Sunday, March 26, 2006

San Antonio, TX - Business Trip

My company sent me to San Antonio for software training. When the manager left, I suddenly inherited the title of "Administrator" for our claims processing software. I pretty much went from being an occasional user (probably not even once a month) to being in charge of it, including maintenance, setting up new users, etc. Let's just say I didn't get too much sleep before attending the conference. By the time the conference was over, I couldn't believe how much I had learned. Talk about a huge weight being lifted off my shoulders!

Not only was the trip beneficial from a learning standpoint, but it was also a much needed relaxing break too. The conference was held at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa. If you click on this link, the main picture that comes up is taken from the back of the Resort. Once I entered the lobby, I was really disappointed that I hadn't been able to talk Doyle into coming with me. They actually offer this conference about every 18 months or so. So I'm hoping I'll get to attend another and take him with me. From what I've heard, every conference has been at a wonderful resort. This one certainly was.

Here are some pictures I took from the grounds:

They had a really cool lazy river that went along the whole back of the property. I could have killed myself because I didn't even think to bring a suit!

This was the hot tub that I dangled my legs in Sunday night. I had this whole adult area to myself this night. It was part of the Spa, which is to the left. They pumped out very relaxing spa type music towards this area too. It was just so nice. On Tuesday night, my last night there, I ended up putting on my workout clothes and jumping in this hot tub. I really couldn't stand not to anymore. It was so relaxing!

This is another picture of the adult pool at the Spa. I did put my toe in it and it was pretty cold. The other adult pool closer to the rooms had a waterfall with it too. That pool was heated, but everyone and there brother was at it. It was nice just to sit by this pool and drink in the atmosphere. I was surprised my allergies didn't bother me at all like they did in Austin.

This is the 22 room day spa. I thought it looked so nice. It looks like an old barn but I'm sure it was really nice and new on the inside.

Every ounce of the grounds was just so nice and relaxing. And I've always loved these trees.

The golf course was really nice too. I'm sure if Doyle had come, he would have loved to have played on this course.

This is another picture of the lazy river. It wound around 4 acres on resort grounds. You literally could walk out of your room (if you were on the first floor in the back) and just jump right in. They had several bridges that crossed it with those park benches all along the way.

My room even had a balcony. It faced the front entrance, which you can see in the background below. I would come out here and sit after the days classes were over and before the festivities would start at night. One night they had a BBQ in the Pavilion and the next night they bused everyone to Six Flags. I didn't feel like going, so that's the night I hung out and called room service.

All in all, I was a really great trip!

Sunday, March 12, 2006

Cedar Street - Austin, TEXAS

I was lucky enough to have to have to be in San Antonio on business... so of course, I made sure I flew in and out of Austin to visit some old friends! It was my lucky night too, my favorite band "The Atlantics" played Friday night. Here are some pics from the night...
Hanging out with Laurie & Suzie...
Thank you Ginny, for letting me hang out at your place while I was in town. Sorry for the allergies! I went through about every kleenex she had in the house!

It was just like old times... especially dancing the night away with Laurie! I miss our dancing nights so much!!

I know it's amazing I didn't take more pictures of Cedar Street. It's my favorite place and all. It was a great night and great weather for it too.

I also got to see my friends at Supportkids. It was so good to see everyone there too! Of course there is never enough time to catch up with everyone. I'm hoping Doyle and I can come back together for the next trip and just have more time to hang out and catch up.