Blazing Trails...

That's my new ride. New to me, anyway. A Trailblazer, which--ironically--echoes my intent a year ago this month when my first-ever blog post was titled "Blazing Trails." It's been a year since I set out on this trail--both blog and designer--and to say that I've been blazing trails is an exaggeration. Due to many, many detours, I've been more like a snail on the freeway than a cowgirl with sights set on the western horizon. Yesterday's post declared near-triumph over my injury, and a partial release to get back to work. Two hours later, the water pump in my little work building gave up the ghost. Two hours! Granted, this kind of stuff happens all the time around here. But, that water pump is only six months old. Mr.E. (aka husband) is checking warranty....
Perhaps the Trailblazer will help create some good vibes for my endeavor. I pick her up today after physical therapy.

Never give up the trail.

DE: Dale Evans and Debi Estleman

This morning, as I was writing content for a Facebook Fan Page (it'll go public when my shop is stocked), I realized that I share initials with the most powerful female presence in 20th century cowboy culture--Dale Evans! We also share the same birth month, we've both written books, and we've always loved all things western.

However, her western wardrobe leaves mine in the dust.

Many women live by these words from Dale Evans--whether they know it or not:
"Cowgirl is an attitude, really. A pioneer spirit, a special American brand of courage. The cowgirl faces life head on, lives by her own lights, and makes no excuses. Cowgirls take stands. They speak up. They defend the things they hold dear. A cowgirl might be a rancher, or a barrel racer, or a bull rider, or an actress. But she's just as likely to be a checker at the local Winn Dixie, a full-time mother, a banker, an attorney, or an astronaut."

My handbag designs are meant for that cowgirl, whether she's headed to town for supplies or heading up a board meeting. Whether she's putting on her glad rags for a fandango or the Oscars.


Long live the cowgirl attitude.