Foxhunting

Landscape artist extraordinaire Linda Blondheim and moi hung out with Misty Morning Foxhounds yesterday, a recognized drag hunt originating from Gainesville. Drag meaning no critters are harmed in the sport.

Think of 28 degrees on Saturday morning in Boston, 30 degrees in Ocala, Florida. We started late.

Huntswoman Alexis MacCauley with her wonderful hounds.

This club doesn't mind at all if you show a bit of love to the hounds. These doggies are endearingly affectionate yet professionally dedicated to their business.

One of the "kills" took place in an ancient sinkhole. Because this organization is a humane drag hunt, scent is dragged through the woods using a leather sheaf doused with anisette. With their amazing sense of smell, the hounds follow the trail to specified "kills", a paper bag filled with biscuits.

The enthusiasm and excitement of the hounds and riders is adrenaline charging. Their baying howl is the stuff of 1930's British film. In the far distance, the sound is eerily nostalgic and mysterious.

The hunt relaxes on a break.

Linda Blondheim is a nationally renown Florida landscape painter. Her perception was intriguing to me. Landscape by her definition is shimmering light, tactile texture, distance, subtle color palettes and unusual shapes. I saw horses and hounds speeding at full tilt through the woods. Art for every need, taste and preference.

"And those who were seen dancing were thought to be insane by those who could not hear the music." - Friedrich Nietzsche