Month: April 2011

I did the Richard Petty Driving Experience today at the Charlotte Motor Speedway.  Well truth be told I sat in a car with someone who really knows how to drive.  Even though there wasn’t a speedometer in the car he said we went 165 and when I asked how he knew he said “I just do”.  I was going to take video of the ride but he said I wouldn’t be able to hold my arms up very well and the camera could become a projectile around the turns so I decided to just hold on and enjoy the ride.  I ordered a DVD of the experience instead so we’ll see how that turns out.  We took three laps around and it was crazy fast but I still wanted to go faster.  The driver I had was a really nice young guy from Bend Oregon and I got to talk with him later in the day.  He wanted to be a professional driver but is happy doing the tours for now.  The turns were 21 degree banks so I definitely felt the G forces going around them.  Several times my helmet was pushed against the mesh netting covering the opening of the car.  Not that I would have but they advised not to curse because they were filming everything.  I think the only thing I said audibly at one point was “wow” and a little laugh and I’m sure my face and body language will say the rest.

A good day traveling yesterday from Oakland, CA to Charlotte, NC.  I think I’ve been ready for some time away from the office for a while now.  Sprint was nice enough to lend me a Galaxy Tab a few months ago to try out which I’ve been loving.  I truthfully haven’t fully understood the tablet trend because I take my laptop wherever I go and love having a full keyboard.  That is until I traveled for 7 hours on a cramped cross country flight.  The Galaxy Tab performed like a champ, the battery lasted the entire day with juice to spare.  I loaded it up with a bunch of videos I’ve tried to find time to watch but life doesn’t allow for much time these days.  I don’t mind being busy but just want to feel like I’m in control of life and that life isn’t controlling me which hasn’t been the case.  So anyway the tablet was a champ and I’m now a big believer but don’t know if I am ready to break down and buy one yet.

Not too much drama traveling yesterday either which is very unusual for me.  Christina and I joke that we would be the worst couple (or the most hilarious) on the Amazing Race.  Almost every trip I forget something major but so far nothing too significant.  I’ve started making myself travel checklists which has seemed to help.  The photo above is from my room on the 22nd floor of the Westin in downtown Charlotte.  The best tip I can give anyone traveling who is staying in a hotel is to be extra nice to the person checking you in.  I’ve also learned to ask for what you want, it never hurts to ask.  That is all for now.