American Cowgirl

I am a widow of 2 years now. My husband was my best friend and we were married 28 years and met in 9th grade. I live on my family land and raise and show cattle, am a certified cattle judge, do my haying, have horses we use for rodeoing, cattle work, and trail riding. I also take care of our 7 rental properties and work 37 1/2 hours a week working for an insurance company as a marketing rep doing a lot of traveling in South Dakota.

I could not do this without the help from my 2 daughters and son in law when I am gone out on the road. My daughters are the 6th generation of my family here on this Iowa land and now my 19 month old grandson is the 7th. Our arch across our driveway says it all….”Heritage Acres”. Our Arena “Heritage Arena” and my daughter and son in law’s place “Heritage Hill”.

I used to do Little Britches rodeos and a few local horse shows as a kid. Now at 51 I have gone back to rodeoing and am loving every minute. My youngest daughter Kylie still rodeos and was in high school rodeo for Iowa. She had a full ride rodeo scholarship to Cheyenne her first year and could have had it her second year but would not go back after her dad’s death in ’06. She is now in college close to home so she can help out here when needed. Many people do not realize that there is a rodeo scholarship opportunity for youth. Please tell them.

I am hoping that my daughters will continue my familly tradition on this land…as of now that is my youngest’s plan after college. Women can step up to the plate and continue what most think is a man’s world. I have been told over and over again I should sell out…but I refuse to listen… and so do my girls. We are in this for the long haul and will continue to keep cattle and horses a big part of our lives.

I am writing a song which says it all…from suits to jeans…that is us. When I am out on the road traveling for work, I think about when I can get back home to what I really love. It keeps me going each and every day when I am feeling tired and weary at times. When I am outside here I feel more alive than anywhere else. No one should ever give up on their dreams no matter what is thrown at you. As they say “cowgirl up” is what it is all about! I wish you all the best in your lives with your horses and as American Cowgirls. Keep it alive girls…keep it alive!!

Cindy Berner-Schlichte
Merrill, IA