by Erin Austin | Apr 12, 2022 | Houseparent Blog
The Staying Power of Love by Erin Austin “How do you solve a problem like Maria?How do you catch a cloud and pin it down?How do you find a word that means Maria?A flibbertigibbet! A will-o’-the wisp! A clown! Many a thing you know you’d like to tell... 
by Erin Austin | Feb 2, 2022 | Houseparent Blog, Resident Interviews
What is your favorite food? “Pizza – pepperoni.” What is your least favorite food? “Vegetables. If I have to pick one I don’t like the most, I really don’t like cabbage.” What is your favorite game? “Fortnite.” What is your favorite animal? What is your favorite... 
by Mandy Nester | Jan 21, 2022 | All, Houseparent Blog
Several years ago, before I worked at Joy Ranch, I felt compelled to volunteer some time each week participating in exercise with the kids at Joy Ranch. My mom had worked at the Ranch when I was a teen, and I always felt a tie to the ministry after that, plus I was a... 
by Bethany Collins | Nov 11, 2021 | Houseparent Blog
It’s that time of year again: lots of candy, stuffing ourselves with turkey and that “most wonderful time of the year” – Christmas! As we have told you before this time can be both fun and challenging at Joy Ranch. What kid (no matter how old) doesn’t love... 
by Michelle Rash | Nov 1, 2021 | Houseparent Blog
The days are getting shorter, the air has turned cool and crisp, and the leaves are showing off their colors. Fall is upon us and with it, all the fall festivities. Admittedly, I love this time of year because it means the Christmas season is near. And while... 
by Erin Austin | Oct 12, 2021 | Houseparent Blog
I have a rescue cat. At the time I got Lilly, I didn’t realize the effects of trauma are similar amongst animals and humans. Don’t get me wrong, people’s brains are far more complex, but the fear, tendency to fight, and distrust are the same. Lilly was dropped off on...
