Christi Cline is proof that every business needs a former kindergarten teacher to be successful. Don’t laugh, I am currently spending much time in awe of kindergarten teachers as my oldest is in the big K and I watch her teacher manage those children with amazement. Then I walk in the door at Vista Verde and see Christi managing all of us, and the guests with those same skills. Not only is Christi (known as CC to many of us) wonderful with people and a joy to be around, but she brings a creative energy to the ranch that Ben and I lack, and Dace doesn’t have the time to pursue. I was reminded of this last week after asking CC to take on the project of giving our massage rooms some TLC. It was a fine room, but a former office and had never been given the attention we give the rest of the facilities. So, CC went to Denver armed with a very small check and lots of creative inspiration. Then she spent a couple days with dining room manager and roommate Sallie (we all wear many hats, especially in the off season) sneaking up to the massage room and not letting any of us in to see the progress. This past Thursday was the unveiling and it was like being on HGTV to see the change! No pictures here, you’ll just have to come out and get a massage on your next dude ranch vacation to see for yourself!
All this makes a point that we would be lost without the creativity, energy and enthusiasm CC brings to her job as front desk manager. Yes, kindergarten children all over the place are missing out with her at the ranch. But we are enjoying having her here to herd us around like the children we often can be, and to keep us all in line.
Not to miss out on a little background, CC came to us from Prescott, Arizona where she grew up and spent several years teaching. She is the youngest of 4 girls, and is very close with all her sisters, nieces and nephews, and her parents. Just before joining us, she had spent time living and working in Mexico. She fearlessly heads up our front desk, helps Kelli manage the store and assists me in every possible way with the office and marketing side of running the ranch. My girls love spending time with their CC, and she gets a chance to spoil them a bit when she takes care of them from time to time.
So, raise a glass to CC and all that she brings to Vista Verde!