It's a Mess!

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!

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

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!

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!

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

Here is wishing everyone a happy and prosperous 2010.

Happy Trails,

Karen

Do Not Buy This!!!

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