Ten Things Horses Taught Me in 2013

2014 is the “Year of the Horse” but quite a few horses taught me lessons in 2013 that aren’t just useful in the barn. Here are 10 reminders given to me by some of the horses in my life this year.

1. The year will get better – Will Take Charge had a few small victories in the spring, but he proved that even if the first part of your year doesn’t go as planned there’s always another day. This is a very good reminder when you’re having a bad day or month and don’t see an end to it.
   
2. Getting older isn’t all that bad – Wine backs up this statement but both Game On Dude and Wise Dan really brought the point home this year. Two of the oldest horses racing consistently at the top level, they have both gotten much better with age.
3. Sometimes you just need to slow down – This one comes courtesy of Vegas who is good at reminding me that faster isn’t always wanted/needed. It’s nice to get to your next destination fast, but when you’re out for a relaxing afternoon drive, take some time to smell the flowers (or grab some of the knee high grass you’re walking through).
4. Prioritize – Are treats or drama more important? Crystal was good at reminding me that it is okay to step away from more stressful parts of your life for a few hours, especially if there’s something enjoyable away from the drama.
5. Change isn’t always bad – Vegas was a trooper getting into the trailer during our tour of the U.S. and always seemed happy to see what adventure she was going on when we loaded up every morning. Gas stops weren’t just for getting treats and water but also a time to take a second and enjoy the journey you’re on.
   
6. Transitions may seem scary, but really they can be fun– Just like transitioning from a walk to a trot, speeding up or slowing down your life when necessary isn’t as painful as it seems. Sure, it’s different but that’s not always a bad thing. Changes can lead you down paths that have a lifelong effect on your view of life.
7. Changing your attitude can change your life – Thanks to some of the Three Chimneys studs for this one. If you stay standoffish, your life won’t be as enjoyable as it could be, but if you warm up to the person wanting your attention, there may just be a mint at the end of that person’s hand.
   
8. Don’t let life get out of control – Vegas had this lesson for me a lot this fall. Being on the brink of losing control is one thing, but actually losing it isn’t fun. So push yourself to the edge, because it may lead to something you didn’t know you could do, but rein yourself in before you lose all control of the situation.
9. Big things can come from comebacks – Animal Kingdom taught me a few things this year, but this was one that should resonate with quite a few lovers of the big chestnut. He faced more hurdles than many out there but came back to impress the world with a big win. Sure, not everyone is going to have that big win, but don’t give up just because you have a setback.
10. Tomorrow is another day – You may have a crappy day or ride but as soon as you are turned out in the pasture, it’s time to reset. Don’t forget about what happened the day before but don’t dwell on it. Instead, remember the lessons learned from the experience and use them when you face the same challenges the next morning. 

This past year was a tough one for many people but here’s hoping 2014 brings readers everything they wish for (and more)!

Happy New Year!
Mel

Happy New Year (Kind of)

Yes, I know the title is misleading if you look at a calendar but last weekend I declared December 1 my new year. While technically I still have 23 more days until 2014 rolls in, I've never been a stickler for conventional social details. 

With all the drama that happened over the past year, including multiple Thanksgiving week events, I was looking for a way to end the year. Because I'm a horse racing person, I decided to end it the weekend of the last big races of the year (I see some of you rolling your eyes at me), which happen to coincide with the last weekend of November. 

Fittingly, I spent it at the track (big shocker) since Churchill Downs was hosting two major days of racing to close out their year (no really, it was the last two days of the final meet of the year for them).

And after all the photos I've taken this year, it's also fitting that my favorite came from Friday night's Clark Handicap, the last major race I'll shot this year. 

Will Take Charge sealed up his championship (he's out of one of my favorite mares so this was fun) by beating Game On Dude (one of my favorite old warriors) about 15 feet in front of me (yay for photog press passes) and I was extremely glad that my camera didn't decide to act up at that moment (we're having massive issues at the moment). But even though I was sure it didn't act up, I was overjoyed to see this photo when I got back to the press box.

It's definitely not professional photographer quality, but it's better than it would have been a year ago.

The next day, I went back on my day off because I'm kind of crazy and was one of only two photographers on the track for the final race. The emptiness allowed me to get a prime spot to get another good shot. It's safe to say that it was definitely a good way to end my year. (Coincidentally, it's also kind of fitting that this promising 2-year-old won the last race of the meet since it's quite possible he'll be working towards the Kentucky Derby at Churchill next Spring).

This week, I enjoyed a four day weekend and finally caught up on some movies in theaters that I was dying to see. Hunger Games: Catching Fire definitely gets my vote as movie of the year with Thor 2 right behind it. I also watched Mortal Instruments: City of Bones at home and am recommending you don't waste your money on it, it was definitely a disappointment. 

To end this post, I also found out how lucky I am to be surrounded by the people in my life. Between a great dinner with two friends on Saturday night and a huge group supporting me as I work towards a goal over the next few months, I have a great support system. I definitely lead a very charmed life!

I head home for six days in a week and a half so there's a ton to do before then but I look forward to the "holiday challenge" that is my to-do list.

Until next time,
Mel