There’s something so special about this time of year and, something so hectic. Do you have everything you need for the upcoming school play? Are the linens clean for all of the in-laws coming in? Do we have enough food for everyone? As your list grows you might forget what the point of the holidays are all about – connecting with your family. Getting your family outdoors and engaging in an activity that everyone can embrace is crucial this time of year, and we can’t think of anything that embraces this spirit and idea of reconnecting with your loved ones more than riding a horse.

Making a family trip out to the nearest barn or stable for a new family tradition might be just the thing to accomplish the true spirit of the holidays. Time To Ride, a program created by the American Horse Council, was created for this very purpose – to connect families with horses in an activity that is part work-out, part therapy session and part pure exhilaration. And don’t we all need that during this hectic time?

Check out www.timetoride.com to find a barn or stable near you and start a new family tradition full of fun, laughter and hey, you just might teach your kids a few things too. When you call the barn, ask if they have a gift certificate for riding lessons for a stocking stuffer that will light up the room with joy.