By Amy C. Witt
Instagram: @caliiforniadreamin
www.caliidreamin.com
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For over a year, I have been working on self-publishing my first book, a collection of poetry inspired by the challenges and beauty of the western lifestyle. This month, I will be launching and releasing my book Cowgirl Confessions at the Art of the Cowgirl event held in Phoenix, Arizona. On Saturday, February 9, in both the morning and afternoon, I will be sharing my poetry on stage in the Courtyard. With over 40 drawings and over 100 poems, Cowgirl Confessions is a very raw piece of work evoked by many lessons learned throughout life as a cowgirl and experiences working amongst our sacred land. Artwork was an extremely important aspect in the creation of this book. The artwork that complements my poetry is contributed by Stormy Baxley, Jamie Changala, Poyomi McDarment, Alexandria Vidaurri, and Hillary Elliott—all artists I personally know from my hometown in Tulare County, in the Central Valley of California.
The Art of the Cowgirl is a celebration and gathering of cowgirls and their empowerment throughout the western culture. From an all-women ranch rodeo to horse sale, tradeshow, concert, along with clinicians and master artists displaying their work, the Art of the Cowgirl encourages and assists a diverse range of emerging artists of the western genre.
I cannot put into words how lucky and overwhelmed with excitement I am to have this opportunity. I feel like I wouldn’t have had this opportunity if it weren’t for Bob Feist, Stephanie Anderson, the Ropers Sports News team and you, yes you, reading this! Bob and Stephanie literally changed my life in 2012 when I was just starting out and not knowing who I was or what I was even doing. In May of that year, they published my first column about team roping spring fashion. Essentially, this publication has been the reason I have been able to blossom. I was inspired to pursue my love for writing, fashion, team roping, rodeo and cowboying and they believed in me from day one. Stephanie, Bob and the Ropers Sports News team never questioned me and they’ve always allowed me to grow. Something I’ve really appreciated is that they’ve always given me the freedom to create as I wish - understanding and supporting my vision. Thank you again... I couldn’t have accomplished this goal and dream without all of you!
If you would like a copy of my book please visit Amazon, or my website, www.caliidreamin.com, or send me an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. For more information on the Art of the Cowgirl, visit their website: www.artofthecowgirl.com, or follow on Instagram @artofthecowgirl
Kaycee Maye Photography
Jamie Changala
Alexandria Vidaurri
Poyomi McDarment
The author of the blog, California Dreamin’ (www.caliidreamin.com), Amy Witt’s articles have appeared in magazines and newspapers around the world. A fashionista, cowgirl and journalist, Amy strives to motivate and inspire people around the world.