I took a much needed day off last Thursday when I joined my former volleyball buds for our annual Dawn at the Downs day. It's been since 2004 that I've been able to attend, and it was good to know that things with the girls haven't changed all that much. We're all just a little older! Greg took the day off to take care of the kids. Knowing they were in good hands, I let myself thoroughly enjoy the day without worry.
Us girls have had a tradition of getting together the Wednesday or Thursday of Derby week for well over 20 years now. I can't remember exactly what year we started, but we have always toughed it out -- rain or shine. When we first started getting together, we actually went to the breakfast. For the last five years (starting with the last year I was able to attend), my federal law enforcement friends in the group have gotten us in backside. We sit in the third turn on some picnic tables that are reserved for the jockey's families on Oaks and Derby day. We pack some breakfast food and drinks, and have a great time being a little closer to the horses and jockeys during the morning workout.
After we leave Dawn at the Downs, we head back to one of the girls' house and begin Margaritaville. This year, we skipped the margaritas and switched over to beer. After eating a little and refilling coolers, we headed back to the track to make some donations to Churchill Downs.
After losing a few races, we left the track and met up with the guys that comprise the rest of our group. It was just as great seeing the guys again as the girls!
I hated for the day to end, but I had made a very important dinner date with the cutest little guy and his beautiful sisters. I think daddy was relieved and ready to hand over the reins back to me!
