This Year in Photos 2013

It's a tradition. Each year, when we return from Winter Break, we welcome the New Year with a reflection of photos from the past year.
Pick your top 3 favorite photos from MSNBC and/or Reuters, one from each of the following:

• your favorite news story (serious)
• a fun one,
• a strong composition.

Describe the event/story (in your own words), and explain why you chose it. Post the image with each response to your blog.