MAY 2017

It is the Kentucky Derby and Cinco De Mayo weekend at La Posada.  Kristen from the hotel said I should go; it would be fun. She’s a feisty young woman with clear, penetrating blue eyes and silky brown hair. Youth dances in her expressions; other times, it wilts from being locked down to an indoor job.  She’s an adventurer who camps out in Belize and South America. Now, she’s talking about Antigua.  

I walked out to the courtyard to see what was going on.  The tables weren’t set up yet, but the Donkey stood idly and annoyed at the other end of the yard. I don’t know why they bring him, maybe for the kids.  In the bar, a few guests were watching the Derby. The elan of race anticipation is shining like a light. I ordered a Mint Julep, and the guys were all watching as Dude whipped it up with finesse.

“ How is it?” Dude asked without needing any approval. 

“ Magical.  Who are you betting on? Greta asked.

“I want a Titty Tut, something nasty.”

“ Oh, stop that. You do it too much.” She replied.

“ Not nearly enough! Okay, here’s my horse—Promises Fulfilled. Oh yes, that’s mine.”

“ Everything you say is a metaphor for sex.”

“ You bet it is.” Who’s your pick?”

“ My prick is Justify.”

“Hah, see, now you get it.”

I sipped my drink and wandered around the lobby, stopping to greet Jackie, Monserrat, and Danielle.  They don’t know what their smiles and caring comments do for me. I must tell them more often. 

“ I don’t know what I’d do without all of you.” To be continued.