Thursday, August 16, 2012

Just Saying Hi

I remember a time when I would write in my blog daily, or every two days. Then it became a month, then every few months. And I just noticed that this is my second post in all of 2012. I feel bad because writing is my passion. I still know that my dream job would be in the writing field. My unfinished project on my casino life is still, well, unfinished.

Life goes on. I am still working as a resident concierge, which has its ups and downs. It wasn't that long ago that I was keeping track of 80+casino tables and going up and down those stairs so many times in a day. I got to know which dealers spoke Mandarin, which wore glasses, and which were under 25 (if you are not a casino employee, then don't ask). And now during the graveyard shift, I more or less sit alone for eight hours. I'll see people come in and out of late night parties, or people walking their dogs. When I first started working it was rather peaceful but I'll have to admit it's become boring. Luckily I have been blessed with morning shifts on the weekend. It does mean I see a lot more people and often have many things to do at once. That's always been the way I like it. Monotony is boring.

What does the future hold? Who knows? I still think about returning to the casino industry, not as a floor manager but in another capacity. I have so much to offer. It's become part of my life whether I like it or not.

Amy and I are finally going on our honeymoon end of September. We are taking a 7-day cruise on the Oasis of the Seas, that big honking boat with 14 stories. And yes, there is a Starbucks on board, although I hope to be able to sample from the 27 eating establishments. Now what do I do with two 4's on a dealer's 3 again?

I just wanted to say hi to everyone, because a number of you have wondered why I the writer don't write anymore. I hope I can start writing in this blog more often. See you all soon, and remember, if anybody needs advice or just want to talk, I'm always there

Monday, March 19, 2012

A New Life

I haven't updated my random life and times for a long time as so much has happened in my life. It was of course a little over a year ago that my illustrious career in the casino industry had possibly come to an end. While I definitely don't regret meeting so many wonder people through the years. It is hard to believe that it has now been 23 years (March 1989) that I first stepped into that casino at 2477 Heather Street.

I don't regret moving up through the ranks until I'd finally become floor manager. Of course I regret the way I left. Whatever people want to say they can. I know that I was at least able to put a smile on my employees almost every day I was there. A lot of people have said I was not the typical casino manager; whether that is good or bad is open to interpretation. I've always said you can be friends with me or you can be enemies with me, but just be honest with me.

A lot people are wondering why I never came back to visit, especially after my 6 months. Well, believe me, I wanted to visit. I miss almost everyone at work, whether it is the Wanker Pit or Pit 11 or of course the Party Pit. But I can't. I can make a big deal out of it but suffice to say I can't come in. Am I mad about it? Of course. I would think that in 22 years I had built up enough of a good character that one little mistake wouldn't change that, but some people are allowed to think what they want to think. My true friends know what kind of a guy I am. People who continually ask me how I'm doing, or even make fun of my beloved Habs, thank you for being there. Some of you are more or less not allowed to talk to me, and that's fine. I know and I understand.

I'm pretty sure I've closed the casino chapter of my life now. With all due respect, I don't think I could go back. Whichever company it is, I think it's more of the same. Perhaps it is unfortunate because I have so much to offer but fate has told me to start anew.

So now I am starting anew. I'd spent the last 7 months in sales, and realized it wasn't for me. So currently I am a concierge at the Fairmont Pacific Rim Private Residences. I'm starting as the graveyard concierge (2300-700 Wednesday to Sunday). I get to wear a black suit and make use of those fabulously colored shirts and ties that started fashion trends in the casino. Yes, I still look good in a pink tie. Perhaps the concierge or indirectly the hotel industry is my new muse, my new career. It remains to be seen.

Thanks again for all those that have said a kind word in the past. I remember you all.