Kaaren Wiken and her husband Tom Rauschke were lay ordained in 1982 by Dainin Katagiri Roshi and, in accordance with his teachings, they sewed their own first rakusu for the ceremony. This was the beginning of Kaaren's sewing practice, which has continued under the guidance of Tomoe Katagiri. For most of the past decade Kaaren has offered instruction and guidance in the sewing of rakusu and Okesa, wherever it is requested, in her capacity as a Sewing Sensei (teacher). She has vowed to guide many people, and herself, to attain Buddhahood through the sewing and wearing of Nyoho-e (in the Way of the Buddha) rakusu and Okesa.

Kaaren and Tom's home is on 20 secluded acres in the southern unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest near Palmyra Wisconsin. The second floor of their renovated Barn is an ideal setting for sesshins, retreats and workshops, featuring a handsome 30' by 30' "designated empty" room. Udumbara Zen Center tries to schedule at least one sesshin at the Barn every summer and sewing students schedule visits for instruction through out the year.

There is a morning meditation daily with an additional brief service on Saturdays. Since the resident sangha consists of two (Kaaren & Tom) the exact sitting time is not predictable. Sewing students are encouraged to contact Kaaren directly for personal instruction. Her guidance is always available through email, letters, by phone, or pre scheduled visits.