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Alishia Schumaker has a passion for horses. She has lots
of pictures and figurines but because of the restraints
of living in a small town, not a real horse of her own.
Her grand parents, Norm and Jenny Schumaker knew how
much she loved horses. Unable to own a horse herself
they came up with the next best thing. As a Christmas
gift they arranged for a weekend of camping and riding.
They contacted Barb Oberhaus and the arrangements were
made for the weekend of June 22, 23 and 24. So for six
months Alisia waited.
Finally the big day arrived. She was introduced to
Strawberry, a 20 year old Arabian mare. A very
experienced trail horse with over a thousand miles of
trail riding.
Alishia was shown how to groom, feed and saddle her
horse. She couldn’t wait to hit the trails. Her proud
grandparents beamed as she finally got in the saddle and
headed for the trails with Barb leading the way. They
took lots of pictures and video that will be cherished
by the Schumaker family for years.
How did she do you ask? Barb says she is a natural. She
rode all the trails and the ravines that even
experienced riders traverse nervously. She rode 52 miles
altogether and I’m sure the weekend ended too soon for
her.
A new equestrian is hooked on trail riding and her
grandparents discovered the serenity and beauty of Van
Buren State Park. A great weekend for everyone.
Merry Christmas Alishia.
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