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Sunday, May 5, 2019

Reflections on 2019 Run for the Roses Party and Celebrating Clare

I think this may have been my favorite Derby Party.  There have been so many wonderful ones and so many memories made over the 27 years of this party.  This one was special. This one was truly co-planned with Clare.  It just made sense to say- your graduation parties will be blended into our Derby party.  Clare embraced it years ago and the closer to the date we got the more involved she became. And then May 4, 2019 arrived and she was a beautiful co-host!

Even better the rainy day didn't dampen the fun.  I love how friends adjusted wardrobe plans, kids flocked to the kid area/bouncy ponies not even realizing they're getting wet and dear neighbor/friends rolled with the mud pit we created in the yard.  The party brought amazing people together and we're grateful to everyone that joined us to share in the fun of the traditions and helped us make it a special night.  The fantastic food, favors, errands, offers and extra touches.  Extra thanks for the care for Clare, helping her and us honor this amazing stage of her life.  She has worked hard and is on a wonderful path leading to the College of Wooster- Go Scots!  (If you left a dish- we have it on the dining room table- stop by. I'll move these to the green house and will leave that door open this weekend.)

The party also felt like a true family event. A friend said it was fun to see so many families from our sports world attend and that was nice.  We've spent years together cheering on our girls as families and these senior year milestone events are wonderful.  Peter and Sally had their friends, each gathering in different spots making their way through the party more gaggle like than gang.  Peter's entrance with the Whit's Cooler was one I hope to always remember.  Sally's desire to wear Wooster colors was appreciated.  Our new neighbors becoming more like family every day and all of extra helpers and touches happen because friends are family.

Another factor to win favorite status was my hat!  Not just a beautiful hat, one procured during an incredible girls trip celebrating my 50th birthday to Louisville! https://formemillinery.com Official Milner of the Derby- her hats are amazing, fun to follow her on Facebook! Last year's theme was 50th birthday for both Joe and me- the connection and hat evoked memories of the trip- smiles, giggles and good times southern style! 

Really the beautiful thing about the party is the friendships- all of ours, all ages, all evolving, growing in their ways and sharing such a special time in our lives on Newark-Granville Road.
Joe is a great co-host, Clare a fabulous addition in 2019!
from FB- love these big kids in the rain!


Fun times captured!

cookie decorating moved to under the tent!

who brought these? LOVE THEM!
banners instead of bunting- worked!


Grandma Shirley with Clare- Blue Ace dress inspiration



Special touches- Wooster colored julep and sweet gift of flowers. I have dear friends and one is a talented bartender!
Never enough photos, thanks to those sharing others with us!!

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