Issue link: http://hvparent.uberflip.com/i/1131970
hvparent.com n Hudson Valley Parent 7 "Go out on a limb. Isn't that where the fruit is?" Our plan for the last 25 years has been to dream big and think outside the box. My hope, as the visionary, has always been to carry forward with our mission and surprise our guests with amazing, educational and fun activities. Each winter, we brainstorm innovative outdoor activities that we think will be a hit. Some will fly and some may flop, but we always try to provide our families with a happy visit and their fill of Vitamin Nature. Social media changes everything Has parenting changed over the past 25 years? You bet! Social media has made a big difference in the way everything is done. You can share a wonderful experience with your loved ones and can share it immediately with friends, family and the world. My 20-year-old nieces and I keep in touch by texting and I can keep an eye on my 14-year-old granddaughter through her posts on Instagram. It helps our family stay connected when we are not together physically and it has also been fun to watch how families who visit the farm capture their favorite moments and post the pictures to savor the experience. The future is bright, but not clear As I ponder over what draws our guests to us, I keep coming back to By SUSAN HURD I n the past 25 years, I have watched my family grow, my farm change and have realized that balance is the biggest key to success in all aspects of my life. While there have been triumphs and struggles, it has all been unique and always about family. Together everyone achieves more The tight-knit relationship between my family and dedicated employees has been the most important part of Hurds Family Farm's success. We have always had the understanding that TEAM stands for: Together Everyone Achieves More. the idea of connection. The mission at Hurds Family Farm has always been to connect kids and families to the outdoors. People come back to connect with their food and their farmer. I have no idea what is next for us. We have always been big dreamers and for me, my faith in God and other people has been huge. We are so grateful to every family and group that have visited over the past action-packed 25 years. Susan Hurd is a mother, grandmother and the owner of Hurds Family Farm. This year, the farm celebrates 25 years as a destination for families looking for unbeatable agritainment and family fun. It's all about faith, family, friends and farming at Hurds Family Farm Reflecting on 25 years of parenting, family farming and the keys to success The Hurds family continues to grow! Susan Hurd (second from right) and her husband have welcomed grandchildren and new family members over the years. A family with a dream! Susan Hurd (left) and her husband have created a life around family farming for the last 25 years.