05/08/2026
I finished up a very special project earlier this week.❤️🤎
Miss Velma reached out in March asking if I might be able to build her chaps. Originally, I was scared I didn't have time to commit to the project, but we kept talking.
And I am so glad we did!
The Warm Springs Ranch Rodeo Association is a newer organization and this is the first year they have had a queen to represent them.
And Miss Velma is a gem!
She wanted to keep the chaps simple with a chap leather yokes and leg braces, but chose a striking color combination in the palomino legs and scarlet trim.
It was after we ordered leather and designed them up that she called again and asked if we could add the red handprint.
Of course!
The red handprint is a symbol to represent the crisis of the countless women and girls that go missing each year. And I didn't realize it until Velma, her sponsor, and queen coodinator arrived on Tuesday, and we began the process, that May 5 was the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
During the painting, we were chatting about the events she will get to participate in this year, and she ended with, "wherever the wind takes us."
It was an honor to paint Velma's hand and help her place it on her chaps. I am blessed to have been a small part of Velma's big story, and I cannot wait to see where the wind takes this wonderful young woman.🤎
