Reflections on The Past, Present & Future of Stepping Stones Farm

As we launch our new website, I smile as I reflect on my six decades on this amazing land.  I feel awe, gratitude, commitment and pride in all the many ways we have welcomed the world to our farm gates.  Our vision has always been to make the world a better, safer and more healing place for people and animals alike. Our mission has been to steward our historic land and buildings, while preserving the farm’s legacy of gathering and welcome.

We have done this for the last 54 years on my watch as the owner.  I have witnessed how a team can make the impossible happen, again and again.  I have loved each phase of the farm.

We began in 1971 with Pony Farm, my favorite book as a child. Starting with 8 little girls with parents who trusted three 18-year-olds to take care of their children and their ponies for a month. We had never cooked a full meal, babysat or taught one riding lesson.  Yet, everyone stayed safe, thrived, had life-changing experiences and learned to love horses for a life time. We all had a blast and Pony Farm continues to this day. 

That early beginning was the start of a deeply rewarding life of connection and lifelong friendships for which I will forever be grateful.

Our journey from Pony Farm to buying the farm from my parents in 1975 to start Sign of the Dove Farm & Retreat Center has been richly rewarding.  Building the Lodge by hand still amazes me fifty years later. Starting a nationally recognized riding school with clinics, horse shows, training camps and carriage driving was a delight. 

Founding Horse Power, our therapeutic riding nonprofit was the thrill of a life time.  It has been affirming to learn about scientific research that proves the huge benefits of equine facilitated mental health confirms what we knew along. 

As we now move into announcing the current offerings at Stepping Stones Farm & Retreat Center, it is with pride and pleasure that we return to our roots of hospitality and retreats.  Adding the healing benefits of horses through Wisdom Horse is the icing on the cake for me.

Our whole team invites you to explore this website to learn about what we do and who we are today, lo’  these many years later.  We hope you will soon enter our farm gates to soak up the relaxation, tranquility and fun of this blessed 272 year old farm.

Love and all good cheer, Boo