dancing robots

I survived Derby. My cheeks are sunburned, my shoulders are sore, but this morning I received the most gratifying text message.

"You're in the Herald-Leader!!! You're awesome!"

I mean, I didn't need that to feel like I did something incredible yesterday. Because I know that a lot of people will never get the chance to stand on the track of Churchill Downs, or wait for that perfect moment to shoot a photo of horses thundering by, the dirt getting kicked up as they zoom by. To happen to stumble right in the middle of the action as the winning horse and jockey come by, getting congratulated by the trainer.

I had a good time yesterday, despite the hours of waiting and harrassment in the infield. At one point, while waiting for race 9 in the observation box on the backside, I fell asleep while standing. And the infield...man. I was never happier to leave a place.

A photostory that I've been working on since September will be wrapping up soon. I'll post more about that later this week.

I've been home for three days, and can't wait to get back to Lexington. I feel awkward in my own home; in fact, home doesn't even feel like home anymore. I'm a stranger in my own bedroom.

Welcome, Summer. I can't wait to see what you have in store for me.