Cobble Hill Farm

Fall Schedule, programs

2011-08-14T19:07:00.000-04:00

Hard to believe it is almost fall! While we have a few more weeks of summer programs, we are beginning to plan for the fall riding program. As many folks have noticed, we've been advertising for another part time instructor. Karrie and Chuck have done several interviews and we are hopeful that we will have a third instructor option for the fall. If you already know your fall schedule please let Karrie know (whether Brandi is your instructor or even if you are more concerned about the schedule than the instructor) as soon as possible. Karrie is going to begin making calls later in August and the first week of September and as always, it will be first come first serve for lesson times. We will once again be offering fully days of lessons on Saturday and Sunday to help with the after-school congestion.

In addition, we know there are many riders who have difficult fall schedules or would like to add some additional riding but can't commit to two lessons per week. We are introducing a new lesson pack for the fall. It will be a Four Pack Trail Lesson. Every week we will have three set times for trail lessons which will be taught by one of our licensed instructors and limited to four students. The schedule will run with the fall lesson pack or until snow stops us! For a payment of $150, you can do the package with the flexibility to do some lessons the weeks and days that work for you. We will finalize the times soon, but it will likely be one session on a weekday afternoon and one session each on Saturday and Sunday. So, you could do a Saturday in early September, a Sunday in mid-September and two weekdays in October. While the package will be pre-paid, riders will still have to sign up for each session and can do so well in advance or the day of as long as there are still slots.

The fall lesson season will run from Monday September 12th - Friday December 2nd. There will be no lessons the week of Thanksgiving (although make ups may be scheduled based on instructor availability). The season will include 10 weeks of lessons.

Here is the pricing for the fall lesson season:

Fall Group Lesson package (one hour):                                 $270
Fall Semi-Private Lesson Package (one hour):                      $360
Fall Private Lesson Package (half hour):                              $360
NEW Four Pack Trail Lesson package (one hour):              $150

The Trail Lesson is only available as a package, but you can add on additional lessons at $40 per ride. And, as always, you can pay as you go for the regular lessons if you choose not to do the package up-front discounted payment.

Enjoy these last days of summer!

Lots of news and pictures on new Facebook Page

2011-07-06T09:32:00.000-04:00

One of the many great activities that Emily has undertaken while here is to improve our presence on Facebook. We now have a "page" which you can join (like) without having to be our friend on FB. I have been posting pictures and updates on that fairly regularly. Check it out:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cobble-Hill-Farm/100607736698178

You have to be a Facebook user to get these. So I'll still be putting pictures here. Yesterday was the second of our beginner camps and on Monday we participated in the 4th of July parade. Here are some of the best pictures (hard to choose ... )

Krissy & Emily were up at the barn VERY early painting horses -- doesn't Vixen look great?

Krissy practiced for weeks with Vixen and the flag

Never too early to learn to clean tack (and wear cool boots)

The boys give Herc a bath

Buck Movie Showing in Great Barrington

2011-06-23T14:39:00.002-04:00

Check out the press release we just got for anyone interested.

Press Release

The Triplex Cinema announces BUCK opening July 1, 2011

Great Barrington, Mass. June 23, 2011 - The Triplex Cinema announced today that it will be showing the inspiring documentary film, BUCK, which opens on Friday, July 1, 2011
BUCK is a story about the power of non-violence, as master horse trainer Buck Brannaman uses the principles of life, respect and trust to tame horses and inspire their human counterparts. “The Horse Whisperer” may be the stuff of Hollywood legend, but the charismatic horseman who inspired the novel and the film is very real. For Buck Brannaman – a true cowboy who is also part guru and part philosopher – horses are a mirror of the human soul. BUCK, a richly textured and visually stunning film, follows Brannaman from his abusive childhood to his unusual approach to horse-training. Eschewing the violence of his past, he teaches people to communicate with horses through instinct, not punishment. He possesses near magical abilities as he dramatically transforms horses – and people – with his understanding, compassion and respect. In the film, the animal-human relationship becomes a perfect metaphor for meeting the challenges of daily life. A truly American story about an unsung hero: an ordinary man who has made an extraordinary life despite tremendous odds.
BUCK, which won the Audience Award at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, was the opening night film at The Beacon Cinema, Pittsfield, Mass. and the closing night film at the Mahaiwe Theater, Great Barrington, Mass. for the 6^th Annual Berkshire International Film Festival and was widely received by horse enthusiast and lay person alike.
"We have always planned on bringing Buck to The Triplex Cinema, we are happy to bring this entertaining and inspiring film to those who were unable to see it during the festival,” said John Valente, General Manager for The Triplex Cinema and The Beacon Cinema.
The Triplex Cinema is a four-screen independent theater showing art house, independent, foreign and blockbuster films. Adult tickets are $9 for evening films. Matinee showings and senior tickets (62 and older) are $6.50. Children’s tickets (up to 12 years old) are also $6.50. The theater is located at 70 Railroad Street in downtown Great Barrington.
BUCK opens, Friday, July 1, 2011 at The Triplex Cinema in Great Barrington, Mass. For more information and to purchase tickets on line, visit The Triplex website at www.thetriplex.com. For more information or to ask about group rates, contact the theater at (413) 528-8886 extension 201.

Back by Popular Demand: one week of "Life on a Farm"

2011-06-23T11:09:00.000-04:00

Many parents and riders who did last year's Life on a Farm program have asked us to do a week this year. So (drumroll .....) Emily has agreed to run the program for her last week here! Details:

August 1st - 5th/ 9 am - 3 pm daily/ $325 for the week

Program will be limited to 6 riders ONLY (and we have already filled two of the spots).

Riders will get a one hour group lesson each day and participate in barn and horse management activities each of the other days. Riders should bring their own lunch. This is the perfect program for a rider who has some experience but is not yet old enough or accomplished enough to lease a horse.

Please email the farm (info@cobblehillfarm.com) or call the barn (413-458-0037) if you'd like to reserve one of the spots!

Busy Week coming up!

2011-06-15T16:35:00.000-04:00

Our first beginner riding program of the summer starts next week and I feel like we are more organized than ever ... until ten new riders descend! We have built permanent wood cubbies and they got painted by the lone Full Access Lease participant this week -- color coded! We'll have a Red, Yellow and Blue group each with its own instructor. Each rider will rotate through a riding lesson (of course!), grooming and barn chores, and crafts/activities. We've had lots of interest from experienced riders who will be helping these newer ones.

Also, with most schools finishing up, our full access lease program will be humming. The weekly trail lesson will be on Wednesday morning and Karrie & Emily have come up with lots of great ideas for work projects around the barn and property. If you are participating, make sure to bring clothes that can get dirty or paint on them! And, we decided this year to add a fun craft project (just one for now) each week. First up -- TYE DYE!

Emily has brought not only a lot of energy to the barn but also some great ideas from her 'home' barn.

And, Pony Club swings into action in a major way a week from Sunday (the 26th) with another un-mounted meeting followed by a week of Pony Club programming. All who are signed up or interested should be aware of the ratings test session on July 1st! This first session is free to all PC members.

Lastly, we've developed a Fan Page for Cobble Hill on Facebook. If you are a 'friend' of Cobble Hill Farm, please also join the fan page. It will have more tools, more posts (at least while Emily is around), more pictures and more interactive features.

Trail Riding

2011-05-30T09:00:00.000-04:00

Krissy took me and several friends out on a trail ride yesterday. Even though it was hot and humid, it was still a great time. I rode Nellie who has clearly benefited from the work Emily has been doing with her. My friends from Boston rode Zeus and Hercules who were equally good. Jackie came along and rode Logan and her son rode Bam. Of course, Krissy was on Vixen.

The mosquitoes are out in full force and the black flies are getting there. We remembered to put fly spray on the horses, but forgot it for the humans. I had bought some the other day -- need to put it in the barn.

Brandi, who is newly licensed, is planning to do a long trail lesson to and from her farm in mid-June -- watch for the sign up sheet in the barn. And we are going to start soon with our weekly trail lesson program -- thinking about Tuesday mornings for the younger set and Thursday late afternoon for adults.

Emily is getting up to speed on the website and our current marketing practices so watch for vast improvements and give her all the credit.

Building Confidence

2011-05-26T15:28:00.001-04:00

About a week ago I had a work emergency -- my entire hard drive on my work computer melted down. While my company gets me a new laptop and a local tech genius worked to recover my files, I've relocated my home office. What does that have to do with the farm?

Usually, I am looking out the front of the house, so while I am working at home I can see instructors, riders, farriers and the vet coming and going up the driveway -- and at this time of year, the horses grazing in the lower pasture. But, unless I can get away from my desk, I don't see much riding.

These last few days, however, I have used the kids computer which sits near the kitchen and looks out over the outdoor riding ring. It was that view that brought me to today's post. Yesterday I was privileged to see a private lesson happening out of the corner of my eye. There was nothing particularly noteworthy about the lesson. Hercules was being a great boy and navigating a four or five jump sequence. Except then I recognized the parent observing the lesson and I did a double take. Because I hadn't seen this particular rider in a while, I was flabbergasted by her progress.

The accomplishments this youngster has made is so rewarding. The confident way which she carried herself around the ring and the joy on her face as she conquered each jump made my day.

When Chuck decided to start this business, that was what he had in mind. We have certainly learned a lot in the last several years and like any business, it isn't all roses. But seeing Chuck's vision play out with riders who are here makes it all worthwhile!

Not quite worth losing my hard drive over, but a nice consolation.

Welcome Emily!

2011-05-12T12:39:00.000-04:00

As some of you may know we are lucky enough to have a college intern from Cazenovia living on the farm this summer. Cazenovia offers a degree in Equine Business Management and as part of that degree program, students are required to complete an internship. Thanks to the Shanley family who connected us to the intern coordinator, we were approved as hosts for this internship.

Emily is a Massachusetts licensed instructor and has spent many years teaching and riding as well as working at summer riding programs. We are excited to have her help and energy here at Cobble Hill for the next several months.

The objectives of Emily's time here are to help us better market and promote our programs, particularly through improvements and updates to the website. Besides just bringing the content up to date, I expect you will see Emily blogging here, and I've really been wanting to get more video on this site so watch for that!

Her second objective is to better understand the care and management of our horses so she will be working with Krissy and Chuck and hopefully meeting Dr. Dowd soon. Lots to do every day to keep our school horses healthy, but we also hope she will be another hand to school some of our beginner horses who tend to pick up bad habits during the summer with multiple new riders.

Lastly, she hopes ot learn more about the management of our lessons and summer program. One project I am hoping she will tackle early on is to take her love of trail riding and to help us develop a 'prepare for trails' lesson sequence for newer riders. Watch for promotions and announcements on that! She will also be instrumental in helping Karrie get Pony Club riders ready for upcoming test sessions.

Please say hello and introduce yourself to Emily when you are next here at the barn!

OAK HOLLOW SPRING SHOW IS MAY 1st!

2011-04-21T08:17:00.000-04:00

I know it doesn't feel like spring or May this morning ..... but the Oak Hollow Show is upon us! This is traditionally a wonderful event for our school riders to participate in. As a reminder: There will be a sign up sheet in the barn for HORSE USAGE from Cobble Hill. You must get instructor permission/sign-off for the horse choice you make (many horses act very differently in a show than they do in the ring for a lesson -- Jay and Dixie come to mind). There is a $25 fee for horse usage (this implies you are sharing a horse -- most horses will be ridden by multiple riders). You are also responsible for registering to enter with Equus -- Sandy tells me the entries are available in the barn.

If patterns are given out early, we will post those in the barn as well.

Also, for first timers -- there is absolutely no dress code for this show. (You will see that in the pictures)

I know many riders have not ridden as much this winter or spring as they would have liked. If you are planning to add in any one-off lease rides over the next 10 days to get ready, you must schedule those. If you just show up, it is very possible that the ring and/or the horse won't be available.

Patty and I both had our teeth worked on this week .....

2011-04-13T21:07:00.000-04:00

Patty is growing up!!! Dr. Dowd came today for her first ever dentist appointment. I am on another nomadic journey, but Krissy sent these. Intense. I will never complain about going to the dentist again!

Pony Club Introductory Meeting on Friday Night!

2011-04-11T10:16:00.001-04:00

Just a reminder that we will be holding an introductory and sign up meeting in the house Friday at 6 pm. PLEASE USE THE FRONT DOOR (this will probably be the most that door has ever been used ...).

Karrie will have materials for those who decide to join which include your very own Pony Club book which discusses the different levels, as well as arm bands which are required during participation in an Pony Club activity. We will have on display the patches that can be earned (they are cute!) and we will have sign up sheets for the first two unmounted meetings (the first will be the following week!).

Hope to see you all there. If you want to learn more about Pony Club, visit their site: http://www.ponyclub.org/

And, a picture from the batch I just got from Krissy for April!

Spring Session has started

2011-04-08T15:19:00.002-04:00

The spring riding session started the first of April --- all make up lessons for folks on the winter package should have been completed by then. If you would like to do a session package, I will be posting those rates in the barn this weekend.

Also, we know that with spring sports schedules and riders coming back after the winter, lessons sometimes need to get adjusted. Please talk to Karrie in the next week or so if you have a desire or need to change your weekly lesson.

Recap of Summer Dates -- sign up sheets in barn soon

2011-04-05T09:37:00.001-04:00

We are starting to get sign ups for summer riding programs. We will also put sign up sheets this weekend in the barn. The structured programs with dates:

Pony Club One-week Programs:
10 am -- 2 pm
June 27 - July 1
July 18 - 22
Aug 22 - 26
*Special Guest Instructor Week! July 25 - 29th

Jumping Clinics:
July 12 & 14
August 9 & 11
August 16 & 18

Gymkhana Clinics:
July 11, 13 & 15
August 15, 17 & 19

Beginner Program:
June 21 & 23
July 5 & 7
August 8, 10, & 12

For more details, grab a brochure.

April Vacation Programming

2011-03-22T21:26:00.000-04:00

In addition to our evening session on Friday, April 15th to introduce riders to the Pony Club, we are also going to have programs during April break.

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday (18th, 19th, and 20th) from 1 pm - 3 pm: Group lesson and horse care. $40 per rider per day. Riders may sign up for any or all of the sessions!

Tuesday (19th) from 10 am - noon: Pony Club programming. You will learn more about this at the introductory meeting, but Pony Club members work toward badges and we will have two days this spring where we will work on achieving these badges/levels. This is non-riding but horse-focused activity. The fee for this is included in the introductory Pony Club package. Any rider who wishes to do the Pony Club programming PLUS the Tuesday vacation session should bring a lunch and may stay from 10 am - 3 pm that day for the $40 fee.

Hopefully, we will not only be done with winter, but done with mud season, too by then!

Pony Club Meetings

2011-03-15T10:57:00.000-04:00

As many of you know, Cobble Hill Farm has gone through the process of getting certified as a Pony Club Riding Center. Riders at our barn under the age of 25 and riders from any other facility are welcome to join our Pony Club program. What does that mean?

Come find out!!!

Karrie and several adult volunteers (themselves alumni/ae of the Pony Club) will be hosting a parent and rider information session at the Farm (in the house!) on APRIL 15th at 6 pm. All the information on levels, badges, programming and fees will be presented there.

Our first official PONY CLUB MEETING (there are mounted and unmounted meetings -- this will be unmounted) will be on TUESDAY April 19th from 10 am - noon (this is school vacation week for WES and a day off for Pine Cobble). The second meeting (also unmounted) will be SUNDAY May 22nd from 2 - 4 pm.

Also, to find out more about Pony Club, please visit their terrific website: http://www.ponyclub.org/

If reading the site, just know that because we are a riding center, you DO NOT have to own your own horse to be a Pony Club member!

Adult Riding Clinic on 3/26

2011-03-13T16:27:00.000-04:00

While the Hunt family is off enjoying Disney and warm Florida weather, (and Karrie is at the Elementary School promoting our summer programs)m, Jeannie has organized a clinic for adult riders to address fear. Here is the info directly from her:

9 am Saturday 26 March. Discussion, followed by 1 hour group and 1/2 hour private lessons. Cost is regular lesson fee plus $20. Explore how fear/ uncertainty in the saddle affect our riding enjoyment, and what can be done about it! All levels welcome. Contact Jeannie @ 413 441 5578, or at jmwqueen@hotmail.com

Lucy & Dixie enjoying a trail ride!

Spring Lesson packs

2011-03-04T15:59:00.000-05:00

Just a heads up. We were going to start the Spring Lesson packages in March, but given the make up lessons and continued cold weather, we are going to start in April.

Stay tuned!

Sign Up to help at WES Camp Fair in Barn!

2011-03-02T11:12:00.000-05:00

On March 26th Williamstown Elementary School will hold their annual camp fair (and pancake breakfast). The Hunt clan will be enjoying spring break in Florida, it is Karrie's birthday and Jacki has class. Necessity is the mother of invention!

We would LOVE to have some older riders and/or parents man our table at the event. If you have never been, this is quite a fun and festive few hours and the crucial event where children and parents make summer plans. Our summer riding program benefited enormously from our participation last year.

I have ordered great brochures and we can work on bringing some other stuff that will make our table interactive (I think last year we brought a saddle on a saw horse so that kids could "ride" ... we can and probably also should do some small craft.

Most importantly, other parents and kids will want to know what is good/fun/interesting at Cobble Hill Farm in the summer and who better to deliver that message than our riders and their parents.

I will put a sign up sheet in the barn today if you are able and or willing to help. Then I will work with our representatives to figure out logistics and supplies. Thanks!

Jumping

2011-02-22T20:02:00.000-05:00

Krissy took some video from our indoor arena of some pretty impressive jumping -- "Annie" on Bradley and "Junie" on Blaze with Karrie instructing. I am hoping I can embed it as video here without losing too much of the quality. Also great shots of our indoor arena!

Krissy got a bunch of other great snow photos .... I am thinking I will start posting those when we are sweating to death in August but I am pretty sick of them now even though they are beautiful.

Lessons cancelled today -- too cold

2011-02-22T09:31:00.002-05:00

Sorry folks, but it is really cold. Karrie is hoping to reschedule these to this weekend.

Meanwhile I am sitting at the farm celebrating the cancellation of my flight to Hawaii. Probably the only person in America who is glad to be in this bitter Northeast Cold instead of in Hawaii (but it was only going to be a 2 day on-island trip!).

It's official: We are a Pony Club Riding Center!

2011-02-20T21:09:00.000-05:00

As many folks know, we have been working toward (after careful consideration) being a certified Pony Club Riding Center. What does that mean? Any rider (at Cobble Hill or any area barn) can join the Pony Club through us and we will be offering special programs aligned with the organization. (check out ww.ponyclub.org) There is additional information in the barn, but here are some basics:

*No CHF rider will be required to join Pony Club. There is an annual dues fee paid to Pony Club if you would like to join and you will be required to join if you want to participate in any of our Pony Club lessons, meetings or other activities (like camps).

*The US Pony Club has "Standards of Proficiency" and provide a core curriculum for individualized instruction. The standards describe a clear progression of skills in both RIDING and HORSE MANAGEMENT. The standards also provide opportunities for goal setting, as members are encouraged to proceed through specific skills. There are 'rating tests' that evaluate members progress through rating levels. Ratings are given in an effort to recognize achievement and encourage members to gain confidence, independence, good safety habits while working with mounts.

*The USPC has 3 basic goals for members: riding instruction, development of horse care responsibilities and participation in various mounted sports.

We will be handing out brochures and holding several information sessions. Then, we will do some introductory programs -- probably starting during April School Vacation and some Saturdays for Pine Cobble riders. We are doing two weeks of summer programming that will be specifically around Pony Club and we are hoping to take advantage of a Pony Club visiting instructor to do a special week of programming. Some of the interesting things that Pony Clubs do are: Dressage, Eventing, Competitive Rallies, Mounted Games, Quiz, Show Jumping, Tetrathlon (swimming, Show Jumping, Running and shooting)
and (my favorite but Krissy and Karrie keep saying no) Polocrosse (mounted lacrosse basically).

Finally, the mission statement of the USPC: The mission of the United States Pony Clubs, Inc., is to provide a program for youth that teaches riding, mounted sports, and the care of horses and ponies, thereby developing responsibility, moral judgment, leadership and self-confidence.

Please speak to Karrie, Jacki or Janette Dudley for more information.

Summer Programs

2011-02-14T14:08:00.000-05:00

I will be working on brochures and sign up sheets over the next two weeks for our summer offerings, but for those of you who are already thinking summer .... here is some early info.

Traditional Beginner Program. This program is for riders who have never ridden or only ridden a few times. We will offer this program several times during the summer -- either for two days during the week or three days. Riders will be on a horse -- usually in a half hour private lesson -- each day. Other activities will be horse-themed crafts, activities or horse & barn care. Dates: June 21 & 23/July 5 & 7/August 8, 10 & 12. All will run 10 am till 2 pm. Two day programs are $140.00 and three day is $210.

Jumping Program. For students who are cantering and want to work on jumping, we will have several weeks of jumping programs. These will be 2 days in a week from 10 - 1 and will be focused exclusively on riding and horse related activities. Most students will ride for 90 minutes or more each day in a small group. Dates: July 12 & 14/August 9 & 11/August 16 & 18. $150 per week.

Gymkhana Program. For non-beginners interested in gymkhana events this program will focus on the events and techniques for participating in these programs. (We may be offering some Saturday programming in advance of the Oak Hollow Gymkhana on April 10th so stay tuned if this is your thing). This program will be a 3 day program lasting from 10 am - 1 pm and will be primarily focused on riding and horsemanship. The cost per week will be $225. The dates are: July 11, 13 and 15/August 15, 17 and 19. On August 20th there will be an option to participate in a Gymkhana show -- enrollment will be separate from the riding program.

More soon .. on the lease program, intro to pony club programs and Adult riding experience. And someday I will get caught up enough that I will put all this in text on the website!

Magnesium Chloride

2011-02-11T14:53:00.000-05:00

The Magnesium Choloride arrived at the barn (finally) this week and those of you have been braving the winter weather to ride will appreciate the lack of dust.

I know our family is always looking for a good science fair project. I think figuring out how Magnesium Chloride works and why it can't get wet would be a perfect one! (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnesium_chloride)

The delay in delivery was caused by the fact that so many trucks have been busy delivering Salt to the NorthEast that it was very hard to schedule the delivery.

Remember -- don't let it get wet!!!

Training Patty!

2011-02-08T11:17:00.000-05:00

Going to post a bunch of pictures to Facebook, but these of Krissy and Dixie working with Patty are so fun! Patty is up to trotting for 10 minutes and is staying sound. Fingers crossed.

She has stopped trying to bite at Dixie. Who, by the way, is just such a wonderful old lady.

I can't believe how BIG Patty looks next to Dixie.

Happy Trails to You, Until We Meet Again.

Think SUMMER!!!

2011-02-07T15:54:00.000-05:00

Karrie and Jacki have been busy putting together great summer programs! I will have dates and specifics soon, but here is some preliminary information:

We WILL do 'full access' lease again this summer. It will be age limited again (entering 6th grade or higher), and some weeks it won't be offered if there is another program (like a jumping clinic) that will use some of the same horses.

We are going to be doing some programming as an intro to Pony Club. More on that to come.

Brandy is going to offer some Gymkhana programs which will be fun.

Of course we will have the standard beginner programs too.

New this year will be adult programming on Thursday late afternoon/early evenings.

Trail lessons will be on Tuesdays.

Here a a few pics from last summer to get you excited!

Brrrr & Grrrr (I've used this blog title too much this year!)

2011-01-31T15:38:00.001-05:00

Way too common a scene this winter.

Even the cows think it is too cold and snowy

Way too cold for lessons today. Ugh. Stay tuned for the rest of the week given cold and snow. Lauren and I are very excited for 60 degrees in Austin!

Karrie is beginning to schedule Saturday lessons -- particularly for folks on the season-lesson pack. Please reach out to her if you haven't heard from her.

Also, we are pulling together info on upcoming riding programs: February vacation (will hope to do the days that Pine Cobble also has) and perhaps March and April -- and soon, the summer programming schedule will be ready.

Also, will do a longer blog but to reward those who have read this far: OakHollow has scheduled the spring Gymkhana (April 10) and Spring Show (May 1st). Who will be a May Basket for costume class????

Weekend Lessons Cancelled

2011-01-22T08:37:00.003-05:00

As you can feel, it is bitterly cold outside and will remain so for the weekend. We are cancelling lessons. This has been a really tough winter to keep riders in the saddle. Karrie is going to start to set up some Saturday afternoon make-up sessions to see if we can beat the weather!

I am ready for spring.

Today -- this week

2011-01-17T08:21:00.000-05:00

Another bitterly cold day today and a storm coming tomorrow. As some of you know, I am heading to Boston for some important family matters. Please call the barn or your instructor if you are wondering about lessons. I will have internet access but may be slow to post.

Here are some great Krissy pictures of the big storm last week. I will post all her recent pics on Facebook.

no lessons today

2011-01-12T11:06:00.001-05:00

pretty snowy, windy and cold. Enjoy the snow day!

It can be fun to ride in the snow

2011-01-11T08:19:00.000-05:00

While the indoor ring provides the opportunity to ride in any weather, our boarders have been hitting the track for some outdoor riding. Funny how when it gets up to 30 degrees in January, it feels warm.

Have you ever seen a rainbow in winter?

2011-01-10T15:26:00.000-05:00

I don't ever remember seeing one -- and I was not home the day Krissy took this picture so I still haven't. Pretty amazing! Also, every rainbow I've ever seen on the farm in the summer has been over the opposite mountain (more toward Pine Cobble -- this is the Taconic Range). I wonder if that has to do with the weather patterns in winter v. summer?

Looks like we are having a traditional winter -- cold and snowy. If we do get dumped on Wednesday, I will let you know about lessons, but generally the driveway is clear in time for after school lessons even when there is no school!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T09:06:00.000-05:00

I am not very good at those year in review things but we certainly are looking back fondly on 2010 and with great anticipation for 2011. Here are a few of my favorite pics from the year we are leaving behind.

Max became a frequent and welcome visitor throughout the year, particularly to summer programs

We had a wonderful summer -- with the terrific help of Jacki and (not pictured) Jenna (who was keeping a secret!)

One of Krissy's many great shots of our horses. Who is this???

We did a lot more jumping this year and the course set up in the lower pasture was challenging and fun.

Buddy the photogenic wonder dog.

Hard to remember now just how HOT it was this summer. Here was one solution.

Older girls cleaning tack in an early (cold weather) riding program.

This was actually from February 2010 ... looks familiar.

One of my favorite Krissy shots from last winter.

Our Halloween programming was a hit -- with our twins!

Our increased trail lessons were a wonderful addition to our programming

A great family shot that makes me smile.

More Halloween fun

We did two parades this year -- here, 4th of July. The horses were very good sports.

Kids of all ages love a ride in the back of a pick up truck. Even the Clown Truck.

One of the highlights of our summer -- Linda's wedding.

Oak Hollow's Spring Show still gets our riders excited for the costume competition.

Lessons should be good to go rest of week

2010-12-28T13:40:00.000-05:00

Weather looks to improve each day this week. We will have a normal lesson schedule -- please let the barn know if you are planning to miss a lesson -- sometimes we can combine lessons and we have had a few times where Karrie or Jeannie has been here but no students were!

Horses back in the fields today with the snow a bit dug out. Sure is pretty out there. Horses seem to enjoy playuing in the snow as much as the kids did yesterday!

As promised .....

2010-12-27T21:36:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pictures from today. COLD .... brrrrr.

Pictures will be needed

2010-12-27T07:43:00.000-05:00

Wow. This storm did not disappoint. Chuck is out plowing -- luckily the snow is light, so the tractor can handle it. About 8 pm last night we decided to put all the horses back in the barn. The mares in orange don't have a shed so that was an easy call and Nelly, Dixie and Vixen came in pretty easily. However, out in green, Logan, Jay and Bam had to be coerced to come in. They had the shed and they still had plenty of hay (not sure when we will ever see that hay again!). It would have been a big pain to get the gates cleared this morning to get them in.

Hopefully, we will be able to get Krissy here at some point this morning and we can get some pictures to post. It is really, really pretty.

You almost can't even see the indoor arena it is so white in the pasture behind it and all around it.

I might not feel quite so well disposed about the snow in fifteen minutes when I head up to the barn to feed the horses, give them hay and help clean all sixteen stalls!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T16:05:00.000-05:00

Please enjoy the holidays -- a great time to reflect on a wonderful year, spend time with family and plan for the future. At the Hunt Household, we are blessed to be able to run a family farm that has brought so many wonderful friends into our lives. While the work can be daunting and the rewards are mostly non-monetary, the joy of watching riders of all ages developing confidence and competence is a special gift for our family.

We also have an amazing group of committed professionals who create a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Not sure what is in her mouth????

Lucy the wonder volunteer and Brenda.

Two of our great role models ... well, sometimes.

That is DEFINITELY Root Beer.

Our youngest fans

Yes, those are reindeer horns.

Here are some of Krissy's pictures from our annual holiday celebration. Here's to a great 2011!

Brrrr .... Grrr .... No lessons today (Wednesday)

2010-12-15T11:24:00.000-05:00

Sorry guys. I have seen the disappointment from our older riders on Facebook posts, but it really is too cold for lessons today. For parents who have a more economic concern, please remember that we are guaranteeing a total of 10 lessons for the winter lesson pack and Karrie is keeping track of cancellations.

Do hope we will see everyone Sunday -- in the house!

Jane

Tuesday Lessons Cancelled

2010-12-14T11:45:00.001-05:00

Hopefully, this cold snap will be over soon and we won't have lots more. If you bought the lesson pack, remember if we cancel twice we will extend the season on the back end so you will get a minimum of 10 lessons in.

You don't want to know the temperatures today in Austin, TX. :)

Look: Blogging in midair!

2010-12-13T14:41:00.000-05:00

Google Chrome is offering free wifi on Delta this month so I can post pictures and blog on my travels! Looks like the weather is going to get sketchy toward the end of the week so watch here for any lesson cancellations.

Also, if you missed it (Christine) yes, we are going to do a barn party (in the house!) on Sunday at 5 pm. All Friends of Cobble Hill Farm invited to share cheer.

Buddy helping to finish the wash stall. :)

Riding is on today!

2010-12-11T08:41:00.000-05:00

You know we've had a tough start to winter when we are celebrating that it is 29 degrees this morning!

Hope everyone saw the notice on the potluck.

No lessons again today (Friday) .... brrr!

2010-12-10T11:44:00.000-05:00

Was 3 degrees when I left the house. Looks like it will warm up for the weekend. Early next week might be a challenge so stay tuned.

Afternoon Lessons cancelled today, Thursday December 9th

2010-12-09T10:53:00.000-05:00

It is 18 degrees (and windy) in Williamstown right now and won't get above 21 today, so lessons are cancelled for today. :(

Here's a picture though.

WATCH here for announcements on lessons cancelled due to cold

2010-12-09T10:19:00.000-05:00

Our policy is to cancel lessons if it is less than 25 degrees in the arena. Riders and parents have asked for an easy way to figure that out. I will post here by NOON if lessons are cancelled for the day.

winter sky

Our favorite Mascots in the first snow cover

2010-12-09T09:17:00.000-05:00

Well, I guess we pegged the right week to start winter riding! Brrrrrr. Can't believe how time flies -- certainly seen in Patty's growth!

Please sign up in the barn for the Pot Luck Holiday gathering if you can make it. We know this is a busy time of year, so come if it is desirable and fun but no one should feel obligated.

"Buddy, I can't believe you go outside wearing that sweater!"

Holiday Pot Luck and Gift Swap -- December 19th

2010-12-06T18:32:00.000-05:00

Somehow December snuck up on me. Chuck too considering he is racing the clock to finish projects that require excavation before the ground freezes .... this is not a cooperative week for that!

We do want an opportunity to celebrate again with all our riders, boarders and friends of CHF. I will post a sign up sheet in the barn this week (I promise!) for a Holiday Fest on Sunday, December 19th at 5 pm. Bring a dish and holiday cheer (the attitude kind) along with a gift wrapped with a value less than $15 ... something appropriate for all ages of horse lovers. We'll do a gift grab or whatever they are called and toast another successful year on the farm. Maybe Chuck will even give another speech about how much he loves you all. :)

We have heat, and pictures!

2010-12-05T21:12:00.000-05:00

The heat is hooked up and working in the viewing room and it is delightful! Also, lots of pictures from the Holiday Walk. Everyone had a great time.

Krissy with her favorite horse ....

Chuck and Buddy -- is that a smile???

Lauren and Zeus

Winter Riding session

2010-11-23T15:51:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone is enjoying the Thanksgiving week. Just a reminder that next week is the end of the fall riding packages. We will have sign up sheets in the barn and with instructors for the winter season.

We are asking everyone to commit to the season even if they don't decide to pay for the full package up front. The pricing for the session is very attractive in recognition that there are lots of holidays and cold days in the coming months. Please have a discussion with your instructor regarding your desire to continue riding through the winter!! And if it tips the balance, we have scheduled the work to have the heating unit installed in the viewing room next month.

WINTER session:

December 6th - March 4th
13 weeks of lessons (with no weeks off)
Group price, 1 hour lesson:    $300
Semi private, 1 hour lesson:    $400
Private, half hour:                   $400

Thanks everyone! Happy Turkey Day.

Schedule: Thanksgiving week and Winter

2010-11-07T21:50:00.000-05:00

Our girls played their last fall sports games this weekend and we are looking forward to having kids playing basketball again this winter -- which starts Monday. Here at the barn, we ran the 'fall' riding packages through November, but we know some of you might have scheduling changes due to the transition from fall to winter sports.

Anyone who needs to change their lesson day needs to contact Karrie -- by phone or email to reschedule a lesson.

Additionally, if you know whether you are going to ride or not this winter, please give Karrie or Chuck some indication soon. We are going to offer some different kinds of lease/lesson packages for the winter so stay tuned.

There are NO LESSONS the week of Thanksgiving (this was accounted for in the packages). However, we are going to have sign up sheets for one-time lease rides that week. All lease rules will apply (adult supervision necessary) and it is important to sign up if you are going to ride so that there is horse and arena availability.

Additionally, Karrie is going to offer at least one trail ride lesson on the Friday after Thanksgiving -- two if there is interest. She will do the regular Sunday Trail Lesson as well if there is interest. Our own version of the Turkey Trot! I will put sign up sheets in the barn next weekend.

Stay warm!

Final Halloween

2010-11-01T08:13:00.000-04:00

Here are the final pictures from halloween. I am going to post all three of Krissy's full albums on the Farm's Facebook page.

The best part of the week's activities was seeing riders of all ages able to just relax and have fun. The beginner riders probably learned a lot more about maneuvering their horse than they realized! All the supplies (not the candy!) are getting packed away for next year. This was definitely something we'll do again!

.... more Halloween fun

2010-10-27T07:03:00.000-04:00

Lessons going great. Lots of fun. Even Sarah rode yesterday!!

SPOOKY lessons!

2010-10-26T08:58:00.000-04:00

We kicked off our special Halloween lessons yesterday and it seems like everyone is having fun! I know my two lesson riders are excited for their experience today! Pictures in a jiffy, thanks to Krissy.

Nelly & Logan & Secretariat

2010-10-09T06:03:00.000-04:00

As most of you know, we have a new horse at the barn -- Nelly is hard to miss! She is a cross draft and paint and has the biggest head I have ever seen on a horse. I have ridden her now twice including a trail ride yesterday. She is a really fun horse and I know has already been ridden by quite a few of our students.

As I think I have mentioned earlier, we have swapped Buck and Logan across the fence for the winter. Buck really deserves a break and Logan will benefit from regular work. In fact Karrie rode him on our trail ride yesterday. Yesterday morning Logan and a few of our horses were right up on the tree/fence line -- the girls and I assumed Buck was on the other side. It was very cute.

Lastly, Chuck, the girls and I all went to see Secretariat last night. It is a wonderful movie for families and horse lovers of all ages. Even though you know how it ends, it is still suspense filled and thrilling. A wonderful Disney movie. I think that DVD is destined for the barn collection for rainy summer days! I think I can embed a link to the trailer here:

http://disney.go.com/disneypictures/secretariat/?cmp=dmov_dpic_sec_psg_title_secretariat%20disney_Extl

Halloween Programming

2010-10-07T20:38:00.000-04:00

As you may have noticed if you've been in the barn this week, Krissy LOVES Halloween. The decorations are festive and have made the blah weather this week a little easier to take. And I guess we did still need the rain.

The week before Halloween we are going to try something fun and different during regular lessons.

First, any rider is welcome to wear a Halloween Costume to their lesson.

Second, rather than the regular riding program we are going to do a circuit of Halloween themed activites. Think Horses bobbing for Apples (while being ridden). And it wouldn't be Halloween without candy!

Trumbull Mountain Farm Hunter Pace

2010-10-02T21:24:00.000-04:00

Could not have been a more beautiful day for the Hunter Pace. All three of our teams (7 horses/riders total) had a wonderful day. Hopefully, "Junie" didn't mess up her ankle seriously ...

Here is one picture that Chuck took on his cell phone. And thanks to Lauren for all her help!

Junie, Karrie and Annie; Reno, Hunter and Bradley

Thanks, Liz!

2010-10-01T08:55:00.000-04:00

Liz M. dropped off her pictures (or a select group of such) yesterday at the barn. You can see the entire album now posted on Facebook. She has a very high resolution camera which combined with the beauty of our horses and riders, makes for some phenomenal pictures. Here are just a few:

The Birthday Boy with Vixen

<3 Bam

Blue Ribbon!

Happy Rider

The cast matches the fly bonnet

Is the smile for the ribbons or Robin Whitney's Candied Apples?

Krissy's been busy

2010-09-28T07:00:00.000-04:00

Right before the show, Krissy gave me a ton of pictures. I will download a bunch to facebook, but will also post here.

I tend to like to post pictures of activity with riders but I know this is a horse barn, so today will be horses only!

There have also been lots of changes of horses and coming and going in the barn so a few quick updates:

As everyone knows, Mr. Tee went to the therapeutic riding program in NY. You might not have known that Sweet Pea, who has been hanging out at Karrie's, went to that program as well.

Mr. Tee posing before his departure. We miss you!

After the Hunter/Pace this weekend, Boo and Hunter are going home for the winter. These guys don't get used as much in the schooling program and we are constantly trying to maximize the stalls and horses we have.

Hunter -- looking like Pig Pen from the Peanuts!

Boo looking regal

Along those lines, we are doing a switch with the Hayden's this fall -- Buck is going to get a break and hang out next door in their pasture while we bring Logan over (thanks Matt!) to get him some more work over the cooler months.

Buck with one of his many lady fans

And we have bought Bam from his owner and as everyone has noticed he is getting a lot of work in the school program -- and is now available for leases or off site shows!

Jake and Dixie

Also, Laura has been kind enough to let us use Mac in some limited lessons. Thanks Laura!

Mac jumping

Lastly, Dublin won't be coming for the winter. Unfortunately in a horrible series of events he was injured late this summer and has had surgery and will need months of recuperation which will happen at Karrie's barn.

I think that is all for updates at the moment, but I know Chuck and Karrie have been looking at another horse which may appear soon, so stay tuned!

"Junie & Annie" at the show

2010-09-27T08:23:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Brenda for sending me two great jumping pictures from yesterday. If you have great pictures (I saw one Liz H did ....) please send them to us: info@cobblehillfarm.com or chuck@cobblehillfarm.com.

I also got a ton of pre-show pics from Krissy, so I am going to be doing lots of picture posting for a while!

Unfortunately, I can't increase the size of these pics without distorting the resolution.

GREAT: riding, cooking, company, weather .....

2010-09-26T20:58:00.000-04:00

We could not have asked for a more perfect day. Every rider at our show made us so proud. The older riders helping the younger riders (without having to be asked), gorgeous fall weather, a very nice judge who spent time to give everyone feedback, a happy birthday, healthy horses and great food.

I have a few pictures from the jumping -- will post more as I get them and complete albums on Facebook.

the best view of the dressage program!

Lauren & Jay (and his silly fly hat)

Reno & one of our "E" riders

Waiting for the Drill Team ... wishing we'd videod that! I got a feeling.

Keeping Bam in control

MAKING Herc take that jump!

The adults who make it all happen. Great to have people who like kids and horses!

Thanks everyone. We are so proud to have all of you and your families riding at our barn.

SUNDAY SCHEDULE

2010-09-24T13:51:00.000-04:00

I have posted the Sunday schedule on the site. If you go to "What's New" you will see the links to the morning and afternoon schedules there. The first group is at 9 am and we really need to attempt to stay on schedule. Please have yourself and your horse ready to go 15 minutes before your scheduled time. I did not put last names on the schedule for privacy reasons, but I do have last name initials where necessary. (I am thinking we must have more "Julia's" than any other barn in Williamstown, maybe the Berkshires!)

I have a rider family bringing plates and napkins and we bought plenty of hamburgers, hot dogs, veggie burgers, rolls and drinks. Please bring a serving utensil if necessary for your items and if you need a bowl to serve your item you will need to bring that too!

Everyone should bring a chair to sit on as well although we can sit on the edge of the deck -- or if this weather holds, the edge of the pool with our feet in! I knew there was a reason I didn't get around to closing the pool before Chuck's operation.

Lastly, Chuck is doing pretty well. Still needs pain meds and can't tie his own shoes, but was out dragging the arena today. I will need everyone's help to make sure he is not lifting!!!! Thanks.

And YES, we will have Cobble Hill Farm ribbons at the show!!!

Busy time -- road trips, birthday parties and our 'show'

2010-09-23T21:20:00.000-04:00

Beautiful time of year in the Berkshires. That means a lot going on! Karrie, Katie, Laura with their trusty steeds Hunter, Blaze and MacBeth are up doing a trail riding event with the Green Mountain Horse Association in Woodstock VT. Here are some pictures from Karrie.

Blaze looks wiped out!

Saturday we are celebrating a birthday for one of our riders with one of our super-duper birthday parties. Then our first ever 'show' will be on Sunday with a pot luck. We have over 40 riders participating! We decided to do a low-key event only for our riders because Oak Hollow is not doing their traditional Fall Show this year (they hosted a Special Olympics event last weekend).

I hope I survive the weekend!

Another Chapter for Mr. Tee

2010-09-17T07:55:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, Karrie delivered Tee to his new home. He is going to be at a therapeutic riding program in New York State. Chuck and all of us have very mixed emotions. Mr. Tee has been such a wonderful and easy horse in our school program. But it is increasingly difficult for him at this stage in his life to carry a full load in the school program yet he still is a great horse and the people we met from the therapeutic program visited the barn and Krissy, Chuck and Karrie were all convinced that it was a perfect fit.

Also important to remember Mr. Tee's condition when we brought him to Cobble Hill. He was low 'horse' on the totem pole at a farm -- he was skinny and had lots of bites. His teeth were in terrible condition. Thanks to great care from Dr. Dowd and TLC from so many riders, 3rd feedings at night, etc... he was a fine looking, healthy and happy horse when he stepped right up into that trailer yesterday morning.

I am posting from the waiting room at UMass Memorial Medical where Chuck is getting his hernia fixed this morning. Thanks to everyone for their good wishes and help at the farm today and tomorrow. He was telling the anesthesiologist jokes as I left him. :)

Boarders

2010-09-07T18:30:00.000-04:00

With everything else going on it is easy to lose sight of the imminent fall and winter. As long-time riders know, our barn really filled up with boarders last year. We are going to try to keep our numbers reasonable this year and know that two of our winter boarders are coming back. However, winter boarders are important to the sustainability of the business. So, if any of you know of folks who are looking for winter board, please have them reach out to Chuck or Karrie.

We also have an interest in having boarders who are comfortable with the family - nature of our barn (ie: there are lots of kids there after school and we like that!).

Blaze -- one of my very favorite pics!!!

Newsletters in Barn, Sign up Sheets

2010-08-31T03:59:00.000-04:00

The information that is on the website on important fall info is also now in the barn in the form of a newsletter. Also, Karrie is weaning Chuck off total dependence on white boards and moving him to a little use of cork board (still, under protest). The cork board over the grain bins has replaced the unsightly posting of flyers and sign up sheets (usually with duct tape .... yeah, you know what I mean) on the school tack room window.

There are several events and sign up sheets that you should look at when you are in the barn.

While on vacation I downloaded a bunch of my mom's pictures and here is a particularly beautiful one of the property from the night before Linda's wedding. Also, speaking of Linda -- on that aforementioned cork board you will find her new mailing address. I am sure she would love to hear from you! Tomorrow, she will be transporting Blue to her new stable near David's. I know a lot of our riders miss Linda and we will miss Blue as well.

Cobble Hill Farm -- I am pretty sure that is Blaze.... but could be Reno! And maybe a turkey? The tent is up in the front of the house for Linda's wedding.

Lotsa News

2010-08-30T15:18:00.000-04:00

Check out the "What's New" section of the website for information on: Fall Lesson packages, New Weekend Programming (including instructor-led trail lessons and the ability to do a weekly lease with a trail lesson -- newly named "lease plus"), Shows, and more.

The Hunt Family -- the Farmer's Wife, The Farmer, Lauren, Lizzy and Sarah.

The Farmer's Wife and Daughter Roller Skating -- 80s flashback.

I was on a roll last month with posts but everything slows down in August! Therefore the pictures today will be of our family enjoying vacation in Lake George last week. Lizzy and Lauren begged to go to the stable and pay for a trail ride! I adamantly refused -- all they rode were rides at the Washington County Fair, a boat and virtual rides at the Arcade! Lauren did drive the race cars at the Fun Spot while Lizzy and Sarah played Laser Tag. And all three girls as well as the Farmer's Wife roller skated. I have the skinned knee to prove it!

Lastly, we know word spreads quickly in a barn so we wanted to let everyone know that Chuck is scheduled for surgery in Worcester in mid-September to fix a hernia. We will have complete coverage at the barn for chores, horse care and lessons but wanted everyone to be aware. I won't post pictures of that. :)

FALL LESSON SCHEDULE!

2010-08-20T09:01:00.001-04:00

Karrie has been working for the past two weeks with Jeannie to figure out a lesson schedule for our riders this fall. Thank you to everyone who filled out a form -- it was very helpful. The proposed schedule that Karrie put up (it is next to the white board as you enter the barn) is a starting point. We tried really hard to honor requests for specific instructors and lesson groups while balancing the availability of appropriate horses and instructor time.

Please consult the schedule and discuss any concerns or conflicts with Karrie. We are now beginning to add in lessons for new riders who are calling the barn or were here this summer. As you all know, those afterschool hours get pretty packed pretty quickly. However, the good news is that we will continue to schedule lessons on weekends as well.

Also, let us know if you are planning to lease for the fall so that we are not double booking or overworking any horses.

And lastly, hope you all saw the notice of the Cobble Hill "only" show and potluck. As Oak Hollow isn't doing a fall show and most riders look forward to that, we wanted to do something.

Watch, too, for new programming options. We have been looking into Pony Club and hope to have a program up and running for the fall.

We will offer the opportunity to pay for a group of lessons at a discount. Ask Karrie or me about that if you are interested.

On to the Fall!

2010-08-13T21:15:00.000-04:00

We ended our summer programming with a perfect summer farm treat -- s'mores! Lots of great riding accomplishments, too. Several riders who jumped or cantered for the first time. A visitor from NYC who deemed this the best week of her life (okay, she is only 9, but we still take the compliment!).

If you haven't filled out a form yet with preferences for dates and times for fall lessons please do. We are planning to kick the fall riding season off on September 13th with a 12 week session. In the meantime, we have lots of riders taking advantage of the opportunity to schedule extra lessons during the day with the lack of summer riders and before school starts.

Karrie is also bringing several riders to another show in Richmond and there are lots of preparatory lessons going on this week.

Love how new friendships are formed at the barn.

Off to view the meteor shower.

WEDDING PICS FINALLY!

2010-08-12T20:56:00.000-04:00

Linda on Blue.

Many, many dancing pics. This one was later in the night ... can tell by Lauren's outfit!

The decorations were beautiful.

Guests arriving.

Glad we spruced the barn up!

You may kiss the bride.

Buddy crashed the ceremony ....

Could be the 2010 Christmas Card Photo????

Okay, a bunch of others on Facebook!

Schedule Fall lessons and Name the future fish

2010-08-12T15:17:00.000-04:00

If you have not filled out a form indicating your desired time for a fall lesson, please reach out to Karrie in the next few weeks. We are hoping to have the fall riding season start in September.

Also, Krissy is getting a beta fish for the barn. Her two choices of a name are:

1) Alfalfa
2) Poseidon

Leave your votes as a comment on the blog or send an email to info@cobblehillfarm.com

Last week of summer youth riding

2010-08-12T11:58:00.000-04:00

This is our last week of structured summer riding programs -- can't believe how fast the summer vacation flies by! It is also our biggest week so far -- 9 riders in the Life on a Farm program!

Here are a few pics in the barn.

Max still likes to visit!

Buck heading down to the track after earning his keep.

Jeannie working with a rider to build confidence.

Patty has injured a leg. She has to be hosed down and legs wrapped twice a day and also walked. Some of the older riders are able to help with this necessary but time consuming task.

Get well soon Lucy!!!

2010-07-30T16:12:00.000-04:00

We'll be heading out to Shelburne Falls early tomorrow. Biscuit Hill horse show:

http://www.biscuithillfarm.com/show_schedule.html

Chuck alerted me that Lucy fell off Dixie yesterday and is recovering at home ... hope she is okay and feeling 100 percent soon. We have lots of committed riders who like to come and help at the barn, but Lucy is the most committed of them all.

Here is Lucy helping with Mr. Tee this winter. Get well soon Lucy!!!!

Next week will be busy with landscaping and sprucing up in anticipation of Linda & David's wedding on the weekend.

Fun picture from one of the early summer programs.

A quieter week

2010-07-25T08:18:00.000-04:00

We only have the full access lease program running this week so the barn should be a quieter place. We do have several summer residents/tourists booked which is always welcome.

Just got the new fliers in and must say I am really satisfied with the quality. Will have Jenna and the girls bring a few down to the Chamber office.

Hopefully, the rain will hold off so Chuck can finish the fence in the blue paddock. If you haven't walked over there, go take a look. The fencing is going up about 8 feet off the stone wall -- making a nice 'trail' that will be perfect for riders to cool down their horses or for beginner trail lessons.

We are also getting the siding stained on the barn ... it matches the original building quite well. And maybe the fences will even get stained in August .... never a shortage of stuff to do around here.

Here is a nice picture of Dixie. You can also see the area I am referring to for the trail/fence in the background where the stone wall is. Dixie continues to be a great beginner horse. I wonder how many riders have cantered for the first time on her?

Dixie and Patty have been hanging out a lot in the black paddock. It is hard to tell here, but Patty is almost as big as Dixie these days. She is going to be a very BIG girl. And hopefully a good one.

Yes, we have horses

2010-07-24T08:56:00.000-04:00

I have been posting lots of pictures of the activities at the barn but thought I'd put up a few of actual horseback riding!

We have had quite a few summer visitors this year which is great. There are many people who relocate weekends or weeks at a time to our beautiful region and this year quite a few of them have found us and are enjoying our lesson program as well as our wonderful views.

This week will be Linda's last week doing lessons at the barn. We are happy for her and David and wish them lots of happiness in their new life together. I think Chuck and I will be spending all our 'free' time landscaping and weeding in the next two weeks till the wedding!

As many of you know, the barn bought Bradley from Linda and he will be a significant part of our lesson program -- especially for the more advanced riders and those who want to jump. We are also going to be keeping Blue on a free lease until Linda gets settled -- at least through the summer.

Karrie has agreed to take over some of the administrative responsibilities for scheduling lessons, etc... but we both agree that will be a collaborative process over the month of August.

Yahoo, more pictures

2010-07-22T23:07:00.000-04:00

Weather has definitely moderated but my travel hasn't. Jenna finally got to ride this week! She looks a lot less confidence on a horse than on skates! However, she claims to have enjoyed it.

Love these pictures because it gives a great view of the arena (and the NEW footing -- if you are counting, yes this is the 3rd try at something that is good to keep the dust down and appropriate on the horses hooves -- no more overdone pedicures).

And lastly, doesn't this make you want to be a kid again (or a dog).... outdoor lunches in the summer!

For my frequent followers, I attempted to add some features so these posts can be more easily 'followed' and shared on facebook, etc.... Another experiment. I still harbor a dream of making the website both a valuable source of information and a source of some income to offset the costs of our riding programs!

Far from Farm

2010-07-19T22:42:00.000-04:00

Spoke via phone and email a lot today but am stuck out on the West Coast. Flight delays have me on a redeye (overnight flight) to Philadelphia tomorrow. I have several meetings, 3 hours of driving to and from the capital of Pennsylvania (quick, who can name it?) and then a late flight home. Ugh.

Figure I might as well post a few more of Krissy's pictures as I enter my 9th hour in the San Diego airport.

Buddy once he's worn himself out tugging on baling twine. He is such a funny dog -- will run and play and jump forever then just snuggle in and cuddle. I suspect he is under Sarah's covers sleeping soundly right about now!!

I hear there was more water balloon activity today at the barn. Here, Z is filling the bucket last week!

Great picture of Buck and the two point. If you don't ride, you would not believe the core strength and balance this requires. No wise comments about Buck's short tail, please .....

Twin Mania

2010-07-17T21:39:00.000-04:00

As I started organizing for the upcoming programs this week it occurred to me that we have had an extraordinary number of twins riding at the barn. Most of you know that our family has a set of fraternal nine-year-old twins: Lauren and Sarah. This past week, we had both an identical set of twins in the 3 day learn to ride program and a younger set of fraternal twins who returned for a second year of pony rides while visiting their grandma. Earlier this year an older set of fraternal twin girls began taking lessons at the farm and this week we will have another set of identical twins in the Life on a Farm program! That is 5 sets of twins!!! Amazing.

These two -- Buddy and Robin -- are NOT twins. Robin belongs to one of the farriers and has been visiting since we started our riding program. Most of Buddy's neighborhood dog friends are also black and white dogs so Robin is a nice change of pace! Here is Buddy's newest friend: Gurl. She is Karrie's new puppy.

And this is Buddy's best friend, Maxwell, who comes over every day from East Mountain Farm (next door). Maxwell is on vacation this week. Gurl, Buddy and Max could almost be triplets!

New Pictures!

2010-07-17T09:33:00.000-04:00

Well, the heat didn't diminish too much but we did get a little more much needed rain. We have pulled the horses off the lower pasture for the past two weeks to let it grown back up. It also is a nice break for the adults and riders who put horses in and out not to have the long, uphill walk to the barn in this oppressive heat!

Here is a beginner trail lesson! New riders love it!

Making horse treats downstairs!!!

Jacki in a rare moment of relaxation.

Keeping the horses clean and the riders cool.

Treats

2010-07-12T22:09:00.000-04:00

The horses all got horse treats made by summer riders today. We actually had to cook them but it was pretty cool in the downstairs apartment at the house.

Jacki and Jenna also came up with the idea of rather than making horse magnets, we are making electrical outlet covers with a horse on them. They look great!

And once again, we have very good horses. Pretty clear why we call her VIXEN.

Monday! More new riders

2010-07-12T09:59:00.000-04:00

Welcoming four new riders to our programs this morning. Here is more of a look at the fun stuff that have happened in the summer programs so far this summer.

Hopefully, the weather will be nice and not quite as humid!

Pony Club information

2010-07-10T16:01:00.000-04:00

The barn is exploring and likely to initiate the process for becoming a Pony Club Center. Several of our parents and adult riders have participated in this program and are very enthusiastic about having it offered in our area.

You might begin hearing about this opportunity around the barn. Karrie and Janette Dudley are leading our exploratory efforts and of course you can always speak with Chuck or Jane about this or other thoughts and ideas on programming.

Here is a link to some information about the program:

http://ponyclub.org/ridingcenter.htm

As always, let us know what you think!

Summer Jumping Program

2010-07-10T12:12:00.000-04:00

Kudos to the riders who participated in riding programs this week. The focus for most of the riders was jumping and despite the heat, as you can see in these terrific pictures, it was a successful program!

Several days the riders came early to get their rides in before the oppressive heat. And, as you can also see, there are cooling strategies for horses (and riders and instructors)!

Riders and visitors should also take a peek in the barn for the progress being made on several fronts. The wash stall is about half done and the television is finally in the boarder's tack room and we have a VCR attached. Karrie was able to show the riders some great video of her jumping in events and we are hoping to start using some video instruction in the more experienced rider lessons.

We are hoping our introductory three day riding program will have a little less heat this coming week but just as much fun!

Guest Blog by Lauren Hunt, age 9

2010-07-06T20:35:00.002-04:00

Hello i am jane's daughter Lauren and i was gonna make my own blog abvout Cobble Hill but my mom said it is to late so i am going to post something about whatever pops into my mind about the farm! I was riding Buck today in my lesson we trotted we cantered and we walked. I was riding with E*&% j*$^%&! i think that is how she spells her last name so i am kind of nervous about that. I was also helping out with the barn a bit this week E*$#, Z#@*, and J*&$%: were the riders! Mrs. petrino and Jenna do the crafts and Linda teaches the lessons and Karrie teaches the jumping lessons. i am hoping to go on a trail ride soon i was supposed to go tomorrow but skating is interfearing with that! thats all i can think of and this is getting to long so goodnight and have a nice week hope you enjoyed your 4th of july!

Love,
Lauren!

Jump!

2010-07-06T19:48:00.000-04:00

Even with this really brutally hot weather our dedicated jumping students are having a great week. Today, Karrie had them on the track for the first time and they did the entire course! Way to go!!! Krissy took some pictures of Karrie jumping last week -- here is one. I am going to get in trouble because Karrie wants to pick the right ones and of course I don't know the difference between great and awful jumping form .... they all look pretty impressive to me!

Patty let the kids give her a bath today and she actually cooperated for most of the time. And she looks really pretty. Here is a picture from before the much needed bath. She is still a beautiful pony!

Chuck tells me that Jay has become very protective of Patty when she is in the larger pasture with the small herd. It is really very interesting to see the social dynamics among the horses.

We had an almost-five year-old visitor take a few lessons this week. All the way from South Carolina! Her grandma found our website on line. The riding lessons while in town were her reward for patiently watching her older brother skate at hockey camp in the Boston area last week. When I get feedback that people actually find the website and blog of value, it keeps me motivated to keep posting. That and the fact that my home office is air conditioned. Stay cool everyone!!!

A rare (but very, very hot) day in the barn

2010-07-05T22:32:00.001-04:00

With today's official holiday and no RFPs due this week, I got to spend the day helping out in the barn. While I am loving my new job, it is really hard to miss all the great summer activities so I soaked up as much as possible.

Watching new riders learn to control their horse and to master all the different aspects of horsemanship is a treat. Today, Jack (again, pseudonyms) confided that he really likes grooming the horses more than riding. He picked Jay and Dixie's feet, put fly spray all over Jay and helped to bathe Blue! When I mentioned his comment to Linda, she made a really good observation -- at his riding ability there is a lot more he can do working with the horses grooming versus riding. I hadn't thought of it that way, but it makes perfect sense.

Jack also shared my enthusiasm for the project I dreamed up earlier this year while helping Chuck with some clean up around the barn. Very soon, our barn will have its very own mascot. We have named him (her?) COBBLE. He/She will have a jingle necklace just like the ones we are making for all the school horses for forays into the woods. They are designed to alert wildlife to a horse and riders approach but they have been a very fun barn activity, too.

During the water balloon 'fight' today, I think Chuck moved faster than he has in a while. So funny how kids love to pelt adults in battle, but the biggest kid got more than his fair share of direct strikes!

Two of our riders in the program this week are beginning jumpers and seeing the smiles on their faces after they clear the cross rails is another special joy to being in the barn. Using the viewing room as our primary gathering place really does allow you to stay connected to the riding all day long.

However, for the first time in two years we also used the A/C in the tack rooms and office. Brutally hot is an understatement. However, with the A/C running (yes, I am more than a little embarrassed to admit that we have air conditioning in a New England horse barn) the riders really went at the tack cleaning this afternoon even though it was oppressively hot outside. And Chuck is adamant that the heating/cooling unit was no more expensive than a straight heating unit would have been. Today, I pretended to believe him.

So funny that riders who would otherwise complain violently about cleaning, happily muck stalls!!!

I have no idea what we would do without Jacki. And we now have a larger "J" team with Jenna's help in the mornings. Chuck and I (okay, mostly Chuck) finished painting the viewing room floor late on Sunday night and as he was scrambling to get everything put back together early on Monday, who shows up and pitches in with a smile? This is our craft closet. It will never again look this neat. :)

It was really cool for the new riders to watch Karrie jump Hunter (wow!) and this week all our aspiring-Karrie's will be attempting to replicate her form. And keep an eye out for that smart looking Cal Poly Pomona jump. :)

Pictures pre-parade!

2010-07-04T21:12:00.000-04:00

Krissy took some pictures at the barn .... if anyone else has some, please send them along.

The horses were really good and everything went smoothly. Even the heat wasn't too oppressive. It is going to get HOT this week.

If you are riding this week, remember to bring WATER. Also, we will probably even turn on the A/C in the office and tack rooms so everyone has a cool place to retreat.

Happy Fourth of July!

2010-07-04T07:44:00.000-04:00

Heading out to wash the mini truck and trailer, will let the riders wash the horses. Going to be a hot day so packing plenty of drinks. Our first parade!

Patty doesn't like her fly mask!

.... and happy horses

2010-07-03T08:25:00.000-04:00

Just pictures!

Beautiful weather, busy place

2010-07-03T08:22:00.000-04:00

This was a very busy place this week! Here are some terrific Krissy pictures. Riders made some great tye dye t-shirts that should draw the eye in the 4th of July parade tomorrow. I also LOVED the horse magnets that were painted and mounted.

Looks like everyone had a great time. If you are still wanting to do the parade, we will meet at the farm at 10 am (to wash horses!) and at the elementary school at 11 am. The wagon will be at the elementary school earlier than that so Chuck and Karrie can then hall the horses.

We have plenty of candy to throw!

4th of July Parade

2010-06-26T07:32:00.000-04:00

Linda, Karrie, Jacki, Jenna and I met yesterday to discuss the upcoming week's summer programming. We decided to combine it with our decision to participate in the Williamstown 4th of July parade. We have thought about getting involved in one of the local parades as many of the local farms do it and feel like we have a lot of help this week and should be able to pull it off.

Any riders or friends of Cobble Hill should shoot us an email (chuck@cobblehillfarm.com) if they want to participate. We will probably bring 4 or 5 horses (Blue, Dixie, Hercules, Zeus, Mr. Tee) and have a leader and a rider on each horse. But we are also going to fire up the tractor and pull the wagon so that we can have other Friends of the Farm riding and (of course!) tossing candy.

Chuck actually ordered something a while ago that we hope arrives in time .... meanwhile, the summer riders this week will be working on tye dye t-shirts for the riders to wear and 'jingle' bells for the horses. We want to make those anyway after the bear cub sighting by Sandy over at Oak Hollow a few weeks back.

Should be a fun week here at the barn with lots going on with this first full week with all schools out. I hope to get home by Wednesday late afternoon to at least observe some of the fun.

Buddy returns

2010-06-09T07:19:00.000-04:00

At about 4 am this morning, I (finally) heard Buddy barking outside. He was very excited to see me (almost as excited as I was to see him). He came bounding through the door and sprinted to each girls room, jumped on their beds to sniff and make sure they were there before heading to the next room.

I am thinking he must have gotten shut in somewhere or something but finally got out. It was scary to not hear or see him at all last night and the girls went to bed late and sad, but alls well that ends well.

Here is the picture that Sarah was going to use to make posters today. :)

About ten more cups of coffee and I should be good to go.

BUDDY is missing

2010-06-08T22:16:00.000-04:00

Please keep your eyes out for Buddy (Tuesday night -- 10:16 pm). We saw him this evening although the girls can't remember if it was before the last lesson ended. It was definitely before the last riders left tonight. Hopefully, he stowed away in someone's back seat ....

The proof

2010-06-08T21:11:00.000-04:00

Krissy got some awesome shots of the downpour (or one of the several downpours) on Sunday. I guess we are caught up on rain.

Chuck and I are working to get ready for summer riding programs to start next week. I want to do a pumpkin patch in the 'old' garden area. I think it would be really fun for riders in summer programs to help us plant and tend it. Then, if it works (which means our collective green thumb would be much superior to mine alone) everyone could have a pumpkin this summer.

Still to be seen if this is one of my great ideas that Chuck goes along with or not!

We are going to be producing farm-style sit-upons for use during the summer. And I showed Jacki a great idea for making a 'mascot' for the barn later this summer ..... Jacki seems more enthusiastic about my schemes than Chuck!

I guess we got the rain!!!

2010-06-07T10:52:00.000-04:00

I am sure the rain washed out lots of folks weekend plans, but it sure was needed. The grass was turning brown which is never a pretty sight.

Looks like lots of nice sleeping and riding weather. As most of you know, we have actually 'flipped' the schedule on most of the horses. They now stay our all night and remain in the barn on very hot days.

I am hoping our first shipment of fly predators arrives soon. Seems like they flies are really starting to come out. I think I wrote last year about my amazement with how that product works. A great and "GREEN" way to keep the fly population at bay.

Sun, Rain & a brief farewell to Jessie

2010-06-04T09:19:00.000-04:00

Wow -- I know we really could use some rain, but these sunny, warm days are good for your soul. Chuck mowed in the lower field around the new dressage ring and jumping course earlier in the week and said the ground was as dry as he has ever seen it. As most of you know, Chuck has lived on the farm -- except for a decade plus period in California -- for his entire life so that is more than 30 years of observation.

Yesterday, we got a hard, soaking summer rain shower but it was very brief. I will pray for some rain to start and be fairly steady starting Monday!

This weekend is Jessie's last day at the farm until August. Jessie is our wonderful Bennington College student who has been volunteering in the barn on Friday and Saturday (and an occasional Thursday and Sunday) since late winter. She found us on line and we are so lucky she did. I've posted a picture of her riding Vixen. In addition to all the barn and horse-keeping work, she has been riding the horses we need to get in shape -- Zeus, Vixen. We are really going to miss her for the next month and a half. We have convinced her though to come back north early and live in the in-law apartment and lend a hand in August. Thanks for all your hard work and good humor Jessie!!

Hooray for Krissy!

2010-06-02T12:23:00.000-04:00

The grapevine shared the great news that Krissy passed her drivers license exam this morning. I suspect it won't be long before she is truck shopping. :) This is a picture of Vixen (don't tell, but she is Krissy's favorite) congratulating her.

To start your week on a bright note!

2010-06-01T07:07:00.000-04:00

As everyone slogs back to work after a wonderful holiday weekend, I thought this picture would make you smile. It amazes me to watch the interactions among different horses. Right now I am struck by the fact that while the horses in the lower track have lots and lots of space to roam with fresh hay throughout, they still tend to cluster much of the time.

Pictures of the lower track with horses

2010-05-31T21:16:00.000-04:00

I've done a few posts about how pretty the lower field looks pastured in ... here is proof!

Happy (sort of) Birthday Patty!

2010-05-31T21:13:00.001-04:00

What a gorgeous Memorial Day! Of course, the Hunt family couldn't help but remembering our 2009 Memorial Day when we awoke to find My Girl Patriot (our Patty) staring at us from the dry paddock!

I remember it being a nice day last year, but it would be hard to beat today's weather. Linda brought some of the older riders on a late afternoon trail lesson which they seemed to really enjoy.

And, Krissy just sent me all the May pictures (which she has been sending to Chuck all along but he forgets to share ... and the chances that we will get him blogging are low!).

Check out the Dressage Ring & Jumping Course!

2010-05-30T17:49:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Karrie (and with a lot of help from Jeannie, "Annie" and her Dad, and Chuck) we have the dressage ring set up in the lower pasture as well as a much more involved jumping course. Karrie is lending us numerous jumps she wasn't using. In return, summer riders will be sanding and painting them so that we can return them in shipshape condition -- which is wonderful for my Girl Scout soul.

Last year, Annie & her parents made a dressage ring. It looks great down in the lower field.

Hope everyone has enjoyed seeing horses in the lower field, too. Chuck got all the fencing up and it is really glorious to sit on our deck at night and watch horses grazing. It is even better when you factor in how much less hay we are feeding and the fact that with fewer horses in it, Blue paddock finally is grass covered again! The only hard part is all the walking up and down the hill to bring horses in and out. Krissy wore a pedometer and calculated she walked THIRTEEN miles one day last week!!!

June first is fast approaching -- that is the end of the Spring riding season. I am not going to do a summer riding package -- so many people vacation and do camps that it ends up being too confusing to keep track. Lesson Packages will be back for the Fall.

We are also in the countdown to Linda's wedding. She'll be working through July and then helping to transition lessons to Karrie or Jeannie. The farm has bought Bradley as so many of our advanced riders enjoy his jumping ability and we have more riders getting to that level all the time. Elizabeth may get a chance to jump with him for the first time in her lesson this week -- so I've been hearing a lot about "Bradley Poo".

Lastly, while we kick off summer with this glorious weather, we will also pause to remember those who have given their life in defense of our country. We are very blessed.

Trail Lessons

2010-05-27T11:38:00.000-04:00

With this beautiful weather lots of riders want to get out on the trails. Our instructors are going to offer a two hour weekly trail riding lesson on Friday mornings at 10 am all summer. Watch for sign ups in the barn this week!

Our summer programming is also getting tweaked. We are going to focus the 5 day riding program the week of July 5-9th on those riders who want to begin or perfect their jumping.

Me, I'll be travelling to Austin still and the 100 degree heat. :)

starting them young

2010-05-13T21:55:00.000-04:00

some of our youngest fans and riders with one of our best instructors.