April - This year started a little different than previous years - the economy was in turmoil and a lot of uncertainty as to what was to come. Taking a vacation was not a priority, survival was. Because of this, we wanted to make it possible for you to still come to JX Ranch for a relaxing vacation away from all the worries at home. So we lowered our 2009 price from the originally set $167 down to $145 to make it more affordable for you to come. Although we don't anticipate as busy a year as last year, bookings are coming in at a steady pace.

Meanwhile, our 150 Longhorn cows are in the middle of calving and as of this writing we have a little over 80 spunky little calves on the ground already, with more to come. We've been blessed with a little moisture this spring, and the grasses and early weeds are greening up much to the cattle's delight and ours. We pray for more rain, which is the most sought after event in this arid region of the United States. Brandings are in full swing and we help neighbors, and they help us. That's how we do things out here in the country. We hope to see you here!

It's now October, and my favorite season of the year is upon us. Fall, with cool, crisp air, crystal blue skies, and horses with lots of energy, and, of course, fall work, when we gather and sort cattle, wean calves and help neighbors do the same. It's been a good year, and more people came to spend some time with us than we thought would happen, thank you all for coming!

Marcus, Austria: translation: "I have spent wonderful days at the JX Ranch. Mimi gave me a crash-course in riding - I hadn't ridden in 15 years. It went better every day, thanks Mimi! My horse Washi was super! I plan on coming back, many thanks to Mimi and Tom" Martin, Germany: translation: "I was only here for a short visit, still it was the best ranch that I've ever been on. I come back this fall with friends and stay 7 - 10 days, thanks for everything!"		Melissa and Peter, New Jersey: "What a warm welcome from Mimi, Tom, dogs and especially the horses and all the cattle showing us their newborn. The vistas are amazing! The chores could be endless but are such fun. We were lucky to have shared the bunk house with our neighbor and new friend from Germany - Konstanze! We are fortunate that the google search for a "working cattle ranch" came up with JX Ranch! This is just what we needed to relax. We hope we will make it back here again soon. Have a great year ahead with lots of rain! Fondly, Melissa & Peter."
Konstanze, Germany: translation: "You imagine the life on a ranch to ride all day with lots of sun. Having been to a "dude ranch" in Texas, I was looking for a real cattle ranch and found JX Ranch online. Here I found everything I was hoping for - lots of riding, sunshine, variety, and lots of hard work. I was glad I could stay an extra day to participate in the branding, thank you! I also met two nice guests as my neighbors- Melissa and Peter. I hope to be back, thank you!" Lee, TX: Thank you for such a wonderful trip and experience. Mimi, you are awesome and you taught me so much about horses. Tom, you are an amazing man and I will truly cherish all the time that you took to teach me things. The horses were great and I will miss Mimi's cooking.		Ronna, Julie, Christa, Illinois: "My sister and my daughter and I spent many hours on the computer researching "dude ranches". We found that most of the ranches were not our idea of how we wanted to spend spring break - we wanted the "true cowboy experience". We finally found the JX Ranch website and our decision was made! From the time we drove down the long ranch road to start our vacation until we drove down the long ranch road ending our vacation, our experience was everything we could have hoped for! From the bunkhouse to learning how to saddle, to the wonderful scenery, cattle round-ups, delicious suppers, awesome horses, branding, it has truly been a wonderful experience. Most of all our hosts Mimi and Tom, you life a hard but wonderful life out here fulfilling your dreams and you have made our dream come true and we thank you!"
Tania, Lara and Pierre, Belgium: translation: "As we said two years ago, we are back! I still cannot find words to express my feelings except perhaps "it's like coming home again". Thank you for everything from the bottom of my heart and I hope we'll be able to find a way to come back again. We will miss you. Thank you Mimi and Tom, the dogs, the cat and the horses for this wonderful vacation. We wish you love happiness and lots of rain!"		Marcus, Austria: "I have spent wonderful days on JX Ranch. Mimi brought my riding skills quickly and effectively up to snuff - it has been 15 years since I sat in a saddle. It went better every day thanks to Mimi. My horse Washi was super! I'll be back, many warm thanks to Mimi and Tom." Angelika, Germany: "Thank you for the nice stay and for the cattle move, it was such a great experience on a perfect horse!"
Joelle, France: (translated) "Thank you Tom and Mimi for the wonderful rides through beautiful country. Thank you Mimi for having helped me overcome my apprehension of riding in difficult terrain. I especially loved counting the new babies with your little red book! Thank you for everything! French: Merci Tom et Mimi pour outes ces belles randonnes dans une region magnifique. Merci Mimi de m'avoir permis de vaincre mon apprehension en terrain difficile. J'ai beaucoup aime les comptage des jeunes veaux avec ton petit carnet rouge. Je suis content d'avoir participe au sauvetage d'un petit veau. Merci pour tout.		Ben, NM: "Wow! Thanks to Mimi and Tom for a great time and for being so accommodating especially your help and concern because of my Parkinson's Disease. I had a great time and now know what ranch life is really like - seeing a calf being bottle fed and getting stronger each days shows your dedication and love for ranch life. God Bless You, Ben
Frank and Marc, Belgium: "Thank you for the nice and great time that I and Frank had at the ranch. Thank you for letting us feel like real cowboys on the day of the branding May 20. That's something that we never will forget in our lives, and Mimi takes such good care of the horses, they are great as you both are, we will miss you. Thanks again for everything and take care - The Belgian Cowboys"		Jan and Tony, Ind: "What a great week, Jane and Mimi riding each morning and you and I driving out. I enjoyed working time together, Tom showing me the ropes and not laughing at my mistakes, at least not all of them! I will always remember us working on the "Ianni" corrals. The food was great and the steaks were the best. Jas as you know loves horses and loves to ride. As with all your guests, Mimi was so helpful and Jane loved the rides. We hope you get enough rain and the orders continue to come in for your delicious beef. Thanks. PS. Janes 2nd visit."
Stephanie and Oliver, Germany: "As Andi and Susi had described, we had a unforgettable time on your ranch. Although we could not bring any rain with us, we hope that you've also enjoyed our stay. Thanks for the accommodation and our experience of being on a ranch. Unfortunately we could not help Tom build any fences or corrals, but we had a lot to do with making our chaps. Mimi, thanks for organizing all the stuff and materials and for teaching us how to make some chaps out of a piece of leather. We are sure that we'll meet again."		Lynda and grand-daughter Kirby, GA: "Thank you so much for an amazing stay! We loved moving the cows to a different pasture and being one the beautiful mesa. Sonny and Chico couldn't have been better. We really got along great with them. The food was amazing and the company couldn't have been beat! I loved feeding the calf and riding on the four wheeler. The cabin is great and the old furniture is so cool! We had a wonderful time, thanks again!" Tyler, TX: "Thanks y'all for such a great time. I had a blast riding Rusty, he is a great horse. I had a lot of fun moving cattle and learning how to do everything. I really had fun and learned a lot about ranching."
Solene, France: "Thank you so much, this was a really great stay, even though too short. The food, the cabin, the horses, the landscape, everything was as I had hoped it would be! As the last week spent in the U.S. (my internship in Houston), this was one of the best I ever had! I'm now going back to France to finish my studies, but I really hope I'll be back soon. In the meantime, I will try t cook your recipes! Thank you also for taking me to the lake!"		Gerlac and Montse, Spain: "La estancia la sido muy agradable. El primer dia vivimos un picnic muy divertido con vuestros vecinos. Jos paseos y excursiones han sido muy bonitos. Vuestro rancho es muy tranquilo y agradable y vosotros muy simpaticos. Los caballos - Chico muy divertido, agil y realmente simpatico, perio creo que le falta doma. El caballo de Montse Washi tiene mas doma, pero aburrido y vago. Esperamos que os maya sustado la paella. Besosy salerdos de Gerlac y Montse."
John, Alabama: "A simple "thank You" is not nearly adequate enough to convey my feelings on leaving this wonderous place... Mimi and Tom's hard work, gracious hospitality, friendliness, and patience, along with this beautiful landscape, have all combined to have made this a truly special time for me (too short of course). I feel that due to their efforts my "love of life" has been restored. What more could a person want? Adios and Happy trails till we meet again!"		Oystein, Norway (3rd visit): "A big thank you once again for another wonderful stay here at the JX Ranch. As you know from my previous visits, I love moving cattle and riding this beautiful country. But ranching is not just riding. There are other important things that need to be done - like gate and fence work - which I am happy to take part in. My "warrior pony protector" Rascal lived up to his name sometimes, as usual, but mostly just being a great horse I love to ride. See you next year!"
Argenbright, Texas: " We came here to learn, to get "in touch" with the country, and to touch history, the Goodnight-Loving Trail. Those goals were met totally. Our thanks to Mimi and Tom for opening their home to us and to them anad their neighbors for their hospitality. They are proof that the vitality of our country is intact. We especially appreciated the quality of the horses at the JX." Eklov, Sweden: "We came to JX Ranch to experience true ranching and we sure got all our expectations fulfilled. We had expected riding in moderate temperatures but New Mexico being what it is greeted us with freezing cold weather. Little did that matter when the experience was so great. We will never forget participating in gathering 380 steers with you and your neighbors. It was an almost religious feeling with twelve silent riders guiding the remaining eight "outlaw" steers towards the pen. What a moment! Thank you for your warm welcome, great hospitality and wonderful cooking!		Rita and Stephan, Germany: "Thank you for your hospitality. You made the time we spent here in New Mexico to an adventure we will never forget! We got to know what working on a ranch is like : checking cattle and moving them, fixing fences and building gates, as well as sorting out calves for shots and brandings. It was so much fun helping you with all the work and we enjoyed riding in this overwhelming landscape with these great horses Rusti, Rascal and Chico. They are all such nice characters, full of patience and trustworthy. Thanks also for the fun and informative conversations and advices in cattle work during the day and the tasty meals in the evenings!" Piper, South Africa: "I have really enjoyed my second visit to the JX Ranch even more than the first visit. The opportunity to see the World Championship Ranch Rodeo in Amarillo was such a bonus for me. I got a chance to meet people from different States and talk at grass-roots level with wonderful people who gave me hope that all is not yet lost in this great country. This time I helped Mimi build fences and four gates around a new waterlot. I really admire you Mimi, for your physical strength as well as your strength of character and your love for this land and for what you and Tom are achieving. Having Rusty as my trusty steed was great! He's definitely your "employee of the Year"! I pray you will continue doing well here and hope to see you all again."

2008 guest comments

April - We are already in full swing, and in spite of the severe drought we are experiencing, we are having a good time with our new guests! Pray for rain, we really need some.

July Update - we got rain, lots of rain! Grass is beautiful and growing, and all the tanks are full of water! Life is good.

December Update - what a difference a year makes - 2007 was dry hot and windy, not a good year for raising cattle. This year started out looking like an extension of 2007. But the rains we finally received changed the land almost over-night. Where before the cattle could not find grass, you now could not find the cattle because of the grass! We're hopeful for next year, and are building up our herd of Longhorn cows. We also had the best "guest year" ever, thank all of you who came and made it so.

Jim, South Carolina: I want to say thanks for the fine hospitality and the chance to enjoy your beautiful ranch. Give my best to Rusty, as he sure worked hard carrying me around. I look forward to seeing you all again in the coming year.
Julien, France: Un reve d'adolescent qui a pu se realiser. Les grans espaces, les Longhorns, les chevaux et le Western feeling. Tout etait au rendez-vous. Beaucoup de souvenirs en photos et videos, mais surtout dans la tete a toutes ces journees passees en votre compagnie resteront longtemps, tres longtemps gravees. Merci Mimi pour les ballades a cheval dans les canyons et sur le Caprock. Merci Tom pour le roping leessons - Mille merci pour votre gentillesse et votre accueil dans votre ranch. Quelqu'un a dit: "Cowboy est plus qu'un mot, c'est un verbe". A present je sais pourquoi! Alan, England: had a great time but it went too fast. Glad the English could bring you at least a little rain and now I'm gone I hope you get a lot more! Jean-Marie, France: "I've dreamed to ride in the big spaces and share during some days the Cowboy life. I am not disappointed. The red mountains, canyons, and big meadows all was here. The horses were perfect.		Traduction/translation: A childhood dream come true. The open spaces, the Longhorns, the horses and the Western feeling. All was here. Lots of memories in photos and video, but most of all will remain engraved in my memory for a long, very long, time all these days in your company. Thank you Mimi for all the rides in the canyons and on the Caprock. Thank you Tom for the roping lessons. Many thanks for your kindness and your hospitality on your ranch. Someone said "Cowboy is more than a word, it's a verb". Now I know why!
Dwight, North Carolina: Fulfillment of a life long dream - to be a cowboy - if only for a week - 2 round-ups and brandings - more than I could have asked for. Thanks for everything. You're very special people and I am proud to call you friends. Take good care of my buddy Rascal! Eveline, Germany: "Danke fur die Gastfreundschaft, landschaft wunterbar! Ausritt mit Mimi und Pferd Billy war einmalig und perfekt. Ausseigewohnlich hiss fur diese jahreszeit.
Corinna and Marco, Germany: We had two wonderful days on JX Ranch! And we are so happy that we could join yesterday's calf branding at the neighbors place. It was very exciting and an experience which we have had never before. We will keep that day in our minds forever. Thanks also to our horses Chico and Rusty! PS. To next guests - don't forget your sunscreen and chapstick!		Wayne and Ginny, New York: Fixed fence (very windy), moved cows and calves, fed, set fence posts - general ranch work - great experience, lots of humor, good conversations, beautiful new friends in beautiful country! Karin and Stefan, Germany: Thank you for everything. It was really an experience and an adventure for us to stay on your ranch. It's such a beautiful place! God bless you and your horses and all the best for the future!
Frank and Sabine, Germany: Sabine:"Ich bin hergekommen mit so vielen Angsten, was mich erwartet bezuglich reiten und allem anderen. Ich kann sagen, das des Reiten nirgends schoner war, als auf der JX Ranch. Ich habe jeden Tag genossen mit meinem Super-Pferd Sonny. Es was einfach unglaublich wundervoll. Das Gelande war super und ich bin auf dem "Top of the World" gewesen, dan meinem Sonny. Es was so entspannent ihn zu reiten, ich werde ihn vermissen. Mimi und Tom sind so tolle Gastegeber, das Abendessen (des immer super geschmecht hat) war immer sehr unterhaltsam. Ihr seid beide so humorvoll und umganglich. Der urlaub was unbeschreiblich, ich verde noch lange daran denken. Sabine		Frank:"Ein unvergessliches Abenteuer auf einer wunderbaren Ranch. Das Land ist trocken und doch schon. Die Pferde sind super, in besonder Rascal. Auch die Ausritte mit Mimi und Tom sowie die anderen Arbeiten auf der Ranch bleiben unvergesslich. Mimi's Kochkunste sind wunderbar, wenn auch mainchmal sehr scharf. Danke fur diese wunderbaren Tagen! Frank.
Lisa and Mario, Canada: Merci, Mimi et Tom, la vie de ranch est formidable, nous avons beaucoup apprecie votre patience et c'est a regret que nous partons. Grace a vous Lisa a pu realiser le reve de sa vie et pour cela je vous en suis infiniment reconnaissant. Merveilleux sejour avec vous deux. Translation: Ranch life is wonderful, we really appreciate your patience and we are sad to leave. Thanks to you Lisa was able to live the dream of her life and for this I am very grateful. We had a wonderful time with the two of you.		Chris, England: Thanks for a great holiday. We had some laughs and most important I made some new friends, had good rides, two round-ups and brandings. Definitely not for amateurs! The horses were good to ride so thanks to Sonny, Billy and Rusty. Once again, thanks to Tom and Mimi, two honest, hardworking and thoughtful people, may it rain on you every alternate day! Gene, North Carolina: This cowboy "wannabe" had a great time. Solid horses and solid people (with some progressive ranching ideas). Many thanks for the great hours in the saddle!
Bill and Mary, Conn.: It has been our pleasure to meet two sympatico people who share our values and share mutual goals of preserving the land and environment while improving your chances of seeing out a living on the high desert. You both are so independent, stubborn, caring, committed and compassionate. We are leaving happy! Kerstin and Jorg, Germany: " besten dank fur alles. Wir haben viel erlebt und erfahren vor allen Jorg kann einige Erfahrungen mit nach Sudamerika nehmen. Danke Mimi, dass du dich so lieb um mich gekummert hast als es mir kurzzeitig night so gut ging. Wir hoffen dass es bald ganz viel regnet wird! Tanja, Germany: "You come as a stranger but it feels like visiting an old friend. Tom and Mimi, you must be the happiest persons in the world. you have a nice and cozy home, beautiful horses, good dogs and a marvelous landscape around you. You are living a small girls dream. thank you for sharing this with me. May there always be a drop of rain in the clouds for you. Hap, Cracker Cow Hunter, FL: "thanks for a great time at the JX. the ride to the top was a great experience as it probably was for my great great great uncle Tom Carver riding herd with Goodnight & Loving, driving Longhorns out of Texas in the 1800's, going through this ranch. Special thanks to Jerry and boys at Hight cattle co. for the roundups and brandings, thoughts and prayers of good luck and plenty of rain, and a special note to Mimi, you can tell how well a person cares for their horses by their feet and yours are the best i have seen in many a moon. Keep it up. thanks "Rascal" for toting me around and up and down. Wife Emily, FL: "this was more than a vacation, this is life... what a real experience, one that won't be forgotten. Although a week is far too short, your independent spirits, knowledge, care and love for your land cows and horses is an inspiration that is so much needed to experience at this time. Not only did I begin to learn the care of horses but my confidence grew and it allowed me to see what is important in life with I had begun to forget... friendship and taking care of your resources - the land and of all things, water! "The "MAG's" (Middle aged gals...)Wow. The MAG's hit the weather jackpot!! the "Scottish" mist was unbelievably beautiful and so unusual for New Mexico. At any moment we expected to see the "Lockness" monster rise up out of the lake in the mist! This was a most memorable experience!		Al and Cathy, MO: "Thanks for all your hospitality and for sharing your ranch with us for the week. CJ and I had a wonderful time. the country is beautiful, the wildlife interesting, the cattle are delightful. Your cooking most excellent. While we always love to ride, it was even better that the activity fit into the real world of ranch life. We enjoyed the opportunity to meet and work with some of your neighbors and it was wonderful to be so welcome with those fine folks. Special thanks to Billy and Rusty who put up with toting us around the ranch with barely a whiney,. Thanks again for a great experience, until wee meet again. Jeanne, MI:" Thank you so much for your hospitality. It was wonderful. I hope the bull makes it home and I hope our paths cross again. Let it rain. Kathy, Karen, Donna, Linda, Jeanne and Peggy, AZ: "What a great experience for 6 girlfriends from Phoenix - it's been fun, fabulous and a grand memory builder for us. the rides, hikes and country style dinners all were a paert of adreamy summer adventure. thanks for your country cowboy hospitality. Manuela and Holger, Germany: "Danke an Mimi und tom fur die wundervollen Tagen. Mimi, Du gehst wirklich sehr gut mit deine pferden um. Ich danke Dir fur die tollen Ausritte auf die gut ausgebildeten pferden. mein allerliebster war Chico. Ich denke wir Sehen uns wieder. Aurelie, France: people thought I was crazy to come to New Mexico alone as I am only 19. it might have been one of the craziest things I did in my life but I can also say that it was one of the greatest! I really want to thank you for everything. I enjoyed 100% of everything I did here. thanks to you I realized a dream. you're such an amazing couple, with great horses, dogs, cat and a beautiful place. I am also really impressed by your courage and strength - mental and physical. You take care of your huge land every day without any vacations and you still keep smiling while you have important problems, like the rain which is missing these months. We stay in touch and thinks again.
Jane, IN: "Your guest comments say it all - I can only agree with them. but I haven't done it all yet - I look forw3ard to another adventure in the future. the bunk house was cozy, the suppers were great, your horses are so lucky to have you - and I envy you. Until we meet again."		Lori and Aren, NM: "Thank you so much for the most awesome week a mother and son could share together. So often we get caught up in the hectic schedules of our lives that we forget to take the opportunities God gives us to enjoy each other as a family. We will cherish this for the rest of our lives and will definitely do this again!"
Stine and Katja, Denmark: "When we first decided to go West for the cowboy experience, we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into. Thank you so much for an enjoyable and exciting time that lived up to our expectations and more. The highlights were definitely moving the cattle, beautiful rides and of course fencing. Thanks for the wonderful tales and stories from the real life as a cowboy."		Torbjorn and Maria, Sweden: translated "I can't imagine a better place to go to. Incredible nature, very nice horses, combined with Mimi's deep knowledge and experience. thank you!" Dennis an Angi, TX: "thanks to both of you for sharing your home and this incredible ranch. The stunning vistas and wildness of the ranch, your warm hospitality and good food plus the obvious affection both of you demonstrate for the land and your animals made this an unforgettable experience. thank you."
Tom and Jette, Denmark: This vacation has been so nice and we gonna miss you guys. You've got a special place. We enjoyed all that space and the riding up and down. Aunty Mimi your cooking is so good even though it's very spicy food. I liked it more and more. Now Danish food is quite bored. Better place we couldn't find memories we treasure in our mind Riding will never be the same and we got you to blame Your horses are so sweet and love the way your have them treat You need more hours in a day and for he rain you have to pray We just loved our stay but now we drive away we will try to keep in touch because we like you very much Give Rascal and Chico a very big kiss A big hug from the Danish wannabee Cowboys.		Elisabeth and Maurilio, Italy: "Vi kommer aldrig att glomma dagarna pa JX Ranch, naturen, hastarna er gastfrihet och positiva attitude. Maurilio cowboy drom gick i uppfyllelse och bara det var vart resan. Kram, Bettan och Mario Translation: We will never forget our days at JX Ranch, the nature, the horses and your hospitality and positive attitude. Maurilio's cowboy dream was fulfilled and that alone justified the trip. Hugs, Bettan and Mario
Judy and Charlie: "Just to say thank you is not enough. For all you did for Charlie and Fluff, I know I put your patience to test, but all of you and sure footed Sonny were certainly the best. We leave a little sore on certain parts but with very happy and grateful hearts You know how to make guests feel at home We just wanted to stay around and not roam The rides, the meals, everything was so great We will surely want to return at a future date. Oystein, Norway: "One again big thanks to Mimi and Tom for a wonderful stay at the ranch. My trusty friend Rascal eager to go as always. With good food, good and hospitable neighbors, what more could you ask. A big thank you from Oystein.		Camille, France: "Pour une premier voyage aux etats-Unis, je suis venue decouvrir la vie que to as choisi Mimi! Je decouvre que le costume de cowboy en France est une tenue de travail ici, et que le cheval "loisir" est un outil de travail au ranch. Je suis tres heureuse d'avoir fait toutes ces decouvertes avec toi.

2007 guest comments

So many interesting and fun guests, all of whom become friends! Thank you for your kind words, pray for some rain!

Valentina, Nando, Maria and Claudio, Rome, Italy: "Thanks for the wonderful experience!!! That make us forgot the long long travelling and the first two days of rain. Hopefully see you soon. "Grazie per la bellissima avventura che ci ha fatto dimenticare il lungo viaggio e i primi 2 giorni di pioggia. Speriamo di riverdervi presto"		Elizabeth, New Orleans: "Staying at the JX Ranch surpassed my expectations. The new experience of horseback riding, (in the snow too!) and moving cattle was something I will never forget. Being away from the city and in this beautiful landscape was a Godsend. The food was wonderful and the cabin homey. It was great meeting you both."
Pierre, Tania and Lara (age 8), Natoye, Belgium: "Tania - There are not enough words to say how I feel and how I spent the best holiday of my life. I'm feeling sick to know that I have to leave tomorrow knowing that a part of me will stay. We searched for something special for our 10th wedding anniversary and we found it. And we will be back if possible. Pierre - Un sejour memorable, mieux que dans mes reves! Un grand merci a Mimi et Tom. Lara (8) - J'ai passee des bonnes vacances et surtout avec Sonny et les chiens. Et meme ici les cloches de Pacques sont passees.
Marie and Frederic, Bievres, France: "Nous esperions vivre comme des cow-boys au sein d'un ranch, c'est chose faite grace a Mimi et Tom! Merci a Mimi pour ces ballades a cheval et sa cuisine formidable! Merci a Tom pour sa gentillesse et generosite. Pardon de ne pas parler anglais... nous avons mangue des conversations avec Tom! Si vous venez en France, vous etes nos "guests" dans notre ranch en Correge."		..Translation: "We were hoping to live like cowboys on a ranch, and this was accomplished thanks to Mimi and Tom! Thank you Mimi for the rides and the excellent cooking, thank you Tom for your kindness and generosity. Sorry we don't speak English... we missed out on having conversations with Tom. If you come to France, you will be our guests on our ranch in Correge."
Ron, Hilversum, The Netherlands: "Many thanks for a memorable week. Great horses, fixing fence, opening gates, closing gates, opening gates, closing gates etc...! No really, thanks for allowing a peek into a rancher's life, not only the romantic ride on the range but also all the very hard work, new ingenuity for fixing things, the every day struggle to make a living. Thanks for sharing what is clearly Mimi's dream and Tom's designation. May your cattle graze in green pastures!"		Phil and Phil (Jr & Sr.), Bishop, GA: "Time passes so fast when there is an enjoyable time to be had. We appreciate all of the hospitality. We especially appreciate the special effort for the cattle drive... (Ed. note: about 40 steers had gotten out on top and headed south on county roads, ended up about 4.5 miles south of our boundary...) My goal in visiting the JX was to share a good time with my son and hearn about a working cattle ranch. My goal was completed successfully. I hope to return one day for a longer stay and perhaps bring more of my family.
Philine and Daniela, Hamburg, Germany: "From Mimi's girls and Tom's fanclub - we both had a wonderful, amazing and exciting time on your ranch. We "geniessen" each single day with you and are very sad that we need to go home now. We are really looking forward to see you again - latest at the wedding of Ela and Bakki that we will celebrate here on your ranch!! Jill, Middleboro, MA: "What a beautiful place! Thank you for sharing your ranch and giving me the whole ranch experience, it was amazing. Hope you find that cow!! (I did... after a week!) May we meet again.
Johnnie and Isabel, Norfolk, England: "This is not an experience, this is real. Tom and Mimi are superb guardians of a legacy of ranching, but not afraid to have different ideas. To us they are inspirational friends and I would wish them the success they deserve in order to love the life they want, on their terms. Ĺsa, editor, Editor, Lucky Rider Magazine, Sweden: "Tack for nagra harliga dagar pa er ranch. Upplevelser och bilder som kommer att bli ett kanon-reportage i Lucky Rider."		Florence, CO $ son Paul and wife Glenna, NY: So many "firsts" for me - learning the difference between cows and steers, saddling my own horse, getting my "PHD (post-hole digger...), going for Willys chariot rides, and having a wonderful time staying at the ranch with fantastic hosts! The dedication and care you show for your horses and all the animals in your care informed every moment of my stay here - it was the first time I felt I truly "got" horses and riding, despite having ridden several times, and I can't thank you enough for it. Mimi's great cooking was the perfect round-off to a day in the saddle. Best wishes, and hope visit again soon.
Rosario and Pete, NY & Filippo, Ontario, Canada: "Tom and Mimi, you are the best hosts we have dealt with. Your ranch is beautiful and each of the experiences we have had here are among the best life can offer. We admire your spirit and love for freedom and your dedication for the land, the animals and nature. You are true stewards! We have come to love you as family and will soon be back. The Sicilians
Ron and Pat Goyer, Syracuse, NM: "I just retired two weeks ago and this was a present to us to celebrate, what a great present! (But at least when I was working I got a break every two hours!) The open and vast size of the ranch was overwhelming. Every turn on the trail was new and exciting. Warm days and cool nights with an amazing lightning show during a couple of dinners on the porch. Could have done without the exfoliating wind one day, but it comes as a package deal.		Loved the rides through the mesquite looking for that crazy fence-jumping cow. How could we not enjoy round up cattle and collecting strays! But above all, this was the gracious and warm welcome offered by Mimi and Tom. Thank you for opening your home to us, Tom's stories of growing up and Mimi's patience during saddle-up and as we trotted off like a bunch of "City Slickers"! Thanks, Ron and Pat
Diane, Daniel, Laurie and Celine, Quebec, Canada: "It has been a real pleasure to discover your beautiful and vast corner of the world. It was also very enriching. I think unfortunately there are not many that respect the animals as much as you do. Bravo! Mimi, thank you for your patience and with Tom your hospitality. What I have experienced, as well as you two and al your adorable animals, will forever be in my memory." (translated from French)
Mijke, AG Huissen, The Netherlands: "It's really a great experience to stay here with you. I enjoyed every single minute. My stay at your place is unfortunately rather short and I have only one day left to go. But however, I will not forget this experience. Yesterday evening we went to a Ranch Rodeo. I didn't know what to expect, but i enjoyed really every second and would not have liked to miss it. I hope I can send you some rain from the Netherlands, because we have more than enough and you come short. Thanks for your hospitality and maybe till a next time! Christine and Brigitte, Florida and Germany: "We will never forget the wonderfull time, and very enriching experience this has been. We did appreciate very much being accepted by the other ranchers to participate in driving their cattles, and especially also their hospitality and great luncheons. Please let them know. It has been an amazing experience."		Goff, Illinois: "enjoyed everything, especially Billy. Remember me if you ever want to sell him!" Arie and Mike, Rotterdam, Netherlands: "Thanks for everything - the wonderful food, the rides, the trails, catching the horses with the jeep. A thousand thanks for everything. What a vacation. We certainly won't forget this experience!" Bob and Judy, California: "We had a wonderful time. You guys were great. the ranch was perfect, the food was even better and the horses were fantastic. We will be back next year!" Gary, California: "I had a wonderful time riding Rusty. You sure are wonderful hosts. Rusty was a great horse to ride, gave me more confidence. Will be back next year. It's great to be back in New Mexico. It's home. Ida is coming with me next year. Thank you for a great time!" Oystein, Norway: "Having visited another ranch several times before, I must admit I felt a little anxious when I came to stay at the JX Ranch for 17 days. No need to worry. I had a wonderful time. Doing all the riding I had hoped for and then some, on "my" trusted and good horse Rascal. Doing cattle work, helping neighbours almost every day and being served excellent food - Lisa of course in a class of her own. I never anticipated the hospitality, openness and warmth I was met with. Rest assured, I plan to be back. Thank you Mimi and Tom. Oystein"

2006 guest comments

As we approach the end of 2006, we look back to all the fun we had this summer with our wonderful guests from all over the world. We learn so much from each and everyone of you, and some of you have a special place in our hearts forever. So many good memories, so much laughter and joking, and watching you look with awe at the beauty that surrounds us every day. We are so very blessed to live the life we live, and we so enjoy sharing it with you. This year we will remain open during the winter, same program but not much cattle work as we only have a handful of Corriente cows for this winter. It will be interesting to see how it goes, and what our "winter guests" have to say at the end of their stay! Stay tuned, we hope to see you all again, soon!

Jonathan, Ginny, Justin & Renee, KY. "Thank you so much for a wonderful time and your generous hospitality. We loved the horses and the magnificent scenery you have right in your back yard. Thank you for showing us all a little bit about true fence building. And... the food you made, Mimi, was fantastic. Take care and good luck with everything!"
Dawn, Kwazulunatal, South Africa. "A childhood dream came through for me to actually "work" on a western ranch in the USA! I couldn't have chosen a better place - the area seems to have been the hub for may a trail drive. The countryside was exactly as I have always pictured it to be - wild and untamed. The rides were beyond expectations - your horses are wonderful, especially my Trader! Spending time with you Mimi has been a privilege and working hard (unloading hay bales, building H-braces etc) gave me a satisfaction I never thought I would experience. Thank you for making me feel so welcome and at home. God willing, I will be back. God Bless you both!
Karin and Rob, Maine: "Thanks for a great week! I told Rob today that this was the first time, in my life, I ever really enjoyed riding a horse. You told me before we came "not to worry" you had a good horse for me - you were right, Sonny was perfect! The scenery, the rides, the branding and driving cattle, your cooking, the turkeys right outside our door, your company and the company of your friends made this week special and one we will talk about for a long time. We wish you the best of luck with the ranch! Thanks so much!"
Samantha & John, Ohio: " This was my graduation present from my dad and I'm so glad that we came here. I got to ride, spend time with my dad, enjoy beautiful landscape and drive cattle. "Wink & Stickers" (John's naming of dogs Brucie and Flicka...) were so much fun to watch when we ride and see how such great "cow dogs" the were. I can't wait to come back and make my chinks. We had a great time, the food was great. Thanks, looking forward to next time!"
Alley, Lightworks Healing Institute, Santa Fe, New Mexico: "Thank you so much for all the fun, your time, and sharing this amazing place you have created. Incredible! And all in 2 years. Belinda was right... you are both extraordinary people. Thank you also for the Beautiful rides. I'm looking forward to returning."
Monika, Eva and Wictor, Stockholm, Sweden: "We want to thank: Mimi and Tom, your sweet dogs and your wonderful horses for the very special time in our lives at your ranch. We had looked forward to do this trip to New Mexico for months... talking about it and planning over and over again. It could not have been better. We have got it all: the nature for the soul, the laughter for our minds and the horseback riding for our body. And we have relaxed too. This was what we have dreamed of and more! Tusen tack till er bada fran "the Three "!
Anja, Heilbronn, Germany: "I'm so glad I found your website! I enjoyed every second here in your paradise - the landscape, the scenic surroundings, the horses, "my" little house, the company of my two hosts, your 2 dogs. Than you also for taking me with you to the ranch rodeo, Billy the Kid museum and Bosque Redondo Memorial. Last but not least - the New Mexican food, and yes, the meat was good too and that's from a vegetarian! Danke für alles!
Jackie and Chris, Amboy, WA: "Thank you for making our honeymoon top notch! We couldn't imagine an experience more unique or memorable. We loved the cabin and horses and most of all we loved your hospitality. Please thank Billy and Sonny for putting up with us. Can't wait to come back again!"
Bert-Ove, Lund, Sweden: "Thank you for giving me a good insight in life on a ranch. I will always remember your smiles and positive attitude towards life. As a guest on your ranch you feel good. For me the riding combined with the work was wonderful. This was a week that recharged my batteries. Hope to see you soon."
Marlen and Willy, Leimbach, Swizerland:" We regret to leave this peaceful place. Thank you so much for your hospitality - for everything! We enjoyed your gentle horses, the great rides, the ranch work, the beautiful scenery. Mimi's delicious meals, the cozy cabin, relaxing on your porch and watching the hummingbirds... Looking forward to seeing you again!"
Gale and Shirley, Sch. Haven, PA: "Our 2nd visit to your ranch was great! Truly beautiful country from the top of the Caprock to the bottom. Every piece of scenery is beautiful and breathtaking especially our trip along the ridge. Enjoyed the horses again, they are the best. Thanks Josie, Billy, Trader and Sonny, for your surefooted rides. We loved the cattle round up and the narrow passageway. Everyone who visits should to up the pass. Enjoyed the wildlife, beautiful rock colors and flowers. Thanks for a great time!"
Valerie, Pampa, TX: "Thanks for sharing your home, your livelihood and your sense of humor. I learned a great deal and enjoyed every minute I was here. I'll be back soon and bring my husband. Best wishes for a wet winter, but save a little for Texas too!"
Michele, Austin, TX: "Sadie (my dog) and I had a marvelous time here. The quiet, the wind, the smell of horses and the skies were our best friends. Mimi and Tom - you were wonderful hosts. I felt very much at home and well taken care of, entertained and valued. Best wishes to all who live here (4-legged and 2-legged) and all who follow."
Becky and Tom, Warwichshire, England: "Thank you ever so much for the past 4 days. We have both learnt a lot and have some wonderful memories. You have a beautiful ranch and wonderful horses and thank you for sharing them. Hopefully one day we may find the connection between New Mexico Tom Sidwell and England Tom Sidwell!"
Derek, Montreal, Canada: "Great fun! I enjoyed learning about the daily activities on a working ranch. And thank you for your great patience. A nice adventure with some great memories of beautiful New Mexico."
Valerie, Santa Fe, NM: "Thanks for the inside look at ranch life. It never occurred to me that people owned and used the Caprock - that life on top was an extension of the life below them. We had some yummy meals - thanks Mimi for all the kitchen effort on top of the ranching. I especially enjoyed the individual time I had with each of you on our trips to the Tucumcari Craft Show and cattle buying trip to Clovis. My best to you both!"
Robert, Uitikon Waldegg, Switzerland: "Thank you so much for this very pleasant stay with you. I got a little insight in ranch life but more so I got to know two very friendly people. I hope to see you again."
(Winter) Mel, Bellingham, WA: "Thanks so much for allowing me to tag-a-long with you for the week. I had fun and learned so much. The experience was everything I thought it would be, and more!"

2005 Guest Comments

This was a busy and fun year with many guests from all over the world honoring our JX Ranch in New Mexico. We coincidentally started, and ended, the season with guests from Scandinavia (Sweden and Denmark), which is befitting since Mimi was born in Sweden! Guests from both within the United States as well as various European countries, such as Switzerland, Germany and England visited us as well. We thank you all for choosing JX Ranch, and for being such wonderful guests, all of you! Hope to see you again.

Magnus, Goteborg, Sweden. "It has been a wonderful experience. After only a few days it felt like home to me. The Western landscape is fantastic. I am born in the wrong place and wrong time, but such is life! Thank you so much Tom and Mimi. I will never forget this and will come back, next time bringing my wife. Big thanks to both of you and give my best to your nice ranching neighbors."
Maurus & Manuela, Tinizong, Switzerland. "We could see how real western-life is going on. A great experience we will always remember. Your horses are absolutely lovely - we would like to have more of them in our home country! Thank you for everything. And on our next Europe trip, you know where we are!"
Betsy, Illinois. "I had a great time. The scenery is just beautiful. The horses are great. Sonny has a great little jog. The food was great, the cabin cozy, the road when dry fun to drive, when wet a real challenge. Thanks for the great experience and your wonderful hospitality. Mimi, thanks for the help with my chinks and I love my new chaps. I have had a great time."
Franziska, Durnten, Switzerland. "It was a dream for many years to stay on a real working ranch. To live with Mimi and Tom and to see what they are doing the whole day was a great experience for me. I had the good luck that I could twice move cattle and got to go to a branding. This was a new experience for me. It's a wonderful place here, quiet and relaxing. The horse are very gentle. Thank you for all."
Mike and Ingrid, Arizona. "Day 1: Kilt bar. Day 2: et bar. Day 3: tanned bar skin. Just kidding, Tom said he didn't need any more comedians around here...! Great rides, good horses, Billy and Sony, love the quiet and lack of humans. Glad to help with the "new" house - and we paid good money for this!!?? Glad to help, glad to have met you both. Thanks for your gracious hospitality. Good luck with the hackberry trees. We respect your vision."
Andi and Susi, Gethles, Germany. "To meet you for the second time was absolutely great! Great landscape, great food, great hospitality, great horses - a little piece of heaven for us Germans. Thank you, Tom and Mimi, and especially thank you Sonny and Trader Joe.
Brian, Florida. "Thank you for the time of my life. I never thought that it would be so much fun. And riding pretty much all day was awesome. I really didn't feel like a customer, but more a family guest. And your horses were all wonderful, especially Little Joe the Wrangler. I really hope I can come back if you guys would take me back! Thanks again, you were great. PS. I'll try to keep in touch when I go into the military. and Casper, Denmark. "Thank you very much for having me. I had a great time, even though I did not have much riding experience. This is for me a memory I will never forget!
David and Philip, Texas. "Thanks so much for the wonderful experience of cowboy life. Philip enjoyed celebrating his "coming of age" - 10th birthday, all the rides were great, but the cattle drive was a dream come true. Hope to return soon, and be able to lend a hand."
AmyMarie and Bryant, Indiana. "There were so many times during our visit that left me nearly speechless and all I could say was "wow"! the landscape - wow! Mimi's great cooking - wow! the wonderful horse rides - wow! making Bryant's chaps - wow! moving cattle - twice - wow! Tom killing the rattler - wow! the hot weather - wow! But more than anything - Mimi getting Bryant to eat new foods, including "green things" - wow! All we can say is - thank you! We loved it. It was all we had hoped for.
Lynne, Texas. "I have ridden horses all my life but this is the first time I have ever ridden horses with a purpose! I loved it! This place is the greatest!
Paulette, Texas. "Being able to bring my horse on my vacation was an extra plus. With Mimi and Tom, we rode on terrain that my horse had never seen. It was a great experience for both of us. I love my new chaps - Mimi made the process of making them very easy. I enjoyed the cattle round up. This has been the best get-away I've ever had. Tom and Mimi are great!
Tony & Sally Redmond, Denmark. "Thanks for letting us share your little piece of "heaven on earth". We only have to think of what we imagined before we came - then multiply by ten! You really have made our dream come true, and Tony has thoroughly enjoyed all his small "arguments" with Sonny. What with the sunshine, the tranquility and the food combined with nature and horses - who could ask for more?" and Ulrich and Mette, Denmark. "This has been a great week! Trying to cattle work for real and actually riding around in this wonderful scenery! We love the way you treat the animals - nice and calm. The best was riding along a big cattle herd going slowly in front of us, dusty and bawling. And riding up and down hills to find them, and sitting on a horse for hours. Thank you for an unforgettable week and for your hospitality. Hope to see you again here in your new house!"

Previous years' Guest Comments