Our first stop was the hotel to check-in. Never staying in a hotel before, Marley had to try out one of her new beds. It was much more spacious than her dingy crate at home. After unpacking and a short rest, we continued our journey to ChicagoLand Speedway.Walking the grounds before the race we happened upon an autograph session for NASCAR racetruck drivers. The line was closed, so we stood and "people watched". It was a good chance to meet people, and we met many people. One of the drivers, Colin Braun, even left the table in the middle of the session and came over to say hello to Marley. My first thought was to have him sign her cape, but quickly reconsidered when I heard Marlene's voice saying "You Better Not."
Hours before the race started, we ducked into the track for a puppy conditioning session. Qualifying was underway with only one car on the track; Marley wasn't phased a bit. Phase one complete.
We took our seats for the first race without worry. Well, Marley made it through the roar of engines at the start, but on a lap five restart something happened and she melted. Tail between her legs and panicky, we hurried back to the car and contemplated how the rest of the weekend could be salvaged. Phase two failed.
The second race of the evening was two hours later. This time we settled into our seats and put Marley's ear plugs in early. She rested comfortably throughout the race, except when an earplug would fall out. She made it through all 150 laps and a ninety minute drive back to the hotel which was only six miles away. Phase two success.
Back in the luxurious hotel room with two beds, I told Marley to "Go To Bed" and she jumped up to her afternoon resting spot. She didn't understand that the afternoon nap was a one time photo opportunity. She was not too happy to be spending her night back in the crate.
No comments:
Post a Comment