To the Happy Couple

OH, HAPPY DAY!!!!

Photo courtesy of MSNBC

Sending Prayers to the Southeast

A tornado that ripped throught Tuscaloosa, Alabama yesterday was caught on film.

My thoughts and prayers go to our neighbors farther south who experienced a horrific series of storms and tornadoes yesterday, which caused widespread devastation. As of this morning, more than 180 deaths have been reported and that number continues to rise. Alabama was especially hard hit, with entire communities destroyed.

For the first time in several days, we actually have a reprieve from the rain here, and the sun is shining. We are blessed to have not awakened to the loss of loved ones or a dismantled home. May God be with these people during this difficult time.
Image from The Tuscaloosa News

Standing on my Soapbox

Okay, folks, I’m operating on very little sleep right now, so it seems like a perfect time for one of my periodic rants. Buckle up.

1. Mother Nature, we've experienced your wrath. We are more than aware of what you can do. You’ve proven it time and time again over the last year. But, would you mind pulling back just a little, pretty please? It’s been raining for days, more severe storms passed through last night and our power went off again. Due to the thunder, lightning and general worry that a tree would fall on my house, I haven't slept much in the last few days. I bet you’re worn out, too. So, why don’t you take a break, sit back and enjoy the beauty that spring has to offer. Sound like a plan?

2. Yesterday, I saw the number ticker at the gas pump go higher than I’ve ever seen in my life. At one point I found myself pleading out loud in the middle of the gas station, “For the love of God, please stop!” I am now paying more than $4 a gallon for gasoline. INSANITY. Hey, Washington, get on this NOW. (Although, when I complained about this on Facebook the other day, a British friend of mine reminded me that he's currently paying $9 a gallon for petrol. So, I know, it could always be far worse.)

3. Donald Trump: Shut up. Whether or not many of us support the current administration, I am willing to bet most of us don't like you or your hair. Your alleged will-I-or-won’t-I run for president is a joke. You’re not going to run; this is just a giant, insulting promo for “The Apprentice.” And now we’re subjected to front-page headlines of the president’s birth certificate, and you're taking credit for it. Really? Must we dwell on this? Do us a favor – back off and make way for more important business.

Okay, I’ll push the soap box back under the desk for now. As you know, I am not one to talk politics in this blog – we're surrounded by the bickering 24/7 and I hate to be one to add to the noise. But, I’m tired and cranky and the latest events are just making my headache worse.

Are any of these topics getting on your nerves? Please share. I want to take comfort in the fact that I’m not the only crazy lady screaming in the middle of a Speedway gas station on a Tuesday afternoon.

Thanks for sticking with me. I promise I’ll be peppier in the morning. Luckily, the work week is going to end on a happier note with the royal wedding this Friday. I can’t wait to see Kate’s dress and watch William’s face as his bride enters the church. It should be a magical day. I know some people are fed up with the frenzy surrounding it, but for those of us who, as children, rose early to watch Charles and Diana get married, and have since watched Prince William and Prince Harry grow up, this is a special day many of us will take joy in viewing. Cheers to the happy couple!
Images from mygtv.net and photographer Mario Testino

Guess Who Has Tickets?

Yesterday evening, I found out that on the first Saturday in May, I'll be sipping one of these...

While wearing one of these...

Here...


May the sun shine bright on my old Kentucky home...

Sincere thanks to my mother-in-law for giving us this opportunity. It's been a few years and we're extremely excited and grateful to be returning to a box seat at Churchill.
Images attributed to photographers Rick Schmitt and Sam English

The Fabulous Beekman Boys

Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Dr. Brent Ridge, aka "The Fabulous Beekman Boys"

I have a new favorite program: “The Fabulous Beekman Boys.” I read about these guys on a couple of other blogs, so I had to check them out to see if all of the tales of fabulousness were true. And, yes, they are! 

 The Beekman Mansion and Farm, Sharon Springs, New York.

Their program is on Planet Green TV, which if you don’t have this cable channel, you can watch episodes for free On Demand. Anyhoo, the Beekman Boys are Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Dr. Brent Ridge, two city guys who found a beautiful mansion and farm in upstate New York and are trying to make a go of it by selling goat milk products, as well as other goods inspired by their farm living. Their product line is Beekman 1802.

After becoming so enamored with the boys, I just had to order Josh’s book on my Kindle last night. The Bucolic Plague: How Two Manhattanites Became Gentlemen Farmers – An Unconventional Memoir, is a hilarious account of their efforts to purchase the farm and make a go of it in the country. Along the way, both men lost their jobs during the peak of the recession; but rest assured, they bounced back. If you like David Sedaris, you’ll really like this book. Josh is a former drag queen turned ad executive. Brent is a doctor, who also served as vice president of healthy living for Martha Stewart Omnimedia. So, with ties to Martha and the world of drag queens, it’s never a dull moment with these two.

I think I may have to purchase the first season of “The Fabulous Beekman Boys” on DVD. I’ve only seen a few episodes of season two via On Demand and they are such fun. If you can, be sure to check it out.

I hope everyone had a blessed Easter. Our weekend was full of a variety of activities leading up to the special day. It was wonderful spending time with family and watching the kids’ excitement over their Easter baskets. I could have done without the endless rain, though. It would have been nice to release our sugar-filled kids into the great outdoors yesterday afternoon. Oh, well. The basement had to suffice.


Happy Easter Monday!Images from www.beekman1802.com and www.planetgreen.discovery.com

Hats, Glorious Hats

Within the next few weeks, we will be seeing lots of hats. From Easter, to the Royal Wedding to the Kentucky Derby, ladies will have many opportunities to break out their fine millinery.

During Derby-time in Louisville, it seems like every other storefront you pass, there are hats in the window - even if it’s not a dress shop. Heck, florists, art galleries and candy stores get in on the act. It’s Derby; hats are EVERYWHERE.

So, for those out-of-towners who may score a last-minute ticket to Derby, don’t worry about finding a hat in your hometown. There is a HUGE selection here. I’ve heard many-a-story about last-minute buyers hitting the stores on Derby morning and finding a fabulous chapeau. Yes, Virginia, it can be done.

Kate Middleton attending Ascot. Oh, what a fashion plate she is - eight more days until the wedding. Woo hoo!

And, for those those ladies flying out the day after Derby, Hats for Hope always has a table set up at the airport for those who would like to donate their hats to the charitable organization. Hats for Hope raises funds for the American Cancer Society and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer by holding a annual hat auction and cocktail party. Some hats are new, some are donated (cleaned, of course) and all are fabulous. Many out-of-town guests who attend the Derby have no itention of ever wearing their hats again. So, they donate the hats to Hats for Hope, get a nice tax deduction and help a good cause. Win, win, win!

Dear readers, will you be donning a hat for Easter, Derby, a wedding or other special event in the near future? If so, do tell!

By the way, our power was restored yesterday afternoon. As I was driving home with the kids, I saw three utility trucks leaving our of neighborhood. It was like seeing the cavalry coming to our rescue! Thanks to everyone for your kind words! And, In case I don't have a chance to blog during the rest of Holy Week and into Easter Sunday, I wish you the happiest of Easters. Celebrate the Reason for the Season, enjoy time with your families and dig into those Easter baskets. My Lenten chocolate fast will be coming to end this Sunday and I plan to eat myself into a chocolate haze. Yum!!
Images from kentuckyderby.com, thebusinesspage.com, blogtown.portlandmercury and paigingjoyblog

Power Outage - Fun Times

Bad storms. Tornado sirens blaring at 12:30 a.m.
Power out.
Back hurts after camping out in the basement with the kids.
Tried to apply make-up this morning by candlelight.
Really, really bad hair day.
The kids say they like playing in the dark - can they do it again?
Mommy says, "Dear, God, I hope not."
Can't get to Starbuck's fast enough.

Thankfully we only lost power - no damage to our home. I'm well aware it could be far worse. If the power doesn't return this evening, we may be hoofing it over to my mother-in-law's. Fingers crossed it returns soon.

Hope the sun is shining where you are!

Princess for a Day

Well, it may not be Prince William and Kate Middleton, but it certainly gave my daughter a thrill to meet the Kentucky Derby Festival Queen, Trisha Maclin, and her court on Sunday during the Children's Tea with the Kentucky Derby Festival Princesses.

The event was held at the historic Seelbach Hotel (F. Scott Fitzgerald's stomping grounds when he was stationed at Louisville's Camp Taylor), where current and past Derby Princesses mingled with young ladies, enjoyed tea and walked the runway with the little girls. Miss E. was in heaven, as she gathered princess goodies, enjoyed finger sandwiches and cupcakes (although, she made a face after drinking the tea and asked for lemonade) and even won a giveaway. Before we started to eat, a past Derby Princess, whom I know from Junior League, gave an etiquette lesson, and to Miss E.'s credit, she followed along nicely.

After tea, each little girl was given a rose and allowed to "walk the runway" as her name was announced. They also had a professional photo taken with a princess.

Here's Miss E. with Derby Princess Caitlin Carter, a student at Western Kentucky University.

While folks outside of Louisville may see this as very pageant-like, or perhaps a little silly, these young woman are far from that. They serve as ambassadors for the city leading up to the Derby, attending just about every event (more than 70 events taking place during festival). Plus, there are major scholarship dollars involved - a huge reason why many young woman apply for the court. Many princesses have gone on to hold impressive positions in and outside the community, including former Kentucky governor Martha Layne Collins.

Here Miss E. and I are in our matching pink finery. Not sure why I look stiff as a board in this photo. Perhaps I stood that way because I was self-conscious of that dress. Putting it on a second time, I found it unflattering - perhaps it's the empire-style waist. Oh, well. I'm taking it to be altered today - just didn't have enough time prior to the tea.

Miss E. on the steps in the lobby of the Seelbach Hotel

After the festivities came to an end, we ventured home with our princess swag in tow. Miss E. gave her M&Ms to her brother, which thrilled him to no end. Hubby and Little Man had their own guys' day together, which culminated in stumbling upon a Revolutionary War reenactment at George Rogers Clarks' historic plantation. The two of them stopped the car across the street with some other passers-by and watched the festivities. A smoothie and muskets - can't beat that!

Hope everyone had a great weekend!
Photos property of JMW A Place to Dwell

Jack Rogers and Weekend Ramblings

How cute are the new Jack Roger jelly sandals? Great for the beach and pool and a tad more affordable than the traditional JRs. What do you think? I am so ready to start wearing shoes like this. Better line up a pedicure, pronto.

Had to fill up the tank this morning and I about had a heart attack at the pump. Mother of God! I've never seen the dollar ticker go up that high, and it's not like I drive an SUV or some other gas guzzler. Oh, the madness of it all.

TGIF, my friends. Any big plans for the weekend? We have another weekend of soccer (if the rain holds off) and birthday parties. Thunder Over Louisville, the big fireworks display that kicks of the Derby Festival, is Saturday night. But, I don't do the crazy-crowd scene, so we'll be staying far away from the rowdiness.

Have a good one!

Thanks to everyone for your sweet comments about my new dress. Truly, I wasn't seeking fanfare over my fashion choice, but hey, if you want to shower with me compliments, I won't argue with you. ;)
Image from Jack Rodgers

My Newest Lilly

I’ve been jonesing for a new spring dress, especially now that the weather has turned warmer and a number of events are approaching, including Easter and my niece’s baptism (Hubby and I are the proud godparents!).

After pouring over the many options on the Lilly Pulitzer website, I trotted over to the Peppermint Palm here in town to try on some dresses. While I was tempted to order a dress online, Lilly dresses come in a wide variety of cuts and styles, so the best bet is to see it in person.

After trying on about eight different frocks, I decided upon the Finn Shift Ponte in pink (above). It’s a classic design and will work for a variety of occasions. The first event is approaching this weekend, the Fillies Children’s Tea and I’ll be sporting my new dress. And, hand-to-God, I did not plan this, but my daughter will be wearing her pink and white Lilly dress that my parents gave her for her birthday. Won’t we be so stinkin’ adorable?

My mother-in-law is a member of The Fillies, a volunteer organization that is heavily involved with the Kentucky Derby Festival. The Fillies sponsor the Derby Princess court, the upcoming Fillies Ball, Pegasus Parade and other activities. The tea features a fashion show, crafts, games and opportunities to meet and greet the Derby queen and her court of princesses. Because of my MIL’s health setback, I’m standing in for her at this event. Miss E. is VERY excited, so it should be lots of fun. She attended last year’s tea and came home with lots of goodies, including a princess pillow that she still keeps on her bed.  She’s very much looking forward to this year’s swag!

Dear blogger friends, bear with me as the Derby season approaches. As you can imagine, the Kentucky Derby is all-consuming here and I tend to be involved in one way or another; you may hear a bit (or a lot) about horse racing and related events over the next few weeks. If I’m talking too much about it, just rattle my cage and I’ll switch to another topic. ;)

So, anyone else in the market for new spring clothes? If so, what are your favorites this season? Any special items we should keep our eyes on?

Have a wonderful day!
Image from Peppermint Palm, via Lilly Pulitzer

Mind Your Manners

I recently received an e-mail from a young gal, stating that she’s moving to the South and wanted someone’s advice on when to say “mam” or “sir,” because she’s heard that is “big” in the South. Apparently, I was mouthing off about discussing the importance manners on another blog and she sought out my opinion.

Well, I am by no means an etiquette expert, but I felt the need to respond to the young lady. At the same time, I’m hoping I’m not actually corresponding with a large, burley house-bound man posing as a 13-year old girl.

Is it important to say “Yes, mam,” “No, sir,” and the like? Yes, yes, a thousand times, yes! This young lady has been told that it’s expected more in the South. I told her that while you’re likely to hear it more from young people in the South and Midwest – although not nearly enough these days – all adults, no matter where they live, are appreciative of respectful dialogue with children.

I try so hard to instill this in my children. When I call out to my kids, “Miss E.,” or “Little Guy,” there are times they respond with “What??” I, in turn, always respond with “What mommy?” or “Yes, mommy?” and then they repeat the correct response. We push the message home and they're getting it. Sometimes they slip, but they're getting better. Thankfully, they have "please" and "thank you" fairly down pat.

Miss Nancy Rascoe teaching youg campers how to write a proper thank-you note.

This correspondence reminded me of a documentary I recently came across called Miss Nancy Minds Their Manners, about North Carolina’s grand dame of etiquette, Nancy Rascoe. Miss Nancy and her husband Peter open their 200-year old historic home in Hertford, North Carolina every summer to youngsters from the region to teach them manners, along with a variety of sporting activities (swimming, fishing, archery, canoeing, etc.). Hubby joked that to get boys to attend such a camp they better be able to go shoot a bow and arrow at the end each day!

Has anyone else heard of Miss Nancy or perhaps even attended her camp or had a child  attend her camp? I would love for my kids to visit such a place, although not sure how much longer Miss Nancy and Mr. Peter will be doing this, given their ages. Hopefully, someone else will carry on the tradition. If my kids can’t attend Miss Nancy's camp, there will definitely be cotillion close by when they’re a little older. Hubby did this and not only received etiquette training that serves him well to this day, he can do a mean waltz and fox trot, too. :)

So, dear blogger friends, what are your thoughts on teaching children etiquette and manners? Is it a dying art? Are you trying to keep it alive in your families? Have you ever been to etiquette training or something akin to it?
Images from Miss Nancy Nancy Minds Their Manners documentary and The Etiquette Company.

P.S. - Thanks to everyone for their kind words and prayers for my mother-in-law, as well as my mom. It means the world to us!

Return from Spring Break

Spring break is over and all the kiddos return to school today. We didn't travel anywhere this year, but I didn't mind. I like it when the city seems less crowded. We could sleep a few minutes later each day because there was less traffic. The office was quiet since many folks were out of town, so I could catch up on work. And, it was especially nice not being cramped in the Family Truckster for 12 hours in bumper-to-bumper traffic on I-65 South.

It's weird, because you know that more people stay home during spring break than not. Yet, when I went for a walk in the neighborhood on Saturday, it seemed like a ghost town. Many places looked deserted. It's at that point where you do feel like you're the only ones who stayed behind. But, our turn is coming this summer, so I didn't have any pangs of jealousy over not having ventured to the beach last week. I was plenty happy with my Friday off with the kids.

We enjoyed a cookout last evening (it reached 86 degrees yesterday!) and watched the final round of the Masters. Good showing, Mr. Schwartzel. Sad to see young Irishman Rory McIlroy have a complete meltdown during the final round. Poor guy. But, he's only 21. He'll be back.

For those of you with kids or who are teachers/students, have you had a spring break yet? Will you be traveling or enjoying time at home? 

Hope everyone has a great week!

Prayers requested: We had a another family health-scare last week, so dear friends, please keep my mother-in-law in your prayers. She suffered a stroke last Wednesday. In less than a year's time, Hubby's mom and my mom have been hit with strokes. MIL is improving and making progress with her therapy. Thank God we have both our moms with us - they are fighters!
Image from nationallampoon.com.

The Big Green Egg

Dearest blogger friends, I am seeking your input on a birthday gift for hubby. His birthday is in June and I would love to give him a super-cool gift.

What do you think about the Big Green Egg?

Hubby has mentioned this type of smoker/grill a few times. Then, when our neighbor got one, I could see the look of green-egg-envy in his eyes as he gazed across the fence. So, I started to do some research. Holy cow – those things aren't cheap! But, I shouldn’t get too worked up. When you look at what some grills can set you back, and considering what this thing can do, that should be a reasonable price, right? We’ll just have to cook on it every single day of the summer into the fall to make it worth it, that’s all. ;)

So, anyone out there own the Green Egg or have experience with it? Is it worth the purchase?

And, speaking of outdoor cooking and dining, I saw this cocktail recipe on Julia Reed’s e-mag Fetch. It’s called a Rosemary’s Baby. Sounds devilishly good.

And, a batch of Rosemary’s Babies served up in these glasses from Corzine & Co., would look fabulous during your next barbecue.

Bring on the warm weather, good food and porch parties!

Since I'll be spending time enjoying the great outdoors for the next few days - albeit in my backyard, but nonetheless - I'm unplugging from the computer so I can fully enjoy the three-day weekend with my family. Talk to y'all on Monday!
Images from The Big Green Egg and Fetch/Taigon

Who is Styling the Derby??

Hmm, so Vineyard Vines has taken on the moniker of "The Official Style of the Kentucky Derby." Not sure how I feel about this one.

Don't get me wrong, I like Vineyard Vines (although, at times, they are a bit pricey for the product). But, I think of them as a resort/beachwear company, not an outfitter for the grande dame of horse racing. Clearly they're trying extra hard to branch out, and given they've been able to secure this honor, they've certainly landed the big whale (har, har).

VV does have a huge presence at Carolina Cup, a big steeplechase event in South Carolina, evident throughout their blog. You'll see countless photos of cute young college guys and gals mobbing the VV tent, trying to land as much swag as they can. So, they are "in" with a certain demographic of the horsey set. (On a sidenote, while I've never been to Carolina Cup, having only seen photos, I just need to know: If you are a gal between the ages of 18 and 25 attending CC, is a Lilly Pulitzer sundress and floppy hat the mandatory dress code? Seriously, EVERY girl is sporting that same uniform.)

The Run for the Roses silk sash from Vineyard Vines' Kentucky Derby Collection. Hmm. It's green. I guess it's intended to be a subtle nod to the garland of roses awarded to the winning horse, which is RED. Again, not sure how I feel about this one.

Granted, you'll see your share of Lilly and VV at the Derby; but more often than not, at least in spots like the Clubhouse and Millionaire's Row, the hats will be Frank Olive, Lulu Guinness and Christine Moore Millinery, and the clothing will be Milly, BCBG, kate spade, Chanel and on up the food chain. (I won't even try to describe the fashion scene in the Infield. It's an island unto itself and I don't travel to that island.)

The men's mint julep tie is a good look - so props to VV on this one.

Although, I think the gals at Southern Proper had this idea first (see above). Not to split hairs, but their julep cups are more authentic looking. I know, I'm really being obnoxious about this, aren't I?

Sorry I realize I'm coming off as a complete snob (or old lady) in this post. It's just that as someone who holds the Derby near and dear to her heart, I feel somewhat protective of my turf. Here comes a northeastern company claiming dibs on our southern belle. I get it; the marketing teams at both companies siezed on an opportunity. Believe me, I know how this works. Visa, Yum! Brands, etc. have their logos slapped all over the Derby. It's all a money-making venture. So, I'm not surprised that VV has joined in.

You better do right by us, VV. That's all I'm sayin.'

We're closing in on the weekend, folks. I'm happy to say I'm off work tomorrow and spending time with my kiddos for the last days of spring break. I'm very much looking forward to it!
Images from Vineyard Vines and Southern Proper

The Master's and Special Birthday Shout-Out

Spring is officially here, with warmer temperatures emerging and blossoms in full bloom. Friday is the opening day of Keeneland’s spring meet here in Kentucky, which paves the way for one of the biggest happenings in the world sports, the Kentucky Derby (first Saturday in May, don't ya know).

Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia

Another big sporting event is gearing up just south of here: The Masters. I’ve always wanted to attend this tournament. My late maternal grandfather was a golf professional, having played on the PGA tour, and then making his career as a pro in residence at a local golf course in Louisville. My two uncles followed suit. So, naturally, we all grew up playing the sport.

An image of my grandpa from the Kentucky Golf Association's Hall of Fame's website.

Given my history with golf (although, I haven't played in years), I’d love to attend The Masters, see the amazing azaleas in person and watch these famous golfers play. I’ll try to get past the fact that Augusta National is still a men's only club (Boo!) and just enjoy the sights and sounds of one of the most famous events in golf.

I'll be cheering for Phil Mickelson again this year. He’s a great golfer and an all-around good guy. We watched his triumph last year as he rushed over to embrace his wife, Amy, who is battling breast cancer; a moment that brought tears to many people’s eyes. He was also coping with his mom’s cancer diagnosis - a lot certainly on his mind.

Today I read in The Bleacher Report about Mickelson's menu for the Masters Champions Dinner, which is planned by the defending champion:

His meal for 2011 is as follows: seafood paella and machango-topped filet mignon for an entree. It also has a salad, asparagus and tortillas for side dishes. For dessert? A cream-topped apple empanada.

That's not Phil's roots, if you're wondering. That meal is in honor of Seve Ballesteros, the cancer stricken two-time Masters Champion, and Mickelson's mentor. Unfortunately, Seve won't be in attendance for the meal, but he will be on everyone's mind.

Phil grew up with seeing Seve win, and because of that, his goal became to win the Masters. Phil got to know Seve when he joined the tour, and the two became great friends.

Seriously, even if you’re not a fan of his golf game, how could you not like Phil Mickelson? And, best of all? He's a fellow lefty.

Have you ever attended The Masters? If so, please share your experience of attending the event. What was your favorite moment? Did you come away with any good swag or gear?

And one more thing: I want to send birthday wishes to my wonderful mom this April 6. You’ve been through so much in the last year. We’re thankful for your presence and that you’re still going strong. We love you very much!

Images from The Masters, New York Daily News and the Kentucky PGA Hall of Fame

W&M Custom Jewerly

I am loving the spring designs from W&M Custom Jewelry.

The designers and business owners are Louisville gals and it appears that business is booming. Not only are local boutiques carrying their designs, but other shops outside the state are as well.

I think I’ll have to put in a special request for this mixed green and yellow agate necklace for my birthday.

Or perhaps the two-strand yellow spider agate...

Or maybe the large green turquoise tear drop necklace...

This three-strang coral number with a vintage starfish brooch would be perfect for summer. Yeah, it's going on my wish list, too.

So many options, so little money. Oh, well. A girl can dream. :)

Have a great day, everyone!
Images from W&M Custom Jewelry

A New Must-Watch Program

Did anyone catch last night's premiere of The Killing on AMC? Whoa, I have found my next must-see TV show.

Actress Meireille Enos in a scene from the new AMC series, The Killing.

I'm a big fan of the crime drama genre, but The Killing is quite different from anything else on television right now. It's based on the Danish television series, Forbrydelsen, and will spend the 13-series run on the investigation of a girl's murder. The lead detective, Sarah Linden is played by actress Mireille Enos and I really like her quiet intensity. Unlike other crime dramas that focus so much on the gory details of the crime, trying to push the envelope of grotesque, The Killing is suspenseful, without focusing on gore. The detective work, the character studies and the bleak setting in gray Seattle are engrossing, not gross. Any show that can keep me intrigued for two hours well past my bedtime gets a thumbs up from me.

So, if you like crime dramas, you may want to consider this program. It's not for the faint of heart, though. The emotion of the girl's family dealing with the loss of their daughter is heart-breaking, sometimes hard to watch. I found myself tearing up. This is a testament to the superb acting and writing. AMC, you've done it again.
Image from www.amctv.com

We'll Be Back

Terrence Jones after UK's loss to UConn. Terrence, we feel your pain.

Well, it's over. The Cats lost last night; no national championship game. But, I'm proud of my team. It was a fun ride while it lasted. And we'll definitely be back next year.

The local papers are reporting on all of the fans, local and in Houston, and their thoughts on the game. My favorite quote came from a young woman in Lexington, which appeared in this morning's Courier-Journal:

At the Tin Roof Bar in Lexington, Ashley Grigsby, 23, said she put off a request for a first date to watch the game instead.

"I couldn't focus on a man," she said.

Now, that's a Kentucky girl.

"Go Cats! said George H.W. and Barbara. I heard Barbara opted to leave her Kentucky blue jacket at home, so that she could at least appear to look impartial during the tournament. :)

Enjoy the rest of your weekend, friends. We put up a new tire swing in the backyard yesterday, so early this morning the kids are already asking if they can go out and play. Love it! And, I was very industrious Saturday, tilling flower beds, planting bulbs and putting down mulch. Not sure where the energy came from, but I'm hoping some calories were burnt. Of course, I probably canceled it out with the Dairy Queen soft serve ice cream I had later that night. Ugh, what was I thinking? I better hit the pavement for a run today.

Happy Sunday y'all!
Images from the Herald-Leader

Get Your Game Face On!

Houston, you have a problem. The Wildcats are coming to town.

Did you hear? The Kentucky Wildcats are in the Final Four! What? Oh, did I already mention that? A few hundred times, you say? Sorry, I just never get tired of saying it!

C-A-T-S! CATS!! CATS!! CATS!! Folks in Houston will be hearing that cheer a lot this weekend.

I’m actually nursing a cold right now, so an ideal weekend for me would involve propping myself up in bed with the remote in one hand and my Kindle in the other while I doze on and off throughout the day. At the very least, I hope to catch some extra sleep so I can get try to get rid of this God-awful thing. Then, stay up late Saturday to cheer on my Cats!

In other news, congrats to my dad who officially retired yesterday. Woo hoo! Many golf courses await his arrival. And, Dad, if you want to watch my kids or run a few errands for us now that you have some extra time, be our guest. :)

It’s spring break around these parts. We don’t have plans to travel anywhere this year, much to the chagrin of our daughter. Oh, well. Maybe we’ll get our act together and plan something for next spring break.

Fabulous Friday has arrived – enjoy the weekend, folks!
Images from Sea of Blue and SEC Sports Fan