Louisville 5

At the Kentucky Derby Museum, there's usually a Thoroughbred or two hanging around. This one was camera shy and refused to pose for the papparazzi. I caught a glimpse of her companion, an adorable miniature horse who was equally determined to avoid any photo op.

Back inside the Kentucky Derby Museum, there are many exhibits to see. The interactive ones are particularly interesting. There are even hands-on activities for kids.

Love those Derby Day hats? There are two display cases full of hats worn at previous Derbies. Here's a sampling of lovely chapeaus:

I got to meet last year's Derby winner, Animal Kingdom. Okay, so maybe we only met in a strange, wax museum sort of way.

There's an area that features vintage Derby duds and tack.

I loved this special exhibit honoring one of the most famous jockeys ever...Willie Shoemaker. The materials were recently donated to the museum by his daughter. Sadly, Willie lived his last few years in a wheelchair, paralyzed after a terrible car accident.

It's hard to believe how anyone could fit into that little white suit. Hubby stands next to the exhibit for purposes of perspective.

Several horses that ran in the Derby are buried at Churchill Downs. Particularly poignant is this monument that stands above the remains of a little filly called Eight Bells. She shattered two legs so badly during the race that she had to be humanely euthanized right on the track.

All in all, the Kentucky Derby Museum was well worth the price of admission. If you ever travel to Louisville, and you love beautiful horses...be sure to check it out.

We'll be back to our regular programming next blog!