Lay ZJ Ranch

08/27/2026

Follow us now on Tik Tok as well

08/27/2026

08/26/2026

🍂 Fall is in the air at Lay ZJ Ranch!

There’s just something special about these cool, crisp mornings—the smell of fresh hay, the sound of horses moving around, and the peacefulness that comes with morning chores. Honestly, it’s the best time of the day! ❤️

As the seasons change, we’re reminded how blessed we are to wake up and do what we love. The horses, the ranch, and these quiet mornings make all the hard work worth it.

We’d love to see where all of our followers are from! Drop your town or state in the comments and tell us where you’re following along from!

And while you’re at it, show us those beautiful horses! 📸 Post a picture of your favorite horse in the comments—we’d love to see them!

🍁 From our morning chores here at Lay ZJ Ranch, Newton, IL, to your barn wherever you are—have a beautiful fall day! 🍂🐴

08/25/2026

Like and follow our page to follow the mares and foals as they grow!

08/25/2026

Lay ZJ Ranch — Newton, Illinois

At Lay ZJ Ranch, horses aren’t just what we do—they’re our passion and our way of life. Located in Newton, Illinois, we offer c**t starting, halter breaking, tune-ups, and horse boarding, with a focus on giving every horse the time, patience, and foundation they deserve.

We also raise and offer AQHA and APHA foals, along with Blue Heeler puppies.

From the first steps of groundwork to developing a confident, dependable partner, we believe in doing things the right way and treating every animal like our own.

The ranch is our life. The horses are our passion. 🐴❤️

Please like and follow us to keep up with the ranch life!

08/24/2026

As we get into the last couple months of our show season I would like to give our sponsors a big shout out. Thanks for investing in our youth without each and everyone of you this would not be possible. I would also like to add that we have FOUR of are youth that have decided to represent Crawford County in Illinois high school and jr high rodeo. Landee Clark, Lucy Lachemeyer, Will Clark and Adalyn Clark. We wish each and everyone of you a successful fall and spring season go chase your dreams, make memories and have fun.

08/24/2026

Have wonderful Monday! To all our followers and friends!

08/20/2026

Where My 4-H Story Began

I grew up in 4-H, where I learned to dream,
With horses, hogs, and cattle—more than they seemed.
They taught me responsibility, patience, and pride,
And gave me memories I’ll carry inside.

From early mornings to show-ring days,
I learned that hard work has so many ways.
I loved every animal, every chore, every mile,
And every challenge that made me smile.

But horses always held a special place,
A lifelong love I could never replace.
They became more than livestock to me—
They became a part of who I would be.

It was an honor, for a little while,
To serve as Horse Superintendent in Cumberland County,
To watch the program continue to grow,
And help young 4-H’ers find their way and know.

I’ve watched kids learn, gain confidence, and stand tall,
Just as 4-H once taught me to give my all.
The lessons go far beyond the show-ring gate—
They build character, friendships, and futures that last.

Looking back, I’m grateful for every part,
For the animals that captured my heart.
For the people, the lessons, the memories too—
4-H helped shape the person I grew into.

And though the years have carried me on,
That love for horses has never been gone.
They remain a very special part of my life,
Through every season, every joy, every strife.

I’ll always be proud of where I began,
With 4-H, livestock, and a helping hand.
Because once 4-H becomes part of your heart,
Its lessons and memories never truly depart.