July 2026 Ranch Update | Animal Sanctuary, Homestead & Art Studio Progress
It’s been a little while since I’ve shared a full update on the ranch and why I’ve been fundraising. Asking for help has never been easy for me, but I also believe in being transparent about where we are and where we’re headed.
The past few months have been incredibly stressful. I’ve been navigating a lot of uncertainty, and at times it left me feeling exhausted and depressed. Thankfully, I’ve been slowing down when I need to, drinking lots of calming teas, and focusing on taking care of myself so I can continue taking care of everyone else here.
Most importantly, thank you.
Every donation, Marketplace purchase, online store order, kind message, and word of encouragement has made a real difference. Your support has given me the motivation to keep moving forward. I recently completed a brand-new professional resume and have begun applying for leadership positions in planning, design, and construction management. My goal is to secure a full-time position that allows me to sustainably support the ranch while continuing to build Golden Mirage Ranch into everything I’ve envisioned.
Animal Update
Our current priority is finishing the new chicken coop. It will safely house our growing flock of roosters while giving us space to rescue a turkey tom from a local homestead before introducing him to our flock.
Our sixteen rabbits are thriving despite the summer heat. Before temperatures climb above 100°, I’m improving their housing with additional shade and ventilation to keep them comfortable. Some may eventually be rehomed, while others will become part of future educational programs and sound bath experiences at the ranch.
The goats are doing wonderfully. The young bucklings are reaching breeding age and will soon move into their own shelter. After the chicken coop is complete, we’ll return to finishing the SuperAdobe goat domes, which naturally stay cool in summer and warm in winter. As our herd grows, we hope to eventually produce artisan goat milk products while expanding educational visits, brush-clearing services, petting zoo experiences, and even goat yoga.
Phoenix, our newest kitten, is now eight weeks old. He has fully recovered from his eye infection, gets his vaccinations next week, and spends his days racing around the studio with endless kitten energy. Ziggy and Gigi are slowly learning to accept their energetic little brother.
Dune and Dakota have officially turned one year old. These gentle Anatolian Shepherds continue to grow into wonderful livestock guardians. They’re affectionate, protective without being aggressive, and learning their important jobs here on the ranch every day.
Building the Ranch
Beyond caring for the animals, we’re continuing to build the infrastructure that will support Golden Mirage Ranch for years to come.
We recently completed the barn foundation. Next comes rebuilding the framing, adding shear walls, installing rock guard, and putting on a new metal roof before our permit expires next January.
Our solar project is still moving through Los Angeles County approvals. Once permitted, we’ll build a solar-powered gazebo with electrical outlets that will serve as an outdoor stage for music, workshops, and community gatherings.
Later this year we’ll prepare the land for fall farming while redesigning our greenhouse system after learning valuable lessons from this summer’s heat.
Looking Ahead
The long-term vision continues to grow.
One project I’m especially excited about is creating a native desert nature walk across two acres of untouched land, using seeds collected from plants already thriving here to establish a native plant nursery and peaceful educational gardens.
I also hope to transform an old homesite into a gathering space with a yurt for yoga, workshops, retreats, and private events. Rather than becoming an Airbnb, my goal is to create a place where people can reconnect with nature, creativity, and each other. There will also be room for future tent and RV camping.
Another dream is building a dedicated workshop and studio where I can begin teaching art again while connecting it to a small ranch store.
Family Update
My mom continues to recover beautifully from her knee replacement surgery. She’s now walking with a cane and is in wonderful spirits. Watching her regain her strength has been one of the brightest parts of this season.
How You Can Help
I’m continuing to search for my next leadership role in planning, facilities, capital projects, construction, or themed entertainment. If you hear of any opportunities, I would truly appreciate an introduction.
After 24 years leading projects across education, healthcare, aerospace, hospitality, entertainment, and public infrastructure, I’m excited to bring that experience to a new organization while continuing to build Golden Mirage Ranch into a sustainable community resource.
For everyone who has donated, shopped, volunteered, shared my posts, or simply cheered us on—thank you. Every act of kindness helps feed the animals, build safer shelters, and move this dream one step closer to reality.
I believe Golden Mirage Ranch is becoming more than a rescue. It’s becoming a place where people can reconnect with nature, creativity, community, and themselves. Every shelter we build, every tree we plant, every workshop we create, and every story we share moves us closer to that vision.
Creating meaningful places where transformation happens.
With love and gratitude,
Buko and the Ranch Crew 🐐🐕🐓🐇🐿️🐈🦃🚜🤠
Hear the story behind the ranch on my recent ArTEEtude podcast:
Visit GoldenMirageRanch.com to shop for tote bags, shirts, mugs, hats, and more. Every purchase helps support the ranch.
You can also donate through our website or here on GoFundMe https://gofund.me/3aa83421e. Thank you for believing in this dream.