One of the highlight events at Crystal Peaks is our annual hoe down. Once every year, the ranch is transformed into a vintage western wonderland. It welcomes old friends along with the new to join in some good, old fashioned family fun.
Some of the activities that folks enjoyed this year included learning how to throw a lariat, shooting marshmallows both at targets and our volunteers, impressing a panel of judges with the ability to sound like a barnyard animal, bobbing for apples and participating in a highly competitive cherry pit spitting contest! During the game time, families joined together to sportingly faced off in our arena for some old favorites such as an egg and spoon run and a 3 legged race. Family teams also tried their hand at some more original games during our rendition of a water balloon toss (which involves two teams, a volleyball net and a bed sheet) as well as a manure launching contest.
Within this event, we have always included games, activities, western dancing, food and a simple message from God’s word. Yet, this year we were ‘stretched a bit’ when no professional dance instructors could be found. Instead of dancing under the guidance of a professional, two of our staff teamed up to test drive their own calling skills. With no formal training on teaching others how to dance, Laurie and I worked together to teach both young and old. This was a daunting task to say the least. Nervously, we kept in mind that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (even teach dancing!). Even though we made a few mistakes, all who participated were very forgiving and seemed to really enjoy learning some fun dances. The Grand March, Virginia Reel and The Electric Slide are now favorites of the ranch.
Our dancing was followed by a giant barbeque with all the fix-ins’. As soon as everyone’s stomach was filled up, we joined together on our big grassy hill to have our spirits filled up as well. After some worship songs, Troy spoke a simple message of God’s deep love for us just as the sun was setting over the Cascade Mountains. It was a perfect ending to an incredible day.
Using appropriate cowboy terminology, I would have to say that “it was a dadgum GREAT day!”
Written by Jenna Albin