While the guys are still at hunting camp, this is the time of year when we’re able to catch our breath, slow down and reflect before we head full steam ahead into the holiday season. At Mills Wilderness Adventures of Montana, we have so much to be thankful for. Ever year, we tend to hustle as hard as possible, working to fill trips, host guests and take care of our horses, mules and each other. And every year, we feel it’s important to stop and count our blessings.
With that in mind, we want to share a few of the things we’re thankful for this year.
1. Our livestock and pups
It’s no secret that our horses and mules are part of our family. We could not do this without them. From pack strings that haul gear, food and supplies back into camp to horses that are sure-footed and steady as they transport guests into camp, we have so much to be grateful for when it comes to our stock. And to our crew of dogs – you make our world go round and are the best pups we could ask for.
2. Wonderful guests
Without our guests, we wouldn’t have a business. It’s not lost on us that our guests choose to come on trips with us, spending their hard-earned money to travel here and take a trip into the Bob Marshall Wilderness with us. Over the years, we’ve had many guests who have become lifelong friends and we’re so grateful for those relationships.
3. Snow
As we write this blog, it’s snowing in Augusta, Montana, the town we call home. And while the mountains have had a few storms drop snow, we’re so glad to see more snow falling there and out here in the foothills. Moisture plays an important role in our state and its terrain and we always say a silent thank you when it rains and snows.
4. Our Augusta
While we’ve talked about it before, we live in the best town in the West. There’s something extra special about this community, its small businesses, residents and folks who visit. It’s a place that’s home to hard workers, supportive neighbors, genuine friends and people who care about one another. If you haven’t been to where we hang our hats yet, come visit! Augusta has great events year-round, including during the winter.
5. Our summer home
Each summer and fall, we head to White River for summer pack trips and fall hunting camps. While we love our cozy house in town, there’s nothing that compares to The Bob and its wildness. There is nowhere else we’d rather be and we love heading into the hills at the start of every summer.
And last, but certainly not least, we’re extra grateful for…
6. Identical TWIN grandsons
Our youngest Turk and his wife Mady are expecting not one, but TWO bundles of joy in 2025! The boys’ arrival will make Turk and Mady first-time parents and Tucker and I will be grandparents, a role we cannot wait to play. We are incredibly blessed to see our baby and his wonderful wife bring two new babies into the world – we’re already counting down the days to riding back into White River with them.
From our family to you, we invite you to slow down, breathe deeply and savor this special time of year. Wishing you a very wonderful Thanksgiving, no matter where the holiday finds you.
With love and gratitude,
The Mills Family
