Happy New Year from Ray of Light Farm!

A Look Back at 2011

Whew, what a year it was. The snow was the big news and the big challenge of the first quarter of 2011. We survived the challenges that so much snow and cold caused, but there were times we wondered if we would. We offer our most sincere thanks to all who supported us and helped us stay on our feet.

During the spring, we welcomed new lambs and chicks, and eventually enjoyed a respite from the major challenges of winter. Once the snow was cleared away, we were able to resume riding lessons and BIT, and also continue on our mission of rescuing animals in need.

In the summer, we brought in Red Rose, or Rosie, a registered descendant of Secretariat, who was very thin despite being within weeks of foaling. Today she and her lively baby girl, Spitfire, are doing wonderfully! In the same month, we also brought to the farm Newsboy, a very young colt who needed urgent care and re-homing. He is also thriving in his new home.

Also new: this summer was the first year we’ve offered a Junior BIT camp, which was very successful, and which we plan to host again in 2012.

We also enjoyed hosting Anna Twinney and her Reach Out to Horses students and staff at several ROTH events.

In a combined effort with Reach Out to Horses and Equine Angles Rescue Sanctuary, we were able to rescue eight premarin foals from slaughter. Two have been adopted, and we are caring for the six remaining foals as they await adoption to qualified, loving homes.

In 2011, two Premarin rescues of previous years were adopted, and we wish Lucky and Honeybrook the best of luck in their new homes.

Unfortunately, we also had to say goodbye to two of our oldest and dearest friends, as Risky the llama and Sunflower the miniature horse passed on. Together, they spent a combined 28 years as integral members of the farm. We have missed them, and maybe you have, too.

At Ray of Light, there is a continual cycle of change. Like the weather there are seasons of loss and times of growth, there are challenges and triumphs. We survived the winter’s snow, one hurricane, and an early October snowstorm. We have weathered losses, but we have also experienced growth and welcome additions.

Why don’t you stop on by, and see for yourself what’s new at the farm.

Our Programs

One important mission at Ray of Light Farm is to provide a valuable resource for the communities of the CT River Valley and beyond. We have something for everyone, and we are now enrolling for all of our popular programs.

Tiny Trotters: a four week program designed for preschool-aged children. For one day each week, children spend an hour visiting with and learning about the animals at Ray of Light. Each day includes a craft project and snack, and ends with a pony ride! Safety is a priority at Ray of Light, so all activities are closely supervised. We also ask that children be accompanied by a parent or care-giver. See our calendar to find the dates of the next Tiny Trotter Session and call us at 860-873-1895 to register.

Riding Instruction: a team of professional and certified instructors is available to help students (ages 8 and up) from novice to advanced dressage to develop their riding skills, ride balanced and centered, in a true partnership with the horses. See our equestrian page for more detail. Call us at 860-873-1895 for lesson times and availability.

BIT: in the Basics in Training program, our head trainer Susan Macauley leads students through a progressive series of short courses designed to train student to effectively use groundwork exercises including round-penning, lunging and long-reining to build the foundations necessary for both human and equine to advance to riding and higher level equestrian pursuits. The next sessions will begin in the spring. See our equestrian page for more details.

Filly Night: a fun girls' night out with horses! It's a women's group riding lesson followed by a potluck dinner and social. Upcoming dates include Thursday, March 31 and Tuesday April 12. View our calendar for more future dates. Space is limited and advance registration is required. Please call us at 860-873-1895 to register.

Additional Programs and Special Events: We often host special guests to the farm to hold clinics or demonstrations. We also have seasonal events for the community. Please check with our calendar to find dates for these special programs and events.

We are a Non-Profit Facility

The Ray of Light Farm relies heavily on donations to support the care of animals, including food, water, bedding, shelter, and veterinary costs. With a current residency of nearly 150 animals (including over 50 horses), operating the farm is a full time effort and labor of love. It requires contributions from dozens of community sponsors, volunteers, and caring citizens like you. Donations are tax deductible and greatly appreciated.

Your contribution helps. Every dollar counts.

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