Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Cher Bell - She's a Rebel Girl

Name: Cher Bell
eMail Address: cher@RebelGirl.com
Cell: 586-786-0300
City: Sterling Heights 
State: MI
Country: United States of America

Share how you came to be a motorcyclist? What Make and Model do you ride? How has riding shaped you into the person you are today?
Before my daughter was born(1978)my passion and riding days were far and few between raising 3 children. However, after the kids were grown I became a veteran to riding. I joined Women on Wheels, Free Spirit Chapter of Michigan and Ladies of Harley 1989.I have now been riding for more than thirty years. I keep a few bikes in my "girl garage", my favorite being my H-D 9'chopper and the bagger for the long trips, a 2003 H-D Electra glide

Riding a motorcycle takes confidence and courage. What and who are the people that instilled those qualities in you? How did you develop them? 
I guess u could say Good ol dad was my inspiration! However, courage and confidence never factored into the equation. Us kids would just wake up to the sound of thunder and I would run to the garage in a frenzie yelling "can I go". I was never the girl on the back,I thought If I want to go for a ride, I better learn how to ride one of those things. 
Out on the road, riders face daily challenges. Being vulnerable, a rider needs to be very focused and ready for anything. How do you prepare both mentally and physically for your daily adventures? How do you connect with your inner self and prepare for challenges like fatigue, poor weather conditions, etc. 
I take every part of my being seriously. I remind myself that I am a wife, a mother, a grandmother and I am loved. When their is an obstacle that might challenge me, I always count on my inner spiritual strength, take a deep breath and say "I Can, If I Say I Can"!


You've been riding for X amount of time. What makes it still exciting for you? What do you get out of it? How has it changed (for you) over the years?
For 15+ years It's been a family affair! I ride along side my husband and my 3 grown children on their bikes. I look forward to riding with my grandchildren on day! It's what fuels my rebel soul!

If you could tell the world one thing about yourself, what would it be?

“I’m a woman on a mission on a motorcycle!” I try to inspire and make a difference by example, one ride at a time. It’s the fuel that feeds my passion for life and business. 


Cher riding with her sons!
Paying it forward appears to be a large part of who we are as members of the motorcycle community. Who or what was your inspiration to encourage you to give back? Why do you do what you do?
Most of my life it was "just do it" because it's what your supposed to do. Give, because they asked or needed it. Now my values have changed! After the hundreds of rally's and benefits I have attended. I now "GIVE" because I watch the effect it has had on my children and others.I see the way "GIVING" can change someones life, even if just for a moment... and that what inspires me. 

My bike is packed and I'm heading out on the road. These moments are my favorite. That feeling of excited anticipation as I start the engine, and pull out. 

My road trips are usually with a small group of friends and family or the free Spirit Chapter I belong to of 50+ women. However, once that throttle cracks, It brings a feeling of excitement and nervousness all at once. A sort of rush that runs through my veins. The adrenalin starts pumping just over the thought of a new venture anew!

In 1863, Abraham Lincoln wrote in the Gettysburg address…    This nation, under God shall have a new birth of freedom.    A new birth of freedom. Hmm... lots to think about here.    In "Me and Bobby McGee" Kris Kristofferson wrote…    Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose.    Tell us what freedom means to you?

My Freedom is a reminder of those that gave their lives and time, so that I too, may have the freedom to make a difference and memories in my life time!

What's next for you?

I have spent many passionate years building a business and leaving a nest for my children and theirs. I hope to leave a legacy of what can be achieved when God, devotion, passion and hard work is a part of your daily life! I continue to extend my clothing and accessories brand through licensing, which allows me to now enjoy the meaning of "WORK HARD,PLAY HARDER! I continue to school myself on the ins and outs of my business and teach others the "LIVE LIFE NOW, for your Future" way of thinking and dreaming.



Authors Note:
Although I had heard much about Cher Bell, it was not until I founded the Steel Horse Sisterhood that we actually met, first on the phone and soon we will be meeting in Denver.

After reading Cher's story , I have a burning desire to post and "ring her bell" a little. She is quite a women.

Joan Krenning
Lady Road Dog


About Rebel Girl:

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About the Steel Horse Sisterhood

“At the end of our lives what really matters is the answer to the question, “How well did we love?” When we tap into the force of love, suddenly the unforgivable can be forgiven, the un-healable can be healed.” - Sara Stover

This quote is the essence of the Steel Horse Sisterhood.

As women who ride, we share a common bond. We share the passion of helping others, the love for our countries, the love of riding and the love of our motorcycles.

The Steel Horse Sisterhood:

  • Is a collaboration of the life stories of women who live, giving of their time and talents for the benefit of others
  • Is a community of women who share the love of the ride, the love of each other and what fuels their passion
  • Transcends age, race, economics, religion, borders, abilities and motorcycle preference
  • Is a spiritual connection
The inspiration for the Steel Horse Sisterhood and the Steel Horse Sisterhood Summit came about in September of 2012 as a vision to rider and business owner Joan Krenning aka Lady Road Dog

To find out more about the Steel Horse Sisterhood Click Here 
To become a sponsor of a Steel Horse Sisterhood event please contact Joan at joan@steelhorsesisterhood.com

Monday, April 28, 2014

Colleen Vetere - Enjoying All Life Has To Offer


Name: Colleen M. Vetere
eMailAddress: freespirithd@gmail.com
Cell: 720.544.1042
City: Littleton 
State: CO
Country: United States of America

Share how you came to be a motorcyclist? What Make and Model do you ride? How has riding shaped you into the person you are today?
I was that little kid, nose pressed to the car window, watching with longing every motorcycle that appeared alongside. Despite my parent’s best attempts at thwarting said interest, I remained convinced that somehow, some way, motorcycles would be in my future. My “riding” began with opportunities to take a spin on minibikes owned by my brother’s friends. I then spent several years during college hitching rides on the back of my boyfriends’ motorcycles. It wasn’t until the late 80’s and became a nurse in the emergency room that I met the first woman I knew who rode a bike – my charge nurse. I “borrowed” her bike as often as I could and, as they say, the rest is history. Over the years I’ve ridden many makes and models. My current bikes are a 1994 Harley Davidson Road King and a 2006 Harley Davidson Road Glide. I figure I have over a quarter of a million street miles under my belt so far!


Riding a motorcycle takes confidence and courage. What and who are the people that instilled those qualities in you? How did you develop them? 
I learned to ride the hard way – I jumped on a friend’s bike, he showed me the throttle, the clutch, and the brakes, and off I went. Not ideal, and certainly not recommended. Over the years I met several other folks who rode – men and women – and each of them taught me something new and different about riding, whether new skills, the love of cross-country travel, the love of riding on back-country dirt roads, whatever. As my skills and confidence grew, more and more of the women in my H.O.G. Chapter would seek me out to help them with their skills and confidence after obtaining their endorsements. It was during this time that I realized I probably should become an MSF Rider Coach, so I could reinforce what they had just learned. I taught MSF courses for about 5 years and learned as much as I shared with my fellow riders.


Out on the road, riders face daily challenges. Being vulnerable, a rider needs to be very focused and ready for anything. How do you prepare both mentally and physically for your daily adventures? How do you connect with your inner self and prepare for challenges like fatigue, poor weather conditions, etc. 
Riding cross-country by myself is among my most treasured activities. Beyond the standard preparations of the bike and all my equipment, I visualize the beginning of the ride, knowing that the adventure will unfold itself in due course and take me along for the ride. While I may have some general plans (direction, destination, timing), I make very few plans beyond that. The joy is allowing myself the freedom to detour as I wish, stop when I feel like it, and adjust to conditions as they arise. 

You've been riding for X amount of time. What makes it still exciting for you? What do you get out of it? How has it changed (for you) over the years?
I've been riding motorcycles for over 30 years. In 2003, I got married and my husband and I took leaves of absences and hit the road on our motorcycles of 6 months. We camped most of the time and had very few obligations along the way (Harley’s 100th being the key exception). During that time we experienced every situation one could imagine and we both learned how to adapt and persevere. We both learned so much about ourselves, each other, and riding in general over the course of those 6 months!

As we all know, riding never gets old. What has changed for me is that I no longer feel the need to “prove” that I can master all the hardships, or that I need to “prove” I can handle cold, hot, rain, hail, etc. Been there, done that. Now, preparation for me is assuring that I have all the necessary gear to stay comfortable and focused on the ride –and that means windshields, heated gear, lots of changes of jackets, layers, etc. While I still LOVE the idea of Iron Butt rides (and hope to do at least another couple in the years to come), I also LOVE the chance to take time and just ride.


If you could tell the world one thing about yourself, what would it be?
That I hope to never stop seeking new adventures and meeting new people. These experiences help enrich us as well as those around us.

Paying it forward appears to be a large part of who we are as members of the motorcycle community. Who or what was your inspiration to encourage you to give back? Why do you do what you do?
I had so many folks who helped me in my early days of riding. I get immense joy in helping new women riders gain their saddle confidence. Given that I’m an old emergency room nurse, it was a natural progression to become affiliated with Accident Scene Management, Inc and teach the Bystanders Assistance Course. I’m now an Instructor-Trainer for this program. Vicki Sanfelipo is clearly one of those folks who inspire us to reach well beyond our boundaries to accomplish more than we thought we ever could.

My bike is packed and I'm heading out on the road. These moments are my favorite. That feeling of excited anticipation as I start the engine, and pull out. 
The feelings I have when starting out on a trip are always the same, despite the years of riding experience I have under my belt. Anticipation, nervousness, excitement, butterflies…..these stay with me for at least the first 25-50 miles. I can’t help thinking about all the “what ifs” and the planning I do for those potential occurrences. By the time 50 or so miles are behind me, I’m settling into the groove and feeling much more as one with the bike, the road, the environment, and my mind. That’s when I know I’ve entered my zone and that incredible sense of peace, wonder, and awe envelope me…..


In 1863, Abraham Lincoln wrote in the Gettysburg address…    This nation, under God shall have a new birth of freedom.    A new birth of freedom. Hmm... lots to think about here.    In "Me and Bobby McGee" Kris Kristofferson wrote…    Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose.    Tell us what freedom means to you?
Immense gratitude to all the freedom fighters – in whatever form taken – that allows me to enjoy doing what I do. Freedom for me means NEVER TAKING FOR GRANTED the ability for me to enjoy all life has to offer.

What's next for you?
I still have another 5+ years working professionally before I can consider “retiring”, which actually just means I can work at volunteering or as a clinic nurse somewhere. Until then, I’ll ride when I can, looking forward to the day when I can once again take 6 months or more off and just ride – without any commitments, obligations, destinations, or expectations. I cannot wait!



About the Steel Horse Sisterhood

“At the end of our lives what really matters is the answer to the question, “How well did we love?” When we tap into the force of love, suddenly the unforgivable can be forgiven, the un-healable can be healed.” - Sara Stover

This quote is the essence of the Steel Horse Sisterhood.

As women who ride, we share a common bond. We share the passion of helping others, the love for our countries, the love of riding and the love of our motorcycles.

The Steel Horse Sisterhood:


  • Is a collaboration of the life stories of women who live, giving of their time and talents for the benefit of others
  • Is a community of women who share the love of the ride, the love of each other and what fuels their passion
  • Transcends age, race, economics, religion, borders, abilities and motorcycle preference
  • Is a spiritual connection

The inspiration for the Steel Horse Sisterhood and the Steel Horse Sisterhood Summit came about in September of 2012 as a vision to rider and business owner Joan Krenning aka Lady Road Dog

To find out more about the Steel Horse Sisterhood Click Here 

To become a sponsor of a Steel Horse Sisterhood event please contact Joan at joan@steelhorsesisterhood.com

Please visit the following websites to find out more about these passionate women who share the love of motorcycling. 

Motorcycling News & Reviews

    Speakers

        Inspirational


            Be inspired ~ Be happy ~ and Ride on....through this Journey called life.

            Do you know of a website that should be featured? We would love to hear about them. Please e-mail us at joan@steelhorsesisterhood.com

            Joan Krenning
            Lady Road Dog

            Sunday, April 27, 2014

            The Women of the Steel Horse Sisterhood........

            As many have asked my to write my story, I really had to search my heart for the intent. For that one reason why I would place the words on the page and reveal the details of my life, many of which I am not so proud of and many that are still ongoing.

            28 years ago, I made a decision that placed in motion a plan of God, a plan that took over 25 years to manifest. 

            Over these last 20 months I have watched as He worked me into a frenzy, then calmed me down more times that I could share with you at this moment.

            The Steel Horse Sisterhood is bigger than me. Bigger than any one of us. It is a movement of women,,,,,

            Miraculous phone calls have taken place in the last two weeks. Incredible calls between myself and no less than 50 women who are making this journey to Denver, Colorado because they are being compelled, drawn in with a magnetic pull that is unexplainable. Arriving beginning on April 28th and moving through that entire week, we will end up together in one room, at one moment in time on one stage. One large group of women who have set their time aside and sacrificed much to be in that place. To share our stories......

            If I could remove the information from the computer chip in my brain and transfer all that has been shared with me to your brain, and you could see and understand who is making this journey and why, I would. But I can't....you simply need to make this journey and ride by faith....if you are not registered for the Steel Horse Sisterhood Summit and you live within a day's riding distance of Denver, this ride is for you!
            See you soon!
            Lady Road Dog

            Saturday, April 12, 2014

            Featured SHS Sister - Mona White

            Name: Mona White
            eMail Address: bikermonie@aol.com
            City: Dayton 
            State: WY
            Country: United States of America

            Share how you came to be a motorcyclist? What Make and Model do you ride? How has riding shaped you into the person you are today?
            I first learned to ride a motorcycle at 14 years old when my dad taught me out in the yard on a Honda Trail 70. I loved it! I was the only girl in my class with my own wheels! I stopped riding for a few years but then got back into it full-time in 1992. From the time I was in 5th grade I dreamed of riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and finally got my first one back in 1993. I've been riding one ever since. I joined the Motor Maids in 2003 and it changed my life!! Thanks to them I have ridden my motorcycles in 44 states and I have "sisters" all across the country! Currently I ride a 2010 Harley Street Bob

            Riding a motorcycle takes confidence and courage. What and who are the people that instilled those qualities in you? How did you develop them? 
            Dad gave me the courage to learn to ride. My first bike week in 1988 I met Jo Giovanni and Cris Somer Simmons who ran Harley Women Magazine at the time. Their magazine gave me confidence and encouragement. I just got tired of waiting for a ride so riding my own was the only way to get to ride! The Motor Maids have inspired me and given me the confidence to travel long distances and have fun with like-minded ladies. I also learned that traveling alone is awesome and safe! Now it turns out I'm inspiring others! When you see people like Laura Klock that go after their dreams and change lives and have the courage to go 200+ mph it inspires you to empower yourself and gives you courage! When I see my friends driving big bikes, hauling trailers and riders and traveling cross-country I am so proud to know them! People like Cindy Black and Cindy Gilman (Ranger Lady) are great examples!


            Out on the road, riders face daily challenges. Being vulnerable, a rider needs to be very focused and ready for anything. How do you prepare both mentally and physically for your daily adventures? How do you connect with your inner self and prepare for challenges like fatigue, poor weather conditions, etc. 
            I always try to get enough sleep so I'm mentally ready! I always make sure I have food in my tummy and gas in the tank so I don't have those distractions. I like to have as few things to worry about as possible. Being out on the road clears my mind of all the clutter and my soul starts to sing and my senses come fully alive and I feel ready for almost anything! Connecting with my inner self happens automatically when I'm on that bike!

            You've been riding for X amount of time. What makes it still exciting for you? What do you get out of it? How has it changed (for you) over the years?
            Every time I ride - memories are made and my energy level just goes up and positivity rules! I am happy, content and living in the moment with a smile on my face! So at peace! I try not to be one of those bikers who defines myself by the fact that I ride a bike. But the truth is, that is who I am because that is when I'm perfectly happy with myself and my life! I have grown so much and lived such a more interesting life and met the most awesome and inspiring people on that motorcycle. If not for it, I wouldn't have experienced so much of the country and met the most amazing people.

            If you could tell the world one thing about yourself, what would it be?
            That I have lived my dreams and many of them were on the front seat of my motorcycle!

            Paying it forward appears to be a large part of who we are as members of the motorcycle community. Who or what was your inspiration to encourage you to give back? Why do you do what you do?
            Oh wow - Cindy "Ranger Lady" Gilman inspires me greatly with her organization Ranger Lady - she has an incredible story. She inspires me in so many ways to give back and spiritually. 
            Also, Laura Klock with her amazing Helping with Horsepower program - it is more awesome than I can put into words that she came up with that idea and then wrote a curriculum so the rest of the world could participate in the same way! She is such a humble lady too - beautiful inside and out.


            My bike is packed and I'm heading out on the road. These moments are my favorite. That feeling of excited anticipation as I start the engine, and pull out. 
            Oh geez - I feel totally free and that all is right with the world!! I like to travel as light as possible because that ads to the freedom feeling. I always think of Peter Fonda and Easy Rider and feel like maybe I'm somehow a female version of that! I try to always fly an American flag on the bike when I go on a road trip - it's one of my rituals and expresses that I'm proud to live in a country where I am a woman free to take off on a motorcycle and go wherever the heck I want! I like traveling solo - as it is incredibly free and usually stress free!! But I also like going out on the road with my fellow lady riders - that comraderie and group power and knowing you have help and that sisterhood!

            In 1863, Abraham Lincoln wrote in the Gettysburg address…    This nation, under God shall have a new birth of freedom.    A new birth of freedom. Hmm... lots to think about here.    In "Me and Bobby McGee" Kris Kristofferson wrote…    Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose.    Tell us what freedom means to you?
            Freedom means living in a country where I can make my own decisions, go wherever I like with who I want to and I thank God for all veterans out there who fought and fight to keep our freedom!

            What's next for you?
            Another dream is beginning - I'm moving to Jackson, Wyoming to start a new job and experience another great part of this country with new roads to explore!! Spring is here!!! It's time to ride again!


            About the Steel Horse Sisterhood

            “At the end of our lives what really matters is the answer to the question, “How well did we love?” When we tap into the force of love, suddenly the unforgivable can be forgiven, the un-healable can be healed.” - Sara Stover

            This quote is the essence of the Steel Horse Sisterhood.

            As women who ride, we share a common bond. We share the passion of helping others, the love for our countries, the love of riding and the love of our motorcycles.

            The Steel Horse Sisterhood:

            • Is a collaboration of the life stories of women who live, giving of their time and talents for the benefit of others
            • Is a community of women who share the love of the ride, the love of each other and what fuels their passion
            • Transcends age, race, economics, religion, borders, abilities and motorcycle preference
            • Is a spiritual connection
            The inspiration for the Steel Horse Sisterhood and the Steel Horse Sisterhood Summit came about in September of 2012 as a vision to rider and business owner Joan Krenning aka Lady Road Dog

            To find out more about the Steel Horse Sisterhood Click Here 

            To become a sponsor of a Steel Horse Sisterhood event please contact us at joan@steelhorsesisterhood.com

            Visit the following websites to find out more about passionate women who combine their love of motorcycling with their heart for others.

            Providing Education and Outreach

            Motorcycling News & Reviews

            Speakers

            Inspirational

            Women in Motorcycling


            Be inspired ~ Be happy ~ and Ride on....through this Journey called life.

            Joan Krenning
            Lady Road Dog

            Are you aware of a website that should be featured? We would love to hear about them. Please e-mail us at info@steelhorsesisterhood.com

            Monday, April 7, 2014

            Featured SHS Sister - Debbie Voss


            Name: Debbie Voss
            Debbie+Boss+-+3.JPGeMail Address: debbiev2006@gmail.com
            Cell: 512-350-0689
            City: Austin State: TX
            Country: United States of America 

            Share how you came to be a motorcyclist? What Make and Model do you ride? How has riding shaped you into the person you are today?

            My husband started riding when our children were young. I wasn't interested, it was always 'his thing'. When our kids started getting older, I started to ride 'on the back'. I enjoyed it and met some really nice people, but I was never comfortable. One day I just decided I wanted to 'learn to ride my own'....the rest is history!
            I now ride a 2006 Harley Davidson Softail Deluxe
            Motorcycling literally turned my life around.... shortly before I 'took hold of the handbars' I also decided to lose weight too, and lost 125#. This was 12 years ago. 
            Between both of these decisions in my life, the world has opened up to me. I love to travel, I have been to more beautiful places, seen more than things and have met wonderful people than I ever thought possible!
            I have shown myself how to push beyond my fears and just to keep going. At times I still cannot believe the confidence & the strength both motorcycling & the weight loss has given me. But at the same token, it is a quiet humbling peace within myself.
            Debbie+Boss+-+4.JPG

            Riding a motorcycle takes confidence and courage. What and who are the people that instilled those qualities in you? How did you develop them? 
            My husband has been the best support person for me. My first 2 years of motorcycling I wouldn't go anywhere without him! 
            Also, reading about the ladies in the 'early days' of motorcycling were a great inspiration to me. When I started solo riding, I thought 'if they could do it back then...I can do it now'. 
            Of course, every lady rider to me is an inspiration, we all have our reasons for throwing our leg over the saddle, and overcoming obstacles. 
            I try to 'give back' to new lady riders to help by mentoring & encouraging them till they eventually get more confident. 
            I think of everyone that has influenced me when I hear the song 'You are the Wind beneath my Wings'.

            Out on the road, riders face daily challenges. Being vulnerable, a rider needs to be very focused and ready for anything. How do you prepare both mentally and physically for your daily adventures? How do you connect with your inner self and prepare for challenges like fatigue, poor weather conditions, etc. 
            By keeping myself physically fit, eating healthy and getting a good nights rest.
            I've also learned a lot with the practice of Yoga & Martial Arts.
            I also keep in mind one of the very first films from the basic class 'Murphy's Law'...if it can happen, it will'. I ride as if...
            Also keeping my bike very well maintained. To me, my life depends on it.

            You've been riding for X amount of time. What makes it still exciting for you? What do you get out of it? How has it changed (for you) over the years?

            debbie+sz
            Riding is such a joy, my bike is not a 'thing' but like a part of me, a 'friend'. Every ride seems like a adventure. 
            Even though I may be going down the same roads, it brings back memories of a ride with friends or what was going on at the time.
            I love long distance riding and look forward to at least 1 good long ride every year!

            If you could tell the world one thing about yourself, what would it be?
            That I am passionate about eating healthy & riding! And I am a very Positive person (I know that 3 things!)

            Paying it forward appears to be a large part of who we are as members of the motorcycle community. Who or what was your inspiration to encourage you to give back? Why do you do what you do?
            Talking and encouraging the new lady rider, because I will never forget how nervous I was those first couple years of motorcycling (and how I still am at times!). There were times I was tempted to 'stop motorcycling' but something inside of won't let me.

            My bike is packed and I'm heading out on the road. These moments are my favorite. That feeling of excited anticipation as I start the engine, and pull out. 
            Describe the feeling you get as you head out on the open road. On a trip, solo? Or with a group? Early morning peace, the sound of motorcycle, not quite knowing yet what this adventure will bring you (whether solo or group)!

            In 1863, Abraham Lincoln wrote in the Gettysburg address…    This nation, under God shall have a new birth of freedom.    A new birth of freedom. Hmm... lots to think about here.    In "Me and Bobby McGee" Kris Kristofferson wrote…    Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose.    Tell us what freedom means to you?
            On my motorcycle, feeling the wind and sunshine in the countryside on a nice pleasant day!

            What's next for you?
            My personal goal is to get a photo of my motorcycle in all lower 48 states. I have about 15 more to go (mostly the Northeast!)

            Debbie+Boss+-+2.JPG

            About the Steel Horse Sisterhood
            “At the end of our lives what really matters is the answer to the question, “How well did we love?” When we tap into the force of love, suddenly the unforgivable can be forgiven, the un-healable can be healed.” - Sara Stover

            This quote is the essence of the Steel Horse Sisterhood.

            As women who ride, we share a common bond. We share the passion of helping others, the love for our countries, the love of riding and the love of our motorcycles.

            A-SISTER-4

            The Steel Horse Sisterhood:

            • Is a collaboration of the life stories of women who live, giving of their time and talents for the benefit of others
            • Is a community of women who share the love of the ride, the love of each other and what fuels their passion
            • Transcends age, race, economics, religion, borders and abilities
            • Is a spiritual connection


            The inspiration for the Steel Horse Sisterhood and the Steel Horse Sisterhood Summit came about in September of 2012 as a vision to rider and business owner Joan Krenning aka Lady Road Dog

            To find out more about the Steel Horse Sisterhood Click Here 

            To become a sponsor of the Steel Horse Sisterhood Summit please contact us at info@steelhorsesisterhood.com

            Please visit the following website to find out more about these passionate women who share the love of motorcycling. 

            www.steelhorsesisterhood.com


            Motorcycling News & Reviews

            Speakers

            Inspirational

            Do you know of a website that should be featured?We would love to hear about them.Please e-mail us at info@steelhorsesisterhood.com

            Be inspired ~ Be happy ~ and Ride on....through this Journey called life.

            Lady Road Dog












            Sunday, April 6, 2014

            Featured SHS Sister - Gail Westwood-Hess - Loving Life



            Gail+Hess+2013+at+Bend
            Gail in Bend, Oregon 2013
            Name: Gail Westwood-Hess
            eMail Address: gail1954@hotmail.com
            Cell: 719-357-2008
            City: Colorado Springs 
            State: CO
            Country: United States of America 






            Share how you came to be a motorcyclist? What Make and Model do you ride? How has riding shaped you into the person you are today?

            I started riding in 2009 in my hometown of Adelaide, Australia. Moved to the USA with my American born husband in 2011 and bought my 2010 Harley-Davidson Softail Heritage Classic.
            I love riding form state to state here in this wonderful country and have meet great friends and seen so much.
            I am a member of the Motor Maids and a local club here in COS the Zebulon riders and also ride with the HOG group.
            Riding has opened up a whole new world for me, I love the freedom it gives me and the women riders I've met along the way have been inspirational.


            Riding a motorcycle takes confidence and courage. What and who are the people that instilled those qualities in you? How did you develop them? 
            Having been brought up in an abusive family in Australia I had to be strong and learn to be independent at an early age.
            I have my FAITH and that has got me through terrible trauma and I draw on that now and every time I get on my bike.
            I was blessed to meet my husband in 2009 who saw my determination and fight for life and he encouraged me when I told him I did not want to ride pillion with him anymore and I wanted to have my own bike to ride.
            Since I've had my bike and been riding in Australia and now here I have so much more confidence and self worth. It has given a reason to keep on keeping on.

            Gail+Hess+3

            Out on the road, riders face daily challenges. Being vulnerable, a rider needs to be very focused and ready for anything. How do you prepare both mentally and physically for your daily adventures? How do you connect with your inner self and prepare for challenges like fatigue, poor weather conditions, etc. 
            I draw on my Faith and try to always be prepared for the worst. I always say a prayer before I get on my bike for those I'm riding with and myself to be safe and focused, and I make sure my bike is ready to roll and am aware of the weather conditions.
            I keep active when not riding, play tennis, do yoga and meditate.
            Keeping my bike in top condition and having the correct riding clothing for any weather conditions is so important.




            You've been riding for X amount of time. What makes it still exciting for you? What do you get out of it? How has it changed (for you) over the years?
            I love the adrenalin riding gives me, the freedom, seeing all the parts of this country I've been blessed to see. Riding with others who have the same interest and love riding as much as I do.
            The stories behind every ride and we all have them, makes life so much more interesting.

            If you could tell the world one thing about yourself, what would it be?
            I feel I can accomplish anything I put my mind to. I'm a survivor! Often I've felt like giving up but my Faith pulls me through and keeps me going.

            Paying it forward appears to be a large part of who we are as members of the motorcycle community. Who or what was your inspiration to encourage you to give back? Why do you do what you do?
            When I was very lost and lonely people would appear who were like my guardian angels and helped me when I desperately needed help. I feel it is my duty to give back where and when I can.

            Gail+Hess+2

            My bike is packed and I'm heading out on the road. These moments are my favorite. That feeling of excited anticipation as I start the engine, and pull out. 
            Describe the feeling you get as you head out on the open road. On a trip, solo? Or with a group?
            That magic feeling of accomplishing something I have always wanted to do and am now in the position to do it. It gives me a reason for living and always something to look forward to.

            In 1863, Abraham Lincoln wrote in the Gettysburg address…    This nation, under God shall have a new birth of freedom.    A new birth of freedom. Hmm... lots to think about here.    In "Me and Bobby McGee" Kris Kristofferson wrote…    Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose.    Tell us what freedom means to you?
            Living with out being in an abusive situation. Being here in the USA gives me a sense of freedom.
            Being blessed to be able to ride across this country on my own bike is freedom.


            What's next for you?
            Looking forward to the women I'll meet in Denver for the Steel Horse Sisterhood in May.
            The following weekend riding with my husband Mike Hess down to Mississippi, Louisiana across to Texas then back to New Mexico and Colorado.
            God willing many more rides across the states of this beautiful country.



            Gail+Hess+4


            About the Steel Horse Sisterhood
            “At the end of our lives what really matters is the answer to the question, “How well did we love?” When we tap into the force of love, suddenly the unforgivable can be forgiven, the un-healable can be healed.” - Sara Stover

            This quote is the essence of the Steel Horse Sisterhood.


            As women who ride, we share a common bond. We share the passion of helping others, the love for our countries, the love of riding and the love of our motorcycles.

            The Steel Horse Sisterhood:

            • Is a collaboration of the life stories of women who live, giving of their time and talents for the benefit of others
            • Is a community of women who share the love of the ride, the love of each other and what fuels their passion
            • Transcends age, race, economics, religion, borders and abilities
            • Is a spiritual connection
            A-SISTER-4

            The inspiration for the Steel Horse Sisterhood and the Steel Horse Sisterhood Summit came about in September of 2012 as a vision to rider and business owner Joan Krenning aka Lady Road Dog .

            To find out more about the Steel Horse Sisterhood Click Here 

            To become a sponsor of the Steel Horse Sisterhood Summit please contact us at
            info@steelhorsesisterhood.com


            Please visit the following website to find out more about these passionate women who share the love of motorcycling.


            Motorcycling News & ReviewsWomen Riders Now
            MotoAdventureGal
            SpeakersThink Like A Negotiator
            Michele Wierznac
            Motoress
            InspirationalFull Throttle Living
            Lady Road Dog
            Liz Jansen Blog
            Jessi Combs