Who We Are

Who We Are

Mystic Sky Ranch is proudly
owned and operated by Sandie and Joe Ward.

Welcome to Texas Hill Country!

The first moment we saw Mystic Sky Ranch it was love at first sight. Amid the rolling hillside, tall grasses danced in the unseen wind. The air had more warmth, more fragrance. In these moments there is a joy that comes in the free birdsong; a steadiness to my heart. The open landscape coaxes my inner energy to flow in ways that weave my soul into the land.

It’s where we are supposed to be.

Perhaps it’s the pride of nature, this simple scene of flora and fauna and the biggest blessing is to witness it’s beauty. It’s a tranquil environment that’s about disconnecting. Escaping. A place to reconnect to the ever-open book of nature.

As a child, I recall memories at Mamie’s, planting seeds and harvesting her garden. It’s been a life long dream to own a rustic yet creatively styled property and get back to nature. A place where family and friends can gather sharing life celebrations.

I’ve always had a love for food and nature and created a food blog years ago about zany adventures that took me to the Oscars to interview the likes of Wolfgang Puck and celebrity chefs from around the world. The blog became a journal of moments captured in time, sharing what I enjoy doing most; cooking, eating, writing and photography. What inspires me? My family.  Sons David, Chris and Ryan, along with Nicole and Kerena have my heart. With grand-daughters Mackenzie & Remi I understand what all the fuss is about. Gob smacked! Being creative. Inspiring others!

The property is part of the Historic Peyton Colony, land sections that were granted to Freedman after the Emancipation Proclamation. Austin Jones who was an anchor to the community was the grandson of MJ Jones, to whom the land was granted. Austin spent his entire life on this property. The land was granted to the Jones family in 1877. Previous owners lovingly operated “Onion Creek Kitchens at Juniper Hills Farms” since 2005 and have moved to Blanco.

We are dedicated to acknowledging the rich history of the land, being it’s ambassador and creating our own unique style which we are confident guests will enjoy. It is our desire to not only maintain and protect a piece of Texas Hill Country, but to share it with others with hopes of creating a family legacy for our children and grandchildren.

Husband Joe (aka Hank) and I have always been philanthropic. We’ve donated time for The Texas Food Bank, Les Dames Escoffier Austin, PAWS Animal Shelter, Friends of The Night Sky Hays County (to name a few) which is most humbling. Wanting to give back more to the community, we felt the ranch would be a good platform to support and enrich this wonderful local community.

The spacious barn is the perfect backdrop for local musical performances (dancing included). We each need a place for good health and retreat.  Our guests can schedule a massage and indulge in the sauna. Yoga classes can be held in the open-air barn or poolside. Come renew your spirit and emerge revitalized!

Each casita offers something unique; countryside views, tranquil water features and restful sleeping space. Our casitas have indulgent comfort in mind and we’ve worked tirelessly to deliver an experience like no other when you visit this beautiful part of Texas.

Perhaps this is a time of dreams seeping into realty. Earl Grey tea is running through my veins as we compile everything to bring you our best. (Ok, there is Limoncello in the fridge for emergencies).

We look forward to offering warm and welcoming hospitality to all, nestled under the most amazing star-lit sky you’ve ever seen!

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