A Why and a call...

I would never claim I’ve ever had elaborate plans or have everything figured out, not now, not then. To say when Crossfire Ranch began... is like finding a needle in a haystack. I can honestly look back at most of my life and say God has been preparing me for this. I just didn’t know it. Hindsight is a wonderful thing if used well.

The curiosity of God’s rumblings began at Silver Birch Ranch when our family was the volunteer dishcrew. More specifically, it began in between meals, holding onto a tow rope while being whipped over the iced lake on an innertube behind a snowmobile. “Hold on tightly” were the whispered words. I  knew without a doubt it wasn’t about the physical object that I clenched in my hands that kept me from careening into the trees. But I didn’t know the journey that was eventually to unfold.

In brief (that’s super difficult, because of the richness of details) I grew up on a small family dairy farm. Dad brought my first pony, Betsy, home in the back of his pickup truck. The second, an Arabian named Silver, needed a larger vehicle to deliver her. I knew basically nothing and even at six years of age I had to figure it out on my own. I found a freedom, new fears, friends and the love of the motion/rhythm of the horse.  My older childhood eventually brought me face to face with brain health challenges my brother faced, the pain of peers and the vail that shrouded his life due to things that were not in his control. My heart has since been for those that struggle with brain health challenges and the stigma that is often felt by those who live with it.

Fast forward many years to 2004, growing children of my own etc, and the Lord introduces me to Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch near Bend, Oregon. My heart wraps and my eyes tear as I read the stories of hearts healing and restoration that were brought about by the simple time of being with horses; allowing them to love well and walking alongside those who suffered unseen wounds, unseen scars. 

Through much waiting and wrestling with what had long felt like being called to bring hope and healing through an equine ministry, in 2017 God spoke two little, but oh so powerful words to me as I drove home from visiting my mom who was spending her last days here on earth. They were “Go” and “Now”.  They interrupted all that my thoughts were dwelling. My response was simply, "If this is You Lord, I need you to lay down the stones to step on.”

A new chapter was being written, the story began unfolding as the path was being laid down. Crossfire Ranch moved from my head space to sharing Jasper with the first handful of kids.

Since then we’ve been at a few locations, each one being a place of learning, growing and building. In October of 2019, we landed solidly in Reedsville. I’d like to say that I was thrilled but it took some time and softening of my heart to settle in. Looking back (again, hindsight is a wonderful thing) I am able to say that this was God’s plan and I am forever grateful. It has been a joy regardless of where we served, but I believe He has brought Crossfire Ranch to this area for such a time as this and we are confident in letting our roots grow. 

Crossfire Ranch has been a journey of connecting the dots, being willing to step into the unknown, the uncomfortable and trust that God, who own the cattle on a thousand hills, is true and faithful. If this idea is His, then He will also make the path straight. It is only mine to follow His lead. 

Crossfire exists to share the love, truth and grace He brings. To offer hope and freedom to the broken hearted, joy for sadness, beauty for ashes, comfort for grieving. Hope and freedom are trajectory changers. 
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Your continued support of Crossfire Ranch enables us to provide services for individuals and families who are experiencing challenging life issues. We are blessed to have you be a part of our loving community! All of our mentors, volunteers, and sponsors help us further our mission of supporting individuals through equine partnership. Thank you for all you do! 

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