[This is from a Facebook post from Bethany Collins, houseparent at Exodus cottage at Joy Ranch from December 6, 2022.] Been reading Psalms with the girls. Found this amazing tidbit last night. We are reading from "The Voice" - which has a great way of making things...
There are so many things that go on in an ordinary day here at Joy Ranch. Many of our kids love working on art projects, playing their favorite sport, practicing a musical instrument, or playing with the animals on campus. They enjoy going for hikes and learning new...
There is so much about what we do at Joy Ranch that we can’t talk about. Not because we’re doing anything wrong, but to protect the privacy of our kiddos. They’ve been through so much, more than most people can fathom. Healing is hard and holy work. To heal from all...
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." ~Isaiah 9:6 These names of our Savior have been at the front of my mind lately,...
While you're waiting for your Thanksgiving feast, or even while digesting your meal, please take a minute to get to know our kids better...what they are thankful for and more Thanksgiving highlights. Thank YOU for your support!
What is your favorite food? Ms. Michelle’s or Ms. Paula’s homemade Hamburger Helper What is your least favorite food? Raw or barely cooked broccoli What is your favorite game? Minecraft What is your favorite animal? What is your favorite animal on the Ranch? Dragons...
Often, in House-parenting, one finds themselves saying things they wouldn't normally say. A combination of words you never imagined to hear used consecutively, and probably never will again. For example: "Sit down and eat your lunch. No one needs to listen to your...
The Joy Ranch family was able to enjoy a trip to Myrtle Beach in September, thankfully before Hurricane Ian passed through. Our gracious hosts at Garden City Chapel and Retreat incurred significant damage in the storm, so please keep them in your prayers as they clean...
One of the more challenging tasks (of many) that houseparents navigate is welcoming a new resident. Leaving home is hard, for any reason. Coming to a new place where you don’t know anyone is hard, even for a few hours - never mind having to live there. New rules and...
Recently, Mrs. Lynn shared with me some pictures of Ava who had planted some peas earlier this spring. Each child had an opportunity to choose and plant some garden vegetables, and Ava must love peas! I believe Lynn said she had planted 40 plants and one day last week...