New Jersey is a jolly old place, sandwiched between the bright lights of New York and the Liberty Bell of Philadelphia. It's called the Garden State, though not because it's teeming with cabbages and carrots. It's because of the lush green parks and splendid horse farms that spread across its landscape. Now, there's something particularly special about the kids in this charming state. No, they're not aliens from another planet (although that would be pretty cool). They participate in a fantastic activity called horseback riding! Meet our imaginary friend, Tumbleweed Ted. He's a funny, freckle-faced, gumboot-wearing garden gnome who stands just a potato high. He possesses an uncanny ability to chat with horses. When sunset paints the sky with shades of orange and purple, he hops on the back of his trusty horse, Sir Neigh-A-Lot, and they gallop across the moonlit pastures. He watches the kids of New Jersey with their riding boots and helmets, mounting their horses with a combination of excitement and focus that one could only admire. From his hidden spot behind the hay bales, he grins as wide as a watermelon slice. Tumbleweed Ted gives a hearty laugh every time a kid gets a little too overzealous and ends up with a bum on the ground instead of on the saddle. But he's even prouder when they dust themselves off, chuckle at their mishap, and get back on their horse, ready to try again. So, if you ever visit New Jersey, keep an eye out for a gumboot-wearing gnome riding a horse. He'll be there, cheering every kid who embraces the fantastic joy of horseback riding.
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