Horse Sense Blazin’ Saddles
Life and Learning at Blazin’ Saddles Ranch
By Amanda Tungseth
Horses have always been a passion of mine. From the time I was little, I loved horses; I lived and breathed horses. They were my therapy during my teen years when I needed someone to listen, not judge, and my comfort as I dealt with grief as an adult. They are one of my greatest blessings from God and one of the biggest parts of my life. I am blessed to get to share my two greatest passions, Jesus and horses, with people who come to our ranch in the northwest corner of Minnesota.
The Beginning
It all started with a dream to share horses with youth. Horses have an impact on people’ s lives in so many ways. They help build trust and self-esteem; they give hope and can change lives for the better. I wanted to use horses to help others because they have been such a help and comfort to me over the years. At first, a local church sponsored a weekend horse and Bible camp each summer. There were more campers than camps to attend, so we needed to add more.
We didn’ t have a lot to offer in the early years of camp. There were no cabins or restrooms; the kids slept in tents and used an outhouse. None of that mattered; they were enjoying spending time riding horses, experiencing day-to-day ranch life and growing closer to Jesus.
Sometimes it’ s not what you have to offer that matters, if what you offer comes from the heart.
Growing the Camp
Eventually, there was a demand to offer camps throughout the summer months. Thanks to many generous donors, we now have cabins to sleep in as well as a shower house and camp kitchen.
It isn’ t as rustic as the first couple of years, but our mission remains the same: to share the gospel of Christ with everyone who visits the ranch. For the past 18 years, God has grown our horse and Bible camp ministry, and we have also added women’ s retreats. In 2015, we became an official 501( c)( 3) non-profit organization with the name Blazin’ Saddles.
I love being able to give kids a place to be immersed in farm life. A peaceful place to detach from the distractions of life and screens. They can focus on interacting and building bonds with the animals. They feel loved and seen by the horses they ride. They are entertained by our goats and goat kids and love spending
Blazin’ Saddles Barn. Photo courtesy of Amanda Tungseth
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