B&B/Accommodations

Guest Book

If you've stayed at Splendor Farms B&B, and you'd like to add your comments
to this page, please contact us. We'll even add your photo if you like.

Braden S.

Braden S., General Manager of CHOPS Bistro & Martini Bar, and his wife
visited Splendor Farms for some post Valentine's Day relaxation.
They had huevos rancheros and eggs benedict for breakfast.

"It was great meeting you, and thanks so much for everything. We had a great time and will definitely be back soon. I will be sure to tell everyone I know that may be interested about your place."
-Braden S., February '10

The Griffith Family

The Griffith Family came to celebrate the New Year on January 1.
From left to right: Roman, Tammy, Noah, Don & Madison.
Happy New Year! Come back and see us from North Carolina sometime!

"We had a really nice time yesterday. Thank you for your hospitality. It was the first time we've ever been to a B&B and we enjoyed it. Madison can't stop talking about Lily, and Noah can't stop talking about the puppies. Don was so impressed that the little Chihuahua followed us for the whole trail ride! Does she do that every time? And you make a wonderful pot of coffee, by the way.
I enjoyed it very much!"
-Tammy, January '10

The Molay Family!!

Our First Crescent City Trade Exchange guests, Karen Molay and husband Bart, brought Hanna & Shane to spend family time on the farm fishing, riding horses, playing with puppies, and just enjoying the great weather and good food.
They snuggled in the Ponderosa and watched three movies that night.
Now that's good family entertainment!

The Molay Family

Shane plays with the puppies!

Dad goes fishing!

Thanksgiving Guests from Colorado!!

From left to right: Dan, Sean, Casey, Gina, and Gina's mom, Allison.

Splendor Farms is a member of HomeExchange.com thanks to Gina and Dan of Colorado. They wanted to exchange homes for a traditional Louisiana Thanksgiving for their home in .... COZUMEL!! Woo Hoo!! You bet we will exchange, just not simultaneously! So, arriving on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, their first stop was Acme Oyster in Covington and then on to the farm! On Wednesday, a two hour horseback ride after breakfast, then a trip to the Insta-Gator Alligator Farm and lunch at the Abita Brew Pub. Thanksgiving Day menu included traditional fare of two fried turkeys, smoked ham, crawfish and tasso stuffed mirlitons, oyster dressing, spinach madeline, and other fixins along with sweet potato pie, pumpkin pie, pecan pie & white chocolate bread pudding!  Friday was the trip to the Honey Island Swamp for a boat ride and tour and that night, the traditional Turkey Gumbo and leftover pies!

Looking forward to going back to Cozumel! Best to all of you!

SOME WORDS FROM COLORADO...

"Kelly, just wanted to send another thank you to let you know how much we enjoyed our Louisiana Thanksgiving adventure. The kids have definitely said they want to go back but sometime when it’s warm and there are more creatures! We didn’t get as much time in NO as I would have liked but just enough so that the boys at first were thinking it was weird and then it changed to this is really cool and we want to come back! Hi to you and Albert and all the dogs…you will make a lot of people happy this Christmas with all those little puppy hugs!
Take care and stay in touch."
-Gina, Dan, Sean & Casey

Photos from Thanksgiving:

Casey & Chelsea see eye to eye on Thanksgiving Day

Sean & Scarlet are matching redheads!

Dan & Duke take a ride to the gravel lake

Gina & Jack! Looking good!

Splendor Farms turkey fryer! Al, great job!

Dinner is served! Dan, hmmm which sweet potatoes?

Gina with mom, Alison, the first female family law mediator in the US!

Ten Terrific Guests!!

From left to right: Skylar, Angel, Tracy, Jim, Martin, Adrian, Nicole, Danielle, Stacey & Flo! What a great weekend! Jim & Flo returned for a second visit and they decided this time they they weren't leaving for dinner or lunch. Friday night they were treated to turtle soup, red snapper with jumbo lump crabmeat, and white chocolate bread pudding. Saturday they had Shrimp Stew and cherry pie, and Sunday everyone was thrilled to have eggs benedict with artichoke and crabmeat, french toast and strong coffee! The night before Adrian & Stacey, Martin & Nicole, and Jim & Flo all went to the Pontchartrain Vineyard for the Jazz n the Vines concert. Skylar's birthday present was a visit to Splendor Farms petting zoo, puppy playground, and a ride with her friend Angel. Moms, Danielle and Tracy came too! Happy Birthday Skylar, next time bring the dads!!

Jim & Flo's Review:

Adrian & Stacey's Review:

More from Adrian & Stacey:

Nicole & Martin's Review:

Beirgetta Returns!

Beirgetta came back to visit the horses and of course, Ramona, her Great Dane, came with her! Riding our beautiful Palomino Paint, Cannon (pictured), she rode the trails for hours, and met new friends Jackie & Craig.  Loving our herbed cheese omelets and her stay in the La Louisiane, it was just like last time she stayed!

Birthday Girl!

Mom, Stacey, brought daughter, Sabra, to celebrate her 10th birthday! They loved the guest apartment and the two night stay let them have time to do so much. Trail riding, fishing, feeding the petting yard animals, visiting the alligator farm, eating dinner at the Abita Brew Pub, and shopping downtown Covington! Thanks, Stacey, for making my website one of your favorites on your computer!
See you soon with the whole family!!

James & Louise

James & Louise from Hoboken, NJ, were a blast this past weekend. Having been up all night birthing puppies, I mentioned at breakfast that I was thankful for TiVo since puppy two was born 10 minutes before Project Runway and I knew I wouldn't be sitting down to watch that night! My two guests, with their beautiful British accents, just smiled.  They had come from flying into Houston, renting a car, and driving the Louisiana roads to stay one night with me, and then go on to New Orleans. Chatting away about clothes, etc., I finally asked them what they did back in Hoboken...well, knock me down. They are both designers, Louise in interior, and James, well, James is one of the head designers for Calvin Klein's mens collections! Project Runway??!!

I love you guys!!! Tell Calvin I said Hi!

From Louise & James:

Also from Louise & James:

Jackie & Craig

Jackie came back, but this time with new beau, Craig, instead of son, David. Taking the guest apartment, they spent two days riding, indulging in our breakfasts, and Craig's dinners.  Looking forward to ya'll coming back with David and Craig's son, who is also 13!!

Splendor Farms finds its very first guests!

After just about giving up on finding our first family, David, Roslyn, David Jr., Daniel, Chloe, and Candace, I ran across Chloe's information in my old AKC records (Dad bought her a puppy during their visit). Thrilled, I called that old phone number and Roslyn answered! I told her I wanted to offer them a night's stay in recognition of our 4th anniversary and they accepted. Roslyn was as pretty as I remembered and David has the best sense of humor! They couldn't believe that they were my very first guests (like I was going to tell them then!) Bring the kids next time!

The Pre-Labor Day Group!

Tina and Richard returned for the August special and brought Nicholas, Kristopher, Tristen, and Trinity! Riding with them are Marie, Jeff, and one of their daughters, Rachel! Olivia stayed to read and relax by the pool (and visit the kennel).

It was so great to see all of you exchanging emails and phone numbers and promising to keep in touch with each other! My treat was getting to watch
Raquel (below) while mom and dad went on the trail!

Raquel!

Neal, Gina, Cameron, Landon & Morgan

Neal and Gina of Alexandria, LA brought their children, Cameron, Landon, and
Morgan for the Family Summer Vacation at Splendor Farms. They rode horses
and visited the Aquarium in nearby New Orleans! The weather was perfect
and the pool was a hit with the kids! (see below)

Poolside with the kids

Kelly, Payton, Aiada & Gabrielle

Kelly brought her daughter Payton, sister-in-law Aiada, and
Aiada's daughter Gabrielle for a horseback riding experience!

Aiada, hope you will try Tigger again!!! 

Scott, Nicole, Paige, Audrey & Tyler

Scott and Nicole from Kenner, LA brought their children, Paige, Audrey, and Tyler
for a mini vacation to Splendor Farms. Enjoying 2 two hour trail rides,
they fished, swam, and went to Abita Brew Pub!

See y 'all in the fall!

NBA Star PJ Brown visits SF!!

One day a man called me and said he wanted to bring his family out to ride horses.  When he came I could tell by looking at him he was somebody special. I didn't want to say anything, but when his little boy said "my daddy plays basketball!" I just smiled, not realizing who he was. When they left to ride, I called my husband and my daddy in Dallas, and they both knew who he was! I was very impressed that he'd come to my little farm, and he was so very nice and his family were a joy to meet!

PJ Brown, Forward-Center graduate of Louisiana Tech,
formerly of the Boston Celtics and New Orleans Hornets.
Can you see how I might have thought he was somebody?

Kristeen & Jordan

Jordan surprised Kristeen with a weekend celebration of her birthday by taking her to eat at the Abita Brew Pub, drink N'tinis in Mandeville, see the new Harry Potter movie, and of course trail ride and swim at the farm. Another surprise was going to Corks and Canvas in Mandeville to try a little painting! Here are their takes on Pat O'Brians Bar, or as we locals say... Pat O's!

Good job, guys! Happy Birthday, Kristeen!

Tina & Richard Ride Again!

A surprise for us this time, a 6 month old surprise, named Raquel came
with mom and dad. See ya'll with the rest of the kids in August
for the Family Summer Vacation Special!!!

Stephanie & Gabe

A six month anniversary brought Stephanie and Gabe to Splendor Farms.
BBQ from the Hog Heaven, swimming, and a late breakfast were perfect for
this couple. After their ride the next morning they went to the tasting room
at the Abita Brewery and then to the Abita Brew Pub for lunch!

Thanks for coming and hope to see you on your one year anniversary! 

Cameron, Cathy & Betty, meet...
...Christa, Sarah & Marygrace!!

Mom, Cathy, a paralegal in New Orleans treated daughter Cameron, and mom, Betty, to a full weekend of fun at Splendor Farms. Fishing, riding, swimming, and meeting new friends and realizing we all had the same friends made for a great weekend! Miss Betty loved picking fresh veggies and relaxing by the pool while Cameron took mom for a wild ride! See you later this summer!!! Miss Betty, you are the BEST!

A last minute cancellation proved to be Christa's lucky day! She brought her two daughters, Sarah and Marygrace, for some mother daughter time, and rode Thunder! The woman can ride!! Thanks for spending your weekend at Splendor Farms! 

Cameron met some new friends, Sarah and Marygrace of Mandeville, LA

Linda & Rob

Linda & Rob used their gift certificate to Splendor Farms to get away and
spend some time on the farm. They patiently waited for the thunderstorms
to finish before heading down the trails!

Shelly & the Gang Return

Shelly and the gang came back to see us recently! Hayden caught more fish
than Dad, Tim, and Hailey and Buddy D had a reunion after the trail ride!
Hayden has to be the king of fruit salads! Glad to see y'all again!

Happy Anniversary, Brenda & Randy!

Brenda and Randy celebrated their 6th anniversary at Splendor Farms.
Dining at The Dakota and swimming were highlights until Brenda got Randy on
Buddy D! Brenda was so pleased to see that he cooperated! (Randy, not Buddy D!) Congratulations! Randy, you can ride Thunder next time!!

Beirgetta & Robert

Larry & Dawn

Larry and Dawn came to celebrate not only their anniversary, but Mother's Day,
too! Besides letting Gracie and Jack take them on an abbreviated trail ride,
they loved the House of Seafood.  Happy Anniversary, guys!!!

Jolie & Family & Friends

Jolie brought her friends, their husbands, her family, mom, nieces and nephews
to Splendor Farms for the 3-day Easter Holiday weekend. Taking over the entire house and the "apartment" they boiled crawfish by Barbara's husband, René, ate boiled crabs courtesy of Marie's husband, and BBQ'd chicken, burgers and dogs!

Starting each morning with a huge breakfast, they all rode, fished, and played volleyball! After they left, we couldn't even tell that 16 people had been here!
They are on the Best Guests list!!!

P.S. The crabs were the freshest and sweetest I ever ate!
I know who to call when I want big meaty crabs!!
Thank your husband for me, Marie!

Jolie's Review:

Brett & Courtney

Brett and Courtney, from Herbsaint & The Bistro, came for some long overdue relaxation before the Mardi Gras crush. The two hour trail ride, the soak in the pool side jacuzzi, and a Sunday dinner consisting of four hour braised rabbit served with fresh mustard greens from the garden and white beans cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and rosemary was the perfect meal (see review below). After a night's sleep without dreaming of "being in the weeds..." they had french toast and eggs benedict. Thanks for letting me spoil the two of you!! It was a BFT!

Courtney's Review

"My husband and I are busy in the New Orleans restaurant/hospitality industry and we had a very relaxing getaway to Splendor Farms. We enjoyed a great horseback trip and instead of getting dressed up and trying to find La Provence for dinner, Kelly cooked an amazing meal from her organic garden and farm. From the homemade biscuits to the perfectly braised rabbit we were in heaven. Her own blueberries atop ice cream were delicious for dessert. She is such a wonderful chef & hostess- we will be back for sure and won't even think of La Provence- John Besh eat your heart out!"

Sammy & Gina Return...

...and this time Sammy couldn't escape the kitchen! A huge beef tenderloin, jumbo Louisiana shrimp and bread pudding were the Saturday night special! Did we cook? Nope, for a small fee guests can take over our kitchen! Contact us for details!

Sammy & Gina of Sammy's Food Service & Deli in New Orleans brought good
friends Jeff & Tonya to Splendor Farms. Jeff & Tonya are the founding
members of Crescent City Trade, which has a new member - Splendor Farms!

Sammy & Gina's daughters, Katie & Samantha brought Gretchen with them
this visit. Gretchen was the lucky rider of Julie, our newest trail horse,
a beautiful buckskin with a great gait!

RECENT REVIEW OF SAMMY'S FOOD SERVICE & DELI

Crystal & Carl

Crystal & Jet

Carl & Gracie

Crystal's Review

"My husband & I wanted to go away for a long, relaxed and quiet weekend. But, we wanted to stay close to home, not have to drive far and, most importantly, be able to take our children with us. Our children are our 3 Golden Retrievers:  Charley, Charlotte and Thunder. These are the only children we have and they are our family. We didn't want to stay at a pet friendly hotel in a city somewhere; we wanted to "get away". Wow! What a blessing it was to find Splendor Farms. This was the perfect place for relaxation, leisure walks with our dogs, and a dream for animal lovers! We stayed 3 nights in the La Louisiane room and it was big enough for all five of us. And our compliments to the chef, Kelly. Breakfast was excellent. My husband's favorite was the herbed cheese and ham omelet. He said it was the best omelet he has ever had in his life. My favorite was the french toast. And the fresh milk and butter from Smith Creamery was unbelievable. That was the best we have ever had. We also had Sunday night dinner. It was great, too. It was a pot roast with fresh vegetables out of Kelly's garden. We loved every moment of visiting all the different animals on the farm, including the resident dogs and cats. It was peaceful watching and petting the horses. Before we talked to Kelly about our first horseback riding trip, my husband and I had our favorite horses picked out. We fell in love with their beauty and personality. When we arrived at the barn for our first horseback ride and Kelly told us which horses she matched us up with, my husband and I were shocked. We both were riding our favorites. My husband's love was Gracie and mine was Jet. Kelly was dead on. How did she know? Each day, we had a horseback riding trip on different trails, by a lake and a river. It was so tranquil. That was so much fun and we enjoyed the company of our guide, Reuben. Our dogs enjoyed the trip, too. They loved the brisk weather and being able to play outside in such an open area. It was cute seeing their faces meeting horses up close for the first time. Wonder what the were thinking? This was one of the best trips we have ever been on and we will definitely be back soon. Hopefully, in the spring or summer, when it is warmer, the pastures are beautifully green, we can go swimming and fishing, and sit outdoors. Thank you Kelly for a wonderful, true family getaway!"

Bush Garden Club

Splendor Farms was honored to host the founding members of the newly formed Bush Garden Club. A seasonal breakfast of Chili Puff Egg Souffle casserole and
a blue cheese and spinach salad with fresh strawberries and vinagrette dressing, along with sweet pastries, coffee and juice were enjoyed by the ladies. We look forward to seeing all of you the first Tuesday of the month!

(If you are interested in hosting a meeting or group
at Splendor Farms, please contact us.)

Leann's 9th Birthday

Leann of Mandeville, LA celebrated her 9th birthday with her best friends, Beth, Meagan, and Emma, family, and older brother, Daniel. Riding horses, fishing in the pond, and jumping from the hot jacuzzi to the cold pool were fantastic fun for all.  Only in Louisiana does the birthday girl request a King Cake for her birthday!!!  Happy Birthday, Leann, see you this summer, oh, and Duke says hi!!!!

Play Leann's birthday "Smilebox" below!!

Robert & Debbie

Congratulations to our first guests who checked themselves in while we were in Texas. The Rev. Robert and his beautiful wife, Debbie, came to the farm to relax. Reading, resting, and riding were the only things on their schedule,
until Debbie met Mimi....

John & Jenny

John and Jenny came from Houma, LA for some relaxation from their hectic lives. Enjoying dinner in Covington, a soak in the jacuzzi, and a movie in their room, they went to sleep to a soft rainfall on the tin roof. Braving the nor'easter that blew in during the night, they filled up on hot coffee and french toast with strawberries and bacon before riding the blustery trails! What troopers! Merry Christmas to y'all and Happy New Year! Come back with your kids in the spring!!!!

Ed & Brenda

Ed and Brenda came to spend the day riding, fishing, and playing with all
the critters. It was a perfect fall day, crisp air and blue skies, with seafood
gumbo, mustard greens from the garden, and chocolate cake with raspberry
sauce for lunch after their trail ride.

And even though it was Ed's birthday, Brenda caught the fish! Ed and Brenda work for the United States Postal Service on Canal Street in New Orleans. They keep things moving for us every day, unless they are at Splendor Farms!

Haily's Last Day

Haily and Mom, Sandra, rode together on Haily's last day. A beautiful mom
and daughter day is planned next weekend, for a long trail ride!
Thanks for the horse shaped sugar cookies, y'all, they are delish!

Celebration Weekend

Sandy & Kenny from Pearl River, Louisiana recently got engaged
and came to spend some time alone planning their wedding

Darci & Sean from Covington, Louisiana were married and stayed
the night before going to Gatlinburg, TN for their honeymoon

Melissa & Cody from New Iberia LA came to celebrate Melissa's birthday

Big breakfasts, fishing, and trail riding were fun for everyone!!

Congratulations to all of you!

Ester & Anita

Ester Van Loon is in the New Orleans area with her husband, an engineer from
The Netherlands, helping the Army Corp of Engineers with the levee and barrier rebuilding from Hurricane Katrina. When Ester's sister, Anita, came in from Holland
to visit, they came to Splendor Farms to get out of the city and ride horses in
the fall weather! Wonderful guests and loved their accents! Y'all come back!

Michael & Marie's Wedding!

The wedding of Michael Tuller to his love, Marie, was held at twilight on Saturday, October 18. Guests enjoyed rare tenderloin, oysters mosca, seafood gumbo, boiled shrimp, and mini baked potatoes stuffed with blue cheese to name a few items.

Congratulations!

More photos from the wedding:

The rings, please!

The vows.

Almost ready!

Jenny & Debbie ride before the wedding.

Florida Folks

For a last summer vacation, Geraldine, Ryan, Lauren, Alexa, Abby & Elena came
from Florida to spend 4 days at Splendor Farms and 3 days in New Orleans
before Lauren finishes her schooling and leaves for college! What a great family!
Elena fell in love with Gracie and rode her every day!

The Lamendola Family

Eva, Olivia, and dad, Leroy enjoyed hanging out at Splendor Farms
for a few days before Olivia's return for fall semester of school!
Thanks for being such great guests! See you next spring!

Grace Fellowship Church Youth Group

The Grace Fellowship Church of Slidell, Louisiana brought its youth group for an "end of summer" camp at Splendor Farms. What a pleasure it was to have such a great group of kids, youth group leaders, and of course, Pastor Curtis, his wife, Rhonda, and their two sons, Zack and Curtis! Besides the usual riding, fishing, swimming, and volleyball games, they enjoyed morning fellowship meetings, evening worship, and nightly bonfires, complete with roasted marshmellows! Pastor Curtis whipped up mounds of spaghetti & meatballs one night and grilled chicken with corn on the cob the last night. Splendor Farms didn't want them to leave without some excitement, so the last night the horses decided to join the bonfire!!! Luckily, Brandi saw them and alerted the leaders!! The camp ended with a tubing trip down the Bogue Chitto river! Thanks for coming to Splendor Farms! It was a blessed week and not one any of us will soon forget!

More photos:

Morning fellowship

Puppies, puppies, puppies!

The teams!

The games!

Cypress Heights Academy Senior Field Trip

20 students from Cypress Heights Academy spent a day at Splendor Farms for their Senior Field Trip. Fishing, swimming, and riding horses were a first for many of these kids! What a great day they had and the price per student couldn't be beat said the parents and teachers! Have a great summer, kids!!!

Kelsey & John

Kelsey and her dad, John, recently spent a weekend at the farm after John returned from Baghdad. It was a great way to spend some quality time together. They were both thrilled to feed the baby goats and Kelsey loved driving her dad around in the golf cart! Welcome home, John!

Kelsey feeding Happy and Lucky

Hanh Pham's Family Reunion

More photos from Hanh Pham's Family Reunion:

Royal, Rachel & Kiley

The Babin family from Marrero, Louisiana spent a pre-summer vacation at Splendor Farms. Royal, Rachel & daughter Kiley enjoyed huge breakfasts, the alligator farm, the Covington Farmers Market, and tubing down the Bogue Chitto river. Horseback riding and driving the golf carts were Kiley's favorites! Even their dog Casper had a great time playing with the Splendor Farms dogs, Shep and Deanie! Thanks for coming to spend your Mother's Day with us, Rachel!

Sylvia, Billie, Kim, Riley & Tressie

Sylvia and Billie came back after being here last Memorial Day. This time Ray stayed home, but they brought Kim, Riley, and Grandma Tressie! Renting the La Petite Maison, they were able to cook lunch and dinner and still have the full breakfast!

Sylvia's Review:

Bailey

Bailey took Shi Wampy out for a trail ride while her
grandfather watched the chickens and guinea hens!

Gina, Sammy, Samantha & Katie

Kentura, Pamela & Robin

Missy & James

Jackie & David

Phillip & Melissa

David, Amy & Georgette

Dinorah, Kitty, Ashley, Ashley & Dihana

Tiffany & Thomas

A Special Engagement!
(Erin & John)

Blanche, Patrick, Jennifer & Carolyn

Patrick, Jennifer & Carolyn gathering eggs for breakfast

Blanche and the grandkids go trail riding

Jennifer and Shi Wampy return from the trails

Big brother Patrick takes little sister Carolyn for a ride on Smokey

Barker Family Reunion

The Bikers!

The Humble Family

The Humble family spent a family anniversary at Splendor Farms then went to the Washington Parish Fair in Franklinton, Louisiana! None of them had ever ridden
a horse before until they came to Splendor Farms!

Tai & Wendy

Wendy & Tai riding horses at Splendor Farms

October 12-15 2007 - La Louisiane Room

"Kelly, what a beautiful and comfortable room you provided & WOW! What a wonderful weekend we had!! We were looking forward to this weekend for some time and it exceeded our expectations!!! For the past six years we have visited various B&Bs across several states and we can honestly say that Splendor Farms is the BEST! We loved riding the horses, playing with the dogs, and watching your other animals. The food was outstanding!!! Thanks for the wonderful breakfasts and great Sunday dinner. We enjoyed getting to know you, your husband, Roberto, Kathy, and the other guests! Also, we were so happy to bring our dog Chandler...his first vacation!!! Thanks for that!!! We will be back soon and plan to tell all our friends about this treasure...Splendor Farms!!!

Thanks again for one of the best weekends of our lives..."

- Tai & Wendy of Poplarville, MS

Christopher & Jennifer

Christopher & Jennifer ride horses at Splendor Farms

October 14 2007

"Kelly, thank you for making our weekend so special. We came to attend a wedding at the North House Home & Gardens and your B&B was the perfect place to stay. Your land is beautiful and your cooking was fantastic. Everyone was so friendly and we enjoyed meeting your other guests. We had a great time riding horses with Roberto. Thank you so much for your hospitality. Hope to be back soon!

We appreciate you sharing your home with us. We had a blast and didn't even get to do everything offered. Sorry about the hammock - I'll lose some weight before the next time we come. Take care and thanks again."

- Jennifer & Christopher of New Orleans

Rory & Tasha

Rory & Tasha attended Pontchartrain Vineyards "Jazz n the Vines,"
ate at the House of Seafood, and loved riding the horse trails
to the river after breakfast the next morning. 

Todd & Richelle

September 30, 2007

"Kelly, to start off we love your place, your story and the setting here. You are THE COOK! (wow) Breakfast was so above & beyond!! This whole place has that type of spirit! Thank you so much for making our Anniversary weekend special. You are the B&B Queen! We cannot wait to tell everyone about your place! We will return and bring our children as well! We love everything about this place! Thank Roberto for us! He's great with the horses! May your home always be full! You are a woman after my own heart, Kelly! Best wished to you! "

- Todd and Richelle H. of Ponchatoula, LA

Gail & Clint

Labor Day 2007

"Kelly,

We had such a great time here. We appreciate your being so accommodating. Our daughter, Courtney, was able to experience many 'firsts' here. It was her first time to ride a horse by herself, her first time to drive a golf cart, and first time to love and pet so many puppies! Cole swam (literally) in a hot tub for the first time, and Cookie enjoyed her first swim in a pool! As for me, I haven't spent time on a farm since I was a kid. It reminded me of being at my grandparents home and brought back fond memories.

Thanks for the fun,"

- Gail and Clint P.

The Periou Family

During a recent weekend at Splendor Farms, Leon, Julie and Thomas enjoyed
horseback riding and great breakfasts! Renting La Petite Maison was perfect!
They cooked their own lunches and dinner using the BBQ equipment
and never had to leave the farm until the last minute!

Roberto, our river and trail guide, takes Leon and Bella to the Bogue Chitto river!

"Thank you so much for a wonderful weekend. Your farm was so fun, so beautiful, and so comfortable. I loved the swimming pool, Leon loved the horseback riding, Thomas loved driving the golf cart (he just started learning to drive), and he also loved your dogs - he said he will miss them when we leave. The breakfast was fabulous! We hope to come again soon."

- The Periou Family

The Plauche Family

The Plauche family came from Baton Rouge recently and rode horses,
gathered eggs, caught fish, and drove the golf cart to the river.

After all the activities, Mom and dad relax by the pool
and the girls cool off in the pool after the trail ride!

The Best of the Best

On May 24th, Kevin and Kristen were surprised when Jennifer arranged a "Spend the Day" at Splendor Farms.  Gary, Heather, Karissa, Joe, Kevin, Jennifer, Kristen, Johan, and Jeremy enjoyed a day of horseback riding, fishing (Kevin caught several, as did Joe and Jeremy), and swimming. Johan, who had never ridden horses before, enjoyed riding both Johnny and Captain! Then everyone feasted on a Splendor Farms picnic of BBQ chicken, fresh snapbeans from the garden, corn on the cob, tropical fruit salad, and Lemon Ice Box Pie and Blueberry Trifle! To the parents of all these "youngsters," they were awesome! "Yes ma'am" and "No ma'am" were said often, as well as "thank you Miss Kelly!" They were The Best of the Best!!!

Elsie

"Kelly and Albert,

What a wonderful evening. Thank you for sharing your home with me on a Monday - with very little notice. I enjoy the travelling I do for my job - all except hotels. How fortunate that I found you!

Bleu and I enjoyed our stay and hope we can return with my husband soon! I would love the opportunity of getting to know both of you and seeing more of your beautiful home.

P.S. Great books on the book shelf!

Thank you!"

- Elsie S. of Hideaway, Texas
(A recent Splendor Farms corporate guest)

Tanya & Ken

Tanya & Ken (pictured below) left the Mississippi Gulf Coast to spend their
20th Anniversary at Splendor Farms. They feasted at the House of Seafood,
rode horses, and traveled to nearby Pontchatoula for the Strawberry Festival!

Happy Anniversary, y'all!

"Thank you for such a great weekend, and an anniversary that will never be forgotten. We have been to several B&B before but this one is the best. We have loved everything from the home cooking to animals. Your hospitality made everything very enjoyable. We will be back.

P.S. Thank you for teaching me how to ride a horse. It was so much fun!"

- Tanya & Ken P. of Waveland, MS

Elise & Curtis

"Dear Kelly & Albert,

Paradise Found! What a great place - so many extra fine touches, from the linens to hot tub to incredible food + horses + kitties + doggies. I don't know how you do it all, but we sure appreciated all the care you put into making our stay superb. Thanks for helping us to celebrate anniversary #3 -- 47 to go!"

- Elise & Curtis V. of Baton Rouge, LA

Iona & Stewart, Val & Mike

Originally from Scotland & England, Iona & Stewart returned to Splendor Farms on March 3rd (after their waistlines recovered!), and brought Iona's parents, Val & Mike from Edinburgh, Scotland. They feasted on wild caught Chilean Sea Bass with Shrimp and Mussels in saffron-infused cream sauce, pheasant sausages, eggs benedict, plus a never ending tea service, complete with tarts and cucumber sandwiches! What a joy to see Iona & Stewart again, and to meet her lovely parents. Thanks for sharing them, Iona!

"Thank you for a lovely time. We had terrific fun horse riding and lazing by the swimming pool.  Breakfast and our special dinner topped off an excellent weekend. We look forward to seeing you again soon, once our waist lines have recovered."

- Iona & Stewart of New Orleans, LA

Bradley & Crystal

"Kelly,

Thank you for making this weekend an anniversary that will never be forgotten. We appreciate your hard work and kindness in making this weekend memorable. Thank you for serving us from your heart, it does not go unnoticed. We look forward to our return. Thanks again."

- Bradley and Crystal D. of Metairie, LA

Kenneth & Trinnell

"Dear Kelly,

Breakfast was delicious! The 'La Louisiane' was very nice and pleasant. The entire atmosphere on the farm is wonderfully serene. It was just what we were looking for to get away from work life and the city scene. Unfortunately, the night air was too cool for us to enjoy the pool and hot tub. Thank you for allowing us to experience our first horse ride. Our stay here has left us with only one question unanswered: 'If breakfast can be that good here' - we wondered - 'what does dinner taste like?' :-)"

- Kenneth and Trinnell of Baton Rouge, LA

"Splendor Farms is quiet and beautiful and the breakfast, oh man! Mr. Albert's coffee, and the bacon and eggs from those hens out there are so fresh you have to slap 'em! I can't wait to go back there in March. I've already made up my mind what I'm doing for my spring vacation. I'm going back to Splendor Farms!"

- Lorene of Odessa, Texas

"I was completely charmed by Splendor Farms and the Bensabats. Kelly is the best hostess ever and Al helps her make it all happen. Loved the horseback riding, the beautiful pool, and gathering the 'blue' eggs. Can't wait to return!"

- Janet E. of Richardson, Texas

"Thank you for a wonderful time. We regret that we only stayed one night, but we will return for a full weekend. You truly made us feel at home. "

- Wade and Brandy F.

Richard, Yana & Ed

Richard, Yana & Ed holding a live alligator at Insta-Gator,
an alligator ranch in nearby Covington, Louisiana

"Dear Mama Kell,

We only spent a weekend on your farm, but it felt like a week in paradise...

...in a beautiful dining room fit for a king (or a family of 18 farmers), at what might be the largest dining room table in Louisiana, we feasted on fresh country salads, gourmet pasta dishes, rum-soaked bread puddings, hot blueberry French toast, fresh granola and yogurt, the fluffiest egg frittatas I have ever seen (almost went up to the ceiling), duck roasted to a succulent perfection, and many other delicious homemade dishes straight from your kitchen and into our stomachs...

...we stayed in rooms so comfortable, we felt like it was a home away from home, except our homes aren't as nice....

...we were taken for long walks on gravel paths through sundrenched early-morning forests to mysterious Southern rivers by two of the friendliest dogs known to man (or woman) - Shep, who is 7 but doesn't act a day over 4, and Coco...

...we played with Silly Sally and 9 other assorted cats and kittens...

...we briefly considered purchasing all 28 miniature dachshunds as we thought we could not get a better security system than this in all of New York City...

...we rode horses through meadows, dodging the occasional bull, and felt like real cowboys and cowgirls, and not the city dudes we are...

...we stewed ourselves in your hottub and cooled ourselves in your pool...

...we strolled through rich gardens, hot houses, and chicken coops, and felt what it must be like to live on a farm...

Thanks for showing us true New Orleans Southern hospitality we won't forget...hope to see you again soon!"

- Richard, Yana and Ed of New York City

Anthony & Autumn

"Hi Kelly, I just wanted to send a sincere thank you for the wonderful time Autumn and I had on your farm. You and Albert are great hosts. From the minute we arrived 'til the minute we left we felt very comfortable and right at home. Every meal was absolutely delicious. Kudos to the chef! The horseback riding, swimming pool, hot tub, picnic on the river, and beautiful dinner all made for a wonderful and relaxing mini-vacation. It was very nice to just get away from it all for a couple of days, and you made it very easy for us to do so. I'll definitely be back to visit shortly some time this year. I didn't find enough time to try my luck in the stocked fishing pond, but that just leaves me one more thing to do next visit. Once again, thank you and keep up the good work. Y'all have definitely raised the bar for all bed and breakfast/retreats"

- Anthony & Autumn of Baton Rouge, LA

"We left home in the morning just to get away and have some fun. 'Fun' turned out to be an outdoor art festival in Covington. By the end of the day we were worn out from the sun and walking and decided to stay overnight. What good fortune it was to find a room at Splendor Farms. What a bargain for 5-star service. We enjoyed a wonderfully relaxing evening and night. Come morning there was a breakfast filled with homemade and gourmet delights. Jane and I cannot wait to return and really take advantage of this experience. In fact, plans are in the making to get some family and friends to come too."

- Jane & Richard of Houma, LA

"Thanks so much for making us feel at home. This was a great vacation for myself and Kiley. We really enjoyed horseback riding and the great breakfasts."

- Erik of West Virginia

"Thank you Kelly and Albert for being such wonderful hosts.
We had a great time and hope to return soon."

- David, Roslyn & kids of New Orleans

"We couldn't have asked for a more relaxing weekend or for more gracious hosts. Thank you Kelly and Albert for making this trip so memorable. We plan on returning with our children. Thanks again."

- David & Terri H. of Houma, Louisiana

Sue & George

"Kelly & Albert, we had a wonderful time at Splendor Farms. You made us feel welcome and at home from the time we arrived, and we had the 'perfect getaway' we were looking for. Kelly, your cooking rivals that of the best chefs in New Orleans finest restaurants, and your personal touch makes it all the more special. You have truly redefined the term 'Southern Hospitality'! Thanks for a great time. We'll see you in the Fall."

- Sue & George F. of Algiers, LA

"Kelly, this was a wonderful weekend. You were a perfect hostess. The farm is so relaxing, the animals, flowers, fresh fruits and vegetables, you can't ask for a more perfect place to be. Kelly, all your hard work is shown in the reflection of this wonderful home you've created. We look forward to coming back for another visit. Albert was also a great host, and Roberto with the patience for our horse ride. You all are a blessing, and we wish you all success and a great year."

- Mike & Glenda of La Place, LA

"Thanks for such a wonderful and relaxing stay!
Your hospitality was greatly appreciated. Breakfast was WONDERFUL.
We love all the animals...especially the dogs!"

- Sam, Monica & Cory of Reserve, Louisiana

"Dear Kelly, What can I say? This was Fabulous! Denise and I go to a lot of B&Bs, and this, by far, has been our best experience. No other B&B will be able to compete.  The breakfast was exceptionally delicious and the blueberry crepes were the best we have ever had.  We've been spoiled by and thank you for your gracious hospitality. We look forward to bringing our children here in the near future. "

- Brian & Denise H. of Baton Rouge, LA

"Dear Kelly, As you know, I arrived here in need of some quiet time to fellowship with the Lord.  This quaint farm lived up to its name - my stay was splendorful.  God has truly blessed you with a lovely vision and provided others (Albert and Roberto) to help you pass on those blessings to us.  I loved everything - the food, the horse ride, the view, the flowers, 'La Louisiane' room, and especially our conversations.  My time here has renewed my spirit --- in other words, 'mission accomplished!'  For this I thank you.  Now I know why I woke up with this question on my mind: 'Do I have to go?'  Will see ya'll again."

- Ann B. of Baton Rouge, LA

The McDowell Family

The McDowell family recently held a mini-family reunion at Splendor Farms. 

Even 2-year-old Elise enjoyed riding T-Bird with daddy!

"Your home and hospitality are superb! You're the kind of person I would want to be close friends with. The food was great and we really appreciate you making us all feel at home (kids & adults)"

- Beverly of Bandera, TX

"Kelly, I had an incredible time visiting Splendor Farms! I rode a horse, played with puppies, and ate some divine meals! Your home is extraordinary and I can see that you are truly doing what you love.  You serve others with joy and I'm glad I got to be a part of it. I love this place and I will most certainly be back. Congratulations on a wonderful business you have begun!!! "

- Sarah M. of Dallas, TX

"This place is fantastic. We have had a ball!  Your hospitality is unsurpassed.  You have so much to offer here and there is truly something here for everyone!  The food was always outstanding - having homegrown tomatoes (that taste like tomatoes should taste) other fruits and veggies is quite a treat these days.  We couldn't have asked for a better weekend.  We will most certainly be back.  Thank you ever so much!"

- Larry & Katherine M. of Richardson, Texas

The Merchants

"First of all, thanks for your patience with my girls! This was their first time on a farm! They wanted to do so much all at once. The gardens, flowers, and animals were beautiful. Your time on them shows. You and Albert were wonderful hosts and your breakfast is fit for a King.  Kelly, you are a blessing to anyone around you. The type of person anyone would want to be friends with. May the Lord richly bless you, the way you are a blessing to others. Your cup will surely overflow."

- The Merchants of Hineston, LA

"Thank you for a delightful trip. It was so relaxing and peaceful. You are a wonderful hostess.  Many blessings on your new project.  Hope to see you soon...we will bring the kids next time. Thank you for helping us celebrate 10 years of our marriage!"

- Heather & Monte P. of Lockport, LA

"Splendor is absolutely the best description of a visit to Splendor Farms. There is plenty to do, but the best thing of all is to do nothing. If you are looking for a little bit of country, a haven, a place to truly relax, then Splendor Farms is the place for you! Not only are Al and Kelly true southern hosts, Kelly's cooking will, as they say in the south, 'make you want to slap yo momma!' Kelly's cooking knows no limits. To feast on one of her meals is an event not soon to be forgotten."

- Catherine B. of Baton Rouge, LA

Ron & Cherry

Happy 40th Anniversary
to Ron & Cherry
from Slidell LA!

Ron and Cherry, pictured above, spent their 40th anniversary at Splendor Farms fishing and riding horses along the river.

Ron caught several fish from the ponds (see photo on the left) and a large bass from the river!  All were released - thanks Ron!