Why am I smiling? The bugs are finally gone. The deer flies, which make riding a miserable experience during the summer, have vanished, along with the super high temperatures and humidity. Finally a day when I could meet up with friends and enjoy a summer ride.
Zelda was glad to have the company. She was full of energy and insisted on leading the way (she is very sensitive to bugs so is miserable during the height of the deer fly season). Since the beginning of July, the woods have been “off limits” because of the deer flies — no matter how much fly spray or how much netting, it simply ruined the experience. Today we did a great ride that took us on wooded trails, around two small ponds and through open fields.
Our route took us through Estabrook Woods to Punkatasset, around Hutchins Pond and then along a small trail that is only passable when it’s been quite dry. Not that many people have been out that deep into the woods so much of the trail was overgrown. Not the best time to be riding a big horse! We had to turn back once, but we pushed through most of the brush. It’s helpful that Zelda likes to bushwhack.
In total, we covered about six miles, mostly at a leisurely pace, enjoying the cool morning and the brilliant sunshine. For the most part we had the trail to ourselves. At the beginning, Zelda and came across a magnificent buck, but he melted back into the trees before he became a reason to spook.
All in all a great time to be out with friends.
