7th Time is a charm (so were the first 6)

We just returned from our 7th stay at The Ranch. This was our first time staying 2 weeks, and we are afraid that we may have to continue that trend. As usual, the food, cabin, people and scenery are unmatched. I cant say enough about the riding too. I must say that for me the riding just keeps getting better. The level of instruction and their desire to make a horseman out of you (if thats what you want) is incredible. I have never been so comfortable on a horse and have never had the riding challenge that we did this year.

I watched several people who were either terrified of horses or had never been on a horse before transform before my eyes. They went from quiet observers to riders as the week progressed. Their excitment each day as they proclaimed their goals for the next and then the sense of accomplishment they showed as they met those goals was a joy to watch. The staff at the barn was kind and patient with a sense of humor. We were there during adults only week. While children go into things with a sense of adventure and abandon, adults have a healthy respect for these gentle giants. Some of these folks were in their 70’s and this was their first horseback riding experience. I am sure that it can be more challenging to overcome the fear in an adult, but I watched it happen.

I had a new horse this year who was better than each of the others I have loved in the past. My husband rode his favorite too. We could not have asked to be better matched with our companions during our stay. Jerry and Cheri assure that all of their animals are well cared for from the pig to the horses. I cant tell you how many times you hear people commenting on their love for the animals found on the ranch.

This year we went hiking, riding, biking, day tripping, and participated in the nightly entertainment. Our only complaint is having to prioritize what you would like to do. There are choices for everyone from sightseeing trips to physically challenging activities. We will have to go back to get in some of the things that we didnt get to this time. The fishing while we were there was great. We watched as the guide and many of the guests hauled in (and released) beatiful trout from the river just outside the front of their cabins. We have commented many times that this would be the most beautiful movie set.

I could go on and on about our love for this place. With stressful jobs dealing with people everyday this is such a welcome change. The peaceful setting the wonderful family of people that work here and many and varied activities this place cannot be beat. We have enjoyed family time here as well as adults only time and each have their wonderful benefits. I would recommend this ranch to anyone. We have recommended friends go on this trip and they too have become return guests. This is truly the ultimate vacation.

We will miss the staff that we have become friends with, but hope to see them again at the ranch and as they move on. We have truly become friends with those we have met. I commented to my husband on the magic of this place as we left. It was evident as we watched other guests say their goodbyes while shedding tears. I have been fortunate enough to travel to some wonderful places, but never have I seen people cry as they said their goodbyes. You truly do become part of the ranch family.

To all those who make the Bar Lazy J such a wonderful vacation, we truly appreciate you. We are fortunate to have found a place that allows us to fully unwind while enjoying every minute of it. We will see you next year…hopefully spring and fall.