Making Ends Meet In The Pandemic
The pandemic has put a lot of financial stress on our farm. Normally this time of year of fall festivals, where we take our pony ride ponies and petting zoo animals.
We had four ponies that worked the MD Renn Fest, for eight weekends. Late August through late October. That is a big chunk of income we count on that we won’t have this year.
We have had to work hard to think of things we could do with the horses to bring in customers during the pandemic.
Lots Of Factors To Worry About
Of course being a pandemic, we have to make careful changes in our protocol to make sure we all stay safe.
It seems next to impossible at first, but now that we have it figured out it is second nature. Not so bad at all!
Let’s Try Some Adult Programs!
We have so many programs for kids at our barn. Like most lesson barns, we have a ton of kids. So many parents always mention that they used to ride, or they would like to give it a try.
This inspired the idea for our program ” #horsecrazykidsturnedhorsecrazygrownup”. This is a hashtag I use on practically all my blog posts and it seemed appropriate.
Riding and Craft Night
We did a riding and craft night. It was a big hit. We showed them around the farm, gave them a riding lesson. The we went back to the picnic tables and relaxed. The craft project was painting a plaque with a horse shoe on it. It was amazing the art work that the ladies did. They turned out beautiful.
Everyone told us they had a great time! So, we figured we should keep the ball rolling on the adult programs.
Horse & Yoga
We were trying to think of something new and unique to try for our next program. My sister-in-law, Amy and I both practice yoga. Amy actually knew a yoga instructor from her work.
We asked her about if she would be interested in coming out to our farm and doing a yoga session with our adult riders. She was excited to do it, so we set two dates, the first of which was last weekend.
The woman rode, most of them didn’t have much experience so we gave them a lesson. The one woman who did have more experience rode independently. Before we went on a trail ride, we played a relay game that everyone enjoyed. Even us on the ground watching!
The Yoga Session
The yoga session was considered gentle yoga. Which was great because it was stretches and movements that anyone can do.
It was super relaxing to do the stretches. I have never done yoga outside before, it was awesome! If you do yoga and have never done it outside, try it, you will love it.
The session ended with a really soothing guided meditation. Everyone left feeling happy with their horsey time, and very enthusiastic about how relaxed they felt after yoga.
Thinking Outside The Box
We have found that sinking outside the box is the key to keeping things going on the farm during this crazy time. We did horses and hot chocolate last year, ponies and popsicles when we had to cancel normal summer camp. We have been brainstorming for fun ways to bring in new customers. Whether they want to become lifelong horse people or just enjoy an afternoon on the farm.
We Have Signed Up New Riders In Our Lesson Program!
Which is great, especially this time of year when winter is right around the corner and things always get tight without a indoor riding ring to keep the program up and running.
We have met a lot of new people. both adults and children. All who are enthusiastic about learning about horses and being on the farm.
This Is Our Mission
Our whole goal on the farm is to teach anyone who would like to learn safe and correct horsemanship. To teach them the responsibilities involved in riding, as well as all the fun there is to be had. Not to mention friends to be met!
