The End of a Season
A stop in Lexington, Kentucky finally brought us significant signs of spring. The area was beautiful, steeped in budding leaves, blooming flowers, and a rolling country side. The grass was lush and green. Lexington is called the Bluegrass State but we had difficulty seeing the blue in that green grass. Either way it was beautiful in sight and feel.
Also known as the center of the Thoroughbred breeding universe, there were many beautiful horse farms surrounding the area. Home to Churchill Downs and Keeneland Racetrack, horses seemed to be the pet of choice. We learned the area is the best in the world to breed horses due to the underground limestone and its calcium component. These elements provide nutrients in the grass that, well, make the horses grow big and strong. In addition, the hills are a great landscape for horses to exercise. The scenery was exactly what you would expect in Kentucky.
We were fortunate to learn Keeneland was hosting the Spring Meet while we were in town. So we took the opportunity to attend and learn a little bit about horse racing. What did we learn? They run too fast to catch a photo, there is a lot of cigar smoke (my least favorite smell), there are five tractors that simultaneously groom the track, if you are standing next to the track, pay attention – there just could be a horse very close to you, and each racehorse is guided by a second horse to keep them under control. For those of you that just watched the Kentucky Derby, that is sometimes a hard job. It was fun to watch the races and hear everyone’s cheers, celebration, and even some disappointment as they crossed the finish line.
On a visit to Frankfort, Kentucky, we learned it is one of four of the smallest towns that is home to the state capital. Nestled in a residential neighborhood sits the capital building. A beautiful structure with French, Greek, and Roman architecture. Not far from the capitol is the grave of Daniel Boone which overlooked the quaint town of Frankfort.
Our time in Lexington ended with a visit to the University of Kentucky’s Abortorium, the Ark Experience, and the Daniel Boone settlement where we learned about life for women in the early settlements of 1775. Watching the hand loom was fascinating. It reminded me of the time I made pot holders from a little loom kit when I was a child. Even more fascinating was learning about midwifery during those days. Did you know during childbirth, midwives would have women sniff pepper from a quill which would cause them to sneeze, and aid in the delivery process? Well, it’s true!
The journey from Lexington took us to a brief visit with family in Ohio before heading to New York to surprise our moms for Mother’s Day. It was a feat to keep the plan a secret but with the help of family – and a few 100 people who were told not to say anything (I might be exaggerating) – we pulled it off!
And so now we are home. The first season of The Salt and Light Journeys has come to an end. We have described the experience as a roller coaster but one that brought us to beautiful places, given us the opportunity to see friends and family, and most of all an opportunity to give back to the communities we visited while meeting some wonderful people. Through it all, we followed God’s lead, even when we didn’t understand. What we did know is that He gave us an opportunity to be salt and light in a world that so needs to be loved. For that we are humbled and grateful.
We look forward to what He has planned for our next season. For now we will enjoy summer in NY, work, and spend time with friends and family until we head back out on the road. We look forward to seeing more of this beautiful country and spreading more salt and light along the way.
Thank you all for following our maiden journey. Your love, encouragement, and support has meant the world to us. Stay tuned for Season Two in the fall of 2022!!
