I just got back from Orlando for the IBS (International Builder Show), which is the largest residential builder trade show in the world. I know it's doesn't sound like fun to most, but it was like Disneyland for me. It showcases the latest in building products from fireplaces to lighting to kitchen appliances.
I was looking forward to the sunny Orlando weather as I had been checking the forecast for about 3 weeks before I left and it had been in the 80's. Of course when I got there it was cloudy & the next day it rained. It continued to escalate from there as the next night there was an extreme storm warning for a "Tornado Watch" in the area. It ended up missing Orlando, but the next night there was a bizzarre "frost & freezing" warning for the area also. Luckily, the weather got better from there and it was in the 80's the last day I was there, but I just had to laugh as I heard it was dry & somewhat sunny back home!
It was definitely weird missing my Birthday and Valentines Day, but I learned a lot and I've got so many more design ideas I want to create, I'll have to build 100 homes! Shelly was amazing for letting me go as she had to take care of both the kids (who ended getting really sick), while she was sick & 7 months pregnant. I love her!
Dan Cooper, a friend of mine, and another builder in town kept me company for the trip and we had a good time at the show and made it to Universal Studios twice and some kind of event every night. His wife also surprised us with tickets to the Denver Nuggets vs Orlando Magic game & Shelly surprised me by calling in reservations to NBA City restaurant at Universal Studios for my B-Day.
It was the longest I'd ever been away from my family, but I'm thankful I was able to go and look forward to next year and going with Shell!
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