Beyond the skyline

Cottage - 8

Dear Diary,

I got the call today. You know, the call. From the ranch. And let me tell you, I am still processing what they told me because, Diary, it’s not just a job—it’s practically a life upgrade with a side of cowboy charm.

Let’s start with the big news: the job comes with a cottage. Yes, a cosy two-storey cottage right there on the ranch property. My jaw hit the floor when they mentioned that. I was picturing a long commute and maybe a few dusty office chairs, but instead, they’re offering me my own little slice of paradise.

And when I say paradise, I mean paradise. The cottage is part of a mini-resort situation they have going on. There’s a shared BBQ area, a pool, and white deck chairs that I can already picture myself lounging in while pretending I’m in a country music video. Oh, and a playground for the kids. Can you even imagine? The kids would be running around outside, making friends, and forgetting that screens exist for a few glorious hours a day.

The office itself is in the main house, which, according to Laura, looks like something straight out of a southern ranch catalog—big porches, wide windows, and that classic charm that just begs for sweet tea and storytelling. Most of the cowboys stay in the bunkhouse (because of course they do), while the higher-ups and family members have their own homes situated around the resort purposefully built area.

Diary, I have questions. Who lives in those houses? Is Cole one of them? And why does this whole thing sound too good to be true?

But back to the cottage. I mean, how could I not be tempted? It’s the perfect setup: kids are welcome, the commute is a 30-second walk, and the views? Stunning. Rolling hills, sunsets that look like they were painted by a romantic dreamer, and wide-open skies that feel like freedom itself.

Honestly, I’m floored. Who even knew ranches operated like this? I was imagining dirt roads, dusty barns, and maybe a cowboy or two fixing a fence. But no, they’ve got a whole community out there. It’s like a modern ranch meets summer camp for adults and kids.

I’m still weighing my options (okay, mostly Googling “how to survive a cowboy crush while keeping your job”), but it’s hard to say no to something this dreamy. A fresh start, a gorgeous cottage, and a chance for the kids to grow up somewhere magical? What’s not to love?

Of course, I can already hear the practical voice in my head whispering about the risks. “What if it doesn’t work out? What if it’s too much change all at once?” And then there’s the small matter of Cole. What if seeing him every day is too much for my poor heart?

But you know what? Sometimes, you’ve just got to leap and see where you land. And honestly, landing in a cottage with white deck chairs doesn’t sound like the worst place to start.

Yours,

Future Cowgirl Cottage Resident (maybe)