ABOUT US

I sat staring at the email in disbelief. The opportunity I had been praying for was sitting in my inbox. Surely it wasn’t real.  But there it was. ‘VERA”. Voluntary Early Retirement Authority in Federal Government  speak. The Golden Ticket. I worked for the Federal Government for twenty years, and that month I would be age eligible for early retirment. I had a very good career, and was paid very well. But the commute and the job sucked the life out of me, and I was missing something huge in my life. JOY. My job was slowly stealing joy from my life. I clicked the button to accept the offer. 

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My husband, Jim Bob, and I were celebrating my decision over a couple adult beverages. He asked what I wanted to do with this new chapter in my life, and I knew right away. I said,” I want to put my ass to work!” You see, my donkeys bring me great joy. I love them. They are funny. They are loyal. They are smart. And I know others respond the same way to them. My donkeys bring joy to everyone who meets them.  So I decided I wanted to share my joy with others.  I can’t think of a better way than helping people celebrate their most joyous occasions  - weddings & parties!   

I went for a hike the next day with my donkey, Daisy Mae. As we walked along, it occurred to me that hiking with donkeys should be a thing. Why isn’t it a thing?! Daisy agreed, and we set out on a path to make it happen. We can share joy, and let people share the beauty of our ranch as well. 

And so Brays & Brews was formed. My husband, while skeptical at first, is fully onboard the donkey pack train! We are looking forward to serving drinks at parties, hiking our ranch, and giving a small bit of joy to others.