Saddle up Guys!

Yesterday everyone went riding but today it was only the gents. Andrew (top) is happily jaunting through the gate is on Danny. William is riding on Commanche in front of the beautiful Mt. Bowman.
And all the riders enjoy the view, with wrangler Julie (riding Penny) at the front, as they wait for new wrangler, Emma, lock up the gate behind them.

And there's Emma striding proudly on Joker. She's technically not new, as she's been here for 2 weeks and a bit, but she's fairly new to the blog....unless you got her in the frisbee throwing shots from the day before. She's been riding since she could walk..or trot, so she's pretty much at home in the saddle!

Let's Toss the Ole Frisbee 'Round

One of the best ways to burn off Chef Kim's wonderful food is by playing a round of frisbee golf. And it gets even more interesting when the dogs get involved...as player William, above, found quite amusing.

And the winners are....manager Flint (left) and Andrew Warner! I'm pretty sure I came in last place, closely tied with Emma who despite her amazing arm, overthrew the frisbee quite a bit.

Starting the day on the right foot

The Warner and Archer family began their day off the right way with the traditional Thai exercise; Rue Sri Dat Ton (the hermit self stretching). Beginning with a 5 minute meditation to relax.
The movements you go through help to increase flexibility in the body and muscles and the poses are much, MUCH easier than yoga.
Through stretching, application of pressure to energy points, breathing exercises and meditation, you can feel the energy flow through your body and feel young again.

I believe the 2 couples would agree it's well worth getting up for 7am. In particular if you want to go out for a horse back ride or a hike later on that day, it can help to warm up and even sooth your muscles afterwards.

And personally, my favorite part is at the end where you shake to the Thai music and dance a little, what a way to start the day!

Full House at the Ranch

Malcolm hangs out by the stables as he watches his daughter Nicolle and wife Hanne get ready for a group ride.
Nicolle and Hanne, mother and daughter, side by side on Breeze and Nin. They are from Denmark originally and daughter Nicolle, has a recognizeable voice. She works in our offices in Vancouver so you may have met her already without even realizing it.
Head Wrangler Dirk leads the group with Sassy. Usually groups these large don't go out riding together but because of Jack Frost, many of the other trails weren't available to ride yet.

Angelli sits with pup Benji as he waves to the camera. She spent all weekend playing with the puppies and istantly formed a bond with them. She plans to come back in a few months for kids week.


Fern takes a break to have some leisure time with the puppies.
Brave Marianne gets on a horse for the very first time. She did extremely well in the practice arena and even ended up riding out with the rest of the group later on that afternoon.
Glen checks out Brian's falcons as he's taking them out for their daily exercise and feeding. This usually takes place around 1:30 after lunch, shortly before the riders head out.

Sisters Renatta and Krystyna mount up for trail ride, the Loop, along with 5 other guests and 5 staff. The ride went on for about 2 hours and not a single person came back without a smile on their face.

Girls' Day at the Spa

Guests Richelle (left) and Amy (right) relax in the hottub . The girls only stayed for one night but managed to have an afternoon at the spa, went on a horseback ride and took a few relaxing dips in the hot tub. This was a surprise gift from Richelle to Amy, she'll be getting married next month. Good luck ladies and we hope to see you back again!

First Guests of 2008 season

Karen and Colleen are lead by Head Wrangler Dirk on a nice morning ride with Mt. Bowman in the background. Give us a wave Colleen! Well, there' s no doubt that these ladies are enjoying themselves. And final picture on the bottom as guest Glenys is up front with Wranglers Flint and Julie following close behind. As these 3 ladies are enjoying their horseback ride, friends Winnie and Cathy are relaxing in the spa. The five ladies girl's weekend included riding, spa, hot tub, playing water polo in the pool and even some late night karoake!