The dog sled program at Snow Mountain Ranch has had a tremendous impact on our family, and our group wanted nothing more than to give back to it. Every Saturday morning, Chaplain Steve does a life-changing presentation, describing the value of perseverance and his experiences with dog sledding, followed by time with the dogs and a fun sled dog craft. The value of his presentation is so great to our family and others that we find ourselves returning week after week to hear and experience it again and again.
The highlight of our week was taking a few of the Snow Mountain Ranch sled dogs (Aspen, Indigo, and Zoey) on a hike around Monarch Lake with one of our favorite SMR leaders, Chaplain Steve. As our group continued to grow, Steve happily agreed to allow all four families (the Beintums, VanAlstynes, M family, and us) on the hike, followed by a visit to his beautiful home to see all the dogs.
Monarch Lake is a must see for those who visit the Granby/Grand Lake area, and the 4 mile hike around it is beautiful and rewarding.
The sled dogs were so excited to go, and did not slow down for anyone! Luckily, all 12 kids did a great job of walking quickly all the way with no complaints.
Upon finishing the hike, we continued on to Steve’s home to visit the dogs.
Our plan was to have the kids help do some chores, but after learning what Steve’s real needs were, we cleared the kids out and left the guys there to build a dog run from their individual houses to their playpen. Chuck loves digging, working hard, and helping out when he can, so he was ecstatic to lend a hand. While it rained, we spent the afternoon playing games at the library, while the guys worked on the run. It was such a fun and rewarding day! There is nothing like having the time and being capable of helping out such a great man and his dogs.
By the time the guys returned to the campsite, we were rewarded with rainbows all around camp, and a fun magic show for all. We are feeling so blessed! The Hoffpack and friends will definitely lend a hand when we can in the future.
