Who doesn’t know the farmer… FarmCamps De Verloren Kost

These are Sherman, Annemarie, Liv, and Fenne Franssen. Sherman was born in Heerlen and was adopted by his parents when he was 1.5 years old, who were running the farm together. Annemarie was born in Geleen and grew up in a small village near Geleen. Liv and Fenne were both born in Sittard. Liv was four and Fenne two when the family moved to the farm. Sherman’s parents still live on the farm as well.

FarmCamps De Verloren Kost is located in Gulpen. The farm was originally a dairy farm, but since Sherman and Annemarie moved there, more and more horses and ponies have come to live on the farm.

How did you meet each other?

We met when we were 17. We were in the same class at the agricultural school. It was love at first sight.

How many animals do you have on the farm?

We have around 30 horses and ponies, a dog, two cats, two sheep, two cows, two donkeys, five alpacas, four chickens, four ducks, and three rabbits.

Why did you become farmers?

Sherman has always wanted to be a farmer. He grew up on the farm and has always wanted to take it over. Since we’ve been together since we were 17, Annemarie shared Sherman’s dream. We always loved making plans together about living on the farm in the future.

What does a typical workday look like?

Annemarie’s day is completely focused on the horses because with over 30 horses and ponies, there’s always a lot of work to do. The day mainly consists of feeding the horses, bringing them to the field, mucking out the stables, giving lessons, and bringing the horses back to the stables. During the camping season, there are additional tasks related to the campsite.

Sherman’s workday can vary greatly. From September to January, he’s mainly focused on getting the Limburg sugar beets to the factory on time and in good condition. Throughout the year, he spends a few days per week working on this as well. In addition, he plans and organizes everything around the campsite and the staff.

The girls help with serving on the terrace, at the campsite, and with activities for the children.

What do you enjoy most about your job and what do you enjoy least?

The best part of our work is being outdoors, working with animals and plants, and the contact with people. We both don’t like the administrative work much. We’d rather be outside with the animals and working with people.

What do you do as a FarmCamps farmer on top of all the other work you already do?

Making breakfast, setting up and cleaning the tents, and, of course, organizing activities with the kids.

Why did you want to become a FarmCamper?

We enjoy working outdoors with plants and animals, but we also love interacting with people, especially children.

What is the best thing you’ve experienced with FarmCamps guests?

One thing that’s always fun and enjoyable is watching football together during the European or World Cup.

Sherman and Annemarie’s Favorites

Favorite vacation:

Sun, sea, and beach

Favorite hobbies:

Sherman: Doing repairs on the farm

Annemarie: Horseback riding and reading

Fenne: Horseback riding and dancing

Liv: Singing, playing guitar, and drawing

Favorite food:

Pizza from our own kitchen (from all of us)

Favorite animal:

Sherman: Our dog Mexx

Annemarie: Doesn’t have a favorite animal, loves all animals

Liv: Disney (one of our ponies)

Fenne: A horse and a dog

Our FarmCamps farms can be found throughout the Netherlands. Curious? Visit our handy farms page to find them all.