2008

 

Great turnout and great funNow this was an event to write home about! Cowboy Trail Church gathered at the Bearspaw Arena, just west of Cochrane on January 26th, for a day of instruction, competition, laughs, a few scares and another of our wonderful Pot Luck Suppers.The day started out with a Ranch Horse Clinic, conducted by Ron Anderson, a well known clinician from Calgary. 20 people participated in the clinic and all came away with some useful equine tips.

 

The Day started out with God’s promise of a Special DayThe Cowboy Trail Church Family and Friends, over 250 of us gathered at the Elkton Valley Campground for the Third Annual Family Day.There were sleigh rides galore, even the “One Horse Open Sleigh”Youngsters had their first rides behind a horse drawn vehicle, and the older set remembered what their youth had to offer.

 

On April 11, there were about 60 ladies, young and old who gathered for an evening of Fellowship and fun at the CCSB Mission Centre.The Gathering was opened with prayer, and then Chelsea delighted us all with two of her original compositions. One was sung acappella and the other accompanied by herself with her guitar.

 

On May 10th 2008, the Hardy souls from CTC gathered at the Bearspaw arena for the Annual Dog Trials. This Year we were planning to add some Teamster Events, but due to the HUGE snowfall in the outlying areas, those events were cancelled.The Dog Trials and Stock Horse events started at 2:30 in the afternoon.We had the Fearless Leader setting the pace, and he was followed by riders of all ages on horses ranging from barely broke to seasoned show horses.

 

On a very soggy Sunday in June, a group of ladies went to Clancy and Elsie Thiessen’s to participate in the Second Annual Branding. There were long sections of the road under water, so just arriving at the Ranch was a feat in itself. The calves were well hidden in the trees, so were dry during the break in the monsoon.

 

The day dawned warm and clear. Cowboy Trail Church went to the Parade ! The wagon was manned once again by our Fearless Leader Bryn, and there were some enthusiastic passengers.

 

August 24,2008 saw 150 or more people gather at the Elkton Valley Campground to celebrate with the nine people from Cowboy Trail Church who chose to profess their belief by being Baptized in the Elkton River. There were tears and fears and smiles of joy as each one took their turn. Let the photos speak for themselves.

 

Sept 7 saw a large number of competitors as well as spectators gather at the Bearspaw Arena west of Cochrane for a day of Worship, fun and games and lots of good food.We had all sorts of silly games on horseback, and even had a Mutton Bustin’ for the small fry.The overall best horse award went to Brady Neufeld, and the Best Team Award went to Gordy and the Blondes. ( Ruth and Lynn )Thanks to Tim and Robyn Neufeld and Helmer Creek Ranch for donating prizes for the events, and for the beautiful jackets for the Best Team of three.

 

Saturday, September 13, saw over a dozen people from CTC arrive at Bryn and Bonny’s to fill the woodshed. There were trees to fall, haul and buck up into lengths. Then, the hydraulic wood splitter was put into use and the split wood was stacked in the shed. When that was full, we carried on and put another two or more cords along the fence.A wonderful pot luck lunch was served to those who were working so hard, and then, back to work.There were some who came for a short while and some who worked all day.But what a blessing it is to be able to work together and help someone out at the same time.This is one wood pile that will warm in many ways. First, we got warm making the stack grow, then the Thiessen family will be warmed again as the stack makes it’s way to the stove, and best of all, everyone present felt a warm glow at a job well done.

 

The day dawned sunny and cool, and even though it clouded over later, there were almost 50 hardy CTC partners and guests who gathered at Pioneer Camp for a day filled with fun, fellowship and adventure.For those who were unable to ride, there was a wagon provided for their comfort (??) Bruce and John handled the team, and passengers, and the food for the lunch on the trail.After lunch the riders split into two groups and the wagon returned by another route. There were quite a number of people who had never been on one of our “adventures” before, and they are sure wanting to come again, and many expressed an interest in coming to Church.We rode for several hours and then returned to the Chalet at Pioneer for a Pot Luck supper. There was loads of food and great fellowship was shared.

 

Christmas in the manner of Cowboy Trail Church was celebrated by 145 people on Friday, Dec 5 at the Ranche House.There was the usual abundance of yummy “grazing” as the bakers in the crowd outdid themselves once again.The traditional “ NON TRADITIONAL” concert featured a four act skit interspersed by song. The “Ladies Choir” joined by small singers delighted everyone as they led the singing.We had Hats of many descriptions, worn by young and old alike.Reuben Olsen, our most Senior Partner, delighted us with a story. We are blessed to hear some of the tales of events of nearly a century ago, told by one who remembers them.We had delightful children who took their roles in stride. Bailey amazed everyone by reciting a rather long poem (for a four year old) from memory.There was laughter, tears and a general feeling of being Blessed, not only by the evening, but with a special warmth as we celebrate the birth of our Saviour.Have a Blessed Christmas everyone.