They can’t pronounce ‘Derby’ here, so they call it ‘derrrrby’ instead.

Either way, 250,000 descend on this town for a 3 day horse race festival.

But it’s much more about the hats than the horses.

John sorted tickets for us, and it couldn’t have worked better.

I had the athletic Kevin staying with me, and Chris and Caroline a few miles away with John and Cindy.

My bad taste shoes got more attention than most of the races, but no such thing as bad publicity I think, in the Derby fashion stakes.

My visitors were truly fantastic ( making me question needing the mood pills ) and we’ve had a lot of laughs.

If any of you has the misfortune of ending up paraplegic, I’d definitely recommend having Kevin Neilsen as a mate.
Give him Pretzels and wine, and he’ll do anything.

It takes me about ten minutes to turn off a light on the other side of the room, if I go to bed, having forgotten.

I’ve taken my first antidepressant at the same time as yet another antibiotic for yet another UTI.

So just as my mood lifts, I get another urine infection, further complicating my life.

That’s pretty typical. Not only will I be dressed badly,but I may well be sat in a puddle of my own making for hours on end.

Then again I might not be.

But I probably will be.

So I hope John has leather car seats.

Derby Tips…

Hi Russ,

So glad your friends are coming in today–a nice boost for your spirits! You indicated they are experienced Derby goers. As such, if they are REAL friends, they may frown upon you wearing those “statement” shoes. However, the entertainment value alone should compensate for any damage to your otherwise stylish reputation here in our fair city. (Be very grateful you don’t have to wear one of those hats the ladies were selling…)

I do not recommend drinking the Mint Juleps. They are horrid, but almost required for a first-timer. Just go along with it to please your hosts if pressed. When no one is looking, toss it into a potted plant.

Then of course you need to learn to sing “My Old Kentucky Home” before tomorrow. It is our state’s anthem and you’ll likely have to join in. Be sure to have enough alcohol in your system by that point so you can easily well up a few tears during the chorus that compels one to “Weep no more for My Old Kentucky Home…”

Wishing you a fun week with the festivities, and some laughs and hugs with your friends. Call if you need anything, anytime!

P.S. YOU picked the pink shoes from the others. You could’ve easily gone with the purple striped loafers if you preferred a more understated look. Please do not try to escape accountability for your questionable choices.