Kentucky Derby 135

I can't believe it's only 57 days until the Kentucky Derby! You'll have to forgive me for neglecting such amazing news until now! Let the countdown begin!

ban.do

I can't even remember where I found this website. DailyCandy maybe? I think these headpieces are so striking. Each is handmade and one of a kind. They also come with their own haiku. And some of you may know... I love haikus.  I think these could even be great as a unique wedding piece or Derby hat alternative? Check them out at www.shopbando.com.

Jockeys

I saw an ad for a new show on Animal Planet called Jockeys: Win or Die Trying. Reality television AND horse racing? I'm in. 

Check out the preview here:

Celebs at the Derby

We saw a few celebs this weekend, but you can check out the Courier-Journal for more photos and LOTS of pictures of hats!

My absolute favorite were the Girls Next Door. Bridget was a VISION in pink and yellow. Rumor has it that Hugh and the ladies were filming for the show, so stay tuned!

RIP Eight Belles

KT and I bet on Eight Belles on Saturday (the only Filly in the Derby) and won a nice sum of money. But we felt too guilty to spend it on something delicious like hot pink pumps, so we decided to contribute our winnings to a certain presidential campaign that we thought would be appropriate. Eight Belle's death certainly makes me think a little about the sport of horse racing... but I think I'll wait until after Belmont to make any permanent attitude changes :-)

Mint Julep

I realize it's still 11 days until the big event, but I wanted everyone to be able to get a head start on prepping for a Derby celebration! Here's the mint julep recipe from the bartenders at Louisville's historic Brown Hotel:

1. Make simple syrup by taking equal parts of hot water and sugar. Stir.

2. Add fresh mint and muddle [mash, preferably with something like a pestle, otherwise use the back of a spoon].

3. Add crushed ice to an 8-ounce glass.

4. Add two ounces of simple syrup.

5. Top off with Kentucky Bourbon, and add a sprig of fresh mint.

6. ENJOY!

Derby Poster Time!

There has been an official Kentucky Derby Festival poster every year since 1981. They have become iconic in Louisville. Kind of like this Louisville Ballet poster I love.

I'm not really feeling the official 2008 poster below. It makes me feel like I might have a seizure.

Though I am in love with this unofficial poster.

I think my favorite of all time might be 1987.

Or 1998...

Or even 2004, which is hanging in our apartment and looks great with an orange and red mat.

You can check out all the past posters at the Kentucky Derby Festival site. It's definitely a journey through time. The 1991 and 1996 posters might make you think of those Hyper Color or Varnet shirts you wore with pride. And hopefully 1997 and 2003 weren't bad years for you, like they were for the Festival poster. Ekkk!