3 Must-Reads to Put in Your Saddlebags Immediately

Just because your schedule is chockfull with riding horses, feeding cattle and fixing fences, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t make some time for yourself. Self-care and self-improvement are two things that many people choose to put on the back burner these days. But how can you expect others to respect you and your lifestyle when you don’t respect it enough to give it a little TLC?

Saddle up your trusty steed or strap on those hiking boots and make sure to bring along these three books. Heck, you can even sit on your front porch with a cold drink and make time for yourself. You won’t be sorry.

Crazy Woman Creek: Women Rewrite the American West by Linda M. Hasselstrom, Gaydell Collier, and Nancy Curtis

This book is filled with poetry and other works about women of the West. It gives an entirely raw and genuine outlook on the way of life that many western women have taken pride in over the years. Exposing the reality of a harshness that has never been revealed before, the women in this book have shaped not only their own lives and communities, but also the future for other women of the West. It’s honest and invigorating, shocking and inspiring. This book will make you proud to call yourself a cowgirl.   

Junk Gypsy by Amie Sikes & Jolie Sikes

For anyone with a creative side, this should be your first read. If you enjoy browsing your local flea market, repurposing old furniture or using your imagination to create new things, then this book is for you. The two sisters/authors of this book, take you through the story of their lives and how they decided to go against the grain of society. They decided to follow their hearts and their passions, rather than focusing on the expectations of others. And in turn, they literally created the life of their dreams. If you need inspiration or that little extra boost to follow your heart, listen to Amie and Jolie, because they’ve got more than just good style. 

Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand In the Sun and Be Your Own Person by Shonda Rimes

While this particular book is not based on a couple of adorable business owners in Texas or on the history of influential women out West, it is 100% a must-read for both men and women in all walks of life. Guest star on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Shonda Rimes, takes her readers through her own personal account of finding herself and not being afraid to continue being that woman in her day-to-day life. She talks about being vulnerable and embracing your individuality, as well as taking chances for yourself and your future. For anyone looking for their #MondayMotivation, you’re only three hundred pages away.