Western Women's Retreat 2026
Join us for the 16th Annual Western Women’s Retreat at the King City Saddle Club in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, on Friday, September 11, and Saturday, September 12, 2026.
We would love for you to join us for a weekend centered on Jesus, connection, and the Western way of life. Bring a friend or come on your own. Whether your faith is a steady part of your life, you want to draw closer to Jesus, or you are simply curious to know more about Him, there is a place for you here. You do not need to own a horse or know how to ride. This weekend is for women ages 18 and older who are ready to step away for a little while, enjoy time together, and see what God may have for them.
Friday registration will be open from 4:00–7:00 p.m., with dinner served at 6:00 p.m. The evening will include horseback activities in the arena, a fun show, fellowship around the campfire, a devotion, and praise and worship led by Taylor Marsh. We will end the evening with a late-night movie, popcorn, and snacks.
Saturday morning begins at your own pace. Coffee and a Danish will be available early in the cook shack, leaving time for a short trail ride, a morning hike, or quiet time with the Lord. Brunch will be served at 10:00 a.m., followed by praise and worship with Taylor and an encouraging, Christ-centered message from guest speaker Abigail Lovett.
Abigail is a passionate follower of Jesus, trauma-informed coach, speaker, social worker, and former teacher. She loves helping women recognize the presence of Jesus in the ordinary moments of life and believes deeply in the power of presence, prayer, and authenticity.
Saturday afternoon will include a group trail ride for those who bring their horses. A hike and other activities will be available for non-riders, and the arena will also be open.
Whether you ride or simply enjoy the Western way of life, come ready to slow down, strengthen your faith, build lasting friendships, and leave refreshed and encouraged. Come with friends or arrive ready to make new ones. You may attend one day or enjoy the entire weekend.
The full-weekend registration fee is $50. Non-King City Saddle Club members will pay an additional $5 insurance fee at check-in.
Guests may stay on-site for an additional fee. A limited number of stalls and electrical hookups are available and must be reserved in advance. Tie-outs are permitted. Guests may also stay at a hotel in nearby Mt. Vernon, Illinois.
Retreat T-shirts will be available to order separately. The T-shirt ordering link will be added soon. T-shirt orders must be placed by September 3.
King City Saddle Club
13883 E. Idlewood Road
Mt. Vernon, IL 62864
Registration and reservations for stalls and electrical hookups must be received by September 3.
Click the registration button to reserve your place. We would love to welcome you!
"10 Techniques to get Students Talking" Summer Book Study
Join Dr. Brandy Fuehne and Dr. DeeAnn Schnautz this July for an engaging, interactive book study – 10 Techniques to Get Students Talking. Instead of long readings and discussion posts, this asynchronous workshop brings each chapter to life through hands-on, choice-based activities like tic-tac-toe boards, “this or that,” two truths and a lie, SWBAT challenges, and even a wheel spin game. You’ll be creating, collaborating, and connecting while designing materials that fit your classroom and your students. Best of all, it’s completely on your schedule. You can work at your own pace, from the beach, the mountains, or your own back porch, with the book delivered right to your door.
If student engagement is a challenge, this book offers a practical, research-based solution. With over 40 years of combined experience as teachers, instructional leaders, and professors, Fuehne and Schnautz share low-prep, high-impact strategies that transform students into active learners and confident leaders. Through real classroom examples, QR-coded videos, and ready-to-use templates, you’ll explore powerful concepts like building positive relationships, encouraging productive mistakes, using precise praise, facilitating dynamic discussions, and amplifying student voice.
Real educators. Real examples. Real stories. Real fun…this is one summer learning experience you won’t want to miss!
All participants will pay a $15 book fee regardless of curriculum co-op status.
Registration ends June 15th at 8:00 am. No refunds after this date/time.
Sunday Mornin' Country
Dee is excited to be a member of the choir again this year. It will be an incredible Sunday experience!
Mother's Day Luncheon: East Salem Baptist Church
Join the ladies of East Salem Baptist Church for a Mother’s Day Celebration with special guest, speaker and musician, Dee Ann Schnautz. She will be speaking on, “Making Lemonaide out of Lemons: Finding Purpose in our Pain”. She will also be sharing special music. Please contact the church for more information and to secure your spot.
Saddle Sisters’ Saddle Cleaning Night
Join us for a light dinner, a devotion with Kelly Kelley, worship, and saddle cleaning! Let’s get our hearts and our saddles ready for the season!
Western Women's Retreat 2025
It’s time for our 15th Annual Western Women’s Retreat at the King City Saddle Club on Friday, September 12th and Saturday, September 13th. DonnAnn Crumbly will be our guest speaker and teach us how to Bible Doodle. A Friday night fun show, camp fire, and time of devotion will be on the agenda. And Saturday we will host a brunch, worship and message, Bible Doodling and a trail ride.
Saddle Sisters' Saddle Cleaning
Join us for a fun night….food, fellowship, and friendship!
Women's Ministry Conference for Small Churches
The Women’s Ministry For Small Churches Conference happens THIS Saturday! This free online event features 24+ speakers in small churches who can help you take your women’s ministry from filling a calendar to fulfilling a purpose! Click this link to register for the free event!
Taking the Lead: Leadership Lessons Learned from Horses Workshop for the Mount Vernon Teachers' Conference
Discover leadership lessons learned from horses in this engaging presentation. Learn how lessons on trust, communication, and emotional intelligence can transform your approach to leadership. With real-life examples and practical advice at Dee’s farm, you’ll gain insights to lead with compassion and effectiveness in your school or classroom. Visit www.roe13.org or call 618-244-8040 and speak with Julie to register. Spots are limited to the first twenty people.
2024 Western Women's Retreat
Reenergize your faith, meet wonderful people, and embrace the beauty of God's creation. Enjoy a weekend filled with spiritual growth, unforgettable memories, and the joy of horses. If you're eager to deepen your relationship with God and make lasting friendships, this retreat is for you. Click on the view event link to get more info, pre-register, and become part of the Saddle Sisterhood as we ride together on a journey of faith, fellowship, and friendship. LeAnn Hart will be sharing the Word with us. Learn more about LeAnn’s ministry at https://leannhartministries.com
Virtual Book Study (4 Weeks): Divinely Different: Creating a Significant Life When the Way is Unexpected, Unwanted, and Unknown by Jen Jones
Join me for a four-week virtual book discussion on my friend Jen Jones’ book, “Divinely Different.” Jen may even join us for one of the hour-long sessions. Click the link below to register for the discussion. You can purchase your copy of the book on Amazon. If you are local, you may purchase a copy from me for $20.
13th Annual Calvary for Christ Western Women’s Retreat
Discover a unique opportunity to rejuvenate your faith, forge meaningful connections, and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation at our Western Women's Retreat. Join us for an unforgettable weekend of spiritual growth, heartwarming memories, and the joy of horses. If you want to deepen your relationship with God and form lasting friendships, this retreat is for you. Click here to pre-register and join the Saddle Sisterhood as we ride together on a journey of faith, fellowship, and friendship.