This is probably not a good time to be writing this post because I’m a little emotional right now, but I can’t go into why. But I’m not happy right now.
Anyway…I have found I don’t like Vegas. Everything smells like cigarette smoke. The laws here are different than in Tennessee. You can smoke anywhere, and people do. I feel like I’m going to come back with lung cancer. I ended up working filling swag bags and doing other volunteer stuff all day. I’m tired. The kick off party was good because there was an amazing Elvis impersonator. But I felt so alone at the party. I ended up sitting with a couple because no one seemed to be talking to them and I felt bad. They were a sweet couple but seemed shy. Someone really nice I had met earlier ended up sitting with us, so that was nice. This place isn’t for me, though. I don’t know most of these people. There were a couple I know from Facebook, and it was REALLY nice meeting them. But I miss being with my friends. I want to go back home. But I have four more days here. I miss my ROW80 people because I’ve been so busy getting ready for this event that I haven’t interacted.
I’m hoping I will enjoy the classes the next couple of days. That will take my mind off things that have bothered me. I don’t even look forward to the costume ball because I’ll just feel alone again. I’m tempted not to go. I just shouldn’t be here.
I hope this sadness I’m feeling is temporary and I will be back to my optimistic self tomorrow. I will NOT cry.
lauralynnelliott.com 
*big hug* I’m sorry. 😦 I hope the classes will be better. It’s hard going somewhere new when you don’t know anyone. Too bad I go. Then could have sat at the same table.
I’ve never been to Vegas. I guess I’m not surprised that people smoke inside, but having grown up with cigarette smoke, I loved it so much more when I wasn’t in it anymore. I didn’t realize the smoke was messing with my sinuses until I was in the dorm at college.
I hope tomorrow is better for you!
I told you I wanted you to come! 🙂
I think today will be better. Well, except for the smoking part. Lol
That should be “Too bad I didn’t go.” Now it’s time for me to go to bed. LOL
I am so sorry you aren’t having any fun. Maybe you can make friends with that nice lady you met and the two of you stick together at all of the other events.
I’m sincerely hoping for the best for you.
Thanks, Rose. I feel like such a whiner. Today will be better. 🙂
Aww, Lauralynn, I’m sorry you’re not having fun! I don’t do well in big groups, either. Give me a small group of friends, and I’m happy, but small talk in five-minute intervals–no way!
What I try to do is observe in situations like that. In a big group, there are often behaviors that amuse or educate, so I try to concentrate on that. {{hug}}
It seems I get more introverted as I get older. You’re right about having fun watching others. Last night…well, there was dancing. Need I say more?
Go to admit, I’m not a fan of Vegas, either. Beyond that–you are NOT alone, even if it may feel that way. Travelling alone can do that to a body–despite the new adventure it can feel incredibly isolated. Remember that you have things in common with the people there–and things in common are conversation starters! (And you’re right about age, too–the older I get the less patience I have for shenanigans. I prefer peace and quiet more and more.)
I’m not traveling alone. That’s part of why I was upset. I kind of got abandoned. But I talked to my friend about it this morning. You can’t let things like this fester or they can ruin a friendship. I’m one to speak my mind, but do it kindly as possible. You know I thought writers in general were introverts, but we seem to be in the minority here.
You’re right–festering does no one any good, and calling Shenanigans on inconsiderate behavior, when done diplomatically, is perfectly acceptable. Good for you. 🙂
I think a lot of us are hybrids–I’m perfectly comfortable talking to anyone about anything if I happen to be out and about, but I almost always prefer the quiet and comfort of my own home where I can THINK.
I hope things go better for you this week, Lauralynn!
Hang in there.
Go to the costume ball. You have the dress and you were looking forward to it all along. .
I’m going, Emma. I feel much better today. Living the classes!