Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure

Say hello to Ted and Bill.

On a working farm, every animal has a job to do. Just as we think carefully before adding human staff, we also deliberate carefully before adding to our animal “staff.” 

But sometimes, we make exceptions. 

Last week, the farm got an emergency call about farm animals who needed a new home where they could immediately receive proper care and attention. 

Bill filling up on fresh hay

Boo and Kris Young visited these animals and made an on-the-spot hiring decision: Bill the goat and Ted the sheep were coming to Touchstone Farm.

The two buddies now share a box stall in the outside barn while they await some vet care and neutering. Eventually, they’ll join Morgan the sheep and Kiwi the goat in the small animal barn and paddock. 

The farm cannot usually take on rescue animals. But, like Bill and Ted, they sometimes come our way. Kris once found 80 (80!) chickens abandoned by the side of the road. She found homes for 77, and kept three laying hens for the farm.

Thundercat supervising during
the National Day of Service

This summer, Thundercat showed up one day and appointed himself Head Greeter. 

Thundercat, so named because his coat is the color of thunderclouds, was a big hit with Pony Farm campers and instructor training candidates of the Horse Power Instructor Training School. He patrols the property, introduces himself to everyone he meets, and escorts them to their destination. 

For now, Bill and Ted are luxuriating in their deep bed of clean shavings and are eating and drinking their fill. We’re looking forward to seeing them put on weight and shed the traces of previous neglect.

Ted is just as sweet as he looks.

Both are very friendly. We think they’ll be excellent in their jobs on the small animal team and can’t wait till they’re ready for “work.”

Why you should come to Pony Farm Open House, Sunday January 6, 2013 1 - 4

A Father's Explanation of Why He Had Horses for His Children

by Christy Anderson on Monday, December 3, 2012 at 1:58pm ·

A Father's Explanation of Why He Had Horses for His Children (borrowed from a facebook posting)

My daughter turned sixteen years old today; which is a milestone for most people. Besides looking at baby photos and childhood trinkets with her, I took time to reflect on the young woman my daughter had become and the choices she wouldface in the future.

As I looked at her I could see the athlete she was, and determined woman she would soon be. I started thinking about some of the girls we knew in our town who were already pregnant, pierced in several places, hair every color under the sun, drop outs, drug addicts and on the fast track to no-where, seeking surface identities because they had no inner self esteem. The parents of these same girls have asked me why I "waste" the money on horses so my daughter can ride. I'm told she will grow out of it, lose interest, discover boys and all kinds of things that try to pin the current genera-tion' s "slacker" label on my child. I don't think it will happen, I think she will love and have horses all her life.

Because my daughter grew up with horses she has compassion. She knows that we must take special care of the very young and the very old. We must make sure those without voices to speak of their pain are still cared for.

Because my daughter grew up with horses she learned responsibility for others than herself. She learned that regardless of the weather you must still care for those you have the stewardship of. There are no "days off" just because you don't feel like being a horse owner that day. She learned that for every hour of fun you have there are days of hard slogging work you must do first.

Because my daughter grew up with horses she learned not to be afraid of getting dirty and that appearances don't matter to most of the breathing things in the world we live in. Horses do not care about designer clothes, jewelry, pretty hairdos or anything else we put on our bodies to try to

 impress others. What a horse cares about are your abilities to work within his natural world, he doesn't care if you're wearing $80.00 jeans while you do it. -

Because my daughter grew up with horses she understands the value of money. Every dollar can be translated into bales of hay, bags of feed or farrier visits. Purchasing non-necessities during lean times can mean the difference between feed and good care, or neglect and starvation. She has learned to judge the level of her care against the care she sees provided by others and to make sure her stan-dards never lower, and only increase as her knowledge grows.

Because my daughter grew up with horses she has learned to learn on her own. She has had teachers that cannot speak, nor write, nor communicate beyond body language and reactions. She has had to learn to "read" her surroundings for both safe and unsafe objects, to look for hazards where others might only see a pretty meadow. She has learned to judge people as she judg

es horses. She looks beyond appearances and trappings to see what is within.

Because my daughter grew up with horses she has learned sportsmanship to a high degree. Everyone that competes fairly is a winner. Trophies and ribbons may prove someone a winner, but they do not prove someone is a horseman. She has also learned that some people will do anything to win, regard-less of who it hurts. She knows that those who will cheat in the show ring will also cheat in every other aspect of their life and are not to be trusted.

Because my daughter grew up with horses she has self-esteem and an engaging personality. She can talk to anyone she meets with confidence, because she has to express herself to her horse with more than words. She knows the satisfaction of controlling and teaching a 1000 pound animal that will yield willingly to her gentle touch and ignore the more forceful and i

nept handling of those stronger than she is. She holds herself with poise and professionalism in the company of those far older than herself.

Because my daughter grew up with horses she has learned to plan ahead. She knows that choices made today can effect what happens five years down the road. She knows that you cannot care for and protect your investments without savings to fall back on. She knows the value of land and buildings. And that caring for your vehicle can mean the difference between easy travel or being stranded on the side of the road with a four horse trailer on a hot day.

When I look at what she has learned and what it will help her become, I can honestly say that I haven't "wasted" a penny on providing her with horses. I only wish that all children had the same opportunities to learn these lessons from horses before setting out on the road to adulthood.

Happy New Year from Boo

Happy New Year to you!!!

Come dash through the snow at Touchstone Farm this winter!

I genuinely hope that 2013 brings you much good health, happiness and joy. As I say my goodbyes to the Holidays, filled with so much wonderful family and so many terrific friends, I welcome in the coming year with great excitement.

I sincerely hope to see YOU soon and often! Whether you come to our Pony Farm Open House, sign up for riding lessons, or come to our Sleigh Rally, our clinics or workshops, the camp gatherings in your area, Family weekends or our horse shows, I am eager to greet you with gusto. Better yet, come on a carriage drive or sleigh ride with me.

I would love to share my love for the farm with you. I look forward to being together and celebrating life. Stay well and be in touch.

Happy New Year’s Day,

Boo

Carriage rides are a Touchstone Farm specialty.

Holiday Message from Boo

Dear Pony Farm, Horse Power, Riding/Driving Lessons …. Touchstone Family, All,

Winter & Terri decorate
our Christmas tree
in the Lodge.

It is with true joy and happiness in my heart that I write this holiday greeting to you. I cannot remember when I have been as excited about celebrating the holidays or welcoming in a New Year. I sincerely wish that you, too, are enjoying this special time of year. May you be filled with health, surrounded by friends and family who love you!

What a thrilling year we have had at Touchstone Farm. We have accomplished what we set out to do…combine all the best of the new with the best of the old. The combining of the three businesses into one stronger, better ‘not for profit’ organization has proven so right and good. With a fabulous board, committed staff, terrific horses, improved facilities, and a great mission and vision, we are on our way!!! The future is bright, indeed.

All our rings, beautifully rebuilt this year,
are a joy to ride in for lessons and shows.

So many of you have helped with this re-invention of ourselves. With time, talent, treasure, love, support and input, together we are stronger than ever! How can I ever thank you!

We so hope you will plan to come visit so we can enjoy the farm together. Come for a sleigh ride, a walk, a cup of tea, a rocking chair by the fire. The welcome mat is always out.

We have so many fun and exciting events planned for 2013. I can’t wait for it to begin!

Gruffy our gentle Clydesdale was a
"big" addition to Horse Power in 2012.

In the meantime, I am delighted to have all four of my kids and two grandchildren gathering for Christmas. My parents always used to say that their best present was when we came home. I know completely how they feel. No gift is better than being together. We will surely miss my Dad but I know he is smiling down from Above and loving us. Mom will be able to come in her wheelchair to enjoy yummy food, holiday decorations which she loves, and being together.

I feel blessed beyond measure with all that I have, not the least of which is my renewed great health. What a difference to be able to breathe, day after day! A true Modern Day Miracle happened to me.

Pony Farm 2012
was one of the
best camp summers yet!

As the sleighs are ready for snow, the ponies get fuzzy, the Yule Log is burning brightly and snow predicted, I send out my most heart-felt hugs to you and yours. I can’t wait to welcome you and sit a spell to chat. As the song says, “You light up my life.” Indeed, I am most grateful for your friendship and our shared memories. Let’s make some new ones in 2013!!!

With love and a big smile,

Come drive with us!

Boo

Notes from a Pony Farm Mom, Part 2

Leah and Victoria Lesser

Guest blogger and Mom of a first-time Pony Farm camper, Leah Lesser wrote earlier about what she learned from her daughter Victoria's first time at camp. This time, she's got some tips for other Pony Farm parents.

Hi Pony Farm family! I’m back to share three things that Pony Farm parents may expect when their daughter returns home from camp:

Dirt: It's a good thing!

1. Dirt. Lots of it. Everywhere. I just unloaded the washing machine and laughed out loud when I saw grass blades and wood chips at the bottom of the drum. Yep. Welcome to Pony Farm laundry! Hot water works wonders.
2. Stories. Lots of them. If your child isn’t very forthcoming with Pony Farm stories, here are a few questions that may help. Give her some time, and she’ll share as the days go by:
• What was it like when everyone went to their bunk to go to sleep? This is how we learned that the girls in her bunk all said goodnight to each other. Ah. My heart was warmed.
• What was your favorite meal? Snack? Aha. Our girl learned to like granola bars. Awesome. A new snack for the upcoming school year!
• What made you laugh? How about that Pony Farm Model night, sounds like fun!
• When did you use the bug spray? This is how we learned all about the counselor quest game at night, and the delights of the ice cream trough.



Dress code for barn chores: casual.

• What did you do first when you woke up in the morning? This is how we discovered that morning barn chores are done in pajamas!

3. If she wakes up early, stumbles to look for a lead line and heads outside to the non-existent pasture, guide her gently back to bed and know that she had an amazing Pony Farm experience!

How soon can you come back?

Thank you, Leah, for your eloquence and advice. We hope to see you and Victoria in 2013!

PS: The Open House for Pony Farm Summer Camp 2013 is coming up fast! Join us on January 6, 2013 at Touchstone Farm. Details are on our website.

Notes from a Pony Farm Mom, Part 1

Guest blogger and Mom of first-time Pony Farm camper, Leah Lesser writes about what SHE learned from her daughter Victoria's first time at camp.

Leah & Victoria Lesser

Our Pony Farm girl is tucked in, sound asleep in her bed at home, her first night back from Pony Farm. She grew taller and her confidence grew twice as much as her inches gained. She talked non-stop during the sixty mile drive home about her week at Pony Farm. As she shared stories of all kinds, I couldn’t help but make a mental list of the many things she learned. And what I learned too during her very first time away from home.

Here are five things I learned from the Pony Farm experience:

1. Sending your child away for the first time is an amazing growing experience: for your child, and everyone else in the family. For younger siblings left behind, it can be a dream come true to have their parents’ undivided attention while their big sister is away at camp. They can also struggle with missing their side-kick or partner in crime. Expect a bit of an emotional roller coaster with these younger sibs while their sister is at camp, and for days after she returns. While tough to watch and parent through, Pony Farm envy happens for these little ones!
 

Some ponies are
meant to be shared.

2. Horses are like people—they aren’t perfect. Our daughter is lucky to have a predictable, responsive, eager pony to ride during her weekly lessons and for the occasional horse show. They’ve ridden together for nearly a year. This pony isn’t perfect, but together they make a beautiful pair. This type of bond is extremely difficult to achieve during a one or even a two-week camp experience, even with the loving ponies and staff at Pony Farm.

It’s OK if your daughter doesn’t have an ideal riding experience at camp. The silver lining here is that she gets to experiment with riding a different horse (or horses) and that alone will help increase her confidence as a rider. After my daughter’s horse hurt his leg, other kids let her ride their ponies. Sharing ponies among new camp friends is a joyous thing indeed.

Twin bedroom in the Lodge

3. Small bunk rooms bring girls together. As we were helping our daughter unpack on the first day, I tried not to show my surprise at just how small her room was. Truthfully, I found it very hard to believe that four girls could co-exist for a week in a room that size. But once the duffles and gear were put away, the parents were on their way home, and the girls began the process of settling in, something magical happened. The girls began to forge a friendship that would last the entire week, and likely for years to come. I think some of this is due to the size of the rooms. In a small space, when you all get along, life is much easier and way more fun.

Catching the
"horse bug"

4. The horse bug is hard to shake! A few times during my daughter’s week away I wondered if she would get tired of riding horses and come home to declare that her horse days were over. Fear not. Shortly after we arrived to pick her up she asked when her next riding lesson was. The camp experience not only helped her grow as a person, but as a rider. She can’t wait to get back in the saddle at her lesson barn and use some of the techniques she learned at camp.

Barn chores - BEFORE
breakfast!

5. Responsibility is a beautiful thing. Having the enormous responsibility of catching, feeding, grooming, tacking, riding and loving your horse each day, along with mucking their stall, daily capers, keeping your bunk neat (double extra neat for the ACA visit that happened the week she was at camp!), remembering to brush your teeth, wear your retainer, write a letter home, and shower on occasion – all without mom or dad around to give those friendly reminders – is huge! A lifelong lesson in responsibility enforced amidst the beauty of Pony Farm. Gotta love that.

Phew. We did it. We sent our big girl away for a week without us. She returned the same amazing, joyful, funny, sweet girl that we’ve always known, but with extra doses of happiness, confidence, and pony passion. Thank you Pony Farm staff for welcoming our daughter into this unique and amazing camp family and guiding her through a week of incredible experiences that will stay with her forever!

Thank YOU Leah for entrusting your daughter to us and for writing so beautifully about her camp experience and yours. The Pony Farm camp staff and staff of Touchstone Farm are honored to have girls like your daughter join us every summer. We hope to see you in 2013!

PS: Check back later this week for another from Leah. And if you think your daughter might have the "horse bug" too, bring her to the Open House for Pony Farm on January 6, 2013 at Touchstone Farm. Details are on our website.

Can You Help Us on Giving Tuesday?

Getting ready to ride
 in Horse Power

Have you heard about Giving Tuesday, the nonprofit world's answer to Black Friday and Cyber Monday? Tuesday, November 27 is Giving Tuesday, a day on which supporters are encouraged to make donations to nonprofit organizations whose work they value.

You may know us best for Pony Farm summer camp or our riding lessons, and may not be aware that Touchstone Farm is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation. We have programs for both able-bodied individuals and those with physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges.

If you are in a giving mood on Giving Tuesday, your donation to Touchstone Farm will help fund programs such as:

• Horse Power, our therapeutic riding and driving program for individuals facing physical, cognitive, emotional, behavioral and learning challenges.
• Barnyard Buddies, our summer day camp for children in  grades K – 5 and for children and adults with specials needs.

Punch on parade
during Barnyard Buddies
summer day camp

Your donations help us keep these programs affordable for the participants. For example, we maintain a scholarship fund for Barnyard Buddies so that we can offer reduced or waived tuition to those who cannot afford the regular fee.

Your donations also defray the enormous costs of caring for the wonderful horses and farm animals who are essential to these programs. Horses such as Gretsky, Roxy, Annie, and Socks, whom you may know from Pony Farm or riding or carriage driving lessons, are also specialists in therapeutic riding. We owe it to these terrific animals to give them the best possible care, and that care is expensive.

Dunkin the donkey
and friend

We are grateful to you and all of our supporters for everything you contribute to Touchstone Farm -- time, money, and good wishes. We thank you for all that you do for us.

If you would like to donate today, or anytime, click here to be taken to our online donations form.

Again, we can't say it often enough: thank you. Together, we can do great work.