This past week, Mela and I were in Lexington, Kentucky. Our daughter, Gina was the Maid of Honor for Lauren’s wedding and our other daugnter, Nicole, a cosemtologist in LA did Lauren’s hair.

It would be a misrepresentation if I were to say Kentucky was on my short list of places to visit. Shame on me. If you love your bourbon and horses it is well worth at least a long weekend in Lexington. Of course there are numerous other places and activities during your visit as well as a number of excellent restaurants - to soak up the bourbon. Mela and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves during our visit.

Mela has watched Gina’s close group knit of friends grow-up for just shy of the last 20 years. I had no doubts but it has been good to see that Nicole has been warmly welcomed in to this sisterhood over the last ten years. Still not sure if there is a pledge or oath but Nicole would not say anyway. Perhaps all for the best.

The bond and friendship amongst these girls - now women runs deep. They are fierecely loyal. I am quite certain that should a distress signal ever arise they will all be there in a moments notice to help their friend - no matter how near or far.

Before we get to bourbon and hosres, the wedding held at the Castle & Key Distillery was beautiful. The grounds were amazing. Lauren, the bride was absolutely gorgeous and Chase, the groom looked good as well. It was a magical evening of good food, good drink, laughter, dance and celebration.

Having arrived late Wednesday, Thursday was time for lunch and to go bourbon tasting. The drive to the distillery was breathtaking. Miles & miles of stately homes situated on 50 plus acre parcels that were perfectly fenced and manicured for their horses. Kentucky bluegrass really does mean something.

We only had time for one distillery, Woodford Reserve, but there are countless ones to visit. Just like wine tasting in California. Perhaps a bit more like foothill wineries such as El Dorado and Amador county rather than Napa. The distilleries are not on top of each other.

Lunch was at Wallace Station. Seemingly in the middle of nowhere but the little place was packed. Came to find out it was on Diner’s, Drive-in’s and Dives. The chili which had bourbon in the recipe and was excellent. I felt the cornbread could have used some butter and honey. Over the couple of days I discovered that there is not too many recipes that can’t include bourbon - whether it be chili, a craft beer, salsa or buttercream frosting. Like cooking with wine I guess.

We headed back early so we could get ready for the cocktail reception for the bride and groom. It was great to see and meet many of the people prior to the big day. A nice evening. Capped off with a bourbon from Buffalo Trace Distillery with the bride’s parents.

Friday. The bride and groom had arranged ground transportation out Keeneland which was most kind.Time for the ponies. What maginificent animals. So much fun. And I even won a little. Mostly bet on the favorites. The venue was amazing albeit crowded for this one-eyed claustrophobe. A great time was had by all. That evening Mela and I celebrated her birthday with a nice dinner at a local Italian restaurant while the wedding party had their rehearsal dinner at a nearby steakhouse.

Saturday was the big day and a wonderful way to wrap up our visit to Lexington. On the flight home Easter Sunday I watched John Rahm win the Masters Golf Championship. A very, very good long weekend.

I wish nothing but the best for Lauren and Chase as they embark on the next chapter of their life. Congratulations.

Be Kind, Be Humble, Be Strong. God Bless!