CAREGIVER Magazine-Issue 24-December/January 2023

GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY METRO AREA

BETHANY

The Grand at Bethany

Skilled Nursing & Therapy 7000 NW 32nd Street 405-789-7242

BLANCHARD

Senior Village Healthcare Center 1104 N Madison Ave 405-485-3315

CHICKASHA

Cottonwood Creek Skilled Nursing & Therapy 2300 Iowa Avenue 405-224-6456

DEL CITY Mid-Del Skilled Nursing & Therapy 400 S Scott Street 405-677-3349

EDMOND Bradford Village Healthcare Center 906 N Boulevard 405-341-0810

EL RENO

River Oaks

Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1901 Parkview Drive 405-262-2833

NORMAN Grace Skilled Nursing & Therapy 4554 W Main Street 405-366-8800

Holiday Heights Healthcare Center 301 E Dale 405-321-7932

OKLAHOMA CITY Brookwood Skilled Nursing & Therapy 940 SW 84th Street 405-636-0626

Capitol Hill Skilled Nursing & Therapy 2400 SW 55th Street 405-681-5381

Kingwood

Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1921 NE 21st Street 405-424-1449

St. Ann’s Skilled Nursing & Therapy 9400 St. Ann Drive 405-728-7888

Wildewood

Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1913 NE 50th Street 405-427-5414

The Wilshire Skilled Nursing & Therapy 505 E Wilshire Blvd 405-478-0531

SHAWNEE

The Regency Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1610 N Bryan Avenue 405-275-9004

STILLWATER

The Timbers Skilled Nursing & Therapy 2520 S Rankin Street 405-341-1433

skilled

Fairmont Skilled Nursing & Therapy Memory Care 3233 NW 10th Street 405-943-8366

nursing

long-term care discharge coordination.

Bridges Health is a Skilled Nursing & Therapy Facility Management Company. Each location is independently owned and operated

Stillwater Creek Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1215 W 10th Street 405-372-1000

TECUMSEH

Heritage Skilled Nursing & Therapy 201 W Walnut Street 405-598-2167

32 Skilled Nursing & EL RENO River Oaks resource for

Start a new chapter in your story

Entering our 49th year, SPANISH COVE is home to residents from all over Oklahoma. We’re a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) offering every

Holiday Lunch and Learn

level of care from independent living to home health care, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. Thinking about a move?

Join us! Sunday, Dec. 11, 11 a.m. OR Sunday, Dec. 18, 11 a.m.

Spanish Cove offers informational no-obligation sessions to help individuals and families. Presented by Jill Huff, this is an opportunity to ask questions in a comfortable environment and get answers to questions like:

• What are the different types of retirement communities?

• What does “fee for service” mean? What is a “life care community”?

• What are the costs? How can I save now & what should I put aside for my future?

• What financial, physical, & medical qualifications do I have to meet?

• What differences are there between local communities?

• How can I “try out” a community before making a commitment?

• How does Long Term Care Insurance work?

• Is Spanish Cove expanding? What is the Spirit Club and what is a Charter Member?

If you are thinking about a move, lock in your rate now! Our fees are changing January 1st—you don’t have to MOVE by this date, but a deposit will lock in the best rate going forward. The fee changes will affect entry fees AND monthly fees...it’s a lifetime savings of over $40,000!

11 Palm Ave., in Yukon, OK (just minutes from OKC metro!)

Spanish Cove Retirement Village is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.

JILL HUFF Marketing Director

Review

Grandparents and family members raising a grandchild or loved one are often negatively stigmatized by society. There are those who feel the situation is a result of poor parenting; a lack of discipline or lack of structure, etc. This is blatantly false. Most of these grandparents have multiple children; the majority of whom are productive, grounded citizens.

According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation (www.aecf.org), particularly grandparents raising grandchildren is escalating. Nearly 90,000 children in the State of Oklahoma are being raised by grandparents. That number does not include the many informal kinship arrangements that are not reported. That number according to our Oklahoma Department of Health officials is closer to 150,000 statewide. Nationwide 2.7 million grandparents are raising their grandchildren. This is a serious crisis in our state.

Love Conquers ALL

By Lisa Sydnor

When you are faced with extremely complicated circumstances the welfare of the child(ren) is paramount. You must set aside your feelings, your hopes, your dreams, your plans, and your loss of relationships; to focus on your child and grandchildren. As the parent/grandparent you suffer through the five stages of grief: Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance.

You grieve for all you lose: your child, your freedom, your plans, and for many the possibility of retirement.

is a part of the story of Lamont and Leela Baker, founders of Nana’s Closet; a “normal” family: mom, dad, and three lovely, active, productive daughters. In the fall of 2013, that all changed with a call from the high school saying one of their daughters had overdosed in the parking lot and was not expected to live. Panic, denial, hysteria, and terror all describe those first hours. Paralyzing fear gripped Leela Baker’s heart and mind. Making phone calls, leaving work, driving to the hospital, and beating the ambulance to the hospital, all happened in the vacuum of a blurred, dark tunnel. This simply could not be happening to their beloved child.

The situation spiraled out of control, resulting in a pregnancy, their daughter living on the streets, marriage to her presumed dealer boyfriend, and the birth of a lovely, perfect little girl who was addicted to drugs. Evelyn Drew Baker was in NICU for 17 days undergoing detoxification. This fragile little one suffered and survived withdrawal from drugs.

Leela and Lamont formally adopted Evelyn who turned 5 years old in June 2022. Life is a series of ups and downs, good, bad, and terrible days. They credit their faith and trust in God; belief in each other and hard work for strengthening their marriage.

Leela was pondering their situation, trying to come to terms with all that had transpired over the past six years when she felt led by God to form an organization that would help grandparents as they faced so many difficult decisions. She did not want to leave her professional career. She loved her job and was very well-respected in the neurological ophthalmology field. Long conversations with Lamont and her boss who recommended she consult her pastor left her indecisive. Paul Cunningham, Head Pastor of Westmoore Community Church advised Leela to follow her heart, saying,

“God makes your mess your ministry.”

Since 2018, Nana’s Closet has been the ministry of the Baker family. It has grown from a spare bedroom to two bedrooms to a garage to a miracle involving many entities in the community. One partnership is with Morning Star Storage which has provided storage units at no charge. Another blessing is through Putnam City United Methodist Church which provided an area for families to “shop” in a boutique-like setting. Leela stated, “It is important for the kids to have some control in an uncontrollable situation.”

The monumental task of sorting, cleaning, separating, and labeling all the donations is labor intensive. These are tasks done with love. Watching the grandparents and children select clothing and seeing the tears of gratitude and joy makes it all worthwhile.

You rarely see Leela without Evelyn tagging along. With her contagious smile, you are

The staff of CAREGIVER Magazine is committed to connecting those in need with services and programs. If you have a question or you are looking for services, call 405-314-7840 or email l.sydnor@betterwithageok.com; include your name and phone number in the message. We can help you find resources such as 211; NewView Oklahoma; Will Rogers Senior Center; a home health care agency; a place to live, fraud prevention, etc.

Many requests for standard documents prompted a recap of what you need to have in place for EVERY member of your family. Emergencies arise every day and bad things happen in the blink of an eye. Listed below are documents you need to have in your important papers file:

Durable Power of Attorney (with health care powers only) If I am unable to decide or speak for myself, my agent has the power to:

________ a. Make health and medical care decisions for me, including serving as my representative under the Oklahoma Do-Not-Resuscitate Act, but excluding signing an advance directive, making decisions reserved to a health care proxy under an advance directive, or other life-sustaining treatment decisions. _________ b. Choose my health care providers. _________ c. Choose where I live and receive care and support when these choices relate to my health care needs.

_________ d. Review my medical records and have the same rights that I would have to give my medical records to other people.

_________ e. Elect hospice treatment.

_________ f. All of the powers listed above.

Financial Power of Attorney Gives a trusted person authority to handle your finances and property should you become incapacitated. If you need this document, it is recommended an attorney completes and files with the court.

Be sure a trusted person is joint owner of bank accounts which gives immediate access to accounts when the need arises.

Oklahoma Advance Directive for Health Care regarding my health care, I direct my health care providers to follow my instructions below. If I am incapable of making an informed decision, I direct my healthcare providers to follow my instructions below.

Memorandum of Distribution of Personal Property

If you have personal items you wish to give to a specific person you may list each item and the recipient, sign and date the document. It does not have to be notarized.

Example: Description of Property Beneficiary 48 pc silverware in wooden case Jane Ann Doe

These blank forms can be downloaded and printed from the Oklahoma.gov website: www.okdhs.org. If you have limited, or no, internet access, forms can be mailed to you by calling the OKDHS Records Center at 1-877-283-4113. For free legal assistance in completing the forms, contact the OKDHS Aging Services Division at 405-522-3069.

Additional links: - MyDirectives® mydirectives.com - U.S. Living Will Registry® uslivingwillregistry.com

This information is to assist in finding forms you may need. When in doubt, consult an attorney.

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“ComForCare is a great group of men and women who truly care for their clients. Khalid is very kind and professional and I would recommend him and his company to anyone! Thanks for everything you do!”

Cenokis Family

CAREGIVERS

R N E R

By Kathy Cocks, RN

Hobbies and Crafts Provide Purpose

My Dad has spent the last 20 years of his retired life building homes through Habitat for Humanity. Every time he helped finish a home, he would give away one of Mom’s hand-crafted decorations during the dedication ceremony. He made sure that each home had quality construction. When the pandemic hit that activity was put on hold and unfortunately it also caused him to decline physically and emotionally. Building those homes gave Dad a purpose.

My Father-in-law has dementia and very bad arthritis. He goes to a day center, and they were struggling to find activities for him. He enjoys crocheting and the main thing he knew how to make was scarves. They are beautiful and warm. All of my closets and my children’s closets are full of scarves. We needed a new avenue for his scarves and a person from the day center took them to homeless shelters. After that my father-in-law enjoys making scarves knowing they are going to an important cause.

It does not matter a person’s age, they need love first, but they also need a sense of purpose. Many times, we think someone who has dementia is happy to just be safe and well taken care of. They do need that, but they also need a sense of purpose. Sometimes we can get busy making sure someone has a good diet and plenty of physical exercise without helping them find purpose in life.

According to research, older people with a high rating of purpose in life have more social support, more resilience with adversity, and better health. This also leads to better mental and physical health. Older individuals though can experience difficulty physically or mentally engaging in activities that give them purpose. It is important to keep trying to find activities they can still do.

Find out what type of hobbies an older person enjoyed doing. I know my dad may not be able to go build houses anymore, but I have been looking at some woodshop classes where he can make smaller items at home and find a place to donate them. Also, do not look at hobbies that seem to favor one gender. Women may also enjoy woodworking. If they enjoy woodworking it would be good to bring the grandkids or great-grandkids over and let your loved one help them make a derby car or birdhouse. The main thing they will be making is memories.

Another hobby is working on genealogy together. Older people may not be as adept at computers, but they probably know quite a bit about different people in the family. This gives grandchildren or nieces and nephews an opportunity to come over and explore their family tree and get their loved ones to tell stories that you want to be preserved. One thing I am thankful for is that my parents wrote their memoirs. Some of those stories I will always cherish. It can be daunting to have your loved one start at the beginning and write their story. Over the holidays ask them what their house was like growing up or what hobby they pursued or tell about their first car. Record it or write it down. You can find all kinds of online programs for recording conversations that will give you a transcript. A video recorded on your cell phone and shared with the family will be a cherished keepsake.

Hobbies can also be utilized to help the community and that really helps an older person feel like they have meaning in life. I knew one lady who would buy flannel material, cut the blankets for what would fit a baby, and tie off the loose ends. She would donate these baby blankets to the local hospital. They did not cost much money and were easy to make for someone who was even confined to a wheelchair.

Other simple projects that people can do are make cards for veterans or nursing home residents, encourage them to get involved in simple gardening projects, or get a bird-watching book. One client I knew had about 20 bird feeders in her yard and she watch the birds that flew by. It gave her something interesting to talk about when she could no longer go work in her garden.

Games are also a great activity that helps with fine motor skills and mental skills. My dad has

always played a game called Rook so even though he cannot hear very well he still enjoys beating all his grandchildren at Rook. I knew a client who liked to play Rummy. Most of the time she did not understand the rules but she was excited to play. Books of games like word searches or Soduko keep their mind active.

Get out some of your loved one’s music and encourage listening to it. It will help them relax and maybe they will be motivated to move more. Music stirs the soul and activates memories. Take them for small walks in the neighborhood or get an exercise bike they can use in the home. Always keep safety in mind when picking out exercise equipment. Hobbies and giving back to the community keep older adults healthier for longer. Handmade hobby items and crafts also make incredible Christmas gifts.

Plan Of Care

An individualized plan of care is developed for each patient, identifying his/her special medical and physical needs and strengths.

Intensive rehabilitation

Our center’s progressive treatment program is ideal for those recovering from surgery, illness or injury. We use an interdisciplinary team approach to manage the physical and emotional care needs of our patients.

Specialized Nursing Care

The transition from hospital to home is further enhanced by a nursing staff trained and experienced in both medical management and rehabilitation.

Following physician’s protocols, our professional nursing team provides medical assessment and monitoring, medication and pain management as well as rehabilitative support.

Beauty — Food for Thought

Many of the same wholesome foods you eat to help your skin glow from inside out can also be used externally as cleansers, moisturizers, and skin masks. The vitamins, minerals, and oils that nourish your body also nourish your skin. Below you’ll find recipes for a variety of skincare products that you can make at home with a few simple ingredients. Make them for yourself or even give them as gifts by reusing pretty glass jars or bottles. Your friends and relatives will love the personal touch, and you’ll be recycling and saving money too! Here are some recipes to get you started.

Soothing Lavender Body Wash

Lavender essential oil gives this body wash a fragrant scent while grapeseed oil helps keep skin healthy.

½ cup liquid, unscented castile soap

1 tsp grapeseed oil

4 drops lavender essential oil

Pour ingredients into a container, swirl to mix, and store in the shower for up to one month.

Coconut Oil & Coffee Scrub

Coffee grounds - approximately ¼ cup. More can be used if you want a deeper, richer coffee experience and more scrub power. ½ cup softened virgin coconut oil

Mix ingredients together and set aside, stirring as it hardens for an even mix of coconut and coffee grounds.

It works well to store this in a wide mouth glass jar. It’s easy to scoop out and stays fresher longer. Store in a cool place or refrigerate. Makes a perfect gift for loved ones.

White Chocolate Coconut Bath Melts*

These bath time treats are simple yet luxurious. They smell of chocolate, leave your skin beautifully soft and supple, and are a delight to make. What could be better?

50g (1.8 oz.) white cocoa butter, unrefined (more chocolatey) or refined

25ml (0.8 fl. oz.) refined coconut oil

Around 10 drops essential oil or fragrance (optional)

The cocoa butter has a naturally rich chocolate aroma which would go well with rose, sweet orange, peppermint, lavender, or even grapefruit oils. Chocolate or vanilla would both be great fragrance options, too). You will also need chocolate molds or an ice cube tray

1. Shave cocoa butter into small pieces and flakes using a large, sharp knife or you could use a grater.

2. In a saucepan, bring about 1½ cups of water to a boil and let it simmer at a low temperature.

3. Place the cocoa butter and coconut oil in a bowl over the saucepan and stir until melted. You can prop the bowl up on a spoon so steam can escape easily from the side.

4. Take the melted oils off the heat and add the essential oil (if using).

5. Pour into molds and let them sit in the refrigerator for a few hours.

6. Once set, gently remove from molds and store in a cool, dry place.

Note — These have a tendency to melt (similar to chocolate) in warmer temperatures and can stick together too. You can store them in an airtight jar in the refrigerator (make sure to label them so that they won’t be mistaken as food!). *Use caution with oil-based bath products as they could create a fall risk. www.bitsquareblog.com

Live Well with ArchWell

Welcome to a higher level of healthcare for seniors: ArchWell HealthTM. We’re here to improve all aspects of our members’ lives through a special kind of healthcare that focuses on wellness, community and strong member/doctor relationships.

We’re helping Oklahoma City seniors get well, stay well and live well.

A vibrant healthcare community focused on you and your wellness.

Our centers are welcoming communities where you can enjoy fitness classes, board and card games and many other activities. It’s a great way to connect with other seniors. Need a ride? We’ll gladly provide transportation to and from the center. To learn more, or to schedule a tour, call 405.251.8885 or visit ArchWellHealth.com

C MMUNITY HEARTBEAT

By Lisa Sydnor

I DON’T NEED A SUPPORT GROUP

Everyone needs a little support.

Recommending someone join a support group is often met with a litany of “reasons” why a support group is not needed or wanted or seen to have any value. Perhaps you do not see how a support group would enhance your life, make caregiving easier, and/or help you deal with all, or any, of the issues that accompany caregiving. Let’s take a different approach to this issue.

Life can, and too often does, change in a second. Your loved one has a stroke or an accident or is diagnosed with a life-threatening disease or your grandchildren are left with no parents. In that instant – BAM - you are a caregiver.

Life now is based on learning medical terminology, making and taking your loved one to medical appointments, figuring out living arrangements, dealing with financial issues, learning how to navigate the education system, finding suitable daycare, and, the dreaded insurance or assistance conundrum. Not how you envisioned your life. You are now juggling your job, your spouse/partner, your children, personal commitments, and the caregiving of a loved one.

Often, you are confronted with an angry, scared and resentful loved one. This is not how they envisioned

their life. The care receiver is as vulnerable and frightened as the caregiver. Often expressing our innermost emotions and vulnerabilities is the difficult “first” step. Being vulnerable about our private lives and/or family matters is not easy. The reality is nothing will happen unless you participate.

MANY REASONS ARE GIVEN FOR NOT FINDING A SUPPORT GROUP:

No one understands.

I don’t share my private life publicly.

I don’t have time.

I am too tired.

I can’t deal with people who whine and want pity.

I love my spouse/mother/father/sibling/child; someone might misunderstand.

I don’t want to cry or vent in public.

I can handle this on my own.

Believe me when I tell you, many of us have been, or are, where you are and we do understand. It is a love/hate relationship. You will cry, feel angry, be frustrated, and wonder “Why”. You need a safe

environment to laugh, cry, and vent. You need to celebrate victories and express your feelings. You need coping mechanisms. You are not alone unless you chose to be.

Support groups are not one-size-fits-all. Find a group with like experiences, a group where you feel comfortable. There are groups for grief, memory care, terminal illnesses, end-of-life, foster care, relatives raising children, adoption, mental illness, substance abuse, etc.

Herb Magley volunteers with Alzheimer’s Association and is a wealth of information and encouragement. He cared for his wife through her Alzheimer’s journey. He has a list of 25 do’s and don’ts for those on the rocky road of caregiving. Herb continues to be instrumental in establishing and supporting many support groups.

Kris did not have a support system in place while caring for her husband. Upon his death, her medical issues began to dominate her life. She was grieving and ill. Finding a group to meet her needs was challenging. In conjunction with her church, friends, and others suffering the loss of a loved one, Kris started a support group. Being able to talk out her feelings with like-minded individuals gave her strength and understanding of her own needs.

John came back to Oklahoma when his mother became ill. The past four years have had ups and downs for both of them. He tried several support groups before finding his support group. John shared, “We are not created to do life alone; especially working through relationships with ourselves and others. I wasn’t able to find a support group that fit my exact need but…through communicating my needs, struggles, and questions with the people in and around my daily life I began to develop relationships that now, are an inner circle of trusted and experienced people that can help me.”

John is a recovering addict. He said, “I believe in support groups since my 12-step involvement revolves around meeting with like-minded people and people seeking recovery. Meetings are where I started developing my personal “support group” or “accountability partners”. A group or meeting may have 20 people that have a common purpose.”

Where and how do you find support groups? If you have a case worker start your search with them. For referrals and assistance contact 211; Human Resources at your job or your loved ones’ job; school counselors; social service

Claim your FREE digital subscription at CaregiverOklahoma.com

Arbor House is about personal freedom and choices. We pride ourselves in providing high quality

agencies; and your church for assistance in finding a support group. If you are caring for a veteran or a dependent, contact the VA. The Veterans Hospital has a great support system which includes caregiver support groups as well as physical and occupational therapy. The following are a few of the agencies offering information on caregiver support groups: 211; 988; Areawide Aging Agency; Alzheimer’s Association; Catholic Charities; Parkinson’s Association; Oklahoma Department of Veteran Affairs; Veterans Hospital; Oklahoma Department of Human Services; Oklahoma Department of Mental Health; OKCares; and Sooner SUCCESS. These agencies have systems of support in place or can assist in locating support and are excellent

Help yourself as well as those you are caring for and share your burdens. You may be surprised at the weight off your shoulders. Take care of yourself, selfcare is not selfish. Your ability to continue caring may be in your ability to breathe and laugh. Laughter heals; puts things in perspective, and gives us strength to carry on. Reach out. Contact ASKLisa if you need help.

405-524-0126, House: 800-522-8502 Find your legislator here: www.okdrs.gov/pwdad/2023

People with Disabilities Awareness Day 2023 is a time to celebrate the accomplishments of Oklahomans with disabilities and share our stories.

Visit more than 70 vendor tables where you can learn about, services programs and products that may enhance your life and strengthen your independence.

It is also a time to contact our lawmakers and share our journeys so they know what programs are empowering Oklahomans with disabilities to reach their goals of an independent life and fulfilling career. Find out who your Legislators are at ddcapp.oklegislature.gov

Or call to make an appointment:

Senate: 405-524-0126, House of Representatives: 800-522-8502 Wear Green!

On Awareness Day, we encourage everyone to WEAR GREEN. It shows our unity and how important these services are to improving the lives of Oklahomans with disabilities. Hashtag the event!

#PWDAD2023

MEDICARE

Tested and Tasted

By Neil Johnson, and Shelley Stutchman-Johnson

Top Ten Groovy International Restaurants in the Oklahoma City Metro

You can have

international experience without leaving our great state of Oklahoma. Neil and I have picked our top ten worldwide cuisines in our area. Enjoy any of the restaurants listed as you take your trip around the world because all have passed the Medicare Jet-Setters criteria.

Mediterranean:

Zorba’s Mediterranean Cuisine 6014 N. May Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73112

Nutritionists tell us to eat a Mediterranean diet. The Mediterranean Diet leads to a longer life and several other health benefits, such as lower heart disease and cancer rates. When you enter Zorba’s, the waiting area has paintings of trees on the walls. Don’t forget to look up at the ceiling. It is painted sky blue with pictures of birds in flight. The food is fresh and colorful. They call their fish dishes the fruit of the sea. Not only is the food nourishing, but it also tastes like you are indeed on vacation in the Mediterranean.

Mexican:

Ted’s Café Escondido 15124 Lleytons Ct Ste 118, Edmond, OK 73013

Known for being one of the best Mexican restaurants in Oklahoma, Ted’s Café Escondido continues to deliver some of the best Mexican food around. Ted’s fills the bill when you get that craving for chips and queso, food smothered in cheese, and a side of beans and rice. Ted’s strives to make each guest feel welcome and special and is passionate about continuing to prepare fresh food daily from scratch. Just in case you were wondering, Escondido means hidden in Spanish.

Italian:

BRAVO! Italian Kitchen 13810 N Pennsylvania Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73134

Bravo’s is light and cheerful and makes you feel like you are in Tuscany. The amorous music adds to the romance of the restaurant. The pasta dishes are made with the freshest ingredients and will please your taste buds. They offer extraordinary service, and there is a selection of handcrafted beverages. We hope to run into you at Bravo’s. If we do, don’t be surprised if I kiss you on each side of your cheek because I will be feeling a bit Italian. Bravo, to Bravo’s Italian Kitchen.

Fait Maison Restaurant

152 East 5th Street #3832, Edmond, OK 73034 “Ooh la la,” I whispered to my friends who are wine connoisseurs when we entered Fait Maison French Restaurant. The décor is gold and bold. Chandeliers abound from the ceiling, and charming French music drifts throughout the restaurant. We knew this was going to be a night to remember. We decided to try the five-course tasting menu with wine pairing. Why not? Life is short. Drink good wine and eat good food. Maybe we were feeling a little French ourselves. I would go back to Fait Maison for the bread alone. The first bread I tried was Country Bread. It contained pumpkin seeds and walnuts. When you go to Fait Maison, give the Fait Maison professionals the key; they will drive you on your French food and wine journey.

“ I am forever grateful to have had Connie to sell my home, and, also helped me in purchasing my current home. She has a heart for her clients and invaluable expertise in the entire process! Thank you, Connie! - Frances Baker

I am forever grateful to have had Connie to sell my home, and, also helped me in purchasing my current home. She has a heart for her clients and invaluable expertise in the entire process! Thank you, Connie! - Frances Baker

Brazilian: Café Do Brasil

440 N.W. 11th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73103

The food is authentic Brazilian cuisine that combines flavor, uniqueness, and comfort. A fascinating history of the building is that it was an old funeral home that the restaurant owners transformed into a Brazilian getaway. You will feel like you are on vacation and have stepped into paradise. For a quiet brunch, go on a Saturday. For brunch with live Bosa Nova beats, go on Sunday. Chef Ana Paixao Davis travels to Brazil once a year to visit and work with various chefs in many regions within Brazil. She was born and raised in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Once you taste the food, you will appreciate Chef Ana and her dedication to bringing the best of Brazil to Oklahoma.

Lao Cuisine:

Ma Der

1634 N Blackwelder Ave Ste 102, Oklahoma City, OK 73106

In 2022 this restaurant made The New York Times’ list of the Top 50 new restaurants in America. Ma Der also made the Bon Appetit Top 50 list. Our server greeted us and explained what Lao food is. It is like cuisine in Northern Thailand, but rather than leaning toward sweet and sour, Lao food gravitates towards savory, salty, sour, bitter, and spicy. For our main course, we tried their Saturday soup special. The special is Khao Piek Sen. This is a Lao chicken noodle soup. It is not your traditional American version of chicken noodle soup. Each bowl had three to four quail eggs floating in the broth, which is an interesting addition. The soup held generous portions of chicken with a flavorful broth. We were glad we partook of this chance to try Ma Der’s very diverse version of chicken noodle soup. Neil and I are so grateful to live in a country where we can experience the food of many different cultures.

Guatemalan: Cafe Antigua 1903 N Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73106

The list of specialty coffees, espressos, and Antisana hot chocolates made it hard to pick just one. I finally chose Guatemalan Coffee. I am so glad I did. It is velvety with a bold favor. A giant screen T.V. almost completely covers one of the walls. On this screen, they show life in Guatemala, the scenery, and much more. This addition to the setting provides you with an incredible educational experience. The food is so good! I scanned the menu and found an authentic dish I wanted to try—the Desayuno Chapin, the most traditional dish in a Guatemalan home. My meal was a beautifully arranged plate of soft scrambled eggs, refried black beans, feta cheese, corn tortillas, and fried plantains. I was given a side of sour cream and told to dip my plantains into it. Talk about a taste treat. I have enjoyed plantains before, but never with a side of sour cream. I highly recommend you try this for yourself. You will thank me.

Pakistani Cuisine:

Sizzle N Spice Kebab Grill

15001 N. May Ave Suite H, OKC, OK 73134

Feeling nostalgic for our old friends, we searched for a Pakistani restaurant and decided to try Sizzle N Spice. Nestled in a strip mall on May Avenue, awaits this gastronomic delight for you to experience. We walked in and were greeted like long-lost friends by the owner. We knew we had chosen the right place for authentic cuisine. For an appetizer, we ordered cheese naan. The bread oozed with cheesy goodness. The beef keema stir-fry tasted like friendship to me. The meat is a savory mixture of tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and spices. The Chapli Kebab consists of two succulent minced-beef patties marinated in spices. We were encouraged to eat more in genuine Pakistani hospitality when we finished. Our stomachs were full, our taste buds were happy, and we promised we would be back for dessert another time.

Vietnamese, Chinese, or French Cuisine:

Lido Restaurant

2518 N Military Ave, 101, Oklahoma City, OK 73106

We sampled their Egg Drop and Hot & Sour soups. The soups came with buttery delicious fried wontons to drop into your cup. Both soups are out of this world scrumptious. Lido’s is where you want to go if you love almond chicken. Everything is fresh and tasty, and they are generous with the almonds. The spring rolls are crisp and light. The egg rolls are oh-so-satisfying. Can’t decide which to get? Order both. When our server brought our bill with our fortune cookies, she smiled and bowed. This act of respect was a nice touch to feel honored as a customer.

American:

STEAK

The Experience

9410 N May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73120-2712

The dark teal blue walls set the mood, and soft lighting gives the feeling of relaxation. As you look around, you will see the Rat Pack smiling at you from their portraits hanging on the walls. White tablecloths and linen napkins always add that special touch of elegance. Neil and I ordered a twelve-ounce filet to share. I asked our server, a delightful lady, if they could cut our steak in half and prepare mine medium and his medium well. It was not a problem. When I cut into my steak and tasted it, the filet and creamy butter flavor filled my taste buds. The chef knows how to create the perfect steak. If you are looking for a special evening out, to impress someone, or just go there because you deserve it, head to STEAK The Experience.

Our dream girl from Charlie’s Angels, Cheryl Ladd, plays the grandmother in the film, A Cowgirl’s Song. Hard to believe, but Cheryl Ladd is seventy-one years old. Cheryl looks great but is not trying to look twenty years younger. She seems to be comfortable in her senior citizen skin. Cheryl’s face shows wrinkles and a sagging jawline. Besides playing the role of the grandmother, she plays the part of a retired country singer who now volunteers at a community center feeding the poor.

Darci Lynne Farmer, born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, plays one of Cheryl Ladd’s granddaughters. Darci, her sister, and her grandmother try to raise bail to get the girl’s dad out of jail. Darci also has to overcome her fear of barrel racing after an accident. Darci must walk with crutches, and she gets advice from a paraplegic barrel racer, “You can be surprised by what you can do.”

The farm scenery is breathtaking. They filmed the movie in Oklahoma; you will recognize familiar sights while watching.

One line in the movie by Hayley, the other sister, cracks me up, “I’m nineteen. I look young for my age.”

Cheryl Ladd, when telling a potential love interest her thoughts was also a line I shall never forget, she said, “I’m not looking for exciting. I’m looking for kindness, thoughtfulness, and a good person.”

Another piece of wisdom from the movie is, “Life is never boring. It twists and turns, but we overcome adversity, and life is sweet and cool again.”

If you want a feel-good movie, like rodeos and country music, love oldfashioned values, and overcoming disabilities, then A Cowgirl’s Song is for you. You won’t hear the “F” word, but you will catch phrases like Ye Haw and Fiddlesticks.

A Cowgirl’s Song had me crying because it pulls at the heartstrings and is wholesome. I have missed shows with good morals.

Eggnog Martini Eggnog Martini

A Norman Christmas Story

except for minor entanglements with flowing robes and headdresses, few problems were encountered.

Then the Big Night arrived.

The first hint of trouble came even before the formal action opened when one of the younger members of the Cherub Choir, a boy of about 2, took a fancy to the doll representing the infant Jesus lying in the manger. Clambering on stage he made a beeline for the crib and was diverted from his goal only by the action of an alert father.

The innkeeper, exhibiting a lively proprietary interest in the stable, practiced leaping about the freshly strewn hay until the arrival of Mary and Joseph, whom he escorted proudly to seats beside the crib.

The shepherds and white-robed angels arrived soon after. And it was then that the young Cherub, perhaps encouraged by his part as one of the children come to adore the Christ child, decided on another try for the object of his affections in the manger.

He squeezed his way through the crowd, grabbed the doll and lifted it from the crib. Mary, reacting like any mother, made a lunge for the swaddling clothes, and a tug of war ensued above the manger.

Joseph, stunned for a moment, gallantly came to Mary’s aid with a swing at the intruder. And the innkeeper, proving not a bad sort after all, picked up a handful of hay and threw it at the would be abductor.

The arrival of the harried father, towering some three feet above the rest of the cast, restored peace momentarily.

But it was the hay, omitted during dress rehearsal, that caused the eventual downfall. Piled liberally about the tiled floor, it proved a lumpy and slippery footing. One of the shepherds, head bowed above the manger, suddenly went down. He scrambled up and immediately plopped down again.

The third time he fell he grabbed the innkeeper; the innkeeper bumped an angel and half the cast toppled like a row of dominoes.

But the hay proved a soft cushion — fun to dive into, in fact. Soon the shepherd and innkeeper were competing in swan dives into the straw. A wise man scuffled with an angel whose gilded wings had slipped considerably below their proper place.

The Cherub, once more eluding his father, tried unsuccessfully to wrest a crook away from one of the shepherds.

The narrator and choir, unfazed by the commotion, continued like troupers to the end; the cast was enticed offstage and peace once more returned to the somewhat disarranged stable.

One spectator, his voice still trembling with laughter, was heard to remark as he left the church, “I’m glad I read the Book, ’cause they sure changed the plot!”

ASSISTED LIVING

Longterm Care Options in Oklahoma

— Brought to you by the Oklahoma Assisted Living Association —

ASSISTED LIVING

A home or establishment that may provide assistance with personal care, medications, ambulation, nursing supervision and intermittent or unscheduled nursing care. They cannot provide 24-hour skilled nursing care. Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health Mainly Private Pay, LTC Insurance may cover , VA Aid & Attendance, & Tribal Benefits Medicaid Option through DHS (Advantage Waiver)

ADULT DAY CARE

Provides health, recreational, social and supportive services to impaired adults for more than four hours per day. Participants do not stay in the center overnight. Adult Day Care Act - November 1, 1989 Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health VA allows respite benefits Medicaid Option through DHS (Advantage Waiver)

CONTINUUM OF CARE

Combines the services of a nursing facility with an assisted living center or an adult day care center. It is licensed under the Continuum of Care and Assisted Living Act and must also meet requirements applicable to nursing facilities, assisted living centers and adult day care centers. Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health Currently inOklahoma, all Continuum of Care’s only have assisted livings. Medicaid Option through DHS (Advantage Waiver) for Assisted Living and Adult Day Care.

INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING/HOME CARE

Apartments, cottages, and single-family homes for seniors 55 & over who do not require assistance with daily activities or 24/7 skilled nursing but may benefit from convenient services, senior-friendly surround-ings, and increased social opportunities. NOT Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health. No oversight since they are not licensed. May have “High Acuity” that is receiving Home Health and or Hospice services.

NURSING HOME

A nursing facility that provides 24-hour skilled nursing care and related services for residents who require medical or nursing care. Nursing Home Care Act - October 1, 1980. Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health. Nursing homes provide the highest level of care. Options for Medicare/Medicaid

VETERANS CARE

Created in 2013, this program is for residents who are veterans living in the state veteran’s centers. They are licensed as a nursing facility and can provide 24-hour skilled nursing care and related services for residents who require medical or nursing care . Falls under Nursing Home Care Act - May 29, 2013. Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health

RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES

Provide residential accommodations, food service, and supportive assistance. May also provide assistance with meals, dressing, bathing, other personal needs, and medication administration. Cannot provide medical care such as skilled nursing. Residential Care Act - November 1, 1984 Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health A typical residential care resident is younger than other long term care options and only requires assistant with medication administration. NO Options for Medicare/Medicaid

Remember When We Said...

I Remember When we would go into the woods and chop down our Christmas tree, searching for the tree with the best shape. I remember when we got home with the tree my dad would have to wrestle it into the tree stand positioning the inevitable bald spot to the wall..

I Remember When

would pop popcorn, taking a needle and thread sewing strands of garland made of popcorn for the and sewing and popping more corn. I remember placing amounts of tinsel on the tree by the time we were through the tree you could hardly see anything else. Later Momma remove enough tinsel to see the ornaments once again after to sleep. I remember enjoying just sitting and gazing at tree after we got through decorating. My Mom would make homemade hot cocoa and Christmas cookies.

I Remember When

we would decorate the tree putting on a mix of craft project ornaments made at school and church with keepsake ornaments and old family heirlooms that were weathered and some had lost their shine but filled with sentimental memories.

I Remember When we’d go to my Aunt Betty and Uncle Buddy’s for their annual Christmas Eve party, all family would be there along with friends neighbors. Everyone would bring finger foods hors d’oeuvres. We’d play games and visit. my uncle would dress as Santa and bring in of Christmas gifts. It would be 2:00 in the morning before we would get home. We were exhausted.

Remember When

and seeing all the storefronts decorated a family treat. Brightly colored Christmas and large tinsel bells hanging from the light post. watching Christmas parades, seeing Santa and all the floats coming down the street. I remember stopping to see live nativity scenes with real animals. I remember going to have our picture made with Santa at the mall and getting a candy cane. I remember being in Christmas pageants at church wrapped in sheets looking more like ghosts than angels with tinsel halos. The Wise Men dressed in their Dad’s bathrobes with fake beards made of cotton balls.

I Remember

the next morning dressed in our Christmas would empty our Christmas stocking. orange along with other treats open our gifts from Santa under Christmas tree. Then we would have lunch with my Grandparents and Dad’s side of our family. was the best of times.

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