Oh, the sun shines bright . . . .

Well, it ain't shining here this morning, but I'm not complaining. It's warm, and all aspiring plants and grasses received a much needed drink overnight.

Though we've not seen a lot of sunshine this week, it's been a pleasant one weatherwise, and the relatively cool temperatures have guaranteed all those gorgeous tulips a longer performance this year.

This is the time of year when I'd wish the environment would snap into a "freeze frame." With deep greens accented by bright reds, yellows, pinks and whites, and the fragrance of budding cottonwoods permeating the air around our home, I feel like I'm strolling around in heaven.

Speaking of heavenly happenings, today marks another time I'll be plopped on the couch in front of the television, taking in the great stories and color of the Kentucky Derby. One of my lifelong wishes has been to some day be there in person to take in the sights, sounds, gorgeous horses, fashion, mint juleps and tradition.

For now, though, as I've done each year, I'll listen to the individual anecdotes about the horses and their personnel this afternoon and eventually decide who my favorite's gonna be. Then, I'll hope---as always---that nobody's looking while tears stream down my face during the playing of "My Old Kentucky Home." It gets to me every time as I watch those magnificent animals and their colorfully-attired jockeys parade around to that wonderful piece of music.

Actually, I never really care which horse wins the Derby because the real fun comes with the anticipation associated with the Preakness and then, maybe, the Belmont. Will we have a Triple Crown winner this year after so long without one?

I can't think of any event so glorious, so steeped in American tradition and touching nostalgia than the Kentucky Derby. It's probably my lifelong love of horses that gives the nod over baseball, car racing, or even the Master's.

So, I'm looking forward to my afternoon of turning into a total sap and dreaming of the possibility of some day being there in Louisville to experience the Derby up close and personal.