my very own travel show ~

Seems as if life has been a whirlwind lately, my most recent adventure took me to the American Agriwomen Convention in Wichita, Kansas. While there I got to meet facebook friend now real friend Lori Bammerlin.  Lori is probably one of the most creative people I have yet to meet in my adventures so  thought I would share her with all of you !

Lori made all of these fabulous necklaces with an assortment of wonderful beads, she also has hand painted shoes, tshirts and really cool, fun hats!  Old feed sacks turned tote bags and wranglers made into fun skirts.  Whats old is new again with many of Lori's fun pieces.

My adventures take me to lots of places~ I feel as if I am on my own  travel show , you know the ones you see on TV.  My travels hook me up with interesting people engaged in agriculture and sharing a common passion and just sometimes they are doing extra fun things that spark my interest, like Lori and her cool treats with a western style flair.  I couldn’t keep her to myself so I figured I would share her with all of you –

If you are interested in Lori and her creations you can email her at ag06grad@yahoo.com  - or check out her blog at http://homeontherangeexhange.blogspot.com - she can take it from there!

Take a Walk on the Wild Side~

So I have missed a week with my usual blog – time keeps clipping along and it seems I am pedaling as fast as I can to keep up !  The good news is I have been out and about promoting YOU and I and all the other farmers and ranchers across America.  However as I always say, we cant talk cows all the time so lets take a quick break and talk clothes.

So what shall we visit about today? How about Leopard!  Another fashion tip from Couture Cowgirl ~ own at least one item that is leopard!  Make the print a staple in your accessory wardrobe.  Its timeless, a bit edgy and always fabulous.

Thinking big and bold how about a twinset or maybe even a coat. Or what about these great shoe booties?  Adorable!!  However some of you might be a bit afraid to jump into animal print so go small like maybe a thin small belt, ballet flats, a headband or a scarf.  Pair it with all black or camel or even red !

Take a walk on the wild side and try it , just a little goes a long way !  Fun Stuff !

(ps I promise to be better with the weekly posts - until next time )

Make Drab Fab!

Fashion Friday already~ Wow! Time sure has a way of zipping on by doesnt it?
Today we will continue our discussion on the 50 most Fabulous things FarmGirls should know about fashion and accessories.

Accessorize With Brights!!
Many of us have a closet filled with camel, black , gray and navy. What might be considered a bit drab by itself turns fab when you add a pop of color.   These pieces are the staples or canvas for us to create an exciting outfit.  By gathering up accessories, meaning jewelry, shoes, scarves , handbags or even head bands in fun textures, colors, metals and fabrics means we can create all sorts of wonderful new looks.  How about a black pair of slacks, black turtleneck and then red shoes and a fun floral headband with hints of red ?  Or maybe go with a camel color scheme and add a pair of leopard or animal print ballet flats.  And if you are more into just jeans how about adding a fun printed scarf or some big chunky bracelets.   Lots of fun and so many ideas.

  What is your idea of dressing up some of your fun staples?

Need other ideas, my friend at Crystal Cattle does such a fun job of pairing wonderful things together , her sense of style is like no other , have fun checking out her blog at http://www.crystalcattle.blogspot.com/ or just check her out by looking at the left side of my page , she is one that I follow regularly !  That might be easier for you.  She too talks everything from clothes to cows and all in between, she is our kinda gal.


Do you want to hear more on Fridays about Fashion,  do you live in the midwest - tune in to KFRM Radio out of Clay Center, Kansas at noon for Rural Route Radio with Trent Loos,Kyle Bauer and Duane Toews - and yes ME doing Fashion Friday tips for all of my fun farmgirls out on the Plains and on the Prairie.  Lots of fun for sure !!  Or listen online at http://www.kfrm.com/ or http://www.ruralrouteradio.com/

Until next time~

50 Fashion Tips, Let the Fun begin~

I recently ran across a great article talking about the 50 Best Fashion Tips of All Times.  I thought so much of it that I thought to myself – Wow! This would be great for Fashion Friday to share with my Fun Fashion Forward FarmGirls.  What to buy, what to pass on, what to look for and what can we pull together to create something that says Ultra- Fab!!

Let’s get started……………….

The White T-shirt, Tank and Blouse

They dress up jeans, look great with skirts and are timeless with a pair of slacks. I like to keep a few on hand because I absolutely cannot stand when they lose their bright white color.  My suggestion is Hanes Tanks and T’s for wearing under sweaters or with jeans, Then invest in a nicer button down to wear when you get dressed up.  I buy the mens t-shirt packs of three – Yep I do and I make them my own. Why is it that they are so much cheaper than the same brand women’s tanks and t’s??? Hmmmmm. They are cheap and when they get a bit ratty-looking or lose their fresh pop of color I can go back and replace them at a minimal cost.  Keeping a good inventory of white tanks, t’s and a button down or two is a wardrobe staple.

Check back next week for our next wardrobe must have !

Nail It !

I am a big fan of nail polish.  With my old ranch hands I need something to perk them up and make them look a bit girly from time to time so I like to paint my nails.  Fall is in the air and just like a change of wardrobe for fall , the tips of your fingers need to follow suit.

Gone is the fluorescent shades of summer, green, yellow , pink and blue. Personally I never got into this trend it was just a bit too much for me but I do love however the new colors for fall.  Shades of brown, neutrals, dark reds and dark greens and grays are taking front and center stage on our short filed down tips.

Nail color should complement your outifits. Never have nails that scream – “ look at me” – I think it is best to choose a shade that works with all of your fall tweeds, plaids and rich deep gem colors.

My favorite polish is Essie and you can now purchase Essie polishes at mainstream drug and discount stores. It was once an exclusive salon polish but like many things it has made its way into CVS pharmacy stores and Targets across the country.  Typical price is right around $7-8 per bottle !  A cheap investment to add a little punch to your outfit and they make those old ranch hands look a little prettier .

A Little Bit of Magic Found in Middle America

Many of you know from following me on Facebook that I took some time to visit Nebraska this past week.  Some might also remember me sharing that I did a report on Nebraska in 4th Grade. I did a booklet with the state flower, bird, state seal , etc etc. The typical grade school project.  During my oral report to the class I said someday I would visit. Time passed and at 43 years young I finally took my trip to Nebraska! Thanks to some amazing friends offering a visit!

What a wonderful little part of rural America!  My adventure brought me to the Nebraska State Fair where I spent a few days helping friends with 4-H animal projects.  I was simply amazed by the amount of people participating in the Fair and the Fairgrounds itself - Wow! I fell in love with the washracks and the electrical outlets - I know sounds a bit strange but when you have shown at numerous cattle shows you can appreciate good facilities! They were top of the line !  Big screen televisions in all the barns showcasing the classes in the ring and alerting young people of their next class - quite cool.

I met alot of wonderful people, some that were facebook friends that now are real friends. Some found out I was at the fair so they swung by to meet me and visit , bringing me a tshirt from their local 4-H club or breed association - fun stuff!   I will be sure to wear them with pride throughout California !!

On the final day I had the opportunity to watch the market steer grand champion drive- I have never witnessed such an outpouring of support for young people! Literally hundreds of people gathered to watch the champion selection and hear the words of the cattle judge share his thoughts not only on the calves before him but the importance of young people. I have heard numerous speeches given by folks from throughout California discussing the importance of young people and commitment to agriculture but I have yet to hear it with the meaning and the heartfelt truth that I did during this show.  Nebraskas commitment to young people and agriculture is something they can be extremely proud of , many of us talk the talk but in Nebraska it was evident they walk the walk as well !

After my Fair Adventure I got to spend some time with a real Nebraska Farm Family. There home is a small slice of magic in the heart of America. Their commitment to family, to their livestock and to their friends is next to none.  It was humbling for this California Girl to spend some time in a place where makeup did not matter, where what I wore did not matter, where who I was or where I came from did not matter - the only thing that seemed to matter was those moments that I spent feeding pigs, chasing little donkeys, playing with doggies and spending time talking about REAL things that truly mattered.  

I want to thank all of you that made my Nebraska experience one I will certainly never forget. Thank you for introducing me to Mountain Dew made with real sugar, Runzas, skrew top cheap wine $2.77 per bottle to be exact and dill pickle sunflower seeds :) :)

You guys are the REAL DEAL - everyone should have the opportunity to take a trip to the heart of America and to give you the feeling that you matter and find your newfound love of all things agriculture- give you a shot in the arm that agriculture is alive and well.  Look out California, I have a new excitement for our industry - who knows whats in store next !!!

Fun Fashion for FarmGirls is Born~

So yesterday I was asked by my fellow agriculture enthusiast Amanda Radke my advice on what she should wear for an upcoming television appearance.  I was so excited, as I love to help people pick out clothes, shoes and jewels for different special events !!  As we chatted back and forth on facebook sharing thoughts and ideas other facebook friends chimed in and it got me thinking!!!  Why not focus my Couture Cowgirl blog on Fun Fashion for Farm Girls?  This would be a place to share ideas via social media and my blog- what fun? Right? So I figured I would give it a try and see how it goes.  I am passionate about agriculture issues and enjoy sharing my thoughts however I figured this might be a good place where we don’t have to think much and we can have lots of fun playing dress-up.  Do you have a special event you need to dress for? Or are you curious on the “now” trends?  Or maybe you just need a break from all the craziness we deal with within our industry on a day to day basis and need to chill for a moment or two- well then this will be your spot to come and enjoy ! 

Let the fun begin ~ Today lets talk hats!

(and just a note - I am certainly not a fashion expert- I just love decorating myself and expressing myself through clothing and accessories)

I Tip My Hat

I adore hats! I have lots of them! Ball caps, visors, cowboy hats, beanie hats, big straw hats, little cute summer hats, Frank Sinatra type hats, and headbands – I have trillions of them ! Do I look funny in some of them ? Maybe ~ but I really enjoy wearing them so that is all that really matters , right?

 As we finish up the extravagant wedding of new Royal couple we saw many hats.  Hats adorned with feathers, swirls, big hats, hats that looked like a flying saucer, flowered hats,  little hats and things that really didn’t even look like a hat. Women adorned themselves with elaborate creations from traditional to fanciful known as fascinators says TIME magazine. Fashion watchers had a hey day checking out the most exquisite hats and then those deemed definite faux pas.  However I admire these lovely ladies for having the guts to put on a hat and have a good time.



~Friends wearing their personalities on their heads~



  This weekend we get ready for the Kentucky Derby and that is another time where a fabulous hat is a must. I have always wanted to go to the Kentucky Derby and wear a fancy hat- that is on my bucket list- I have yet to check that one off my list.  Kentucky Derby hats always seem giant to me and have so much personality.  I love them. They remind me of Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman- remember the fabulous brown polka dot dress and the creamy white straw hat?  Simply adorable!!

I believe hats are an extension of your personality and how you are feeling that day.  Do you wear a hat? I would be curious. I don’t believe hats ever go out of style so what are you waiting for. I tip my hat to each of you for wearing your personality on your head. 

Why not? Its fun!!

Cheers to Moms!

Unlike many of you I was not blessed in life with children, but don’t get me wrong I am the best Zia around (that’s aunt in Italian).  My brother and his wife brought Paige into our world just about three years ago. Paige lives on the Ranch with all of us and loves being engaged in many of our day to day activities.  She always manages to scoot outside and help either Papa or Daddy or Z (as I am referred to) with some sort of ranch task. Seems as of late, she thinks all water troughs need to be fixed just so she can roll up her sleeves and put her hands in the cool water!  I have come to love Paige like my own and I think I might have just a glimpse of what mommy hood is all about.  What a tremendous joy!

The more I am involved in Paige’s everyday life the more I find myself interested in the Mommy Blogs and what Mommies have to say.  I want the best for my niece and through their stories of raising their children, foods they enjoy or experiences they have had I find myself really learning from them.  Craziness I know, who would have ever thought.  I have come to realize the importance of the Mommies out there telling our ag stories. There is a connection between them, camaraderie of sorts, a friendship, a common bond.  I find myself wanting to learn from them and hear what they have to say.  They are important, they have a voice, and they are the influencers of our ag future.  These little people someday will be doing what we do, they will be telling the ag story. 

I can only hope that I can instill good things into my niece Paige so that she will be a responsible young advocate, not afraid to share her thoughts as she goes to school or on the playground.  To know wrong from right and to know how her food is produced and that farmers and ranchers are the core of that. 

 I want to thank all the mommies out there for being my inspiration. For taking the time out of your crazy, busy days to share your stories with the rest of us . As a dear friend told me, you don’t need to give birth to be a mommy; it’s the love in your heart that makes you one.  This made my heart smile!  Hopefully I can be a good influence on many of my little friends :)

Best Wishes Baby Paige on a life filled with agriculture and appreciation for your roots!

Z loves you very much and is already so proud of the little lady you are becoming!!

Until my next thought~

C

Nail Polish Ponderings~

I have to say that I am pretty classic when it comes to my nail polish colors, I am a red girl and when I venture out I will go shades of brown, gray or taupe but this season nail polish colors are tropical retro!  Lagoon blue, Coral, Pineapple Yellow, Palm Fond Green and Sunburnt Orange are the new colors of the season. So how do we dip our toes in some of the newest colors without feeling uncomfortable for those of us used the classics?  I say just that!  Paint your toes!  Go blue, green or yes Sara Landis even yellow.  (inside story, My friend Sara told me about yellow being the all out rage, I personally thought she was a bit nutty until……………………. I know see yellow everywhere, she is cutting edge in Arkansas!! )

Polishes come in a wide range of price ranges and quality.  I find that by shopping at my local Target store I can find great brands at pretty good prices though many times they might not have the “ in” color.  Suggestion~ go to big name department stores or check out the end caps at retail chains and you are bound to find the “in” colors for the season. I believe that a fun new polish can liven up any old outfit so check it out and see what you can find.  I have seen polish as cheap as 99 cents and as much as $10 plus – personally I wouldn’t spend a lot on a trendy color but that is just me , I never quite know if I am gonna love it.  (why does it always look so pretty in the bottle ? )

I also suggest rounded short nails look best with these new bright hues but that is just me , what do I know I am just a cowgirl who likes to be a girly girl sometimes!  Enjoy spring , enjoy the new fun colors that are at our fingertips and guess what if you do it and ya don’t like it , just get some remover and take it off and start all over !!!!   

P.S.  today I am wearing geranium from essie – a mix of orange and red and I am loving it !!!  Fun Stuff!!!

AgVocates are Everywhere!

I recently had the tremendous opportunity to address the California Young Farmers and Ranchers at their Annual Convention in Ventura, California.  First of all I would like to commend the fantastic group of young people on their energy and enthusiasum for our industry.  Makes me want to be young enough to be a member !  No such luck unfortunately !

As I spoke to the group I put emphasis on the given topic , “Strength in Numbers” and the power of joining forces with all agriculture organizations to better tell our ag story.  Because that is what we do , right? Tell our ag story! And the more we do it the better we get the more educated those are that are listening.

However during the question and answer session I had one young lady ask ~ “what if you did not grow up on a farm or ranch or are not affiliated with an agriculture occupation, then how do you share the real life experiences of telling the ag story.”  I was glad the young lady asked this question and for me the answer was quite simple. She is probably one of the best people to be telling the story to the general public because she supports agriculture!  She might not have grown up on a farm or ranch but she believed in what we were doing and she was attending the YFR Conference.  She is a voice for so many consumers out there who appreciate what we do , consume the safe and affordable products we provide and are willing to share that story to the masses. 

Bottom line – you don’t have to be a part of production agriculture to be the best ag advocate. Sometimes being a consumer and supporting the ag way of life is the best spokesperson we can have for our industry.  The “average joe” consumer can relate !  Never second guess the power of those who support us, we need them, they are an intricate piece of the big picture! For me its just that simple!

Why Do I Do It?

Recently I read a great article in Farm and Dairy – “Emotion Trumps Science Everytime~ Farmers need to start with Why” by Susan Crowell

I applaud Susan for such a tremendous message!  I too have always been one to think this.  I believe science is a great resource at our fingertips and we need science for facts and figures to support the things we believe in.  However I also think that when we are out AGvocating that the why we do it seems to always hit it out of the ball park.

Why do I do what I do ? Why do I ranch? Why do I AGvocate?

For me it is really quite simple~

• I am steeped in the heritage of my family roots
• I love waking up on the weekend and going with my dad to check cows about to calve
• I love taking my niece- Baby Paige- with me on my four wheeler to feed at night
• I love fixing fence and water troughs – well maybe not love but it gives me the opportunity to be out with the cows and that is what I love.
• I love my ag family
• I love the smell of sweet hay
• I love the smell of cows – really I do !
• I love watching my dad each spring prepare to plant his vegetable garden, order his seeds, start them in little trays and then take them out to grow his own little personal crop
• I love seeing my mom prepare her menus each year as she takes food to us during branding time!
• I love the industry I have grown up in and feel it is my obligation as a fellow farmer/rancher to share my story with all who I can engage in conversation.
• I love caring for the animals, taking care of the little ones when maybe they cant get it done on their own
• I love warm baby calves on the floor of my truck on cold nights
• I love baby sheep bleating in a big box on the floor of my living room by the pot belly stove waiting for me to feed them
• I love all the cows lined up on the “cow trail” walking to the water trough in a perfect line like they are on a mission
• I love feeding hay on the back of the flatbed as my brother drives and taking time between fields to sit on the hay and admire the beauty of it all
• I love to eat – too much at times – and because of farmers I am able too!
• I love cowboy boots – I have all sorts!
• I love carhart jackets and gloves and ball cap kinda days
• I love YOU, my dear farming friends for helping me become my best self.

I love it because I do not know anything else this is who I am , who I have become and who I will continue to be.  I am dedicated to the industry I love and to each of my fellow farmers and ranchers.  For I owe it to them to share my story , I owe it to them to show them it can be done , hopefully empowering them to tell theirs and do the same.

Its all quite simple – when someone asks me why do you farm/ranch? Why do you do what you do ?

My answer – because I LOVE it and I cant imagine doing anything else.

That’s Why !