Paul and Sarah Barowsky, with Audrey and Erin
Members since 2007 :: Moved from San Antonio
In 2007, after living in high-density San Antonio neighborhoods for 15 years, we were ready for a slower pace and more green space. Remaining close to the airport was key, but we definitely wanted to be out of the congestion! Luckily, we recalled a friend mentioning “this place called Cordillera.” We visited and fell in love at first sight. The amazing views, wildlife and access to club amenities impressed us so much that we chose our lot on our first visit.
As an active young family, we enjoy the diversity of outdoor activities Cordillera has to offer. We’ve made many special memories while spending time outdoors at the parks, walking trails, swimming pool, Equestrian Center, river, and dabbling a little in tennis and golf. In addition, we have met amazing neighbors who have become wonderful friends. We truly enjoy being “in the country,” yet close enough to Boerne (and its excellent schools and activities) and San Antonio that we feel Cordillera and its excellent staff represent the best of what this area has to offer.
David and Madeline Cottrell
Members since 2015 :: Moved from
Horseshoe Bay, with a second home in Louisiana
Madeline and I moved here from Horseshoe Bay three years ago. We chose Cordillera because of the proximity to three of our children who live in San Antonio and Austin. It was also attractive to us because of the great golf course and the close proximity to the San Antonio airport, and we love the Texas Hill Country.
Before we moved to Cordillera we did not know anything about the community. We were pleasantly surprised when we discovered how warm and friendly the people of Cordillera have been. We have met many new friends and recommended some of our life-long friends to move next door to us here — and they did. It is the most active community that we have ever lived in.
When our family comes to visit us, we use all seven of the Cordillera clubs in a weekend. We are both avid Pickleball players and play at least twice a week. Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America and we were among the first group of people to play at Cordillera. Madeline also enjoys the Equestrian Center and I can be seen on the golf course most days when we are in town.
We live in Cordillera about half of the year. The “lock and leave” Villas in Di Lusso work well for us since we live in the New Orleans area half of our time. With so many of the other Cordillera residents in and out as well, it is easy for us to fit right back into our groups when we return from one of our extended visits.
Pete, AKA RJ Repeating Action
Resident since 2010 :: Moved from San Augustine, Texas
How did you come to live at Cordillera Ranch?
In August 2000, my owners, Jodi and Van Wilkinson, purchased a ranch lot, intending to retire here and build their forever home. They originally planned for me to live with them. When we all moved to the Hill Country in June of 2010, their house had not been built. Thankfully, because my owners had joined The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch in 2003, I was able to move into the Equestrian Center. I was extremely happy in my new surroundings. Rather than move again, I convinced Jodi and Van to make the Equestrian Center my permanent home. I can’t imagine living anywhere else.
What do you like most about living at the Equestrian Center?
First of all, the food is great! Plus, I have a wonderful staff that attends to all my needs. And there’s always something going on — trail rides, socials, play days, camps and more! So many fun and exciting things go on around me every day. Anyone who has not taken the opportunity to visit the Equestrian Center is missing out. As the Toby Keith song says, “I love this bar(n)”!
What are some of your personal accomplishments?
I’m naturally photogenic and I don’t mind wearing hats and props. Plus, I’ll do almost anything for a treat. I enjoy playing charades and, if I do say so myself, I’m pretty good at it. I also maintain a Facebook page with Jodi’s help. You can find my Facebook page by searching @Pete.sa.tx.
My other claim to fame is my appearance in the Wall Street Journal in October, 2016. My owners and I were part of an article about gated equestrian developments in the US. We were honored to represent our wonderful community.
What do you do in a typical day?
Every day starts with breakfast delivered to my room. Next, I’m escorted to the pasture to hang out with my friends. My room is cleaned every day while I’m gone. Some days Jodi visits and brings me treats. In the afternoon, I’m brought in for supper. Then it’s lights out for the night. The next day I get to do it all over again. What a life!
Hobbies/Interests
One of the things I like to do is observe holidays. Some are traditional, like Easter and Christmas. Others are a little more unusual, like “Talk Like a Grizzled Prospector Day” and “National Bow Tie Day.” I also feel it’s never too late in life to learn a new skill, so I’m taking up carriage pulling. It’s a slow process, but so far, so good.
Favorite Quote?
“Treat a woman like a race horse and she’ll never be a nag.”
Hope to see you at the Equestrian Center. Be sure to look me up. And bring plenty of carrots.
