Welcome to JKs Rough String Ranch

Welcome to the Rough String, and thanks for stoppin' by!! Grab a hot cup of coffee and sit a spell!
10/22/18 You will see a name change on the blog. Lots of things have changed in my life in the past few years, and I feel compelled to share my story.

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Saturday, October 24, 2009

1 Year Blogiversary Give-Away!!


Yep, one year ago October 25 it all started!

And it's all because of my good Dogster Mom friend Kathleen at Life Earth Sky. Her Rat Terrier pup Cloud is one of Cindy Sue's best pup furiends on Dogster.com.

Kathleen is a wonderful artist and does totally amazing animal portraits, among other great stuff. She showed us the link to her blog to see the progress she was making on her latest portrait of Cloud. BTW...Cloud has his own blog now...you gotta check him out...he's one funny pupster!!

Well anyhow, after seeing what she was doing...I decided it might be fun and a way to meet more people...never in my wildest dreams did I think that friendships would blossom and blogging could take me virtually all over the world!!!

Hi, my name is Karen and I'm a blogger.

I'm hooked...so are you!!! Otherwise you wouldn't be reading this!! LOL!!

To celebrate this milestone and show how much I appreciate everyone's friendship, enjoy all of your comments, and just give thanks to all my followers I'm going to do my first give-away.

'bout time huh?!?



These cute cups were a find at the Pendleton Roundup this year and they started my collection of items for the give-away. Everyone can use a lil' bit of Cowboy/Cowgirl in their home!

I know that many readers aren't active "horse" people, so I've worked it out. I've got a stash of stuff for "horsey" folks and a stash of stuff for "non-horsey" folks. Either way, the cups are going to be part of the stash for one lucky winner.

Here's what ya gotta do: leave a comment on this post telling me your favorite coffee drink. Leave the recipe too if you want! If you're not a coffee person, just tell me your favorite beverage that's going to get poured into these cups!

That's it!

Entries close at 9 PM on Friday October 30. The winner will be drawn and posted on Saturday, October 31. SPOOKY YES?!? Nah...I promise not to put any spooks in the package!

If you leave an anonymous post, please leave your name at the bottom of your post.

From the bottom of my heart...Thank You everyone for a great year!!

Happy Trails and Good Luck!


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54 comments:

  1. Congrats, and hope you have many more to come!!!!

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  2. Happy Anniversary, Gtyyup!!! And you are right- I LOL'd when you said we were addicted too, cause we were reading ;) I'll admit it- I'm addicted! (Are you kidding? I drooled all over that alfalfa you guys put up this year. Darn near shorted out my keyboard.)

    I had to giggle at the favorite coffee recipe too. We're easy around here. Dear Husband is not a java man, and I *gasp* use instant with heaping amounts of French Vanilla creamer in it to disguise the taste..... (Sacrilege huh? LOL)

    Anyways- looking forward to you being around a good long time here!

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  3. My grandpa taught me to drink coffee when I was really little. He made "cowboy coffee". Now that I've grown up I still drink my coffee black (a dash of salt if it's bitter) and a special treat is a Polar Bear white chocolate mocha at my favorite coffee stop.

    Grandpa's Recipe for Cowboy Coffee: Fill a large pot with cold water and put it on the fire. Throw in one handful of ground coffee and a horseshoe. When the horseshoe floats, the coffee is done!

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  4. Oh, yeah...not a coffee gal here. Give me a good cup of chai or tea hot cocoa anyday. And a Faceplant is even better! Hot cocoa, Rumplemintz, Bacardi 151 Rum and whipped cream. YUM-OH!

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  5. I'm so glad you started blogging and are addicted! I love coming to your blog to see the goings-on in your neck of the woods. I don't comment often but I always read.

    Coffee - give it to me intravenously please! My husband makes fun of me. I'm a serious caffeine junkie. At home it's just plain coffee with splenda and soy milk, but away from home I like Starbucks mochas the best lately. Just about any coffee drink is fine by me. I can't take it black though. I love me a good cup of cowboy coffee by the campfire, but I always bring stuff to doctor it with.

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  6. Happy 1st blogiversary!!! I love hearing stories about how people start blogging and end up addicted (in a good way, lol) and meet all kinds of new friends.

    I'm a tea drinker, so there will be some organic green tea, but my hubby likes high-test coffee, aka espresso!

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  7. Awww, thanks Karen, I'm so glad I inspired you to start blogging. Your blog quickly became one of my favorites! :-)

    Speaking of favorites... my favorite coffee drink is a mexican mocha, which is a mocha with cinnamon. Mmmm....

    Hugs!
    Kat

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  8. Happy Blogiversary! Living in Philadelphia, your blog is a nice taste of what it's like out West. I love hearing your updates on Colt, especially — he's come so far since you started blogging!

    My favorite coffee comes from any of the independent fair trade coffee shops in West Philly; at home, my mugs are always full of tea. Lavender Earl Grey and jasmine are my favorite teas — total heaven.

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  9. Those cups would sure look cute along with the rest of my western paraphernalia in the house ;)

    I am not much of a coffee drinker but I do enjoy iced cappachino's at tim hortons. You probably don't have them where you are in the good ol US of A but if you ever venture closer to the Canadian border be sure to take a stop at timmies. I promise you the best coffee says anyone in Canada. After every horse drawn carriage wedding I do it's a tradition to find the closest tim hortons and attempt to wedge the tuck and 24 foot gooseneck into the parking lot or nearby. Back when we had the old stock trailer we attempted to go through the drive through with it and two horses and knocked over one of those HEAVY steel garbage cans right near the speaker. Boy were they peeved but they gave us free cookies for our horses once we got the truck and trailer out of there. All in a days work right? haha

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  10. Congratulations - your blog is a lot of fun to read!

    I drink my coffee black - grind my own beans - mostly light roast from Central America.

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  11. Happy Anniversary!!!! This is a good addiction, blogging.
    Coffee, my husband says that I ruin it by putting milk and sugar or flavored creamer in it but hey, it's my coffee! He drinks it strong and black...blah!!! Give me the sweet stuff, love Hazelnut creamer in mine. Love iced coffee too. When I was a kid my grandma gave me what she called coffee milk. A little coffee and a lot of milk and sugar..LOL..it stuck! Gotta have it sweet! Like me! :-) LOL
    Jane

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  12. What a really nice gesture to and for all your new and old blogging friends. I gotta start by saying that I think it'll be hard for anyone to best AKPonyGirl's grandpa's coffee with the horseshoe in it! I had always heard eggshells, but I have to admit her grandpa's has got to be a little stronger and probably would take a REAL cowboy to drink it.!
    My husband can cook up two things in the kitchen, popcorn and great coffee. He's gone though a few good espresso machines. So if I need a real evening treat he whips up a hot steamed cappuccino and adds a shot of tequila and a shot of Kahlua and then it's nightie, night mj! Cheers!!!

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  13. I'm not much of a coffee girl, but some great hot chocolate will go great with a laptop & some good blogs like yours to read!

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  14. I always love checking up on your blog and seeing what's up in your neck of the...well, not exactly woods. I appreciated the advice you had when I was starting to ground-drive my mustang Cody, it really helped! As for coffee, never really been a coffee person (although coffee flavored ice cream I've found is actually rather good) so whenever I stop at an espresso stand (which are on every corner having lived in western Washington) I get hot cocoa (with whipped cream of course). Congrats on a year of blogging!

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  15. I love making regular coffee, but then put in a sprinkle of cinnamon, a dash of vanilla, and cream. It's amazing (and much cheaper then Starbucks)!

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  16. Happy anniversary! I though you'd been at it a lot longer than a year! Nice cups to b.t.w. you've my kind of taste ;)

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  17. Happy anniversary and here is to many more! Love reading it! As for coffee-black, hot and strong. Then I let it sit until it is cold and still drink it. I am totally addicted to real cappacino--NO FLAVOR, the milk makes it sweet enough. I am posting this as anon because google account and I seem to not connect on the password. I have changed it three times and still.....Phaedra96

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  18. Happy Blog-versary!
    Our favorite 'round these here parts is
    Cowboy Coffee from Sisters Coffee Company. We buy three or four bags everytinme we go through.

    ALso, Shawn brought me Pendleton Coffee from the Round up this year, it's really STRONG! We only drink that on weekends :)

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  19. Congrats!! Love reading your blog.

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  20. OOOOOOH! Congratulations! What a nice giveaway. You are very sweet. We should be sending you a gift, after all it is your anniversary! lol, Actually do I have your addie??? I will have to look... As far as those fantastic mugs, I love them. I would have had to get a couple sets, if I was going to share them ;) I like Senso one cup at a time coffee. Medium roast. I wouldn't be able to leave the house if I brewed a whole pot! Oh and alotta Coffee Mate French Vanilla creamer in it. lol Congrats my friend so glad to call you a friend. ((hugs))

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  21. Happy Blogiversary!
    Isn't it wonderful all the neat and interesting people that we have met and become friends with. Never new cyber-friendships could be so fun!
    Looking forward to another year of blogging with you!

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  22. Forgot to leave ya my favorite drink. I would have to say I'm not much of a coffee drinker but I do like a nice cup of cocoa on a cold winter's night.

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  23. OOOOOH I love those mugs.

    Happy Anniversary, Enjoy your accomplishment. I chuckle at the nay sayers that criticise the internet and blog world. I'm always happy about the depth and breadth of quality folks that share and open little bits of their lives to like minded people whatever their genre.

    Keep on trotting.

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  24. OH yeah.... the drink... strong coffee with a little milk for me, if its very cold add a splash of brandy or bourbon.

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  25. Came back to check on the comments and saw that awesome Clay Sharp saddle under the You might also like.
    Love Clay and Robin Sharp.

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  26. I absolutely LOVE those cups! How can you part with them? Congratulations on your blog anniversary. I have to say your blog is one of my favorites. Love what you have to say and love the music.

    Both hubby and I like our coffee strong and black. Usually French roast or Sumatra. When we want a coffee treat he opts for a tall coffee with a shot of espresso and I like a cinnamon dolce latte.

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  27. Congradulations! I'm with Mrs Mom! I can't have the caffine, so I have resorted to instant Tasters Choice, with my french vanilla creamer. It has to be carnaton, and can't be the non-fat or sugar free version. It's strong and I love it! I make sure I always have the creamer on hand and take it with me if I go out of town. I am hooked! LOVE the mugs!

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  28. This I can do! Oh, and hello, my name is Mikey and I'm a blogger. This must be my support group, lol.
    I prefer Starbucks Frappucinos. Manna from heaven, and a staple of my diet. In lieu of that, at the moment I'm drink French Vanilla Kahlua and milk. Hey, I survived Walmart on a Saturday, I think I'm deserving :)
    Can't wait to see who wins! Seems like everyone wants these!
    So glad to have you too, you're one of my favorite bloggers!! Always good stuff to be read over this way.

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  29. I'm so glad you're addicted to writing because I'm addicted to reading :)
    Caramel Latte any day and I'm happy!!!

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  30. Hot or cold give me a dark rich cup of coffee, black. If you want a little pizzazz, add a dash of cinnamon or backing cocoa. Sit on the back porch, heels on the rail and enjoy the view. Happy Blogiversary. I love coming over for a visit now and again. Blogging is addictive and you do meet so many wonderful folks here (from all over the world). Blessings and here's to another year of blogging. Love and Light, Nina P

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  31. OK so where did my typing fingers go. You can tell I didn't preview my comment too well. It's baking cocoa. Of course if you want to use backing cocoa ... smiles. Love the music here! Love and Light, Nina P

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  32. I'm right there with you in the confessional. What a fine first year it's been - looking forward to many more of your adventures to come.

    My morning cup of joe (Folger's Gourmet Chocolate Truffle with sugar and half and half, brewed in the infamous Bunn high-altitude coffee maker) tastes pretty good, but I know it would taste better in one of those mugs. I particularly like how the Cowgirl mug has a thinner waist.

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  33. Congratulations on a year of blogging; I think you have the best playlist, and often leave your blog open while I read other blogs just to hear the songs. I am a simple girl and like my coffee straight up- black, strong and hot.

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  34. Congrats on your 1 year anniversary!!!
    I have become addicted to blogging, thanks to my sister! But have no regrets whatsoever!
    Love those mugs! I am not much of a coffee drinker, but when I do drink it, I drink coffee with Irish Cream in it. Yummo! My OH is a huge coffee drinker!
    I get my caffeine by drinking a Dr. Pepper, or two a day!!

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  35. Fun! You know I give away a book every month at my website. http://www.patyjager.com (hint hint) for any western lover.

    I have a cup of hot chocolate every morning. That's my pick me up. And it has to be the Nestle Rich Chocolate anything else doesn't taste good. LOL And at night- Hot chocolate with peppermint schnapps. Yum!

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  36. Happy Blogiversary! Definately addicted to your blog, your stories and pictures are just amazing! Love reading about all the adventures you go on!

    Mmmm...coffee. In my cup right this moment is drip coffee with sugar and pumpkin egg nog instead of cream (positively sinful). Usually I'm just a bit of sugar kind of gal though.

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  37. Congrats! I personally like your general Folger's variety with a dab of Creme Brulee creamer - but the hubby has become a coffee snob. He prefers any other brand other than Folgers (including Our Family!). If it comes in anything other than a can, we're good to go!

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  38. I love your blog! It makes me desperately want to move out west and start a life like yours.

    I'm not much of a coffee drinker, but when I do, it's simple with a splash of milk. I'm definitely more of a tea drinker. I start my morning at work with a giant mug of green tea.

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  39. We don't have conventional power here so we use a perculator and the guys around here like it STRONG! I have to cut it with heavy cream and a bit of sugar. If I am in town then of course the coffee shops are the way to go! Love your blog and your photos!! Wish I could have made it to the Pendelton Roundup!

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  40. Happy blogiversary!

    I don't really have a favourite, but I like strong drip coffee, black or with cream (I like some of the fancier coffee drinks too, but I don't like them enough to bother making them at home). I'm more of a tea drinker most of the time, though.

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  41. My favorite thing to swill out of my coffee cup is Hot Chocolate (3 scoops because I like it really thick) and a shot or two or three of Buttershot (Butterscotch Snaaps) Can't spell it but I can highly recommend it!!


    Christy Calkins from the www.flyncjranch.net

    I'm not a blogger, It's all I can do to keep my web site up to date. but I sure enjoy reading yours.

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  42. As it seems the thing to say...happy blogiversary! I haven't been reading your blog for very long, but I'm catching up!

    As for drinks-give me hot chocolate any day, with a dash of cinnamon & paprika to add a little bite to the sweetness. My fiance, Tristan, now, he just needs coffee directly inserted into his veins, perferably with a whole ton of sugar & half & half. I tease him about being a coffee addict, & he points out I drink as much hot chocolate as he does coffee so we're even.

    Happy trails!

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  43. Wow!! Hard to believe that it's been a year already!! Congratulations my little addicted blogger buddy!! Me too - totally addicted!! It's been fun though...many, many wonderful people out there. I just love a plain ole cup of coffee - hot and preferrably with either french vanilla creamer or half-n-half. Nothin' fancy!! Those are cool cups - thanks for the giveaway.

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  44. Happy 1 Year.Addicting isn't it.It's pretty cool to be able to travel around the world and never leave home. I love your blog and will be a follower for as long as you are blogging. Way to go Karen!!!! Oh yeah. I'm a bit of a baby when it comes to coffee, strong,( a bit of cream,a bit of sugar) and lots of it.I don't leave the house until I've had a min. 2 cups

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  45. I enjoy reading your comments and especially love your pictures - beautiful. Hot chocolate would go in my mug - not a coffee drinker. Diet pepsi if it was hot outside.

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  46. I like my coffee black.With a shot of Drambuie on the side.Around a campfire would be OK.
    Or sitting around my trailer late at night with my horse show buds...

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  47. Oh Wow One Year of blogging! I cant believe we started blogging at about the same time! My anniversary will be Nov.10th! I am trying to cook up a little something for it too!
    Alas I dont drink coffee, but a nice hot Chai Latte mmm mmm LOL great giveaway! I really enjoy following your blog.

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  48. Wow, I think I'm #48 to comment?
    I absolutely love your blog and discovered it thru visiting The 7MSN blog....we can thank "Carson" for that :) Since you're in my "vicinity" and I hardly ever get over to where you are: Happy Blogiversary!!
    My favorite coffee drink is a White Chocolate Caramel Mocha: I call it an "Avalanche", the gang at Dutch Bros. coffee stand call it "Teresa's Usual" and they know exactly how I like it...ON THE SWEET SIDE!!

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  49. Holy Moly, look at all your followers! Can't believe it's been a year! Love the mugs. The husband will use it for coffee. I will use mine for spiced cider! Yummo!

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  50. Happy blog anniversary! I've only been at it for two months, I can't imagine where I'll be in a year. I've really enjoyed learning about your life and the area of the world you live in - it's totally different from my city dwelling self!

    My favorite coffee drink, though I don't get it often because I just can't jusify spending $5 for it, is a vanilla flavoured lattee - a shot of espresso, steamed milk, a splash of vanilla, and if I'm really feeling a sugar craving, whipped cream on top.

    My normal coffee drink is a simple dark roast with a bit of cream and sugar, not too much though.

    Happy blogging, may you have many good entries to come. :)

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  51. Happy 1st year bloger-versary, Karen. I AM addicted to keeping up with you and yours.
    My favorite way to drink coffee is real strong brewed, black and hot with a large scoop of vanilla ice cream..Yummy..esp. after a nice Basque dinner!

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  52. Well did ya ever think you'd have over 50 bloggers leaving you comments or that you'd have over 115 followers? See, you must be a rather interesting...and just all around nice kind of gal. :)

    I'm glad you're still around blogging, too. I was getting worried about that when the AG work, alfalfa fields, cattle sorting and wrangling and just plain busy stuff took you away for a while. At least you still found some time to share it all with us.
    You live a blessed life, a life many folks would love to 'taste' if only just for a little while.

    And speaking of taste...I'd pour my Folgers Simply Smooth coffee in one of those cowgirl cute cups with a sprinkling of cinnamon and a (big) splash of milk.

    Hmmmm, but ya know. I was just thinking that a margarita or some smooth whiskey would go in those cups just fine, too.

    I'm far from being a traditionalist, ya know. lol!

    Pass the chips and salsa!
    :)

    Congrats on your Blogiversary, K!


    ~Lisa

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  53. Oh my gosh, happy anniversary! The big ONE :) And also, great idea on the giveaway!

    perfectpunkin(at)yahoo(dot)com

    Emmi

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  54. Well, congratulations! Like you, I have met some fantastic people, such as yourself. I just love my coffee with sugar and cream if it is strong coffee, and just sugar if not! My mom makes coffee like dish water (love you mom) and my mother in law with myself make it very strong! On very cold days I will add some irish cream! Take care and keep up the good work!

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