Marne's blog

Hi all - It's been awhile since we've updated the blog, so I thought I'd post an update here. We've had a lot of activity out at the ranch so far this season, and there is still a lot more events to come.

Our individual and family equine-assisted mental health counseling program is continuing to grow. We've seen some great success from the children involved in this program.

We had a great week camp this June, a huge success! The kids had a great time with the horses, meeting new friends, and enjoying fishing, arts & crafts, hiking, and riding. We are so happy to all our volunteers and junior wranglers that helped throughout the week.

We've had quite a few day camps for various groups, including Mary Haven Youth Center, NewStart Ministries, Mentors Plus and more. We look forward to having the KIND group and One-2-One out again this year. We've also have some youth groups helping out with community service.

We've had some day camps for open enrollment that have been a great time. We have just a couple more in July and August open. Just a few spots left!

I wanted to share some wonderful feedback regarding a recent homeschool group day camp we held. If you have a group that may enjoy a day out at the Ranch, give us a call at 937.728.3397 for more information!

"Just wanted to thank you for putting together a homeschool day for us. The price was GREAT and I loved how attentive you were to the children. You were intentional on making it special for them.

My two kids felt very important by you! Thank you for the value you gave them that day!

We had a SUPER time. Painting the horses, brushing and caring for the horses, and riding the horses all made for a wonderful day! It was all hands on and interactive! We have wonderful memories from our day spent with you and your horses!

May our Lord continue to bless your ministry at Cross Creek Stables. After experiencing times with all of you, I now can testify to His working at this place! What a special place you have - thank you for opening it up and sharing it with us.

The following is some wonderful feedback from a parent in which their daughter just graduated from the River of Hope therapy program. God is good!

The Mother & Daughter retreat at River of Hope was a huge success! The event was held on Saturday, August 29th from 4-8pm. The day included a variety of activities designed to simply let the participants relax and enjoy the time to connect with their loved ones! Trail riding, dinner, fellowship, and a spa was created to make this event special. Thanks to all who participated!

Here is some wonderful feedback:

"Thank you for putting together such a relaxing retreat for all us ladies! You put a lot of effort into making us feel special while making it all appear so effortless. You are all totally amazing and truly a blessing to all you reach. Even with my headache troubles, I had a memorable time that I enjoyed with Erica and the other ladies. Everyone seemed to have a smile on their face and joy in their heart throughout the evening. Thank you again - for ALL you do!"

We are pleased to announce that this year's week long summer camp was a huge success and alot of fun! A total 25 campers enjoyed all the ranch had to offer.

Each morning started out with a bible devotion lead by our wonderful friends from the youth group of Southminster Presbyterian Church of Centerville - www.sminster.com. The days followed with fishing, hiking, trail riding, arts & crafts, scavenger hunts, and fun horse activities! Some of the unique activities we did with the horses were horse checkers, soccer, and relay races.

We want to thank our friends from Southminster Presbyterian who so willingly volunteered their time to help us all week maintain the farm and work with the campers. We appreciate all of your hard work and support! The camp could not have been so successful without you!