Oak Down Stable Provides Bride First Trail Ride

Jeffrey Stone, one of America's high tech sailors stationed on the aircraft carrier USS George Washington in Norfolk has been a long time horse riding enthusiast, but Keri, his bride of 10 months, had never been riding before. While staying at the Trestle House Inn bed and breakfast in Edenton, Jeffrey asked Peter Bogus of Trestle House about trail riding opportunities in the area.

Peter referred Jeffrey to the ad web site for Oak Down Stables, a well know trail riding and riding instruction stable in Colerain. The web site for Oak Down Stables can be found at the link here.

Ellen Rice, Lead Instructor, Riding Dove

Jeffrey loves to ride but Keri, his bride, needed the support of a beginner. Since the outing was going to be a surprise for Keri, nothing could be shared ahead of time. Oak Down Stables is a great place for this type of outing, as they can handle beginners with their excellent instructor, Ellen Rice, and also provide a challenge for the experienced rider as well. Ellen is a former professional jockey and a superb teacher.

Phone Call To Charles And Leah Sets Up The Trail Ride

After reading the information on the web site, Jeffrey called Charles and Leah Newsome, owners of Oak Down Stables, to arrange the outing. On the appointed day, they made their way from Virginia Beach, to Colerain.

Arriving At Oak Down Stables

Welcome To The Front Barn Of Oak Down Stables

Jeffrey And Keri Watch The Saddling Process

Samson Is Ready To Go

After watching the saddling process, Jeffrey and Keri went through orientation in the Oak Down riding ring.

Ladies First, Keri Gets Basic Instruction After Mounting Pepper

Jeffrey, Here On Samson, Is An Experienced Rider, But It Has Been A While

Keri Waiting To Enter The Ring For Orientation

Keri Getting Used To Her First Horse!

Jeffrey Is Having Fun Watching Keri Learn To Ride

After orientation, everyone went for an extended trail ride.

Orientation Over, Let's Head For The Trails

Mounting Up

Come On Cody - Head This Way

Charles Newsome uses Cody to lead the trail ride.

Charles And Cody Lead The Way

Passing The Pond At Oak Down Stables

Leaving The Stable Area

Trail Riding Provides An Incredible Sense Of Freedom

Jeffrey and Keri had a great first trail ride together. Thank you Jeffrey for serving our nation during this time of war. We all appreciate it. God bless you both.

.