Cloud 9 Ranch Club

A Member's view of Cloud 9 Ranch

2009-07-22T18:01:00.001-05:00

I love my ranch. Cloud 9 ranch is my secret spot. My soul rejuvenation secret spot. When I travel to the ranch I feel the world slip away, drifting silently away as a leaf on a rippling stream of cool clear water, tumbling over rocks and colorful pebbles.
When I turn off the highway onto the drive to the gate of my ranch I begin to become a different person. My anxiety leaves me, my worries drop behind me and I relax in my heart and soul.
I know that when I enter the gate I am in the best place I could ever think of being. I am happier now. Already relaxed and joyful in spirit.

While driving through the campgrounds I see friends already relaxing by the spring with their fishing poles at the ready, trying to entice those wonderful trout into catching themselves so they may become supper.
I see children everywhere playing games, wading in the stream, catching frogs, watching birds. The children are laughing and giggling as they run here and there looking for their next great adventure. The children are making new friends and learning to games as they wonder at the beauty of their new playground.
I can hear the birds in the trees that are swaying to and fro in a gentle breeze that rustles the leaves as it passes through every branch and limb.
Finally I see a campsite I want. Placing my lawnchair on the pad I go to register the site as mine. My new home away from home.

I love my ranch. Soon I will be fishing, riding my atv, hiking a trail. Maybe I will go to the stables for a ride through the forest and over the hills on a horse picked out just for me. This evening, around a fire ring I will make new friends as we all share a night of talk, companionship and reflections.

My soul is renourished, my heart renewed. I will always dream of C9R when I am away as if it were my heaven on earth, here and now. I feel blessed to have it in my life. My ranch is so wonderful for me and to me.
Mini golf, tennis courts, basketball, swimming pools, dances, teen center, preteen center, horseback riding, over 300 miles of ATV trails, hiking, trout fishing, hunting, nature and soul rejuvenation. What a wonderful place is my ranch. I love Cloud 9 Ranch. I own this place. My deed is my ticket for the best ride I know of. C9R.

Very Respectfully,
Joe

Fourth of July at Cloud 9 Ranch

2009-06-24T15:10:00.003-05:00

I forgot I had been so busy getting ready for this 4th of July, I forgot I did not post the pictures from 4th of July, 2008.

So, let's get ready for the fun!!! Fourth of July is just a little over a week away, why not join us down at CLOUD NINE RANCH!!!

Memorial Day Weekend at the Ranch....

2009-05-26T20:38:00.002-05:00

I waited with anticipation and Friday morning finally arrived...

Aeryn and I was heading down to the ranch to meet Steve and four other of our friends and families to spend the LONG weekend at the Ranch for some much needed RANCH TIME...

We were camping in Hill Country, we were on the end of Hill Country 2 on lot 76, the other four were right down the line. Cindy Morrison was down the Hill from us on the other side and the Nelson's were lucky enough to park right across from us, with the Buckingham's behind them. It was like old home week in a lot of ways.

When Aeryn and I finally arrived at the camper, the kids and the biggest kid of all (that would be Steve) was getting ready to run up to the pool. They were gone for hours, I thought the biggest kid would be burnt to a crisp, but he wasn't.

About 5pm I realized I was missing something, I did not have my four wheeler!!! I now had the job of tracking down Kadye as she was the caretaker of my bike while I was gone. Now to be honest, I was telling people that she stole my bike, but that was all in a good time, I knew she had it!!! I got my bike back and rode down to Fogey to see from friends from Rolla that perch themselves on the hill every chance they get. Later that evening, our fellow campers set down to a wonderful dinner and then sat around a campfire until we couldn't stay awake any longer.

The next day, I woke up early. One of my favorite times is early morning on the ranch. I love taking Aeryn for a walk and then sitting outside of camper with a cup of coffee and watching the Ranch wake up and come alive. But Saturday morning, I had no time to sit, I was meeting Connie up at the Big Top and help her with her table at the T-Top. I had never done this and I am glad I did. I got to see a lot of people that I had not seen since last summer. We chatted a lot and caught up. I always love spending time with Connie and Frank and I was glad that I got up and around and made my way up the hill to the Flea Market because everybody was there finding a bargain.

After the Flea Market, I had to go back to the camper and prepare my donations to the Cake Walk that was being put on by the Fun Addicts Committee. I prepared three pots of DIRT and then I had my mother's homemade Angel Food Cake. I got them up to the Club House right before the Family Bingo began. I also saw the ladies working feverishly in the kitchen on the preparations of the Funnel Cakes. I would of loved to have a Funnel Cake, but my taste buds were not up to par this weekend so I decided to wait until the 4th of July!!!

After delivering the goodies, I stopped by the Forum Tent and talked to some more member/owners. Kadye was ram roding the Forum Tent and as a fund raiser on behalf of the Forum, they were selling T-Shirts that honored the member/owners that served in the military. I bought two shirts for Steve and I. All donations went to the Miniature Golf Course, so I know my money went to a good cause!!! There were several members that stopped at the Forum Tent while I was there. I wish I could of helped more, but I was still pacing myself for the rest of the weekend. Back to the camper, I wanted to relax and then make my dish for dinner that night!!! After dinner, the kids enjoyed making pies on the campfire and we all enjoyed the relaxation of the evening!!

On Sunday, I got up and it was raining off and on. The boys got up and went for a ride after breakfast. I went up to find Stephanie and James Phillips, they were staying up by the stables and their parents. Stephanie and I went up the Big Top to watch over 200 riders take off on the Poker Run. This is always an amazing site, seeing all the four-wheelers and side by sides lined up to take off. It was even more amazing this time because it was pouring down rain!!!

The rain let up and I heard it was a very successful Poker Run. I was back at my camper getting ready for our big dinner that night. Now, that is a pretty funny thing to say, because it seems like every night is a big dinner when we are at the ranch!!! After dinner, the guys went for a night ride. They no more got going and it started pouring rain, but we didn't see them for a good two hours, they came back at midnight and announced that they had a good ride.

The next morning, we woke up to more rain. We knew that we needed to pack up and leave our weekend was over. As we left the ranch at noon, I looked up at the gate and there was Larry Armstrong helping everybody get through the gate as fast and without any problems. You can always count on Larry being there at the end of a holiday weekend. He was there wishing everybody a safe trip home and urging everybody to come back soon!!!

Even though I was sick and injured and I didn't get to enjoy the trails or the mud (yes, I love to play in the mud), I did enjoy my weekend at the ranch. I am looking forward to going back again soon!!!

See you at Cloud 9 Ranch... Stop by and visit or let's go for a ride!!!

The Beginning of Summer

2009-05-17T17:54:00.004-05:00

I can't wait, it is almost here...

I know that most people are hearing this alot lately with school getting out, summer vacations being planned and MEMORIAL DAY Weekend is just a few short days away.

I CAN'T WAIT, IT IS ALMOST HERE!!!

The last few months have been difficult for Steve and I. Our grand plans of spending a lot of weekends at the Ranch this spring, just didn't happen. What with me starting a new job, breaking my foot, hitting a tree with my jeep, and Steve changing shifts. The spring season just slipped right by us.

But guess what Memorial Day Weekend is almost here and we will finally get to spend four or five days at the ranch! I think the ranch is getting ready for us too...

To me Easter Weekend is the opening of camping season at the Ranch, but this year we will have to make it Memorial Day Weekend and I know that both Steve and I and the Ranch are anxiously waiting to get together.

What am I all excited about??? I am all excited about getting together with our friends and riding and camping. I am excited about seeing friends that I have not seen since last summer and catching up with them. I am excited to participate in all that the ranch has to offer.

I will be busy making a few cakes for the Fun Addicts CAKEWALK Fundraiser. I have not been or participated in a CAKEWALK for at least 35 years ago. Will I be participating in this one? Only time will tell. But I will, at the very least, donate a few homemade cakes for the occasion!! Fun Addicts is a new committee on the ranch, it is totally all about family fun. They are putting on a Pirate Theme Party for the kids during the Poker Run. How fun is that!!!

I am also looking forward to watching the trail rides and I may participate in the lessons on care of a horse, why not, it is a good thing. I grew up with horses, but again have not rode one for 30 years.

Saturday morning, we must attend the Flea Market and then I will need to make sure my brownies are down at the Craft House for the Bake Sale. I love the Craft House, you never know what you will find down there.

We are hoping the minature golf course will be ready and open to play and then of course the pools will be open and busy!!

What with a band on Saturday Night and the Forum Fest and then we also have a Poker Run, stocking of the fish, swimming, getting ice cream, shopping at the Trading Post, and fishing, I can only hope I can get into some serious ride and social time!!!

Now I know that I won't be able to participate in everything that the ranch has to offer this next weekend, but I will try to donate as much time as possible. I am a big supporter of Ranch Time and Ranch Time can screw up the best intentions!!! I am glad that the ranch is offering all the activities, because no matter who you are... YOU ARE GOING TO HAVE A GOOD TIME AT CLOUD NINE RANCH!!!

IS IT TIME YET??? ARE WE ALL READY TO MEET DOWN AT THE RANCH?? WE ONLY HAVE A FEW SHORT DAYS LEFT AND THEN WE CAN LET THE FUN BEGIN!!!

Getting to know the members of Cloud 9 Ranch

2009-04-15T16:49:00.005-05:00

Cloud 9 Ranch is full of different members from every walk of life. My next few blogs are going to be introductions from some of the members... We would love for you to join us at Cloud 9 Ranch one day soon...

My name is Cindi and I live in central Arkansas with my Pomeranian, Ragamuffin (Rags) and two cats. I am a free-lance paralegal and tax preparer and devoted Ranch member.

My "real" life responsibilities may lie in Arkansas but my heart and soul are always at and with the Ranch! I first came to the Ranch in 1999 with my (then) boyfriend, whose family purchased a membership at the Ranch's beginning in the 70's. That first time turning off Highway 160 and seeing the Cloud 9 archway that greets us, my love of the Ranch began and grows stronger each time I am here.

In 2004, I purchased my own membership and came to the Ranch every chance I could and stayed in the 17' rentals. It didn't matter that the rentals were older and small. What mattered was - I WAS AT OUR RANCH!!! Last year I was fortunate enough to purchase a small used travel trailer of my own, and this year, I've added a 4-wheeler to my Ranch toys!

Many people who may not know me by name, might know that I supported the golf cart rental revenue by always renting a golf cart while at the Ranch, with Rags in the basket and/or front seat. Rags is probably much more well known around the Ranch than I am!

I am also Chairman of the Rules Committee. As a Ranch 'family', we have our share of differences of opinion, but in the end, we are all united by our love of the Ranch. I believe with all my heart that respectful communication amongst ourselves, and with the Board and Ranch management is the path that will lead the Ranch into a long and prosperous future. As my signature says, no one is ever 100% right and no one is ever 100% wrong, and the truth lies somewhere in the middle. To my forum friends that I have not met personally as yet, I look forward to learning about the rest of you, and meeting you in person through the summer. To my personal Ranch friends, I can't wait to see you soon! Cindi

A member from Kansas:

Roger, my kids call me bigdaddy, my 5 grandkids call me Grampa Roger. Sorry I had to leave earlier without replying but I had to go to my second job (I own 2 apt. buildings). I am an avid atv'r who has been riding atv's since 1985 , started with 3 wheelers, went to highly modified sport bikes and have finally slowed down to a Rincon. We have rode about everywhere except on a beach. I look forward to meeting you someday on the ranch. We are fair weather riders who enjoy riding in the early spring and fall during non-crowded weekends. We will be down on the first weekend of May for 5 days for my wifes birthday. We are in a 40' KZ toyhauler most likely in Wilder springs! Cheers!

A member that grew up coming to Cloud 9 Ranch:

My name is Melynda. I have been going to the ranch since 1983. I was only three years old at that time. I have been back there every summer since.

My family and I even lived on the ranch for a time while growing up. My mom is best known for her job while working at the ranch and making the Moe -burgers, for those of you who remember. My father was also a ranger for a period of time. I even worked at the ranch myself for a summer.

I too met my husband, Karsten, online. We will be married 2 years in May. We actually got engaged at the ranch in Melody Lane trailer 24. We were married in West Plains. We added a new addition to our family last July. We plan to raise our beautiful daughter, Jenna, with summer trips to the ranch. We also take our wonderful black lab, Lucie, along for the trips.

After many years of coming to the ranch with family members, I decided to buy a membership in 2006. I might be a new member, but I am not new to the ranch.I am a teacher in El Dorado Springs Missouri. My husband is one of the managers at Peerless Products in Fort Scott, KS. The ranch has been a huge part in our family and we plan to continue it that way.

Easter Message from the Office Manager

2009-04-13T19:00:00.004-05:00

We had lots and lots of help stocking fish this morning, it was a wonderful turn out and there are some big big fish in there. I swear that ain’t no fish story either. I do want to thank all who showed up to help in the rain mud and crossing the creek. I saw them getting wet on their four-wheelers, but I think they were hoping those big fish would remember who they were so they could catch them tomorrow.

We did not get any storm damage last night it did rain though. Saturday is suppose to be beautiful let’s keep our fingers crossed that it is.

I want to thank everyone that has stepped forward and volunteered to help at the ranch. It has been as simple as asking and I have received. Fish stocking, paper supplies, debris clean-up, and packet stuffing. We have worked together to achieve something that we all wanted.

People were having a blast today and smiles were big. I will be thinking about what we need done next so all you wonderful volunteers don’t run out of things to volunteer for. Haha!

I almost forgot we have several trained first responders on the ranch now. This is a wonderful thing if you ever find yourself in need of them.

People have been coming in quite steady today. It is wonderful to watch the owners coming back, it’s kinda like watching the geese fly north you know that spring isn’t far away.

We had our first horse ride of the season this morning and another one this afternoon. The rain seems to be letting up just enough to let them ride.

Of course the four-wheelers are going despite the rain. I think they might like the mud.

Thank you for the supplies donated to the Fun Addicts, I know that they are greatly appreciated. Well gotta go just wanted all to know that I appreciate all the help and donations that we have received.

God bless all of you. Julie

Campfires and Peeps...

2009-03-28T20:08:00.007-05:00

It is the time of the year again that everybodies attention is once again being focused on "WHEN CAN WE START CAMPING"!!! Well people are migrating down to the ranch and setting up camp and starting to enjoy the longer days and cooler nights. It is also SPRING and Easter will be around the corner. Spring brings camping and campfires and Easter brings PEEPS.

I never understood the fascination with Peeps, until I became an owner at Cloud 9 Ranch Club. Roasting Peeps over a campfire is a common occurrence this time of the year at Cloud 9 Ranch. On any given evening you will be able to walk up to any campfire and enjoy a Peep with whoever is there.

I have asked the roasting peep experts regarding the art of roasting peeps and this is what they have told me...

1. You want to expose the peeps to air. So open them up and let them get a little body to them. Apparently they are easier to roast. I am also going to take this suggestion into consideration when marshmallow roasting season starts!!!

2. Put two of your favorite peeps on a BBQ Skewer or Roasting fork (using a stick may not work because Peeps are thin). Put them over a low camp fire or some hot coals.

3. Roasting Peeps require adult supervision, because the sugar hitting the hot coals will cause a slight spark and as the Peeps roast they can be difficult to keep on the roasting fork.

The Roasting of Peeps are not only fun, but the caramelized sugar and melted marshmallow is a combination not to be missed.

So Spring has sprung and it is time to get out and about and enjoy the great outdoors. I hope that everybody can make it down to Cloud 9 Ranch Club and enjoy the 6600 acres that encompass the ranch, the friendly people and while you are down there, make sure you sit down around a campfire and enjoy a Peep or two!!!

See you at the ranch and don't forget to bring a couple of packages of PEEPS with you!!!

Concrete vs Grass - James Phillips

2009-03-06T20:53:00.004-06:00

Before we were owners of Cloud 9 Ranch we were roller coaster fanatics We did the Six Flags thing almost every vacation, now mind you my wonderful wife and I were married in 1990.

We always go everywhere together on vacation. We would go to places that had concrete and very little grass or trees and we would stand in the lines for hours for 60 seconds of adrenaline rush just to walk and stand in another line only to listen to young kids talking language that would make a sailor blush,our feet would be sore and for what, it was more work than it was play.

Fast forward to 2005:

I was always an outdoor enthusiast doing the fishing and hunting thing regularly gone a lot of weekends looking for that whopper of a fish or that perfect buck. My kids would sit in front of the TV in game land looking for that perfect flawless game score of all time, my wife she would read her books or do housework, before the game system the kids went with me, but as they got older I was not as interesting as I used to be.

Now mind you I could not get my wife to camp or fish, she detested it, she despised baiting a hook and getting dirty. I took her fishing at Wolf Creek State Park in Shelbyville Il, and I baited her hooks, she caught a boat load of fish and was enjoying fishing for once, she even had a smile when other tournament fisherman were upset that a woman had out fished them. I mean the nerve that a woman could catch more fish than the pro.

A few years later my wife and I were invited to Cloud 9 by my in-laws so we decided to go down and visit, WOW we had a good time! By the time we left I could not believe my ears when the kids and my wife were left begging for more. I had to look over and look at the woman sitting next to me when she proclaimed she wanted to camp more often, I thought my real wife was abducted by aliens!

Well we found ourselves going back for each holiday weekend and a weeks worth of the Cloud 9 experience in July. Stephanie was hooked, I found ourselves by my devising a little plan of visiting the local motorsports shop buying a couple of Atv’s, I then started to see a glimmer in her eye I had never seen, she loved the Atv she loved getting filthy dirty. Now mind you most women want diamonds or flowers for their anniversary, I soon found out my wife wanted pure power and the feeling of mud and dirt.

So again by a plan of my devising I bought her very own ATV, I had to have a his and hers machine RIGHT? Next thing I know we bought a camper and traded in the kiddie ATV for two more ATV’s every member of our family had their own ATV now.

The best thing about Cloud 9 is it fits our needs, it has camping fishing and Atving, but better than that it allows you to get to know your family again and knowing there is actually grass under your feet.

Living in the city desensitizes you, you find yourself not knowing how a deer inhabits the earth or seeing animals you would never see in the city. Living in the city you see no streams or timber, you really never experience the power of a fish when it’s on the end of your line, or the feeling you get when you bag that buck of a lifetime. You never experience what God has really put on earth. Living in the city there is no adventure, no adrenaline rush from trailing on your ATV all day long. Living in the city you find yourself in a rut longing for adventure and thrills of the outdoors.

Camping at Cloud 9 you find yourself with never a dull moment, always surrounded by new friends enjoying the stars realizing your family just needed something that every member of it could relate to and partake in something together, the outdoors trees and grass.

Cloud 9 has brought our family together and we always have something to talk about, my wife and I are proud owners of our Ranch. We are proud that we are part of something that has a meaning and that meaning is family. Now when I look at my family, I see James Michael my oldest the horse enthusiast and then I see Austin Cody my youngest the Atv/dirt bike enthusiast. I see Stephanie my wife the Atv/camping fanatic, and I see me the proud father and husband of such an interesting family.

Enjoy each day your family has at the Ranch and take it all in and you will be the better for it. Toss the game system in the trash and live your life to the fullest.

I have a motto in my life, I want to live not just exist!

I still live in the city but I am and always have been a country boy. We travel six and a half hours to Cloud 9 and love every mile it takes us to get there because the end result is worth it.

Get off the couch load the truck and head to the outdoors. Forget the sidewalk, forget work and really get to know your family.

James Phillips

VOLUNTEER CLEANUP OF ICE STORM DAMAGE

2009-03-04T08:47:00.003-06:00

It was snowing at 9:00 a.m. on February 28th. Several members had arrived and were gathering at the assigned location in front of the School House for a scheduled day of ice storm damage cleanup by members who had volunteered to do their part. We had asked the Ranch Manager, Greg Watts, for some suggestions on where our volunteers help was most needed. He suggested Melody Lane and Trailer Row, and along Spring Road down the hill. Earlier smaller volunteers had worked in Fogey, Wilder and Lonesome on clearer days. Because this group was supposedly going to be larger, because I am living on the Ranch I was “unofficially” put in charge of the workday. When I say “unofficially” I mean just that. As it turned out, this group didn’t need a leader, only an organizer, and I had agreed to take on the organization process for the rest of the helpers. This wasn’t the first day that volunteers had showed up to work, but this was the first larger “organized” event and the largest since the ice storm ravaged our beautiful landscape.

At 9:05, I was a little discouraged in that we only had 7 or 8 of us gathered together. Larry Armstrong suggested that they go ahead and get on over to Melody Lane and begin working. Keep in mind, it was already snowing, but our hopes was that it would pass and we’d get a break from Mother Nature. So, I waved them on and stayed for a few minutes longer in case others showed up. Within a few minutes, 8 others showed up, then within an hour 6 more had arrived. In all, we had 22 dedicated members who showed up in the snow, all dressed in warm clothing, several layers, and were doing their part to rid the Ranch of the devastation caused by January’s deluge of ice.

Mother Nature didn’t give us a break. Within an hour, the snow was coming down so hard we could barely see each other. But that didn’t stop anyone. We just kept wiping our glasses and hauling that wood. We were working so hard that many of us were wanting to rid ourselves of a couple of layers of clothing. The outer layers were getting wet and heavy and the inner layers were collecting perspiration as quickly as the outer layers were collecting snow. But that didn’t stop anyone!!

Having a Ranch deed means a lot of things to different people. Some owners only show up to have fun, which is fine - that’s what the Ranch is for. Some owners complain about everything - that’s fine, too, as there is a lot that needs to be done. Some owners have their own agenda - which I’m not sure is okay, but they have that right. Some owners understand the term “undivided interest,” and they are the backbone of Cloud 9 Ranch Club, Inc. Not all of these owners that showed up to lend a hand live close by. Rick Carter drove from around St. Louis; Frank Gauthier came from Poplar Bluff; James and Stephanie Phillips drove down from Decatur, IL; the Payne families came from the Wheatland, MO area. They all came, they worked, and not one complaint from anyone was heard. Aside from helping the Ranch as a whole, we were able to meet and talk to each other; and that’s what being a Ranch owner should be - getting to know each other and working together as a team.

And the day wasn’t all work and no play. The group had a lot of fun with what I chose as our radio call code. VCM 1 and VCM 2 stood for Volunteer Crew Member. During the day VCM was translated to several different things: Some of the cleaner interpretations were “Volunteer Chainsaw Master” - “Volunteer Chainsaw Masacre” - “Very Cold Member” - “Violent Crazy Member” - just to name a few!! And, oh, yes, I did take time out to plot my big old butt down in that beautiful new fallen snow and make a snow angel. If you ever want to know just how much weight you’ve gained, that’s a good test. My goodness, that was one big angel! Thank goodness no one was close by with the camera.

Standing in the snow at 3:00 p.m., this group of workers were not complaining about how cold we really were, how the snow had been relentless, how our fingers and toes were stinging. No, we were all standing around in the snow discussing when we could get together again and do more. There were about six ladies working and we called ourselves, “Team Estrogen.” Team Estrogen told Team Testosterone that were finished for the day. Six hours of hauling limbs and firewood was about all this old lady could do, and the others agreed with me. Some of Team Testosterone were talking about heading for the trails, but I did not organize that! Yes, I came home, put on dry clothes and got in bed for an hour or two. Yes, I was extremely sore for two days. But the first time I drove past Melody Lane and Trailer Row, I had to stop and take a deep breath. After the snow melted, you could see just how much we did that snowy day. It was so evident that a group of people hung tough, we worked through the bad weather and kept the course. Few times in my life have I been able to say that I was so proud of a group effort like this one. Yes, I am proud of dedicated members who put the best interest of the Ranch ownership before their own comforts. You should be very proud of the members listed below, as they did all Cloud 9 Ranch owners a great service one snowy day in February. Because of members like these, you will have a clean campground!
Volunteers:
Larry & Deanna Armstrong
Mel & Cherie Hedrick
Adam Vandyke
Frank Gauthier
Rick Carter
James & Stephanie Phillips
Tracy Phillips (guest)
Cody Phillips
Bill & Dottie Phillips
Wendell & Kadye Ward
Wilbur & Willa Payne
Chris Payne
Curtis Payne
Carmen Huffmaster
Eric Jones
Cliff Webb

In closing, I want to say that snowy day was not the only day that volunteers have come to the Ranch to help with the ice storm cleanup. I’m sure there have been many limbs and sticks cut and picked up over the last few weeks. I do know of a few that I feel need mentioning. On a previous work day, Mary Ann Greig and Steve Horn drove down from Rolla. Larry and Deanna Armstrong and Mel and Cherie Hedrick live in close proximity to the Ranch, along with Adam VanDyke and Ed Horton. They all have worked many hours, not just one day. They don’t need organization or a leader, because they see what needs to be done and they do it.

There will be more work days scheduled over the next few weeks. Hopefully, it won't be snowing on those days. If you have some time available to help, please let any of the above names know or go to the member-owned Discussion Forum under Big Top section at http://www.cloud9ranch.net/ (not an official Ranch website) for dates of "organized" cleanups when you can be here and what you plan to do. Greg Watts has asked that we turn in all manhours worked on the ice storm damage cleanup to him. Make sure if you do some work on your own, that you notify the office or give a Ranger a note to give the office if you're here over a weekend.

The Chapel

2008-12-25T08:09:00.001-06:00

The Chapel is a beautiful place and God is there when people are there seeking him, but god is not trapped in the Chapel. When good happy people are gathered around a camp fire in a circle, God is in that circle somewhere enjoying the fellowship, the stars and the warm glow of the fire. He is down at the stream’s edge, he at the stables and all through out the hills and trails of the Ranch. He is anywhere you want him to be. The Chapel serves as a gathering point for those who want to worship him, but when the door is shut he leaves with you and travels where ever you go. Never confuse the building with the company of God.

Larry Armstrong

Deer Season - Just Another Activity on Cloud 9 Ranch - Frank Gauthier

2008-11-23T08:34:00.004-06:00

Cloud 9 Ranch Club is not only a very large campground that provides the members to enjoy ATV's, Fishing, Swimmng, and Horseback riding. We also provide a place for Deer and Turkey Hunting.

I was down at the ranch several weekends in October. Every evening as I drove down the drive from the main complex to Hill Country I would get to see three to nine deer feeding on the hill. It was a wonderful site to see over and over again.

I am not a hunter, the last time I went hunting I took my camera but that was years ago. A lot of my dear fellow hunters are though and they are full of stories of their experiences. Below I am givng you Frank Gauthier's story of his recent hunting trip on the ranch.

Sat. Nov. 15 2008 started out being a not the best of days. At 4 A.M. the wind was screaming and temps were in the bone-cutting chills. I decided to not go out before sunrise, about the time daylight was showing up I decided that I had best get in the woods as I didn't come out here to lay around the camper.

I had not put my stand out the day ahead as I normally do, that upset me somewhat. I rode out to my spot, unloaded the stand, and uncased my gun, put water and a RC in my pocket. Loaded everything up and headed for my favorite tree. (Which is getting so big my stand my not fit it next year).

Once there I unloaded and realized my left pants leg was wet. Upon investigation I found that somehow the stand had punctured the RC and it had filled my pants pocket. (Good cover sent?) I cleaned that mess up, and proceeded to set my stand. Of course when one is in a hurry he wounds himself, pinched the heck out of my finger, causing it to bleed and hurt like heck. (I complemented my stand on its help).

Finally got A in B tabs and was hanging in the tree. Once up, I loaded my gun. Yep I dropped one of my 3 shells. Finally got loaded, and things got quiet. Decided I needed to test the old buck grunt. Blew on it and the end shot out of it. That was a scream (maybe I did).

Decided I needed to start hunting. The wind was blowing really bad, I normally sound-hunt where I rely on hearing the game walking in the leaves. This morning I could not do that so I really concentrated on looking for movement. I don't think 3 minutes passed when I saw movement on the trail in front of me. There was a deer looking right at me. I aimed and Click. DUHHHHHHH forgot to take the safety off. Did that and pulled the hammer back (sounds like striking a sledge hammer on a Anvil). When I did the game turned sideways, I fired and it has now been relocated to my freezer.

Just goes to show some days might start out really bad but the end results may be pretty favorable.

It just goes to show you, Cloud 9 Ranch is truly whatever you want it to be.

A great day on the creek - by L. Armstrong

2008-10-21T14:10:00.001-05:00

Being on the Ranch and at the creek in it's self is a great day, but there is more.

Having not had much time this summer to go fishing and the weather being hot, I had only made two or three short fishing trips to the creek.

We got a break in the heat and a small rain shower and I had a free day to do what ever I wanted.
When the rain began to lighten up I decided it was time to try and do some fishing.

Having taken up the challenge of fly fishing about four years ago I decided to try and improve my skills which needed a lot of work. So I gathered up my gear and got out the White River fly rod and reel that Deanna gave me for Christmas about three years ago and tied on what is my favorite fly. It is a small grayish one with a gold beaded head and put on a small strike indicator about 30 inches up the 2# test leader line.

I loaded all on my ATV and headed to the creek. It was about 9:30 and I was all alone on that spot on the creek. I waded out and started getting the feel of my equipment after not being used for a while.

It was only a very short time before I seen that strike indicator disappear and I set the hook. What a great feeling it was to feel that resistance on my line and the rod bending sharply as the trout began it's dance, it raced up and down the stream and made several jumps trying to beat me at the game. After giving me all it had and the pleasure of the fight on the end of my line, it was satisfying to be able to release this weary opponent.

It was a cloudy cool morning and the trout were aggressive. In about a two and a half hour period of time I hooked, battled and released 19 beautiful fish. Three or four more had battled me for a minute or two and won, but that was ok. When you enjoy the sport of catch and release it's the hook and battle that counts not the release. Just to feel the pull and watch the dance is all the reward one can ask for.

As great as the day was it was going to get better. While back at the camper I was telling Deanna what a great day of fishing I had and we were trying to decide what time to go up to the restaurant to eat and I said I'd like to go back again if I had time. Checking the schedule of fishing time it showed that I could fish up until 8:00 o'clock. We decided to eat early to give me time.

At about 5:30 I gathered my gear and tied on another of my favorite beaded flys and headed back to the creek. When I waded out I noticed the water was very dingy and I thought it might not be good for fly fishing, but I was here and going to give it a try. It hadn't been more than 5 minutes until that strike indicator shot under and I set the hook and the battle was on. In the next two hours I must have seen that indicator go under some 75 to 80 times and before the time ran out I had battled and released 25 nice trout and about 5 or more that had beaten me in the battle and released themselves.

I may never have a second day this good, but I have the memories of this one day. Life is too short not to have a few days in your life worth remembering.

Larry Armstrong

RANCH TIME!!!

2008-10-03T09:39:00.004-05:00

Have you guys ever been plagued by RANCH TIME....

You may ask, WHAT IN THE WORLD IS RANCH TIME?

Ranch Time is a plague that hits you fast and hard and you usually start felling the symptoms as soon as you enter the gate...the chronic state hits once you have parked your camper and the toys are out in front of you.. That is when you start to relax and don't care what happens when because it is ALL GOOD AT CLOUD 9 RANCH!!!

The symptoms are:

Not being able to get out of your comfy lawn chair except for when it is time to ride!!!

A Ride has to consist of the trails and a puddle of water is always good!!!

You don’t care when you eat, just as long as it is grilled and good!!!
Three square meals a day, What is That???
Sitting around and talking to your neighbors and laughing about the silliest of things at all times of the night and day!!!

Teeth brushed but no need for makeup.

Hair brushed but that is it.

Clothes, you have them on, but if there is spot on them, who cares because sooner are later they will be dusty, dirty or muddy!!!

Time is not an issue, but Ice Cream may very well be one!!!

Committments, you have all the best intentions in the world to get some things done or be at some events, but this may or may not happen!!!

Don't worry...you don't have to run to a doctor to get a pill for a cure. As soon as you leave the ranch, RANCH TIME will go into remission until the next time you enter the gates.

Ranch time can just screw up all the best attentions of mice and men, but it is ALL GOOD AT CLOUD 9 RANCH..

Just be aware of RANCH TIME and take it in the good nature stride it is intended to be!!!

We thank God that we have the opportunity to be plagued by RANCH TIME and look forward to it every time all of us come to the ranch.

I am heading down to the ranch this evening for a few days of RANCH TIME. No need to send get well cards, I will endure this plague every opportunity that I can get.

Employee Appreciation Program Update

2008-09-29T13:07:00.000-05:00

Employee Appreciation Program Update

Our introduction to Cloud 9 Ranch

2008-09-28T19:10:00.002-05:00

Our introduction to Cloud 9 Ranch was in the mid to late 70s. My in-laws were members and kept telling us about the place so one weekend we went down and stayed in one of the 17 foot trailers as guests of the ranch. We took the tour which back in those days was an experience in itself. We went in a four wheel blazer and really toured the ranch. Along the way our guide pointed out all the berries, wild flowers and the numerous varieties of trees growing on these 6358 acres. After the tour we enjoyed the amenities a couple more days then went back to work. We finally bought a membership in 1982 and began camping here every chance we could get. We still had two sons left at home and they enjoyed the place as much as we did. My wife, Yvonne, who I refer to as “the worlds greatest fisherwoman”, was down at her favorite fishing hole early every Saturday morning and always caught her five trout. She liked to use minnows but they had to be a certain size so she would put her minnow trap out and stand for hours making sure it was in the exact spot to lure them in. We retired in 1988 and decided we would like to full-time for a couple years. We sold our home and bought a 5th wheel and truck to pull it. We did travel the country for a couple years before settling down in Florida. The summers were always spent back at Cloud 9 Ranch. In 1989 we decided to stay at the ranch all winter. That was one of the coldest winters on record at Cloud 9 Ranch but it did not deter us from having a wonderful winter. We did have to cancel our Christmas Caroling because it was below zero---a little uncomfortable for us seniors. We would drive down to Fogey and observe the bald eagles. We would see dozens of turkeys and deer all over the ranch. There were lots of pot lucks and Holiday parties. On the spur of the moment a group of us would decide to drive to Bull Shoals, Arkansas for breakfast. Then another time someone would say we’re going to Cabool for a Mexican dinner. It was a very relaxing and enjoyable experience. Everyone was so warm and friendly. On Tuesday evenings we would load a bunch of people in cars and go down to Jerry Hoppers dance hall in Mountain Home were they had free line dance classes. That was always a really fun experience. The next 18 years were spent in Florida but we did return to the ranch almost every summer. To be continued…….

Gene & Yvonne Muenks

Picture Perfect!

2008-09-24T20:16:00.007-05:00

Today was one of those picture perfect Cloud 9 days! We got a little work done this morning then got together with my dad (he’s been a member since the early 70’s) and one of Rogers brothers and went for a ride. The sun was shining brightly with only a few bright white clouds in the sky. The leaves are just starting to change and it appears that this year is going to be one of the best we have seen in a few years. The beginning colors are vibrant and with the wet year we have had those to come should be fantastic. I have started to take a weekly picture from what we call Stable Lookout to try and capture the changes as they come, hopefully they will turn out well.

We rode for about 2 hours, the animals can tell that fall is on the way as they were busily scurrying collecting the different nuts from the ground as the acorns, walnuts and hickory nuts are all falling to the ground. The trails near the stream are full of “paw paws” and that near banana smell is beginning to permeate the air around the trees. We didn’t see to many on the ground yet and we have heard that is when they are ripe. The other day we had paw paw bread and it was pretty good, one member used to make paw paw pie but I never got to taste it. The ripe fruit does resemble a banana in both texture and taste.

As we went by the wild bamboo we had to stop and cut a piece to take back to the fire we knew we would be having later in the evening. If you don’t know what bamboo does when you burn it I am not going to be the one to tell you, but I will suggest that you try a piece at your next fire, make sure you have a couple of knots in the bamboo and the thicker the better!

We went by Cold Cave and then up to Lonnie’s Lookout, it was a nice ride but my dad was getting tired so we took the creek from Wilder to Fogey so he could cross the water. At Foggy crossing we had to get off the bikes and see how many fish have tried to swim to safety, you can’t fish from the tubes and there haven’t been to many swimming there lately.

After our ride we got together at my dad’s trailer for a cookout with Roger’s dad, a member since early 70’s and another friend who has also been a member since the early 70’s. It was a great ending to a great day at Cloud 9 Ranch!

Why not Cloud 9 Ranch??

2008-09-20T20:50:00.002-05:00

I am currently flying back from a business trip in the Squaw Valley/Lake Tahoe Area. Yesterday, while all the doctors were playing golf, Dr. Block’s wife, Stephanie and I went for a drive. We left Squaw Valley and went towards Tahoe City. A couple miles south of Tahoe City there was a sign that said Snow Pass OHV Trails. Well, we were in a new 2009 Jeep Liberty which was a rental and needless to say not rented by me. Stephanie and I decided Dennis wouldn’t mind, so off we went!!!

We drove up the mountain and finally got to the off-road trails. We took off on several of the trails until they got so narrow the Jeep wouldn’t fit on the trail. Now taking a Jeep Liberty on these trails is nothing like riding an ATV, but we had to make do with what we had to work with. The mountains around Lake Tahoe are very rocky and barren. The rock formations are interesting and the land itself is dry and dusty. The Lake Tahoe area has its own natural beauty and if you ever get a chance to go out there don’t miss the opportunity. After our four wheeling adventure, we went back down to the Lake to a small Bar and Grille and set out on the deck and had a fantastic lunch of Fish and Chips.

I tell you this story, because I have been very lucky in life and I have been many places and have done many things and I have seen the beauty of what this country has to offer. Everyplace that I have been does offer its special something, as the Lake Tahoe area offers great big beautiful pines, a lake so blue that it takes your breath away and spectacular mountain top views.

But as Stephanie and I was sitting on top of this mountain or sitting on the shores of Lake Tahoe, I was telling her about Cloud 9 Ranch and comparing beauties. We have natural springs, waterfalls, caves, mountain top views. Cloud 9 Ranch can and does rival the Lake Tahoe/Squaw Valley area and I can’t wait to come down and once again get touched by the beauty of the Ozarks Country Side.

So when people talk about what America has to offer, not many people know it, not many people have seen it, but nestled on over 6000 acres in the Ozark Mountains in Southern Missouri is a jewel known as Cloud 9 Ranch!!!

Winding Down

2008-09-16T15:19:00.003-05:00

All the hustle and bustle of “the season” is over at Cloud 9 Ranch Club and in my opinion the most beautiful time of the year is just beginning. Fall and winter are such a beautiful time here at the ranch with the changing of the leaves and when we are lucky the 3 to 6 inch snows add a beauty not seen by many but when it is they always seem to come back for more.

Those of us that are LUCKY enough to stay here full time are in the process of moving to the site that they can stay on until spring, only 2 of the 5 campgrounds are open during the winter months, we don’t get most of the amenities during the winter but boy do we get the beauty of the ranch. Our gas station is only open and hour or 2 a day, restaurant only for lunch and the store, well they are looking into that this year but previously it had been closed. Everything else is closed for the winter.

One of my favorite past times is on a 45 to 50 degree day is to bundle up, riding an ATV drops the temp about 15 to 20 degrees, and take off on a trail. When we see a neat dry creek bed or whatever we park the bike and take off through the woods, since you are bundled already you don’t have to worry about sticker bushes or the multitude of summer insects (ticks), just make sure you dressed in layers, have a walking stick and of course brought a camera.

As you make your way in the woods or just down the trails be sure to look every which way you can as with the leaves off the trees it is truly amazing what you will find. We have found little brooks with beautiful waterfalls, really interesting trees, hoards of really cool rocks and arrowheads just to name a few. It is easy to lose yourself in natures beauty and I am proud to have it for my backyard. If you are on the ranch and like hikes in the woods stop by and if we have time (in the winter we usually do) stop by and we will be happy to show you some cool trails.

Labor Day Weekend 2007

2008-09-14T18:47:00.005-05:00

Labor Day Weekend 2007

A holiday weekend at Cloud 9 Ranch is full of members, member’s guest and lots of various activities. You have a very large selection of things to do and see. I will let somebody else expand on those activities, because every time I am on the Ranch, I am on Ranch Time and getting to most of the activities is, let’s say, difficult for Steve and I. I will explain RANCH TIME in a different post.

As the saying goes, when you are at Cloud 9 Ranch, you can make your time exactly what you want it to be!!!

On Thursday evening an identical Raptor Toyhauler pulled into the site one down from me. Now everybody knows if somebody has the same kind of taste that you have, they must become your new best friends!!! Phil and Sherri Hayes was the owner of that Raptor, they are from Lee’s Summit, Missouri and has been a member for about three years now. Steve and I have enjoyed getting to know Phil, Sherri, Peyton and Taylor; we consider them another treasure from the Ranch. Although we didn’t get to go riding together over that weekend, we did get together around a camp fire once or twice during that weekend and we did keep in touch and ended up spending a couple of weekends together at the ranch in 2008.

On any night of Holiday weekend, it is a site to see the ATV’s going up and down the paved roads from Hill Country to the valley. It was a constant stream of ATV’s and UTV’s. Now you would think that with so many ATV’s on the ranch it would be noisy, but it really is not. It is just the preferred method of transportation at the ranch!!

We brought Steve’s cousin down to spend Labor Day weekend, by the time they left the ranch they were members!!! It is fun showing the ranch and watching the expressions of guest, you know if somebody sees the ranch they are sold. I think Phil and Sherri have shown the ranch eight times and all of those guests have become members. Once you get to the ranch, you will fall in love with the ranch.

A CULTURE SHOCK…

Labor Day Monday there was a mass exit from the ranch. Everybody was packing up and going home, but I still had another week to stay. Steve left on Monday to return on Friday, the Hayes packed up to head back to Lee’s Summit, and the Duncan’s were happy to be new members, but also had to pack their trailer and head back to Rolla. Aeryn and I were settling in for another week at the Ranch.

One of the rules at the ranch is that if you stay more than 30 days on the ranch, you have to move from one campground to another. Another rule is after October 15th, you need to move to Hill Country or Powder Mills if you plan to stay the winter. Tuesday morning after Labor Day the full-timers started migrating to Hill Country. Everybody that was around me the week before moved and a whole new set of campers moved in. So those neighbors I had last week are gone and I have new neighbors this week!!

Another event that happens after Labor Day is the shutting down of facilities. The pools close, the gas station and Trading Post is on shortened hours and the stables are on weekends only. Now you may think that you would not want to stay around the ranch, but you will. The ranch becomes peaceful and quiet and this is the time when you really feel as if the ranch is your own. It is a great time to be at the ranch, every evening that week after Labor Day, there was always somebody coming by my camper and inviting me to do something!!! One night, I was invited to a fish fry at the Big Top and afterwards some of the members played music. On that evening I met, Jack (I don’t think that is his name, but I named him that) and his wife Jackie from DeSoto Missouri. I met Bubba and Judy who are originally from Florida but now split their time between Texas and the Ranch. I met Larry and Deanna Armstrong from West Plains and a slew of other people that are either part-timers or full-timers.

Another evening I played Hillbilly Golf with Jack, Jackie and some other people that were parked up in Hill Country. Another evening was a chili supper. So while many things changed, all of it was another positive aspect of the ranch.

Another aspect of the week after Labor Day was the beauty of the ranch. The morning air was cool and as Aeryn and I took our morning walks around Hill Country we would watch the fog lift from the valley towards Wilder Springs. This is one of those moments of special beauty that Cloud 9 Ranch provides its members.

It is all good at Cloud 9 Ranch…

Mag

Two Weeks at the Ranch...

2008-09-14T10:25:00.003-05:00

Steve and I bought a new camper in June of 2007, we traded in our Winner’s Circle toyhauler trailer for a 36 foot Raptor Toyhauler. We are really set to go camping now!!!

Because of real life, we only got down to the ranch for three days after 4th of July, until the last week of August. I decided that I needed to go to the ranch for a two week stay. Hey, we had to get to know our camper and the ranch!!! Hey Steve bought into it, so off we went!!!

So I packed up the camper and Steve pulled us down to the ranch. Steve was going to join us for long weekends. When we arrived at the ranch on the weekend before Labor Day, we parked up at Hill Country. Steve and I had an enjoyable weekend riding the trails and camping. Steve left on Sunday afternoon and it was just Aeryn and I at Cloud 9 Ranch. We would ride around all the campgrounds every day; we learned how to get down to Wilder through Powder Mills on the back roads. We were enjoying our days.

My mother came down on Tuesday to spend a few days at the ranch. My mother had retired from being a manager of a camp ground in Texas five years ago, so she was excited to be able to camp again.

A Day Trip off the ranch:

On Tuesday afternoon we made plans to take a drive around the area, we went down to Mountain Home to check out our old stomping grounds at Robinson Point on Norfork Lake, we then drove over towards the Bull Shoals Dam, we stopped at Gaston’s for lunch. If you have never been to Gaston’s Resort and Restaurant, it is worth the drive. It is located at the base of the Bull Shoals dam and the White River. The smoked trout appetizer is to die for. I recommend this side trip to everybody and then afterwards we went across the dam to the new visitor center. This is a must stop also, the views from the visitor centers is worth the stop itself. The visitor center is also filled with history of the lake and area, so stop and spend an hour or two.

Driving back to the ranch, we decided to take the west side of the lake and cross the Peel’s Ferry across the Bull Shoals Lake to Theodosia Hills. This is the last ferry that is run by the Arkansas Department of Transportation. It takes a little bit to get to, but still worth the drive. After the ferry ride which brought back many memories for both of us, we headed for Theodosia Hills on 161 and drove east to the ranch!!!

The next morning while sitting outside drinking coffee we noticed a lot of activity coming up and down the road. The pullers were busy pulling the campers out of compound for the upcoming holiday weekend. This thrilled my mother; we sat there and guessed the size of camper and how many slides the camper had. It was something to watch the pullers as they were busy that morning!!! We sat there for hours playing the guessing game.

Wednesday afternoon, another road trip…this time to Hardy, Arkansas and Mammoth Springs. Hardy has the cutest historical main street right on 63 south of Mammoth Springs. It is worth the drive down there, the shops are full of antiques and other unique items. The homemade salsa, jelly, jams, and chocolate is a must. Stop for ice cream. Mammoth Springs is beautiful.

Back to the ranch: Again on Thursday morning, the pullers entertained us for hours, okay we are entertained easily. That afternoon we then got on the ATV and I took mom down to Wilder and then Foggy, up to the stables, over to the falls, and up to Lonnie’s. Mom was a good sport on the ATV, but she didn’t want to hit the trails. Even though we didn’t ride the trails, we found plenty of things to do and see around the ranch. We had a full day!!!

Next Entry: Our first holiday weekend at the Ranch!!!

2008-09-10T14:01:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone! This really is a great idea and I'm sure I'll get the hang of it sooner or later.

I first came to Cloud 9 Ranch in the mid seventies, my parents bought in and I came with them on occasion, they gave me the choice of staying home alone (I was 16) or comming here with them, well I came sometimes but not really to often. We did have Thanksgiving here most every year though! As I got older and my life got a little more setteled I came down with my own family in 1984 and ended up buying a membership in August of 1984. At that time I was a weekender/vacationer, rented the small trailers for 10 years! We basically came only when my parents were at the ranch. In 1995 we got our first trailer and had it pulled by one of the pullers at that time.

In 2000 I got divorced and came to Cloud 9 Ranch for the summer with my daughter, well things happened and I never left! I met Roger that spring and started helping him pull trailers for members that needed them moved from the compound to the pad and back. In April of 2002 we got married in the Chapel here on the ranch. My daughter also met her husband here that summer, they got married in 2004 and have a 3 year old son.

Roger's family has also been at Cloud 9 for a very long time, since the early 70's, his dad, Dorsey Amburgy, was one of the first volunteer pullers for the ranch.

Our favorite time of year at Cloud 9 is the winter, it is truly amazing at what you can find in the woods when there are no leaves on the trees and you are already dressed for walking through the woods.

We Love Cloud 9 Ranch with all our heart and really enjoy seeing others enjoy it as we do. The best thing we can hear from someone is "that spot you got us is great!" In the off season you can usually find us out walking trails, Roger loves to arrowhead hunt and I love to picture hunt and we have the best canvas for both as our backyard!

If you are on the ranch and were not to busy stop by and we will gladly show our arrowheads or pictures.

Welcome to Cloud 9 Ranch - My intial visit

2008-09-09T13:17:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the Cloud 9 Ranch Club Blog. I have been asked to participate in this new communication process and feel lucky to do so. I hope that my contribution will be a positive one for not only fellow members, but future members of Cloud 9 Ranch Club.

A little bit about me: I am in my late 40’s; I have a partner of the past six years, Steve. We have a home outside of St. James, Missouri and are the proud owners of two dogs, Aeryn a five year old German Sheppard and Cali a one year old pound dog. When you come to the ranch you could possibly see me riding around the ranch on my ATV with Aeryn as a passenger or you can for sure see me walking these two anytime day and night.

I am an Administrator/Risk Manager for Emergency Physicians in the Kansas City Metropolitan Area, Central Kansas and West Central Missouri. Steve is a transport driver for MFA Oil. We both work hard and play hard.

Our introduction to Cloud 9 Ranch happened on a Saturday Afternoon in the K-Mart parking lot in Rolla, Missouri. Byerly RV’s were showing some of their campers and who in their right mind can’t help to stop and look what new has come out in campers. We were looking at a toy hauler, not that we needed one because we bought one a year before. Anyway, Steve struck up a conversation with this couple regarding camping and riding and the Bennett’s started telling us about Cloud 9 Ranch Club. The Bennett’s had been members for several years and they had nothing but positive things to say about. After leaving the parking lot Steve and I discussed how one day we would need to go check it out.

That evening I got on line and looked at their web site and knew that we were going to be taking a road trip!!! On Sunday morning, I called Cloud 9 Ranch Club and made an appointment for the following weekend. WE WERE GOING CAMPING AND RIDING!!!

The drive down to West Plains brought back many childhood memories. I grew up on the lakes that surround the area around Cloud 9 Ranch. This drive was like coming home!!! Now of course I had Goggled the route to Cloud 9 Ranch and so there was a detour that we took on some country gravel roads, low water bridges and rather narrow roads. This drive was at night and pulling a 28 Foot Winners Circle trailer loaded. If anybody knows Winners Circle travel trailers, they sit very low, so we were dragging the bumper often. Cloud 9 is right on 160 west of Caulfield, Missouri, I don’t know where Goggle was going to be taking us!!!

After the detour, we pulled into CLOUD 9 RANCH at 10pm. We didn’t know where to park or anything, but not to worry Ranger Bill Phillips was on duty and he was there to help us get parked. The next morning we went up to the restaurant for breakfast and then we met our tour guide. The guide, I don’t remember her name, was excellent, after two hours of driving around both Steve and I were ready to hit the trails and that is what we did!!!

Starting out on our ATV’s, Steve and I realized that this was a massive piece of property and with many trail systems and we didn’t have a clue where to start. Our problem was quickly solved, Steve stopped a couple and asked them “Where can we find mud?” The Baldwin’s not only told us how to get to mud, but decided to take us. They took us to a Dave’s mud hole and spa and then took us over to the waterfall. We returned to our camper and got picnic supplies and they took us up to Lonnie’s Lookout for a picnic lunch with a view and then back to the trails. After a long day of riding, the four of us returned to Lonesome Pines and showered and we followed the Baldwin’s to Caulfield to the Three Legged Mule for pizza, beer and lots of laughter. We made our first friends at Cloud 9 Ranch Club and we were not even members yet!!!

The next morning, Steve and I were back up at the Restaurant for breakfast and then to the Trading Post for our Cloud 9 Sweatshirts and off on the trails we went. When we finally packed up the camper and left, we both knew that we would be back to Cloud 9 Ranch, we found that special place.

This was May 22, 2007 and we became official members/owners of Cloud 9 Ranch Club on May 25, 2007. Who could not? Where else can you camp, ride ATV’s and have picnics with a view?? Besides the Three Legged Mule is a must stop for eats!!! Next on the agenda, a new camper must be bought because we had big plans on visitng Cloud 9 often!!!

Steve and I are weekenders/vacationers. We will have spent more than 40 days on the ranch in 2008. We are proud members of Cloud 9 Ranch Club and we are more than happy to get this opportunity to share our experiences at “the ranch” and the people that we have met along the way.

The Baldwin’s are weekenders, as they are from West Plain and have been known to be at the ranch on any given day or whenever we call.

The Bennett’s are part-timers; they are at the ranch for four to five months out of the year.

Feel free to join in on our Blog and if you have any questions, please feel free to ask…

Mag Greig
Member #3223

WE ARE C9R!

2008-09-09T11:28:00.001-05:00

Well, now, isn’t blogging a great idea for our C9R official website! A place where you can read about the Ranch and ask questions, voice comments and learn all about Cloud 9 Ranch through narrative media. You are about to experience the very first blogs on our Cloud 9 Ranch Club’s official website. Our goal as “blog authors” is to give you different perspectives of Cloud 9 Ranch, the heart and soul of every aspect of what it means to be a Cloud 9 Ranch Club (the “Ranch”) owner and member. Different perspectives are given best by people with varied outlooks, dreams and expectations of ownership afforded to them as Ranch owners. The authors of the first blogs are from separate categories of membership. Let me be very quick to state here that Cloud 9 Ranch Club, Inc. does not “categorize” ownership into a specific member type. We all have the same ownership privileges; we all follow the same rules and regulations that come along with that right of ownership. But, as a Ranch owner/member, you will quickly become classified by other owner/members as one of four different categories. The membership vernacular goes something like this:

Weekenders: Members who live in close proximity to the Ranch complex; they enjoy the Ranch for day trips and bring lots of guests to ride ATV trails. After riding the ATVs, some favorites on the Ranch for this group is eating ice cream and pizza, taking a dip in the pool and spending lots of money at the Gatehouse, Gas Station, Restaurant and Trading Post right here on the Ranch. These weekend warriors spend an estimated 60 day trips or better on the Ranch every year, not to mention weekend camping trips for year round fishing, hunting during season, horseback riding, and lets not forget riding the ATV trails. If they have a camper, which many don’t, it is normally kept in a Ranch compound for use on holidays and long weekends.

Vacationers: Members who come to the Ranch for vacations and holiday weekends, spending less than thirty days a year enjoying the Ranch. They spend lots of money when here and are a vital part of the Ranch’s existence. They spend their vacations from the real world riding the ATV trails, cookouts, fishing, hunting, sitting around campfires, horseback riding, renewing friendships, and living the Ranch life any way they choose for the limited time they have. These members are notorious for donating time, money and stuff to the Ranch. Many keep their campers in a compound for use only here on the Ranch, while others haul them to and from their home. This group brings guests that turn into members more than any other group. It’s just not easy to find places like the Ranch anymore, and theVacationers are ambassadors-at-large for the rest of us.

Part-timers: Members who are usually fulltime RV-ers who come to the Ranch and spend anywhere from 3 to 8 months a year, usually during the peak season (April through October), then are off to warmer climates like Arizona, Florida, Texas or back home to family and friends they haven’t seen all spring and summer. They refer to the Ranch as their “Home Away From Home.“ These members are the major peak season volunteers who keep the spring and summer fun at its peak for the rest of the members. They bring new games and activities with them from other places they travel. This group plays a major role in seasonal committees, play lot of cards in the Clubhouse, Bingo, pool tournaments, keeping the Craft House up and running, and joining in with riding the ATV trails with the weekenders and vacationers when they have time.

Full-timers: Members who have basically made Cloud 9 Ranch their home. This is a small majority of members that you might as well say live on and for the Ranch. Some work on the Ranch as employees; others are fulltime volunteers; others just enjoy the RV-life, the fishing, hunting, trail riding year round and never get the urge to leave and find greener pastures. They weather the cold, snow, storms, floods, heat and, oh, yes, the moonlit nights and glorious sunshiny days year round. Some have homes they maintain in other states and go to them occasionally, but for the most part their campers never leave the Ranch. They move their campers monthly to other campsites as required by the rules, and have to follow all the rules pertaining to pad usage. They bring in the largest percentage of usage revenues, probably more than the other three categories combined. They have made a choice in life that the Ranch is where they want to spend all the “days of their lives.” With a little tongue-in-cheek pun intended with that last phrase, the Full-timers do have a reputation for a soap opera way of life if you listen to the Weekenders, the Vacationers and the Part-timers. To some they are heroes, to others villains; but no matter how you may perceive them, just as the other three categories, each is a vital organ to the body of the Ranch as a whole.

Each category has a few sub-categories, and they are: Elected Officers of Cloud 9 Ranch Club, Inc., Management of Cloud 9 Ranch Club, Inc., and Hourly Employees of Cloud 9 Ranch Club, Inc. All four categories above have at least one of the sub-categories in them.

So, you see, the Ranch means many things to all its member/owners. To some it’s a short drive to spend a day of fun in the sun, snow or mud (depending on the season); for others it’s a place to get away for a week or two, to others it’s their livelihood and to others a seasonal refuge from the cold or heat. I now call it Home Sweet Home. All of the above have a pride of ownership in a world set apart from the hustle and bustle of everyday life outside the rock archway up on U.S. Highway 160 in Southern Missouri, nestled in the Ozarks between two small towns (West Plains to the East and Gainesville to the West).

Okay, I’ll go ahead and admit it: This blog author is a Full-timer. It happened to us back in July 2007, when my husband and I both took an early retirement and came up to spend time with my husband’s brother and his wife, who were Part-timer/Full-timers, depending on how the wind blew. We immediately could not believe what we were experiencing here on the Ranch. We purchased a membership, then a camper within a week span of time. Our camper is a vintage one, but was for sale here on the Ranch, so we paid for it and had it pulled to a pad on July 31, 2007. We still to this day do not have a truck to pull our camper, so it has to stay here on the Ranch. I cannot bear to leave it, so it has never been back in a compound since the day we bought it. We have a home in Northern Mississippi, 15 minutes from Memphis TN, and have to take an occasional 72-hour leave to check on our property. But we can’t leave this Ranch without having severe pangs of withdrawal from the Ranch way of life.

It was our dream to be fulltime RV-ers just over a year ago, not having any idea that it would come true so soon. But it did and we are as happy as we have ever been with our old used camper. We sit outside at night and listen to the frogs and crickets (and whatever other critters that are out there). We watch deer graze in our front yard, we even have skunks come up and sniff our legs (stay very still if this happens to you). Hummingbirds, finches, cardinals, and those big old black crows and acrobatic squirrels are daily visitors to our feeders. We take rides and watch sunsets from the Stable overlook or Lonnie’s Lookout, or drive down to sit and listen to the ever-flowing bubbling springs that feed the mountain stream at Springs Falls or Wilder and Fogey campgrounds. We sit outside in the morning with our coffee and smell bacon cooking across the way. We plan our days around the weather forecast. We fish and watch Blue Heron swoop down and catch them with ease. If we‘re lucky, we can catch a glimpse of a bald eagle flying overhead. We sit by campfires with friends and discuss our families and Ranch politics and, yes, we even work on the Ranch. My husband is a Ranger and I do a myriad of volunteering. (I’m sure you’ll hear more from me on some of the upcoming projects for next season).

On a personal note, I am thankful and honored for the opportunity to share from my perspectives on what Ranch ownership is all about. Be assured that it is my profound belief that each member of the Ranch is just as important as the next. I have a saying that I plagiarized from the movie, “We Are Marshall.” Mine is: WE ARE C9R!!! Together, we all make this Ranch a heaven on earth for everyone that comes down that long-winding road. I like to think of the Ranch as a place where Mother Nature was introduced to the Heavens above, right up here on Cloud 9.

Now, it’s time to hear from some of you. If you have any questions or comments you’d like to pose to a Cloud 9 Ranch Full-timer, I’ll be glad to respond, answer or find you an answer if I don’t know it.

Welcome

2008-09-07T21:04:00.004-05:00

Welcome to the Cloud 9 Ranch Club's Blog. This blog was started from the desire of those who wish to read, learn and enjoy the latest news and events from Cloud 9 Ranch.

What purpose does it serve to have a blog for Cloud 9 Ranch? Well, this blogs intended use is to enhance the communication and culture of Cloud 9 Ranch. And to share the many wonderful things "The Ranch" has to offer both members and future members alike.

This information will not only be from a member's point of view, but from everyone's. From this blog, you will be able to contribute and share your comments as well. And I encourage all to participate once you register.

So, what exactly is a blog? Well, a blog is an "web-log" or Internet-based journal... a high tech and futuristic way to share things. Things like commentary, news, photos, descriptions of events, or other material related to Cloud 9 Ranch. To "blog" is to participate by adding or your thoughts or news into a blog.

We currently have in place four "blog authors" who will start the blog off on the right foot. From there, we will be branching out.

So...get to it. Kick back, relax and enjoy the show.
Cheers to all.