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
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