How exciting, our first official stop and our first group photo! This year as we unloaded in front of the main entrance to Churchill Downs we were greeted by our spunky tour guide, Hannah. She was full of energy and information about the history of the race track as well as the racing industry in Kentucky.
She provided an excellent guided tour of the grounds and the race track. We saw the the paddocks,the bleachers and club seats, betting areas (none made:) as well as the stable of a retired thorough bread.
After the tour, we got to check out the interactive Kentucky Derby Museum which was a lot of fun. You can race a horse, watch any Kentucky Derby and even try on lots of really cool hats!
Overall, it was a wonderful first stop. We had a great time exploring something new and getting to know each other a little in the process.
Bright and early Saturday morning, with eager anticipation we gathered before sunrise to emark on our journey! Suitcases were loaded, hugs were given, even a few tears were shed. In the end, the were excited goodbyes full of hopes for a wonderful trip!
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| Hey, Hey Hey, Good Bye! |
On Friday, June 15th we gathered for the first time at Salem College to meet and get final instructions for our adventure across country! There was a flutter of excitement in the air as everyone filled the room meeting familiar faces and new ones.
It is always so much fun to sit back and watch as everyone walks in to the first meeting with bright and somewhat nervous smiles! Being on the outside it's awesome knowing that these nervous smiles will soon lead to friendly laughs and family like hugs, for this group of strangers will soon feel like family.
