What a wonderful day to ride. The weather was perfect for an outdoor excursion. When the trail ended, the temperature was touching 70 degrees. There was nothing but sunny blue skies, for the entire two-and-half-hour trek, through the St. Marks’ National Preserve, Panacea Unit, (AKA Otter Lake). A panacea of a day, for sure! Seven equine enthusiasts with their special steeds enjoyed traversing sandy white two-rut roads, which lead through a Hallmark Greeting Card picturesque landscape. The mind clearing therapy that is obtained by meandering through natures beauty via horseback and shared with friendly fellowship is priceless. It was a joy meeting Stan riding Bailey and Teresa riding Tater. They are new to the area and recently relocated from Iowa to Havana. They enjoy camping as well as horseback riding and Stan offered to assist with trail maintenance. It was truly a delight getting to know them. While on the trail, we met up with two friends Harry riding Duke and Melodie riding Molly. They live near Otter Lake and subsequently joined our party. It’s always nice when you encounter friends on the trail. Current STA members who dared to brave the 70-degree blue sky day for a ride in the park: Sabrina riding Giddeon, Susan riding Bravo, Jill riding Buddy and yours truly, David riding Bell.
At the close of the ride, Stan, Teresa, Susan, Jill and I set around and got acquainted more with each other. Stan and Teresa are a friendly couple with many tales of their previous Mid-Western adventures. I won’t go into details here, but if the opportunity arises for any of you to meet them, take it. As Stan said, their camping mishaps could have come from the movie RV. According to Teresa, she had never heard of a “two-rut” road until moving to Florida! She got to ride on some nice ones today. Until next time happy trails to all!

David