there is a rich history.
Just before dinner, the 12 of us met once again
at Ballard’s in the atrium for drinks (and a nearby
tornado warning, which didn’t faze us a bit)
before hopping on the trolley destined for 1875:
The Steakhouse inside French Lick. That was
probably the most special experience of the
trip. We sat, laughed and talked for hours while
enjoying everything from Jumbo Lump Crab
Cakes and Chesapeake Bay Oysters to all manner
of entrees. I don’t think I’ll ever forget the Prime
Rib-Eye I ordered. I still dream about it from time
to time. Before wrapping up to head to the casino,
Penny Neace stood up to offer a few words that
evoked some tears. I looked around the table and
counted my blessings for being a part of such a
great group of people.
I lasted 10 minutes at the casino – not kidding
– and took the trolley back to my room, quickly
falling fast asleep.
DAY THREE
After rising and working out, I sat on the veranda
to watch the sunrise before setting out on my last
walk around the grounds. I was relaxed, but I also
was ready to go home. After all, this was the first
time I’d ever spent a night away from my daughter,
who turns 2 on Jan. 20. Knowing Olive was going
to have the chance to spend quality time with
her daddy helped alleviate the anxiety I felt, but
there were still a few tough moments, like when
she said, “Mama bye bye – no!” during our first
morning phone call. I dripped tears into my coffee.
Thankfully, most of the women on the trip had
already been there, done that with their own kids
and offered words of wisdom: “Taking time for
you makes you a better mother.” “It’s important
to do things for yourself when you spend so much
time taking care of everyone else.” “The first time
is hard, but it’ll get easier.” “Girlfriend, when was
the last time you got up in the morning when YOU
wanted to? Enjoy this.”
And I did.
15