As a native Louisvillian, when I think of the Kentucky Derby, I think of spring. Thunder over Louisville, the largest annual fireworks show in North America, kicked off the festivities last weekend. but the real party starts next week. We have a saying here in Louisville: "Work? It's Derby Week!!!" We take the afternoon off work (I always called in with car trouble from my lunch break) and drink ourselves into oblivion at the Chow Wagon downtown. Thursday night and Friday night of this week are the Balloon Glimmer and Balloon Glow (the larger version of the two). Friday morning is the Rush Hour Balloon Race and Saturday morning is the "official" balloon race. Saturday morning is also the Kentucky Derby marathon/half-marathon, which runs one block away from my house. One of these days, I'll be in the half-marathon just to say I did it.
This time of year puts butterflies in my stomach because I love the beauty and grace that well-trained thoroughbreds exhibit during every horse race. Add the pomp and circumstance of the Derby, and well, it brings tears to my eyes. The celebrity sightings are great, but I love hearing the University of Louisville band playing "My Old Kentucky Home." While I won't be at Churchill Downs for the big race, it doesn't get much better than that for this Kentucky girl. Especially with a Woodford Reserve Mint Julep in my right hand. And my left hand. And the winning stub in my pocket.
I hope you enjoy the second Saturday in May as much as I do!!!
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