After four long years of heartache, loss and health issues, I was struggling to find a purpose in my life. I had gone from a high-energy, driven, job-passionate woman in the Marketing and Public Relations arena, to a damaged individual with little motivation. Until one sleepy day in May, I decided I needed to find a path and regain my life. With that, I began to look for a local volunteer position...or create one; so, I meandered down to a spot not far from my home... Ashford Farm. Who knew we had such a slice of paradise in our own backyard? Not this girl. I was awestruck with the expansive beauty of this place. I have always been a lover of the majestic equine, and here, I thought, was an ideal place for me to rebuild my life. I introduced myself to a young, attractive woman who was walking up from a pasture. Megan, as it turned out, helped maintain this beautiful family run horse farm. As we walked toward the barn office, I explained my situation to a somewhat reluctant Megan (I can only imagine what was running through her mind) and jotted my name and number on a little yellow notepad. She thanked me for coming in and told me her mother would be in touch about my volunteer services. Hmmmm, now I was the one speculating.... would I ever really hear back from anyone? Much to my delight, the next day I received a call from Caroline, owner of Ashford Farm. We chatted about my background and experience with horses and arranged a time for me to meet at the barn. I was overjoyed with Caroline's acceptance of my health conditions, which limit my physical activities, and my desire to volunteer around the stables. I was introduced to a couple of horses and jumped right in, providing love and grooming to these gentle giants. Ashford is a beautiful farm on the outskirts of Philadelphia, where horses are loved, cared for and respected. A place where students learn respect, confidence and trust through hands-on interaction with these magnificent creatures. I am forever thankful for the peace I have found in my heart, the love I have nurtured for these beautiful animals, and the confidence I've gained to leave my house and rebuild my life. Thank you, Caroline, Bill and Megan! Ashford Farm provides lessons for children and adults, and summer camp for boys and girls ages 7 to 14.
