So I may have a gambling problem...

So, I may have a gambling problem... and my 21st Birthday "Vegas" trip is creeping up on me. That can never be a good sign...

For those of you who may not know: in certain states, people are allowed to gamble on Indian Reservations if you are 18 or older. There aren't any Indian Reservations with Casinos in Kansas, so I travel "Where the wind comes sweeping down the plain". That's right, Oklahoma.  Picture this: Vacant, run-down buildings everywhere, trailer homes in every direction, rusted vehicles parked in lots on every corner... and BAM! A 5-star hotel and casino right yonder. Not kidding. As a guest in the hotel, you could easily imagine being right on the Vegas strip, but look out a window and no, there's never-ending forests with ghost towns scattered in every direction.

Now that you can see where I'm spending my money, you can understand how it's even possible a 20-year old can have a gambling addiction.

Anyways, I have this idea stuck in my head that I will win a million dollars when I go to the casinos... This has been my goal the past 10 times I've been gambling... and no, I've never come home with a cent more than I took. Hell, I've NEVER brought money back with me. I spend it all- a whole whopping $50. In fact, the casino often sends promotions through the mail based off of my spendings... which my family and friends get "free stays at the hotel" and "free money for spending"... My coupons, however, say "Remember to spend more money to get the casino rewards"...

Nevertheless, I'm still addicted. The only reason I only bring $50 to the casinos is because if I brought more, I would definitely spend it. And now, my family has planned a trip to Vegas for my 21st birthday... and I'm freaking out! How much do I take? Especially for 5 days? Plus money for food and drinks? Oh shoot, my nerves are shot just thinking about it. Damn it! If it wasn't for the kids doing so well on "Vegas Vacation", I probably wouldn't have ever dreamt about winning! It just looks so easy on T.V. Either way, playing the slot machines is definitely a fun pass-time. The music, the free drinks, and the many new slots with the touch screen which I have no idea how to play, is just exhilarating.

I guess the lesson in all this is: 1) Watch Suzie Orman once a week. 2) Don't believe everything you see on the television. and 3) play the penny slots to save money :)

So from now on, I'll be saving my money... or my change, I guess. I don't have lots of money sitting around. Till then.