When I first heard that CFD was commemorating this year as the "Year of the Cowgirl," I couldn't help but think of all of the amazing women over the years that make up the fabric woven into this iconic event.
Growing up, I was truly blessed to have been surrounded by the amazing folks that have made this rodeo, one of the best in the country. My dad accepted a job as the Executive Director of CFD in 1984, I was four. For the next 25 years, we became part of the CFD family. From an early age, I watched as my dad created + maintained working relationships, lifelong friendships + so much respect for the thousands of volunteers that make CFD what it is today. Not to mention he could remember almost everyones name.
Some of my fondest memories include growing up with women role models like Arlene Kensinger + Marietta Dinneen + watching Miss Frontier, her Lady In Waiting + the Dandies be such amazing ambassadors for OUR communities rodeo...each + every one of these women embody beautiful legacies.
Last year, while I was getting inspiration for our Rodeo Collection, I took a walk down the street + found the Cowgirls of the West Museum. Not only was I inspired by every woman pictured on their walls----Prairie Rose Henderson for one, but I learned so much about the cowgirl + her influence on today.
Our "Year of the Cowgirl" Tee this year has a photo of my great Aunt Violet. She + her husband Jack were cattle ranchers outside of Laramie, WY. I used to visit Aunt Vi in her later years + I always marveled at her hands. She wasn't a tall woman, but she was fierce + her hands told the story of hard work---through the calloused lines that were so beautifully drawn on them. She lived until she was 104.
The outstanding women who have come before us have paved a beautiful path, not an easy one, but one that passes on every success to each new generation. Their perseverance + grit needs to be continually celebrated + shared so we can continue to do great things for the generations to come.
Cheers to the legacy of Cheyenne Frontier Days, the Daddy of 'em all!!
