I’m currently in Florida at the Peabody Hotel next to the Orlando Convention Center. My boyfriend invited me along to see the annual International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA). I haven’t actually been to the convention yet, but last night we attended 4 industry parties, one of which was at Universal Studio Orlando. I got to ride the new Simpsons ride and it almost made me puke.

The Simpsons ride took the place of the old Back to the Future ride (which I’ve never been on) and makes use of some new technology that involves lenses or something or other. Eh, I was tired when they explained it to me. It’s actually a pretty cute ride that takes you and the Simpson family around Krustyland and Springfield crashing through things, falling twisting, bumping, jarring, flying. It’s pretty intense and you get jostled around a lot. I’ve never seen so many health warnings on a ride before; including claustrophobia. The best way I can describe it is: Star Tours on crack. If you like Star Tours, you’ll like The Simpsons Ride. I do actually like Star Tours, but I don’t like roller coasters. I get motion sickness pretty easy, but not to the point of actually vomiting. I can handle Star Tours, but always end up feeling a little light headed afterward. The Simpsons, on the other hand, really threw me for a loop and I had to close my eyes quite a bit. Not because it was scary, but because the motion was fucking with my head.

Anyway, I haven’t seen or done much while in Orlando. Mostly we’re here for IAAPA and I haven’t even seen that. I think my role here is “arm candy” and I’m actually pretty good at it. Kidding. I like supporting AJB and I especially like seeing him schmooze with his colleagues. He’s really great with the people skills and has this miraculous ability to remember people he hasn’t seen in 30 years; first and last names and where he first met them. I don’t know how he does it. In fact, people who haven’t seen him in 30 years remember him too. Don’t know how that works seeing as I can’t remember people I met last year. Mnemonics? I must learn.

Today, I think I’m going to see the show floor and we’ve got another party to attend. I dig the free food and drinks. I’ve also been battling a headache since we got here day before yesterday, since when my allergies have also been giving me grief. It’s cold here in Florida, but the air is clear and the sky is real blue.

I’m sorta out of it. I guess I’ll take a shower and start my day.