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135th Run for the Roses

A bugle calls to post. You hear it faintly at first. It echoes, gradually becoming louder as the crowd beneath the twin spires lulls to a hush in anticipation. The thoroughbreds are loaded, one by one, into the paddock. Ladies in iconic and chic feathered hats and gentlemen in seersucker suits lean to the edge of their seats as the gates are closed. . . slam, lock, slam, lock, slam, lock. . .

Simultaneously a jockey and his steed take a breath, the horse wanting with every muscle to accelerate and break free, the jockey wanting to steady his heart beat. A bell rings.
And they're off!

Mind That bird rallied from last and exploded past the other contenders in midstretch, guided on the railing by jockey Calvin Borel to a stunning 6 3/4 - length victory in the what some say is the second biggest upset in Kentucky Derby history (beating 50-1 odds).


Even though my horse was scratched the morning of, my Millionaire's Row themed Kentucky Derby party was a hit. All parties I host should be this stress free and enjoyable. Garden party attire was mandatory and derby hats encouraged. Activities included afternoon tea, croquet and boccie ball in the park, southern dinner, betting, mint julep and Oaks Lily libations, and of course the Kentucky Derby. I had so much fun! There's just something about getting all decked out in pearls, dresses, heals, and a fabulous hat and doing 'high society" activities that just makes a girl's weekend. It's nice to do something refined once in a while.

Thank you Grandma Connie for giving me my love for horse racing and fabulous hats!