How's the new job going, Gwen?

I heard that more than a few times recently. Well, here’s the scoop. I’ve been here for a little over a month and I’m honestly still feeling things out. I’ve learned the basics, but still have to ask for help if things get a bit hairy. I’ve booked a few contracts and given a handful of site inspections. I’m getting to know people in the industry at networking events. What exactly do I do? I book tours for groups and market our space that can be used for after-hour events. These events are generally cocktail parties or seated dinners hosted by companies that are in town for conferences and are looking for a unique venue.
So, that is it in a nutshell. The main reason no one has heard me talking about my job is because I've yet to become fully immersed in it. Don't worry. If you know me at all, you know that you will hear EVERY detail of it once things get rocking here.

July 4th in review

What a great weekend. Don't get me wrong - we didn't really do that much, but we had a four day weekend to burn. It was just what we needed. Grilling on our new grill. Sharing a cold beverage with friends. Running barefoot in the cul-de-sac with sparklers.
I hope you all had a great weekend, too.

Memphis gets two thumbs up

Greg and I just returned from a long weekend in Memphis. Good stuff. We were there to celebrate the marriage of our good friends, Laura and Eldad. They eloped this February in NYC and came to her hometown of Memphis to celebrate with friends and family. And, boy, did we celebrate! Eldad is from Israel so we're trying to teach him about the ways of the South. I heard he had his daily dose of grits and the Hoffmans served up a most excellent barbecue feast.
By the end of the evening, most of the ladies were dancing and skinny dipping. A direct quote from Eldad, "God Bless America!" I agree.
We stayed with our most gracious hosts, Mona and Ronnie, and toured the city in the time we had away from the festivities. We ventured to Graceland to see how Elvis lived in style at his Memphis home. Nothing says fancy like green shag carpeting on the ceiling! Next, we hit up Beale Street for some awesome catfish lunches and then enjoyed live music and a cold beer on a patio.
The drive to and from Memphis was lovely and didn't take nearly as long as I thought it would. I highly recommend a visit to those of you who have never been to this fair city.
A BIG "thank you" to all of those who made this weekend a memorable one!! Click the title to see more of my Memphis adventure.