During our time in Colorado, after our cycle trip, we were privileged to visit a
beautiful, secluded, western guest ranch.  This ranch holds a special place in
our family's hearts, because the manager and the fly fishing instructor, are people
that we love.  Immediately, after driving the road from Steamboat, and entering
the long gravel road to the ranch, one knows that they have discovered "a
diamond in a haystack".  My husband and I, along with my brother and
sister-in-law, spent three wonderful hours visiting this ranch.

The large, spacious lodge, offered a gracious, warm, western welcome to all guests who
entered it's front door.

The well maintained grounds, provided a breath of invigorating fresh mountain air. 

My brother-in-law is the manager of this ranch, and I can't tell you how good it was to
see him again!  He kindly gave us a two hour tour of the ranch and it's impressive
operations. 

Adding to the joy of our visit, we got to see our nephew also.  He is the "fly fishing
instructor" at the ranch.  His expertise and his endearing personality make him
a valuable commodity in the ranch's daily happenings.

 

We stood by watching, as he gave the guests fly fishing instructions, before they
headed out to some of the many local pristine lakes and creeks, to try
out their newly learned skills.  As I stood observing, I realized that there truly
is an art to the sport. 

Our brother-in-law took us into the corral and shared interesting facts about their
horses and the ranch operations.  "Time" is a generous gift, especially when his duties
and responsibilities are many.

Horse back riding instructions were skillfully being shared.

How to handle a horse, talk to a horse, and become friends

with one's horse.  I remembered when I was here as a guest a few

years ago, I was given the same instructions.

 

My brother-in-law has a special way with horses, and I couldn't help but admire his genuine
care for guests and horses, on this ranch, and the way both seem to gravitate towards him.

As my youngest granddaughter asked recently, "Is he a real live cowboy?",   Yes, little
one, he is "a real live cowboy", along with many other roles he carries out in the
operation of a very special oasis, in the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
I felt honored to be on a picture with these two brothers.

 

As we drove away, the serenity of the ranch's surroundings, made me want to

stay and escape life in the fast lane.  The guests who visit here,

certainly have that privilege. 

 

For today, my day is filled with lots to do, and no more time to spend

dreaming of the ranch:)

 

By the way, I do wish I could find a way to make my banner picture

smaller.  I have spent time trying and it always appears so

large.  I will have to check with my computer experts sometime:)

 

Thanks for stopping by!