"Seldom does something that you look forward to live up to your expectations, ...in this case, it surpassed them." Amen, Brian. It was a wonderful day and a wonderful time together.

So many things came together to make it a day to remember. It was a first for all of us...that was fun. Fridays clouds and downpours gave way to sunshine and clear skies for Derby Day. Not to hot...not to cold...just right!

My girls also wore hats and looked gorgeous. Sissy in black and white, DanaMarie in brown and white ...and the boys were sooooooo handsome. Not only was my hat not to large...it was in the mid-sized range for derby day. ( I'm hoping they become the new fashion trend:) The other Derby attendees dressed to the nines...and I'm sure that I was looking at some hats that sold for $400.00-$500.00. Bags by Chanel, Versace, Prada and Hermes were "common"...as was a ton of some very serious "bling!" St. John knits were...ho-hum, and couture was everywhere....One fellow was even in top hat and tails!

In the tradition of true Southern hospitality...the other attendees were extremely gracious and friendly. A real surprise was Churchill Downs. She was sparkling for her special day...clean, the bathrooms immaculate and the walls in the clubhouse were decorated with horse themed painted murals. Lines for food and beverage weren't long at all and the staff was actually pleasant and courteous.

The horses are beautiful creatures and were amazing to watch. Although the $$$ on my bets didn't yield a penny...no problem...a small price for an unforgetable experience. Before they ran the Derby Race, the words to "My Old Kentucky Home" came onto the large screen and the University of Louisville struck up their marching band. I think Brian had a tear in his eye as we sang the beautiful old lyrics that have become a precious tradition on derby day. "Weep no more, my lady...weep no more today"... quietly had special meaning for me. I knew that this day was a blessing...and I didn't want to miss a minute of the "gift of today"...a precious gift from my children...all five of them...for with even one not here......it just wouldn't have been the perfect day that it was. I was very blessed, very thankful...and didn't miss a minute of soaking in every single bit of it.

A quick update on the entire group...

Aaron looks relaxed and rested and is prepping to run the Columbus marathon in Oct. with an eye toward Boston. He's also looking ahead to post military days and is heading to Bloomington, In. to talk with a hospital CEO about forming an anesthesia group for them. Go Aaron!

Sissy is stays in shape doing Crossfit and looks wonderful. She's in training for the first of three upcoming triathalons that she's planning to compete in. ( I'll be going to Va. to cheer for her in July! Love that!) She's also prepping for boards and is shooting to have them completed by the time she and Aaron are out of the Air Force and moving to Indiana. We had fun looking at plans for their "Dream House."

The girls and I thought Bruce looked more like a Secret Service Agent than a high powered corporate attorney in his suit and shades. All he was missing was a little earpiece! He's doing great and when duty calls, Vorys sends him out to their special clients that need help. He'll start helping with the summer program again for the new associates. The good news ...he's planning on finishing up his summer on the beach in HHI!

Looking every bit the southern gentleman in his blue and white seer sucker slacks...our Kentucky man took good care of the family and delivered us right near the track on Saturday. In a crowd of thousands, he maneuvered us to within a 15 minute walk of the white twin spires and placed our bets using the correct "track lingo!." Bri runs and plays basketball to stay in shape, and our UK Wildcat is doing great at his Louisville firm.

Last but definitely never least...DanaMarie is amazing. She juggles a demanding schedule all week...attended a family graduation on Friday night...looked like a beautiful Ky. lady on Derby Day and worked at the hospital 7 am to 7 pm all day Sunday...all with grace and a smile. Don't know how she does it! In July she'll start year #3 and be half-way thru her residency...Go, Baby Go!

After the Derby, it was time to head home. Dinner reservations were at 9PM...we took a vote and Papa John won. We had a great time eating pizza and telling stories around DanaMarie and Brian's dining room table. As a matter of fact, we had so much fun...no one left the table. We stayed and stayed...talked and told stories...laughed and then laughed some more. The very best way to round out our amazing day.

More tomorrow I'm sure as I process the last 72 memorable hours. Thank you Aaron, Anita, Bruce, Brian and DanaMarie.
I'm a very lucky and very thankful lady.
Much love...and good night from 2923 Curran Rd.
This horse is headin' for the barn in the mornin'.
Good night,,,,,,,,,,Love, Sue