Prairie Karen

Prairie Karen: Celebrating 5 years of business Now donating a portion of all sales to Equine Lameness Prevention Organization

2010-03-09T12:50:00.000-08:00

Kiowa, CO – In the fall of 2005, Karen Ross combined her love of the Western lifestyle with her experience in retail, and started Prairie Karen, an online collection of jewelry and accessories (www.prairiekaren.com). She has expanded her business to feature many different artists whose hand-made pieces and one-of-a-kind items give Prairie Karen its ‘Touch of Western Elegance’.

“From the company name to the person behind the name and the website in between, I find them all terrific,” reviewed one customer on her website. “The products I have chosen for myself or for my friends have been first class.” After building her business from the ground-up, Ross knows a good artist when she has found one. Her line includes work from numerous renowned craftsman: silversmith Susan Adams, whose work has appeared in Cowboys and Indians magazine; Gary Wiggins, another skilled silversmith who specializes in detailed engraving of bits and spurs, Conchos, belt buckles and more; and Karen Twombly, a metalworker and designer of gold and silver jewelry that is rugged and ‘everyday wearable’.

“To celebrate PK’s 5^th anniversary, I want to give back to the community of horse lovers that has supported us these last five years,” said Ross. “We are going to donate a portion of all sales to the Equine Lameness Prevention Organization (ELPO). “ The ELPO is a non-profit organization that educates horse owners and equine health care professionals on ways to better care for the health of our domestic equine friends. With the assistance of practicing veterinarians, farriers, and other equine professionals, the ELPO developed practical guidelines for managing horses in a variety of environments and living situations.

Prairie Karen started as a premier retailer of authentic and unique Western jewelry, accessories and gear, handcrafted by American artisans. Ross grew up in a ranching family in Texas where her love for wide-open spaces and horses began. From a young age, she worked in her family’s jewelry business, thereby developing an eye for quality and a talent for customer service. Prairie Karen proudly presents both established and emerging artists, craftsmen and designers.

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For more information, contact Karen Ross: 303.870.9966 or karen@prairiekaren.com.

A 'MUST READ'

2010-03-01T08:22:00.000-08:00

My daughter, Jessica, has recently launched her website:jessicarounds.com. You must read one of her blogs: You are missed, my friend:

I lost you. I don’t know how it happened, and I am not sure how to get you back. My days are harder now that you are gone. Quieter – in that ‘empty quiet’ kind of way. This is the worst kind of ending, abrupt and unexpected, where everything reminds me of you… even the song on the radio…right…now. I have been through this before. Haven’t we all? That agonizing heartbreak period when you swear not to put yourself through such disappointment again. Yet, here we are. I never expected us to end up apart.

If you’re with someone else tonight and all of sudden miss my touch… please come home. This time, things will be different. I won’t demand that you entertain my every whim without appreciating how valuable you are. No more abandoning you when you feel rundown and need me most… you’ve never done that to me. Darling, you have been some of the best company I’ve had in years. This time around, I promise to give you only the best of what I have.

The thing is, I think anyone would agree that we have worked well together these last few years. We’ve traveled the world extensively without one moment of tension- that is so rare! Your willingness to back me up, no matter where we were or what the situation may have been, staggers me. I know you probably felt disregarded when I got busy, or when friends came around… please know that at the end of the night, it was always you.

Just because I couldn’t hold onto you forever doesn’t change how you have shaped me. I still remember that rainy night in Florida when I held you, tears spilling from my face onto yours, while you quietly sang me an acoustic version of Griffin House’s “Only Love Remains”. Only the two of us could hear, and in that private moment, I realized with unshakeable certainty that as long as you were around, I’d be okay.

I know that my blog is relatively new and my readership is painfully limited at this time, so you may never know how much I loved you. I suppose I write this more for me than for you.

Nevertheless, if somehow, in some way, my message finds you, please know that I would do great things to have you close to me now.

Moment of silence for you, my beloved iPod. Though I may find another down the road, you could never truly be replaced.

Now, wasn't it worth the read???

Happy Trails,

Karen

'Knot Handicapped'

2010-02-10T18:05:00.000-08:00

Truly, after all of these years, I am still 'knot handicapped'. I think that is one of the reasons why I love selling scarf slides ( and wearing them). Just in case, anyone has the troubles that I do, here is an easy way to tie a wild rag. Of course, I prefer you buy a slide from Prairie Karen :-).

1)Fold your wild rag in half on the diagonal and then start at the pointed end and fold it into a long roll.
2)Get ready to tie.
3)Turn the left tail end around two fingers.
4)Slip the right tail end under the left tail end and OVER the loop.
5)Turn the right tail end behind the knot and over the left tail end, then under the loop.
6)Even and tighten the knot by pulling on the tail ends.

Hope this helps! If you are stuck, then just buy a slide!

Happy Trails,
Karen

It's a Mess!

2010-01-30T08:51:00.001-08:00

Tried a new recipe for dinner... it's a mess. And, friends are coming over.. Oh well. We're going for a ride.

New Artists!

2010-01-20T14:14:00.000-08:00

Several new artists are joining Prairie Karen. We are thrilled. Gene Shutz, a full time gun engraver, is making beautiful bracelets and scarf slides! Welcome, Gene! Will keep you posted.

We have had some great riding days! Yes, even in January. We are so fortunate.

Ellen, one of our California friends, visited us and wow...can she cook! We were spoiled. Come back soon, Ellen...please!

All for now.. Happy Trails,

Karen

Health and Prosperity

2010-01-01T06:38:00.000-08:00

I grew up believing that if you eat black eyed peas on New Year's Day, you will be fortunate and prosperous in the upcoming year. My mom started cooking them early in the morning and there was a special smell permeating the kitchen ALL DAY LONG. The tradition apparently dates back to the Civil War, when THE NORTH destroyed crops and stored food in THE SOUTH. Black eyed peas were considered livestock feed and not fit to eat by the Northern soldiers, so were left alone. This is what helped the South survive during the major food shortages.

So... here ya go, enjoy your peas!

Happy Trails and Happy New Year,
Karen

LInda Hayden's Gorgeous Blanket!

2009-12-31T04:18:00.001-08:00

Two days ago I opened a long, slim box from California. Of course, I knew it was our dear friend Linda Hayden's blanket! I had even seen it when we visited with Joel(hubby) and Linda at The Vaquero Show in Santa Ynez. However, I hadn't seen it with the wear leathers on, thus it wasn't quite complete. AND WOW!!! What a treat. In Prairie Karen colors, my mare will look so fancy. I feel honored to have one of Linda's blankets. Linda grows plants for color, spins and dyes the wool and weaves on a beautiful loom! What could be more perfect? We are blessed to share a friendship with Linda and Joel...( and with Emelda...a mutual friend). As Dave Stamey so appropriately said, 'there are shrill voices on all sides promising doom and gloom, but if we have our health, and each other, we have everything. Wishing you all the best in 2010!

Quite a silversmith!

2009-12-30T16:10:00.000-08:00

For the last five years or so, Prairie Karen has had the privilege of carrying Gary Wiggins' incredible pieces. Gary and Cynthia worth 'round the clock' creating the MOST beautifully hand engraved saddle silver, scarf slides, bridle loops, spurs, etc. Not only does he do extraordinary work, Gary and Cynthia are two of the most down to earth, kindest people that we have ever met!!! You may have to wait a bit for his work, but it is well worth it!!!

Gary and Cynthia... carry on and best wishes in 2010!

Happy Trails,
Karen

Welcoming 2010

2009-12-30T08:20:00.000-08:00

Here is wishing everyone a happy and prosperous 2010.

Happy Trails,

Karen

Do Not Buy This!!!

2009-12-11T08:55:00.000-08:00

The iron that is being sold at the NFR for $200.00 is a total rip off...We bought one two years ago ( it broke in about a month)... Of course, it is non returnable..My dear friend bought one this year... I got to her too late! :-(

SO...if you ever see one of those MAGIC IRONS...RUN the other way!!!

We hope that everyone is having a terrific holiday season!

Karen and Wal

Just discovered

2009-12-09T07:41:00.001-08:00

...the most delicious coffee. Take a freshly brewed cup of Kona, add a shot of Patron Silver Tequila, a splash of Kahlua, squirt a bit of whipped creme on top and WOW!!!

Enjoy on this freezing day of 12 below.

Happy Holidays,

Visiting The Vaquero show

2009-12-02T09:12:00.000-08:00

The Vaquero Show in Santa Ynez was great fun. We met our dear friends, Linda and Joel Hayden. Linda is 'the blanket lady'. She weaves the most sensational blankets. In case you are interested, look on my site for her pieces.
We found some beautiful old conchos...exciting finds, of course! If you have an opportunity to go, you will enjoy it.

Happy Holidays to all,

Karen

Western Music Awards

2009-11-22T11:52:00.000-08:00

We have recently returned from The Western Music Awards in Albuquerque. A true highlight was listening to Patty Clayton and Juni Fisher sing a duet. Honestly, it was enough to bring you to your knees. These two ladies are fantastic!!! If you have a chance to see either in person, do!

Our silly goats have taken to going on walks with us... the cats, dogs and goats have been having a good time. It's pretty funny.

Happy Thanksgiving to all,

Karen

Our Nigerian Dwarfs: Willie and Waylon

2009-11-06T17:17:00.000-08:00

The funniest: I drove up our lane and our goats, Willie and Waylon were in the garage.. how did they get out of their pen? That is anyone's guess, however, they were nuzzling our four cats. Those six animals were some of the most content that I have ever seen.

Just wondering....

2009-11-06T10:15:00.000-08:00

if anyone tried the zucchini bread? We still haven't gotten tired of it.

After quite a snow storm, the sun has been shining. Of course, it's great because we RIDE...

Have posted new wild rags, leather bags and jewelry on Prairie Karen! I just loves those leather bags and they make great gifts. Visit the site when you have an opportunity.

Happy Trails,

Karen

Zucchini Bread

2009-10-14T17:19:00.000-07:00

We have grown the most incredibly delicious and huge zucchini this year. Having just picked the last of it, we definitely needed something to do with all of this beautiful vegetable. Well, here is the BEST and EASIEST recipe for Zucchini Bread I have ever tried:
2 cups flour
2 cups sugar
1 cup oil
3 eggs
2 cups grated zucchini
1 cup raisin ( I substituted craisins, they aren't as sweet)
1 1/2 cup chopped nuts ( be sure pecans are included)
1 Tablesppon cinnamon
2 Teaspoons baking soda
2 Teaspoons baking powder
1 Teaspoon sea salt
2 Teaspoons Vanilla

Mix all ingredients together well. Pour into greased and floured loaf pans ( 1 large or two regular sized pans) for about 1 1/2 hours at 350 degrees. Freezes well.

Enjoy and Happy Trails,

Karen

ps.. Let us know what you think!

Three Days with Martin Black

2009-10-02T03:18:00.001-07:00

We just spent three terrific days with Martin working in our A-pen. Emily ( Kitching, Eclectic Horseman) and Martin were editing his new DVD on roping, then they came over to our place in the afternoon. An 'impromptu' gathering, it was great fun. Our horses got better, as did the riders. It was challenging for me, to say the least. :-). Christy, my mare, and I hung in there and had a blast.
Thanks Martin and Jennifer!

Snow in September

2009-09-24T11:32:00.000-07:00

We didn't get as much snow as predicted, however, yesterday we had huge beautiful flakes of snow falling. Never mind that this is September...we are excited that the mosquitos will go now (hopefully). Prairie Karen is busy, yet we have managed to ride everyday ( well, almost!). Our mares are doing great and we are excited to have Martin Black come by to help us work A Pen next week.

The Stock Dog Trials in Meeker, CO were so much fun. The dogs are amazing. The committee is the best ever. What a great weekend!!!

Wally and I are headed to the Traditional Cowboy Artists Association sale and dinner in Oklahoma City this weekend. We are looking forward to the experience and to meeting the extraordinary artists!

Happy Trails,

Karen

'A Pen' Excitement

2009-08-23T14:11:00.000-07:00

After working our horses in Mike Doyle's 'A Pen', we decided it was too much fun to not have one. So, before Mike left for Australia, he agreed to build it. We initiated the pen last week. Several of our friends, including Emily and Belich, had a great experience. Wally and I have been in that pen everyday! We are looking forward to getting handier with our horses.

Prairie Karen is getting ready to go to Meeker, CO. The Sheepdog Championship Trials are September 9- 13th. It is one of our favorite shows... and love watching those dogs work! Hope to see you there.

Happy Trails,

Karen

Pedro Marquez sings at Mike Doyle's Party

2009-07-21T15:49:00.000-07:00

Wally and I hosted a going away party for Mike last weekend. Sadly, Mike is headed off to Australia next month. He will be missed by many. However, it was a terrific reason to have a party. We had the great honor of having Pedro play for us for hours. Gary Wiggins and others jammed with Pedro. Such a treat. The next morning at breakfast, he was playing again(even wrote Sydney Rose a song). A delicious chuckwagon dinner was prepared by Kevin and his crew. The evening lasted into the wee hours and hopefully, a great time 'was had by all'...except, of course, that Mike is leaving. Thanks to EVERYONE that helped us out.
Happy Trails, Karen

What a Ride!

2009-07-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

These last few months have been so special...being able to ride my mare often and enjoying our rides tremendously...Hoping that all of you have an opportunity for this. The A pen has been particularly challenging and fun.Wally is now hooked! Thank you Mike Doyle. Speaking of Mike, he is off to Australia next month. He will be missed!

Happy Trails,

Karen

Sunday Evening at The KWR Ranch

2009-06-14T17:04:00.000-07:00

It seems as though all we talk about is the weather... it just rains and rains and rains. Of course, we are all thankful for green pastures ( which we do have) and, probably, mosquitos the size of bats. Well, certainly better than a drought.

We are listening to some oldies but goodies (George Jones, etc,), talking about our weekend. We shared both Friday and Saturday with some wonderful friends, a home full of friends... does it get better? Had several great rides on our horses, too. Both the mares are doing so well..Ok, so now it definitely doesn't get any better :-)

Also, I have had several opportunities recently to spend some time with a couple of excellent horsemen. Another treat!

Preparing for a couple of upcoming Prairie Karen shows. Our friend, Shannon Wrango of Kansas Saddlery, will be here soon. So excited.

Ok.. until next time... Happy Trails,

Karen

One more thing

2009-05-25T13:20:00.000-07:00

Looking out over our beautiful green pastures and watching the horses graze so peacefully is quite an experience!

Yes, it is still raining

2009-05-25T13:11:00.000-07:00

Wow... The weather has been something else. We are all so grateful for our green pastures from tons of moisture... Quite a change from last year.

A few days ago, I audited Scott Grosskopf's roping clinic. He does a great job of presenting the basics while also helping out more 'advanced' ropers. His wife, Staci, and his VERY HANDY young son, Sterling, are so delightful to be around. Staci helped out during the clinic also. What a plus!

Been spending lots of time on my mare...we have even been attempting to rope. It is setting up to be a perfect summer for riding... Yea!!!

Hope all is going well with you guys!

Happy Trails,

Karen

We are HOME!

2009-05-08T14:57:00.000-07:00

The Californios was terrific! Thanks to everyone who always supports Prairie Karen. Emily, Steve, Sydney, Matt ( Timmons of Karmel Timmons), we all had a fantastic time. Many thanks to Gwynn and Dave for their continual support of all of us vendors.

We have had, and continue to get, RAIN! Yea.... The pastures are green, the flowers are blooming. How much better can life get? Well, not MUCH!

Happy Trails,

Karen