Plans can change real quick!
I made my way to Atlanta to the Hilton last night, close to the airport and makes travels so convenient! My plans were to check into my room, grab some food and a drink at the restaurant/bar and head to bed early. Well, if you know me, plans can change real quick!
I settled in and came back downstairs and ordered some dinner. Beside me sat Rose and Devon from Montana. Devon was working and Rose had accompanied him on his trip leaving their four kids home with their grandmother. They were also celebrating their 10 year anniversary (together 14!) and Rose seemed grateful for the break, as she is a stay at home mom.
Shortly came Eric. Eric started chatting it up with me pretty quickly, which I loved! Eric has been at the hotel for a few weeks training to be a Delta flight attendant. He was funny, charismatic and sweet and had formed friendships with everyone there! He was also from Montana, coincidentally (small world) and had already met Rose and Devon. His husband is from South Africa and they have plans to move to Texas soon. They’ve been married for a year and have two fur babies which are super adorable!
After hanging out and talking for a while, Rose, Devon and Eric decided to head to the Irish Pub (suggested by the staff) and asked me to tag along. Knowing I had a morning flight, I hesitated but who can pass up an invitation with new found friends? Plus they had a pool table and it had been a while since I played so off we went! I immediately went in and put my quarters on the table for next game.
I racked the balls, played a not so bad game but still lost. The winning guy gave up his win and let me play next round. The next gentleman up, dressed in a fancy bright blue suit and hat (or was it purple? ) looked like he was going to kick my ass! We started playing and I thought, “dang Rachel, you’re doing pretty good”! I had a couple great shots. At that point, he changed gears and went for the kill and yes, kicked my ass!! We played another round and he gave up his win, and the next contestant stepped up. Coach Malik, who was an old friend by this time, told me I could win this one. I did not but was very close and appreciated the vote of confidence. He told me earlier he couldn’t win against the fancy fellow but he could def win against me although he never threw his quarters up. I think I could of taken him on!
Coach and I became fast friends. He is a dad and an assistant coach for a travel basketball team and kept me company while watching me loose every single game! Finally, the gang was ready to head out. I was not, as I could of continued to play pool all night but knew I needed some rest! Not to mention, it’s always good to leave with who you came with. Thank you Eric for watching out for me! We stopped for a snack and made our way back to the hotel. I did not get as much rest as I had planned but was thrilled to have met some new soul shines!
