....and they're off!

I've lived in San Diego all of my life and have never, ever been to the races at Del Mar! (I'm not much of a gambler.) But today, we finally did it...and did it big! For my birthday, Vivian and her sig-o Michael took Jay and me as their guests to the Turf Club. It was great. Jay was concerned because there is a dress code (no jeans, men must be in jackets). He was afraid he'd be dripping in sweat. But it was the most beautiful day, ocean breezes all over us, and we were at a table "on the rail". It was perfect. We got to see everyone, but more importantly as Vivian reminded me, we got to be seen! (ha ha ha) She's been into thoroughbred horses all her life. A Turf Club Member since the '80s, so EVERYONE knew her... Jay was concerned that no one gave him any kind of ticket for valeting our car, all we had to say was "We are with Vivian" and we were taken care of.... It was a riot!

So in addition to eating, drinking, and being merry...we also were there to win lots of money!!! Michael started schooling us on how to bet...He lost me at the word Trifecta....so he and Jay continued their lesson while Viv and I just started people watching and making fun of the vividly colored jackets that some of the men were wearing :)

My quest to live with my eyes open forced me to just take in the moment and enjoy every little detail. The first race of the day's winner was named "Searchforthetruth"..loved that! Also, I was reminded, once again, how beautiful our city is while enjoying my panoramic view.

Once Jay got the hang of the lingo, he went and placed bets on the 4th & 5th races. Both horses he chose, Wings of an Angel & Kris Silver both came in second...Not quite enough money to retire, but it sure was fun! It was a great afternoon.... We were even able to go down to the paddock to see the horses up close and personal before they went out to race.

Thanks Viv for the wonderful birthday present...an opportunity to do something new and exciting that I've never done before!