We’re already into our fourth group here at the ranch this summer! We kicked things off with our annual 10-day Colt Starting Camp, and it went very well. All of the colts we had this year were easy to work with, and everyone accomplished a lot. By the end of camp, every colt was being ridden at the walk, trot, and canter, dragging barrels from the horn, waving flags, carrying tarps, cracking whips, opening gates, riding over all the playground obstacles, and heading out on trail rides.
The next three camps have been Stages 1, 2, and 3. I believe we have four people staying for all of the camps this year, which is always nice to see. It’s amazing how much progress they’ve already made. The weather has been fantastic, too. We’ve enjoyed Buddy Breakfasts every morning, potlucks every Friday night, and campfires on most of the other evenings. We’ve had quite a few people around here who can sing and play, but I still can’t seem to get them to cut loose around the campfire! Every year I hope someone will.
We also have first-time campers, which is always an eye-opener for them—in a good way. Then there are the regulars who already know which room they want, which campsite they prefer, and they’re all here for the same reason: to move the needle in their horsemanship.
I feel extremely fortunate to walk out my front door every day and do what I love. I’m still learning right alongside everyone else, and I thank horses every day for what they give us and the opportunities they provide.
There are 20 people in the group that’s here at the moment, and what an incredible opportunity for learning that is. There’s a common belief that fewer people means more learning, but I see the exact opposite. Horsemanship is about you and any horse—not just you and one horse. The more people and horses there are, the more situations arise that everyone has the opportunity to learn from. You get to see that all horses can do all of these things—not just a select few. You get to watch others who may excel in a particular area and see what that looks like.
One of my favorite parts is how supportive everyone is. You realize that many people have the same concerns and struggles you do. It’s a group of people simply trying to get better, learn more, and have fun together. So many friendships begin here and last a lifetime. We even have people who have been coming to camps for 25 years—they’re basically family at this point.
We’re already halfway through the year. I hope you’re moving the needle like crazy this summer—we sure are around here.
Happy trails, and I hope to see you here at the ranch. If you have any questions, drop us a line. Spaces are already filling for next year’s camps!