Charming Farm Journal
The Benefits of Outdoor Play and Interaction with Animals for Kids
by Christy Lamb on 07/11/25
At Charming Pony Parties, we believe that childhood magic happens not just through celebration, but through connection with nature and animals. Our pony parties offer a unique blend of outdoor fun and gentle animal interaction — a combination that has wonderful benefits for kids’ growth and well-being.
Here’s why spending time outside and engaging with animals is so important for children:
1. Encourages Physical Activity and Motor Skills
Running around the play castle, climbing slides, and interacting with ponies and barnyard animals naturally gets kids moving. Outdoor play strengthens muscles, improves coordination, and helps develop fine and gross motor skills in a joyful, unforced way.
2. Builds Emotional Intelligence and Empathy
Caring for and gently handling animals teaches kids empathy, patience, and kindness. When children see how their actions affect the ponies, goats, alpacas, and other furry friends, they begin to understand responsibility and respect for living beings.
3. Enhances Social Skills and Cooperation
Our pony parties are full of shared experiences — riding, grooming, feeding, and playing games together. These activities encourage communication, cooperation, and teamwork, helping kids build friendships and social confidence.
4. Reduces Stress and Boosts Mood
Being outdoors and spending time with animals has been shown to lower stress levels and improve mood for children and adults alike. The fresh air, open spaces, and the calming presence of animals create a soothing environment where kids can relax and just be themselves.
5. Sparks Curiosity and Love for Nature
Interacting with animals and exploring our charming venue inspires curiosity about the natural world. Kids learn about animal behaviors, farm life, and the environment in a hands-on, memorable way.
At Charming Pony Parties, we are proud to offer a magical setting where children can play freely, learn about animals, and create joyful memories. Whether it’s riding our gentle ponies or feeding the goats and alpacas in the barnyard, every moment is designed to nurture healthy growth and happiness.
Ready to give your child the gift of outdoor fun and animal magic? Book a party at Charming Pony Parties today and watch the magic unfold!
Meet NaVii: Our Original Rescue with a Big Personality
by Christy Lamb on 05/02/25
At Charming Pony Parties, every animal has a special place in our hearts, but NaVii holds a particularly unique spot as our very first rescue. Her story is a testament to the incredible bond between humans and animals and showcases the incredible spirit that defines so many of our farm residents.
NaVii’s Journey to Charming Pony Parties
NaVii’s story began several years ago when my mother, Wendy, attended an auction in Colorado. There, she encountered NaVii and, recognizing the horse’s potential, decided to rescue her for just $250. This was the beginning of NaVii’s new life, and she quickly proved to be a remarkable and spirited addition to our family.
A Unique Horse with a Club Foot
NaVii came to us with a condition known as a club foot, which affects the shape and function of her hoof. Despite this physical challenge, NaVii has never let it slow her down. Her resilience and determination are truly inspiring, and she continues to lead an active and engaging life at our farm.
NaVii’s club foot does require some extra care and attention, but with the right management, it hasn’t hindered her ability to enjoy life and work. She’s a testament to the fact that with proper support, animals with special needs can thrive and lead fulfilling lives.
A Horse with a Personality All Her Own
NaVii is known for her distinctive personality. When she’s under saddle, she can be a bit of a challenge. She’s mostly well-behaved, but she has a knack for testing her rider’s attention and skills. Just when you think you’ve got her figured out, NaVii might decide to put you to the test. Her playful and independent spirit keeps things interesting and ensures that her rider stays on their toes.
On the trail, NaVii prefers to be the leader, but she has a bit of a quirk—she kicks at any horses that follow her too closely. This trait has earned her the role of the “back horse” on trails, where she comfortably brings up the rear of the group with her unique flair.
NaVii’s Role in the Herd
NaVii’s leadership extends beyond just trail rides. In our farm’s herd, she has taken on the role of the lead mare. Her strong and confident presence quickly established her position as the herd’s natural leader when she arrived in 2024, taking over from Clover. Despite their initial adjustment period, NaVii and Clover now enjoy a close friendship and work together harmoniously within the herd.
A New Adventure: Driving Cart
Looking ahead, we’re excited to embark on a new adventure with NaVii. We hope to teach her to drive a cart, which will open up a new chapter for her and provide a fulfilling purpose. This new role will not only offer her a meaningful job but also help strengthen her back muscles, contributing to her overall well-being.
The goal is to eventually pair NaVii with Clover as a driving team. We believe that this combination will provide both horses with a rewarding and engaging activity, allowing them to work together in a new and exciting way.
Join Us in Celebrating NaVii
NaVii’s journey from a rescue horse to becoming a lead mare and her potential future as a driving partner is a story of perseverance, personality, and the deep bond between humans and animals. We invite you to visit Charming Pony Parties and meet NaVii in person. Whether you're interested in learning more about her story, witnessing her unique traits, or sharing in the excitement of her future as a driving horse, NaVii is sure to make a lasting impression.
Thank you for supporting our mission and being a part of NaVii’s story. Her journey is a reminder of the incredible spirit and potential in every rescue animal. We look forward to sharing more about NaVii and her exciting future with you.
The Barn Playhouse Gets a New Floor!
by Christy Lamb on 01/20/25We’re excited to share a little update about one of the farm’s coziest spots for our youngest visitors—the Barn Playhouse now has a brand-new floor!
A Cozy Update for the Kids
The Barn Playhouse is a favorite place for children to let their imaginations run wild. From playing “farmer” to pretending it’s their own tiny homestead, this space has quickly become a cherished part of the farm experience since it was added just about a year ago.
But as much as the kids love it, the playhouse needed one important finishing touch: a proper floor. Now, thanks to this small but meaningful update, the space is even more inviting for little feet to enjoy.
Looking for a Party Idea? Book a Barn Party!
Did you know you can book a Barn Party at Charming Farm? Our Barn Playhouse makes the perfect backdrop for a fun-filled celebration your little ones will never forget.
Barn Parties include access to the playhouse and other farm activities, making it a truly special way to celebrate a birthday or other milestone. Spots fill up quickly, so don’t wait to plan your perfect farm adventure!
?? Contact us today to learn more and reserve your date!
Exciting Events and New Beginnings at Charming Farm
by Christy Lamb on 01/14/25
There’s always something happening at Charming Farm, and as we settle into 2025, we’re thrilled to share some exciting updates, upcoming events, and heartwarming stories with you. Whether you're here to lend a hand, join in the fun, or simply stay connected, we’ve got something for everyone!
Mark Your Calendars: Upcoming Events
We’ve got some wonderful events lined up over the next few months—perfect for connecting with nature, learning new skills, and making memories. Here’s what’s coming up:
Paint Nights
Let your creativity flow at our Paint Nights on February 7th and 21st. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking for a fun evening out, these guided sessions are a great way to relax and unwind. All materials are provided, so just bring your enthusiasm!Pony Camp
Perfect for young horse lovers, our Pony Camp runs from March 10th to 13th. Campers will learn about pony care, enjoy riding lessons, and make lifelong memories with our gentle equine friends. Spots fill quickly, so be sure to reserve your spot soon!Mommy & Me Pony Tea
Celebrate Mother’s Day in the sweetest way possible with our Mommy & Me Pony Tea on May 11th. Dress up, sip tea, and enjoy quality time with your little ones and our adorable ponies. It’s a day to cherish!
Volunteer Days: Join the Fun!
Volunteers are the heart of Charming Farm, and we’re always looking for helping hands. From tending the gardens to assisting with events, there’s a role for everyone.
Explore our Volunteer Calendar to find opportunities that fit your schedule:
?? Click here to sign up and make a difference.
Your time and effort help us grow, and we can’t thank you enough for being part of our farm family.
Meet Our Newest Rescues
This winter, we welcomed some very special additions to our farm family:
Lucky the Bunny
Lucky is a tiny dwarf bunny with adorable little ears. She came from a loving home where she wasn’t getting along with her bunny brothers, and we’re so happy to provide her with a cozy new home.Five New Goats
Say hello to Cadence, a stunning Nubian goat, and her four friends: Moo Moo, Wilbur, Wendy, and Pepper, all Nigerian Dwarf girls. This lovable group was left at a local horse boarding stable and needed a permanent home. They’ve already stolen our hearts and are settling in beautifully!
We’re so grateful to be able to provide these animals with a safe, loving environment—and we can’t wait for you to meet them!
Stay Connected
There’s always more to discover at Charming Farm, from exciting events to heartwarming animal stories. Don’t miss out—be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter for all the latest updates.
Thank you for being part of the Charming Farm community. We can’t wait to see you at an event, welcome you as a volunteer, or introduce you to our newest farm friends.
With gratitude,
The Charming Farm Team
Welcome to 2025 at Charming Farm!
by Christy Lamb on 01/03/25
Happy New Year from all of us at Charming Farm! We hope your holidays were filled with warmth, joy, and maybe even a bit of time in nature. Here on the farm, the crisp winter air reminds us that while the fields may be resting, a new season of growth is just around the corner.
As we step into 2025, we’re filled with gratitude for this incredible community of supporters, volunteers, and friends. Your encouragement and involvement make everything we do possible, and we can’t wait to share another year of farm life with you.
What’s Happening on the Farm
Winter is a quieter time on the surface, but behind the scenes, there’s plenty to do! From keeping our animals cozy to planning next season’s crops, this is when we lay the groundwork for the year ahead.
This year, we’re focused on some exciting goals:
- Hosting more community events to bring people closer to the joys of farm life.
- Building connections through education, workshops, and new volunteer opportunities.
Join Us as a Volunteer
One of the best ways to get involved at Charming Farm is by volunteering! Whether you have a green thumb, love working with animals, or just want to get outside and try something new, there’s a place for you here.
To make things simple, we’ve set up a Volunteer Calendar where you can sign up for times and activities that fit your schedule. From planting and weeding to helping at events, there’s something for everyone.
?? Click here to explore our Volunteer Calendar and sign up!
Your time and effort make a world of difference, and we’d love to have you join the Charming Farm family.
Looking Ahead
2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year! Over the next few weeks, we’ll share updates on our winter projects, give you a behind-the-scenes peek at farm life, and even surprise you with a few new ideas we’ve been working on.
We’d also love to hear from you! What do you want to see from us this year? More gardening tips? Animal stories? Farm-to-table recipes? Let us know in the comments below or send us a message.
Here’s to a Great Year!
As we welcome 2025, we’re reminded of how special it is to share this journey with all of you. Whether you’ve been with us for years or are just discovering Charming Farm, we’re so glad you’re here.
Here’s to a year full of growth, connection, and the simple joys of farm life. Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, thank you for being part of the Charming Farm community.
Join us for one of our Paint Nights, or our First Aid Training day. You can find these and other events on our UpComing Events Page; https://charmingponyparties.com/Up-Coming-Events.html
With gratitude,
The Charming Farm Team