On a regular basis, we have experiences at our all inclusive ranch resort that are unbelievable. Here’s an example. None of us went into the dude ranch business to make money. We’re all here because we love taking care of people, playing in the outdoors and living this life. Having said all that, we are still running a business, and there are real transactions that take place. Each day this winter, we have checked out guests as they wrap up their winter getaway, and they pay for their time at the ranch. After having paid for their ranch vacation, you would think guests would see it as a fair transaction. But, this is when the surprise happens.
Suddenly, we start receiving gifts of all types. Maybe it's a card or an email saying thank you. Or, it might be one of those amazing dude ranch reviews on Tripadvisor. Or, a Facebook post saying thanks for their romantic honeymoon vacation. Then, we get photos sent to us- amazing photos from their many adventures. Sometimes, it’s even a gift, some sort of goody, or a phone call saying they miss the ranch. As the recipient, there are not enough thanks for all those kinds of gifts. Not only do we get to play with fun people in the outdoors, share stories, learn about their worlds and enjoy them at their happiest time. We get paid for it, and then we get thanked too.
The past couple weeks, I have been overwhelmed with emails filled with photos and words of thanks. Cards have shown up on my desk. I’ve picked up presents at the post office for staff, and found little goodies left for the crew in the staff room. The Facebook posts and the Tripadvisor reviews are enough to make my heart beam with pride. How lucky are we to be able to call this place home, and get thanked for doing what we love every day? So lucky, it’s unbelievable.