we all sat sipping drinks poolside, I laughed at my own oversight and vowed to purchase a corkscrew to open the second bottle in my room.

Another fun experience during our weeklong conference included the wide variety of buffets in Las Vegas. Every evening, the six of us set out on a gastronomic journey, sampling a different buffet along the famed Strip. Whether indulging in the lavish seafood selection at the Bellagio or savoring the vibrant international dishes at the Wynn, each night was a feast for the senses. We delighted in the vast choices, eagerly trying everything from carved prime rib and freshly shucked oysters to exotic Asian stir-fries and luscious, creamy pastas. The bustling energy of each buffet, filled with fellow diners and illuminated by the neon glow outside, transformed every meal into an immersive experience embodying the lively essence of Vegas. Sharing laughter and stories over heaping plates of diverse and delectable food, those nights at the buffets became unforgettable highlights of our trip, each meal adding a new chapter to our collective adventure.

At the Caesars Palace Bacchanal Buffet, Rachel and I found ourselves captivated by the extensive selection of chocolate desserts and decided to embark on a flavorful adventure by sampling every chocolate treat in sight. The impressive assortment – including silky mousses, molten lava cakes bursting with gooey centers, delicate chocolate truffles, and smooth chocolate tarts adorned with fresh berries and whipped cream – offered a challenge filled with pure indulgence and endless pleasure. With each bite, we uncovered the rich complexity of chocolate, from the deep intensity of dark chocolate to the comforting sweetness of milk chocolate. We took our time, appreciating the distinct textures and tastes, all while sharing laughs over the blissful effects of our chocolate feast and the growing “chocolate buzz” that made the experience even more enjoyable. More than a simple tasting, it became a memorable moment of indulgence, camaraderie, and delight as we explored one of Las Vegas’s most extraordinary chocolate collections. By the end of the evening, with chocolate-streaked fingers and contented smiles, Rachel and I joyfully proclaimed our delicious mission a complete triumph.

As our conference week drew to a close, the memories we’d created – from breathtaking performances and culinary adventures to sun-soaked strolls and spontaneous poolside laughter – felt like a treasure trove of shared experiences. Each moment not only enriched our trip but deepened the bonds between us, transforming colleagues into lifelong friends. As we packed our bags and prepared to return home, there was a collective sense that this journey was about so much more than just business. It was about embracing life’s unexpected joys, finding delight in the little things, and cherishing the connections that make every adventure truly unforgettable. With hearts full and spirits refreshed, we left Las Vegas ready to tackle the school year together.