Oh, I had such good intentions. I really thought I could update this journal (of sorts) on a daily basis. Joke's on me. I will just have to be happy with making entries whenever I can.
For 6 weeks, our beautiful Saratoga Race Course employs hundreds of folks with a variety of positions. It provides wonderful opportunities for students, retired people, teachers, etc. to earn some money. They are the reason the entire venue functions at all. Some get to sit in air-conditioned offices all day and others are out in the weather. The mutuel clerks, admission clerks, ushers, maintenance people, security guards, fire marshalls, program sellers, etc., etc. keep things running smoothly.
But, with that said, it's the horses and the jockeys that put on the show. Truthfully, until I was one of those employees, I did not have any idea, or respect for, this "Sport of Kings." I am honored to greet some of these fine athletes each morning as they come through the gate. It is a dangerous sport that takes more strength than you would think they have. They may be small in stature but they are huge in ability and heart.
So tomorrow is my 'Monday' and the next 6 days will bring more adventures. I hope it also brings more time for additional posts.
Thanks for stopping by.
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Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
ARTS DISTRICT IN SARATOGA SPRINGS
Just a few blocks west of Broadway is a wonderful area....
www.saratogaartdistrict.com
On "First Fridays" of the month, the artists gather both inside and outside their studios. Come along and experience their artistry.
Making soap.
Beautiful decorations.
Oops....
Let's give credit to Michael Bray and Sharon Crute who have been instrumental in promoting this wonderful area of Saratoga Springs.
Be sure to enjoy.....any day of the week!
Sunday, July 22, 2012
A WHIRLWIND IN SARATOGA SPRINGS
How many times have you said "I can't do it all?" Well, if you are lucky enough to live in Saratoga Springs, it is true, you cannot do it all. There is so much going on you have to choose just where to spend your time. Yes, there are not enough hours in the day......or night!
Shakespeare in the Park, followed by Opening Day at the track. Which leads to "Hats Off" on Broadway. Then it's Friday evenings on the rooftop of the Tang Museum on the campus of Skidmore College. Don't forget there are approximately 6 different community theaters with ongoing productions. Independent movies at the Film Forum, Saratoga Arts Council, too. Oh yes, Sunday evening concerts in Congress Park. Bring your lawn chair and blanket and enjoy the great weather. And yes, Saratoga Performing Arts just completed 2 weeks of exquisite productions of the New York City Ballet. And Saratoga Springs is the summer residence of The Philadelphia Orchestra. Check out the concerts!
Add to this swimming and boating on the many lakes, playing golf on one of many courses, choose among the many tennis courts, walk through our pretty parks, and enjoy a wonderful downtown shopping area. Check out the Arts Disctrict on Beekman Street. Did I mention the spas, mineral baths and springs? What will you do??
I cannot omit our famous thoroughbred race course. You will fall in love!
About Saratoga Race Course
"One of the oldest and most charming horse racing tracks in the country, a day at Saratoga Race Course is not to be missed. The meet kicks off in late July and runs through labor day each year. During the meet, the world focuses on Saratoga for its world-class Thoroughbred horse racing including the Travers Stakes, affectionately known as America's "Mid-Summer Derby". Named one of the "top ten sporting venues in the world" in Sports Illustrated Magazine, Saratoga Race Course is an architectural and cultural treasure."
How can you possibly decide what to do and where to go? And so many restaurants to choose from because all this builds an appetite. ENJOY!
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| The set of Twelfth Night, Shakespeare in the Park |
Add to this swimming and boating on the many lakes, playing golf on one of many courses, choose among the many tennis courts, walk through our pretty parks, and enjoy a wonderful downtown shopping area. Check out the Arts Disctrict on Beekman Street. Did I mention the spas, mineral baths and springs? What will you do??
I cannot omit our famous thoroughbred race course. You will fall in love!
"One of the oldest and most charming horse racing tracks in the country, a day at Saratoga Race Course is not to be missed. The meet kicks off in late July and runs through labor day each year. During the meet, the world focuses on Saratoga for its world-class Thoroughbred horse racing including the Travers Stakes, affectionately known as America's "Mid-Summer Derby". Named one of the "top ten sporting venues in the world" in Sports Illustrated Magazine, Saratoga Race Course is an architectural and cultural treasure."
How can you possibly decide what to do and where to go? And so many restaurants to choose from because all this builds an appetite. ENJOY!
Saturday, July 14, 2012
UN-EXPECTATIONS
I often say that when you wake up in the morning, you never know what the day will bring. So, first, be grateful you woke up!
It's a typical Saturday morning.....a Saratoga Saturday! But we cannot always anticipate what the day will bring. I take my coffee out to the porch. Just so happens it turned out to be a 'good' cup too. (Not sure why some mornings it's better than others.) There is a prediction for another hot and humid day but it starts out with a pleasant breeze. I did not expect to enjoy such a wonderful day for people watching.
Since our local (and fantastic) SARATOGA FARMERS' MARKET sets up right across the steet in High Rock Park, my neighbors and I are able to do a lot of observing. The vendors start before 7 AM. Setting up tents, canopies, unloading their wares and moving the trucks takes a lot of time. They wait for Anna Mae (who makes and sells delicious jams and jellies) to walk through the market ringing the bell at 9 AM sharp. Cannot sell anything until the bell rings!
Soon a familiar face is walking up the path. What a pleasure to find my dear friend and spectacular artist, SHARON CRUTE, taking time for a visit. Although the fresh veggies and plants are the reasons she walked over from her home, it is my pleasure to have her sit and chat for awhile. Never expected that today!
Not only did I not expect the visit, but Sharon surprised me with a signed copy of a wonderful book. Recently published and written by Dale Sue Wade, Sharon's illustrations are so perfect. Please take the time to check out 101 Whinnying Riddles for Horse Crazy Kids. All ages will enjoy the drawings along with puns and, in the process, learn a lot about horses and horseracing. Lots of good stuff in it! You can find it on Amazon.com. What a great gift idea!
While I was enjoying the scene playing out before me, I get an unexpected phone call. A dear friend, visiting from another state, will be joining us tomorrow. We will all be giving thanks for a little girl's recovery from leukemia. After 2.5 years of chemo, spinal taps, hospitalizations, etc., she is free of this deadly cancer. Some of you may remember when I did some fundraising for the LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY and then walked a half-marathon in her honor. Remember this when you have that ache or pain. She's only 6 years old now and look at what she has experienced in those short years.
And I witnessed an unexpected animal lover berating folks who left their Newfoundland in the car while they shopped. Yes, the window was open and the dog could put his/her head out which was the case. With incessant barking, no one could avoid noticing and only one person spoke up when the owners returned. She was quite adamant trying to explain how hot the car gets, etc. I don't think the owners appreciated being told what to do but the woman was right. I do think there might have been a nicer approach but at least she did something. I'm sure the owners did not expect that tongue-lashing.
So the morning goes and Anna Mae comes through with the bell again at 1 PM signalling the close of the market. So the day started with no expectations and ended with pleasant memories.
"Life is largely a matter of expectation."
Horace
It's a typical Saturday morning.....a Saratoga Saturday! But we cannot always anticipate what the day will bring. I take my coffee out to the porch. Just so happens it turned out to be a 'good' cup too. (Not sure why some mornings it's better than others.) There is a prediction for another hot and humid day but it starts out with a pleasant breeze. I did not expect to enjoy such a wonderful day for people watching.
Since our local (and fantastic) SARATOGA FARMERS' MARKET sets up right across the steet in High Rock Park, my neighbors and I are able to do a lot of observing. The vendors start before 7 AM. Setting up tents, canopies, unloading their wares and moving the trucks takes a lot of time. They wait for Anna Mae (who makes and sells delicious jams and jellies) to walk through the market ringing the bell at 9 AM sharp. Cannot sell anything until the bell rings!
Soon a familiar face is walking up the path. What a pleasure to find my dear friend and spectacular artist, SHARON CRUTE, taking time for a visit. Although the fresh veggies and plants are the reasons she walked over from her home, it is my pleasure to have her sit and chat for awhile. Never expected that today!
Not only did I not expect the visit, but Sharon surprised me with a signed copy of a wonderful book. Recently published and written by Dale Sue Wade, Sharon's illustrations are so perfect. Please take the time to check out 101 Whinnying Riddles for Horse Crazy Kids. All ages will enjoy the drawings along with puns and, in the process, learn a lot about horses and horseracing. Lots of good stuff in it! You can find it on Amazon.com. What a great gift idea!
While I was enjoying the scene playing out before me, I get an unexpected phone call. A dear friend, visiting from another state, will be joining us tomorrow. We will all be giving thanks for a little girl's recovery from leukemia. After 2.5 years of chemo, spinal taps, hospitalizations, etc., she is free of this deadly cancer. Some of you may remember when I did some fundraising for the LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY and then walked a half-marathon in her honor. Remember this when you have that ache or pain. She's only 6 years old now and look at what she has experienced in those short years.
And I witnessed an unexpected animal lover berating folks who left their Newfoundland in the car while they shopped. Yes, the window was open and the dog could put his/her head out which was the case. With incessant barking, no one could avoid noticing and only one person spoke up when the owners returned. She was quite adamant trying to explain how hot the car gets, etc. I don't think the owners appreciated being told what to do but the woman was right. I do think there might have been a nicer approach but at least she did something. I'm sure the owners did not expect that tongue-lashing.
So the morning goes and Anna Mae comes through with the bell again at 1 PM signalling the close of the market. So the day started with no expectations and ended with pleasant memories.
"Life is largely a matter of expectation."
Horace
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
SOME NEEDED R & R......
What a luxury! I treated myself to a couple of hours at Moreau Lake State Park. Beautiful lake with a beach area that is very popular with families who enjoy swimming. This park also has camping, canoeing, fishing, etc.
Soon company arrives..
I'm not the only one with a camera. I swear at least 100 photos were taken by this woman of the girl. Don't think there was much variety either.
 |
| Aerial view of the lake |
Only about 13 +/- miles north, it so convenient. One of the perks of being a 'senior' is I can enter the park at no cost on weekdays. Do you know which NYS Governor instituted that generous rule? Any guesses?
I arrive early wanting to avoid the crowds and the day camp kids. I choose to set up my sand chair away from the swim area. I look to my left and see ...
I'm not there to swim but to feel the warmth of the sun and recoup some of my energy. Life has been a whirlwind for some time now and I need to rest up before the track season.
Soon company arrives..
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| He's on his cell! |
 |
| Yes, 2 dogs! |
 |
| She's texting! |
Along comes a sweet family...teaching the little one how to fish!
I'm not the only one with a camera. I swear at least 100 photos were taken by this woman of the girl. Don't think there was much variety either.
Don't think any of them paid any attention to these warnings!
This woman gave up.
She did return later....to retrieve her chair!
Now more people are arriving. Time to leave.
A view of the beach from the boat launch.
What a pleasant day! Next time I might even swim! And, yes, there will be next time. Need the relaxation, the sand between my toes and the sun on my face.
Loving all that Upstate New York has to offer. Get out and enjoy life!
Thanks for stopping by.
Loving all that Upstate New York has to offer. Get out and enjoy life!
Thanks for stopping by.
Monday, July 9, 2012
THE BELMONT STAKES, 2012
June 9, 2012
Okay, here are some of my
observations from Belmont Race Track. As some of you may know, I was one of
many, many employees from Saratoga Race Course that were taken down to Belmont
where they expected record crowds to witness the possibility of history in the
making. Alas, "I'll Have Another" was scratched (good move because the horse's
health should always come first!) My position as a "greeter" was to help patrons
find their way to their seats, atm's, restrooms, etc. As I stood at my post for
9 hours (with breaks, of course) I had the opportunity to check out the crowd.
Here are some of the things that I observed:
~People are basically kind. Only a very small percentage were rude.
~"Fascinators" have crossed the pond! However, the love of big straw hats is still there.
~Short, strapless dresses still require the constant tugging up followed by tugging down.
~Ladies, you really cannot walk properly in your wedges and/or stillettos and/or platform shoes. I was concerned for your safety.
~Just like at Saratoga, some women wear dresses (that appear to be their nightgowns) to the track...and some look like they slept in them.
~Cigar smoke really does cling to your clothing, gentlemen.
~In general, people will squeeze through the smallest opening in a crowd....while just going around a couple of patrons (or just me!) would be more appropriate. As an added note: many just bumped into me as they scurried around the bend and only one man apologized.
~When stepping off the escalator, it's best to take a couple of steps away. Those that follow you might cause a pile-up. (DUH!)
~When your ticket says that your reserved seat is on the 2nd floor then, yes, you have to go up one level when you are on the first floor!
~The tallest person will have the front position in front of the TV.
~Women really do dress for other women. As we all (yes, me included) gawked at some of the outfits, most men never even blinked an eye!
~And, oh yeah, girls of all ages: your jello-like bums are not attractive and did you ever hear of petticoats (slips)? And, just wondering...is black underwear under white dresses the newest craze?
~Go back to the first note!
Okay, there is it.....just a few tidbits from Queens, NY. Can't wait for Saratoga!
Side note: met a really nice woman who I will connect with....a Yonkersite and we will be comparing notes with about growing up in the City of Hills.
Thanks for reading! Love my life! I am blessed. ♥
~People are basically kind. Only a very small percentage were rude.
~"Fascinators" have crossed the pond! However, the love of big straw hats is still there.
~Short, strapless dresses still require the constant tugging up followed by tugging down.
~Ladies, you really cannot walk properly in your wedges and/or stillettos and/or platform shoes. I was concerned for your safety.
~Just like at Saratoga, some women wear dresses (that appear to be their nightgowns) to the track...and some look like they slept in them.
~Cigar smoke really does cling to your clothing, gentlemen.
~In general, people will squeeze through the smallest opening in a crowd....while just going around a couple of patrons (or just me!) would be more appropriate. As an added note: many just bumped into me as they scurried around the bend and only one man apologized.
~When stepping off the escalator, it's best to take a couple of steps away. Those that follow you might cause a pile-up. (DUH!)
~When your ticket says that your reserved seat is on the 2nd floor then, yes, you have to go up one level when you are on the first floor!
~The tallest person will have the front position in front of the TV.
~Women really do dress for other women. As we all (yes, me included) gawked at some of the outfits, most men never even blinked an eye!
~And, oh yeah, girls of all ages: your jello-like bums are not attractive and did you ever hear of petticoats (slips)? And, just wondering...is black underwear under white dresses the newest craze?
~Go back to the first note!
Okay, there is it.....just a few tidbits from Queens, NY. Can't wait for Saratoga!
Side note: met a really nice woman who I will connect with....a Yonkersite and we will be comparing notes with about growing up in the City of Hills.
Thanks for reading! Love my life! I am blessed. ♥
Friday, July 6, 2012
SARATOGA PREPARES
The sign says it all. Opening day is just 2 short weeks away!
The entrance to Gate B from East Avenue. Sometimes referred to as the "Main" gate. Do you agree?
There are 3 other entrances!!
Still some work to do. These picnic tables will be placed throughout the 'backyard' and coveted when the gates open at 7 AM !! A tradition only at Saratoga!
The city is putting on it's Sunday's best! Flowers are planted.
Homeowners are spiffing up!
Hope you will visit and enjoy the race course and so much more!
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