Horse Crazy

Birch Bay Ranch has been a part of my life since I was 8 years old. I only went to camp once for a week and at that time I didn’t dream I would still be involved with this amazing place 33 years later.  

When I was 14 years old my cousin was one of the horsemanship coordinators and (horse crazy as I was) I was able to come and help with chores, cleaning stalls and anywhere else I was needed. From then on I was hooked. I helped out as much as possible and eventually was old enough to be on staff for the summer (horse staff of course). I spent my summers at Birch Bay Ranch from then on. 

I learned a lot about myself and was given the opportunity to learn and grow (physically and spiritually) in a nurturing and supportive environment. I progressed from being a junior wrangler to being the horsemanship coordinator for 2 summers.  I spent my summers at Birch Bay until I was 19 and got to see many people (campers, staff and rental group participants), as well as myself be challenged and discover and develop strengths through the various activities and friendships made.

Birch Bay Ranch would always have a place in my heart where I got to spend my summers as a teenager. I made wonderful memories and great friends. This place helped me grow into the person I am. I was finished school and went on to work for other places (nothing that ever came close to Birch Bay). I met my husband to be and would tell him about my summers growing up. From the stories I would tell him he knew how special this place was to me. 

13 years ago I was blessed with the opportunity to come back as the office manager. A job that was new to me and I had never done before. Again I was given the opportunity to learn and grow in a nurturing and supportive environment.  Being back also made it possible for my stepdaughters to experience Birch Bay Ranch. This place and the staff were a positive influence which led one daughter to make the choice to become a Christian. It is also where she met her husband. To this day her family continues to volunteer in various areas around the ranch.

Over the years I have seen many people come through the gates (campers, staff, group participants and family) and have seen the impact this place has had on them. I pray that my granddaughters have the chance to attend and experience this camp.

Naomi Androsoff