Charlotte’s Web of Construction

Just got back from Charlotte, NC.  It was interesting, to say the least.  The conference, my reason for being there, was not all that interesting.  I find most conferences to be only as interesting as you make them, but this one had a funk to it.  Maybe it was all the traffic, or the lack of programs that I was interested in.  Or the location of my hotel, right next to what sounded like a jackhammer convention across the street.   Nevertheless, the night life was fun.  My wife rode a mechanical bull, which was perhaps the funniest/sexiest thing i’ve ever seen.  I saw a few men brave the robot bull, but that’s not really for me.  Although the men who did ride, provided me  with countless opportunities to make fun of them.  If they had a mechanical three toed sloth…i’d be on board. 

I was able to visit Spartanburg, SC.  My friend, Patrick, is doing a residency there, working on his writing.  I was able to catch his exit show and hear some of his readings.  I really really enjoyed this, and it was something I’ll always remember.  It’s a great event in  a person’s life to be around someone they admire and respect.  There is an overwhelming feeling of pride to watch someone you love do what they are meant to do, and in turn see the faces of others as they too recognize that spark.  It was an experience like no other.  Patrick, I’m as proud of you as i’ve ever been of anyone. 

I was able to catch a few of the basketball games this week.  The interesting thing is that i’ve been hearing people complain that there just aren’t very many upsets this year.  While I think teams like Wake Forest and Utah would disagree, I understand there may not be as many as we are accustomed to.  My opinion is that this is precisely why the NCAA basketball tournament is the greastest thing in sports.  When we have major upsets, it give us something to cheer for, a cinderalla to follow.  When the teams win that are supposed to win, we end up with great championship games!  For instance, last year, all four number one seeds made the final four…and the championship game was spectacular.  And remember George Mason? They were very low seed and they made the final four.  So, I suspect there will still be some upsets to come, but I also suspect that regardless, the games will be exciting.