One gorgeous winter day in Florida I walked along the beach, camera in hand, enjoying the sights, smells and sounds of the ocean. A small group of humans and ponies drew near and so began a serendipitous learning adventure.

This gorgeous little pony comes from Assateague Island, in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. These Chincoteague ponies may be purchased during an annual roundup event which helps maintain a healthy horse population and is a fundraiser for the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company. Who knew?

Here is her handsome beach-riding buddy:

I had never heard anything about these horses or their history until I met these beauties  (and their human friends) on Crescent Beach. Of course, they posed beautifully for the camera and are definitely some of my Favorite Subjects.

Could that day have been any better? I think not! It combined the beach, the weather, meeting new people & horses, learning all sorts of fun facts and now sharing that story with you in a blog. Bam. Perfection. Some of nicest folks and critters hang out at the beach for Vitamin Sea therapy.