Okie Charmed Summer 2021

OKIE CHARMED Empowering Women

THE INSPIRING STORY OF JENNY HAKEN

Mary Wilson Resident Artist at

St. Francis of the Woods

Summer Delights at

Hey Sister Boutique Grape Pickin’ at

REDBUD

FARM & VINEYARD

Summer 2021

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

03

On the

COVER

Mary Wilson is gracing our Summer cover wearing a radiant yellow blouse from Be-You-tiful Boutique in Cushing. She is the Resident Artist at St. Francis of the Woods, see the full feature of how she is inspiring others on page 20.

FEATURES 10 14 16 20

Varnish & Velvet

32 36

Out of Oklahoma

Redbud Farm & Vineyard Custom Sweets for the Soul Home to the Woods

The Holmberg House

39 50 52 56

Summer Delights at Hey Sister Boutique

62 64

In Loving Memory of Cheryl McClellan

55 58 61 66 67

Style Page

In the Business of Hope Oklahoma Botanical Gardens Achieving Inner Peace

Wet & Wonderful

IN EVERY ISSUE : 06 07

Editor’s Letter

08 18 34

Editor’s TOP 20 Picks

Elegant Okie

Made in Oklahoma The Indigenious Insight

Outdoor Gal Recipe to Try The Chatter Box Local Discounts

Okie Charmed Magazine is a seasonal publication that focuses on empowering local women by publishing stories of other local women that are inspiring, motivational, informative, diverse, and entertaining. Okie Charmed Magazine features only local women as its models, we feature women of all ages, shapes, sizes, and races. The magazine highlights local businesses that appeal to our female readership and supports female owned businesess.

If you know a woman that should be featured, visit our website: 3 04

WWW.OKIECHARMEDMAGAZINE.COM

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

Contact Us PUBLISHER & EDITOR

KD Studios 113 N. Ohio Ave Drumright, OK 74030 918.223.7070 OkieCharmedMag@gmail.com

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PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING/DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Cimarron Valley Communications P.O. Box 910 Cushing, OK 74023 Publisher@CushingCitizen.com MANAGING EDITOR

Sharen Smith Sharen.OkieCharmed@gmail.com Central OK Area Marketing Representative

39

Afton Pierce 918.899.9535 Sales.Okiecharmed@gmail.com

Tulsa Area Marketing Representative

Mekala Litterell 918.399.6194 Sales.OkiecharmedTulsa@gmail.com

32

CONTRIBUTORS Belinda Bruner

Belinda.OCMagazine@gmail.com

Cindy Lockstone

TaMara Skipworth

Cindy.OCMagazine@gmail.com

TaMara.OCMagazine@gmail.com

Sara Lane

Sara.OCMagazine@gmail.com

Alicia Renee Chaino Ahkeahbo Alicia.OCMagazine@gmail.com

Shannon Ellis

Alexandra Prater

Allie@CushingCitizen.com

Shannon.OCMagazine@gmail.com

Guest Contributor: Jessica Ledgerwood Copyright 2021 by K.D. Studios

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Views expressed in features and advertising do not necessarily represent those of the Okie Charmed Magazine team or its affiliates.

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

05

S

ummer is here! Break out the sandals and shades, because it’s the season to relax.

In this issue, we highlight various ways for you to unwind this summer beginning with finding your inner peace on page 56 to visiting the several Botanical Gardens across the state on page 52.

Or if you need to unplug and get one with nature, find your spiritual center at St. Francis of the Woods with Mary Wilson. While visiting there, you can walk the trails, admire the art, and listen to the sounds of peace all around you.

Learn about her journey and how she is inspiring others on page 20.

Don’t forget to look stylish on your way to the lake this summer! Stop by Hey Sister Boutique for the latest Summer fashion in Perkins. Terrill and Victoria are passionate about helping every woman in Oklahoma feel great about themselves and fashionable every step of the way. View this issue’s fashion spread on page 39.

Something so special to me about Okie Charmed is the privilege of highlighting all the local women that are doing amazing things. It always amazes me that we have so many talented, strong willed women in Oklahoma. These women have endured such difficult trials in life, but somehow find the strength to not only pull through, but create something amazing from that hardship. One of these women is Jenny Haken with Varnish & Velvet on page 10. On page 50, read about Sabra, with the Helping Hands Foundation in Chandler, who is bringing hope to those who have none.

Okie Charmed Magazine is so happy to be back and grateful for so much support from our community. We’ve returned with many of our original team members and a few new faces.

Okie Charmed Magazine is also grateful for the opportunity to partner with Cimarron Valley Communications in producing a free print publication. It’s been a great partnership, and we look forward to working with them for many years to come.

Kayla Tomlinson

Publisher & Editor

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OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

The

Elegant

OKIE

X Weeding Out Your Closet Just like the song says, “Should I stay or should I go?” These lines ring true for the contents of our closets. How often do you weed out yours? For some of you (like me) deciding whether to part with your beloved shoes or favorite cardigan can be a daunting task. So, I am taking it down to a five minute approach that you can do once a week or several times a month.

Three to stay and three to go.

My strategy is easy. Grab six items and ask yourself these questions: ‘Do I love it?

When was the last time I wore it? Is it too worn to be seen outside of your house?

Does it really flatter me or not? Is it too tight or too loose? Is it timeless?’ Next, decide to keep three favorites and send three away to a new home.

I used this technique on one of my dear friends. She is a vice-principal who must dress professionally five times a week. When she leaves the schoolyard, she still needs her “muck around the farm” clothes. Her style is laid-back on the weekends, but classy during the weekdays. With such a diverse lifestyle, she needs a variety of clothing.

In all honesty, this lady adores her clothes almost as much as I love mine. We both find it hard to let go of our treasured finds. We focused on wearability and timelessness for her clothing purge. She should be saving clothes that make her feel good, but maintain a timeless quality that will stay fashion forward for at least another year.

We cleared out the following items: a shapeless sweater, a wrap shirt that she constantly had to pull down, and a floral skirt that had outlived its prime. We kept a versatile animal print jacket. It is a great neutral alternative to the classic denim jacket. We also saved a printed navy blue sheath dress that will take her from the office, to church, and to date night! Last, but not least, her white classic poet’s shirt with tiny red hearts is definitely a keeper.

There were also some honorable mentions...everyone needs a classic black skirt and tailored black pants. This lady loves her staples, and I adore her closet. We promised each other (both the closet and my friend) that we will reunite again soon and continue the save and purge. Here’s hoping that the three to stay and three to go technique can help your closet too.

written & photographed by Sharen Smith OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

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TOP 20

Editor’s

Picks

$15.00 Customized “Okie Charmed” Ball Cap at Isabella’s Collection in Sapulpa

2

1

3

$15.00 Srey Top at HEPZ in Stillwater

$10.00 Cyanotype Artwork

by Village Wolf Studios

$23.00 Wine Cork Bottle at Vintage Phoenix Marketplace in Broken Arrow

5

7 9

6

$18.99 Fadivo Beach Bag at Be-you-tiful Boutique in Cushing

$3.95 Pink Chocolate Cupcake at Smallcakes: Cupcakery & Creamery in Stillwater

$9.50 “Be a Goal Digger” Coffee Cup at Little Bit of Country in Sapulpa $95.00 American Darling Leather & Hide Handbag at B&D Cowboy Depot in Bristow

8 08

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OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

$9.00 Historic Route 66 Keychain at Gypsy Corner LLC in Chandler

10

$21.95 Teardrop Necklace at The Beadery on Main in Stillwater

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$20.00 “Grow old with me” artwork at Jade Treasures in Broken Arrow

$52.00 KanCan Shorts (sizes 26”-32”) at Suburban Revival Boutique in Sand Springs

$20.00 “Succa for Love” Succulent Pot and Plant at Coble’s Creations in Sand Springs

14 15

12

13

$42.95 Crown Vintage Sandals at The Copper Penny Trading Co. in Cushing

$19.00 Customized Tumbler at Bless UR Heart Boutique in Owasso

$24.00 Julie Spencer Designs Bracelet Stack at J. Spencer in Tulsa

17 $15.95 Blue Q Oven Mitt at The Snow Goose in Tulsa

18 19

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$12.99 Zippy Paws Jumbo Donutz Dog Toy at Dog Dish in Tulsa

$9.00 Surf’s Up Candle at Sugar House in Chandler $12.95 Beaded Bracelets at Urban Owasso in Owasso

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OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

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The Shop That Has Oklahoma Charm

Varnish & Velvet …A Unique Experience

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OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

written & photographed By Cindy Lockstone (some photos provided)

It is always a good day to shop Varnish & Velvet in Morrison, Oklahoma. This hometown store will satisfy customers looking for a unique gift, a distinctive home accent piece, or just craving a new experience.

Owner & operator, Jenny Haken makes customers feel welcome and right at home. Her store offers one-of-a kind items for all occasions and current trending pieces – art, décor, scents, florals, and usables.

Jenny is an artist, a crafter of a different kind; she is an upholsterer.

In the back of her store she restores, updates, and redefines customer pieces along with crafting her own specialty items.

Jenny has a knack for and an eye for this craft. She listens to her customers, and together they choose the right colors, fabrics, and varnishes. Her custom design upholstery center is where customers can see, feel, and choose their materials – fabrics, cloths, leather, hides, etc.

Jenny also stocks her store with gifts and décor that you will not find anywhere else. “I try to look for items not familiar to customers, and items with meanings,” said Jenny.

Varnish & Velvet has ‘small-batch’ products with distinct techniques, processes, and ingredients.

Items that are not mass produced, but exclusive and have a story. In-house Jenny makes her own handmade cowhide air fresheners with essential oils that you choose and ‘puffies,’ her own type of handmade key chains.

Also popular are Life is Good Soy Candles with a secret message inside. The Keepers of the Light Candles are enclosed in traditional home-spun jars and feature charming scents that bring back childhood memories.

Available for jewelry lovers, is Scout Curate Wear jewelry, a modern use of natural stones with a ‘bohemian flare’. This company gives back 10 percent of its total sales to non-profit organizations that benefit women.

In addition to this, shoppers will find Mini Gallery art, Celebrate Every Day collections, drinkware, seasonal and outdoor décor. Varnish & Velvet offers many more items and a fun shopping experience.

“It’s not the career I planned,” says Jenny.

“It’s the result of a life changing experience.”

A generational Oklahoman, and a daughter, wife, mother and businesswoman, Jenny has spent most, if not all her life, living in north central Payne County.

She and her husband, Brent operate and own a cowcalf cattle operation and are raising their three young children near the same family farms that they were raised on.

As graduates of Oklahoma State University, the Hakens began their professional careers with Jenny in business and Brent in education. But after the premature birth of their third child, life changed. “Hadley was unexpectedly delivered at only 23 weeks,” said Jenny, and weighed one pound, one ounce at birth. “Hadley was given a five percent chance of survival and even a less chance of living a normal life.”

It was 45 days before the Haken family were able to hold their daughter, and at four months their tiny baby girl was released from the hospital weighing only four pounds, eleven ounces and on oxygen. “Our struggle was far from over,” said Jenny.

“I had to leave my career in order to care for her. I became her constant caretaker.”

For the next 14 months, Hadley was not OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

11

allowed to leave the house except for doctor appointments. Jenny relates, “I would not be returning to my old career path, and I needed to establish a career that would allow me to care for Hadley on her terms.”

It was during that time that Jenny decided to “flip” the family dining room. She did a total remake of her dining room furniture. “That’s how it started,” added Jenny. “Family and friends really enjoyed my work and asked me if I would be willing to do the same for them.” She took on projects slowly and, “I decided I wanted to tackle upholstery and began

When Hadley was three, Jenny found a sitter for Hadley in Morrison, and she started looking for a possible building in-town. Hadley now had children her own age to play with, and Jenny had found a “small run-down storefront to rent. “It was in September of 2018 we made the move and Varnish & Velvet opened its first brick-and-mortar.”

At that time “I decided to bring an additional element to the company name and added home décor as an additional source of revenue.”

Six months into renting Jenny and Brent decided to purchase two original Morrison

“It’s not the career I planned. It’s the result of a life changing experience.”

-Jenny Haken

teaching myself,” said Jenny.

Jenny watched upholstery ‘how-to YouTube videos’ and learned through hours of trial and error.

Before long, she was good at it and could visualize what her customers were picturing and wanting. “I began to receive so many jobs that we built a small shop in my backyard that allowed me to work while Hadley slept,” said Jenny. Her once extremely ill daughter was getting stronger, the shop allowed Jenny to work while Hadley slept and at night.

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OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

storefronts built in 1903. They restored both to their original design and doubled their storefront floor space. Jenny added, “the store also serves as my workshop where I meet with clients and we design custom and unique pieces.”

“I lean heavy towards wood framed pieces, and mixing fabrics and styles to truly create one-ofa-kind pieces.”

People ask her all the time why she chose the town of Morrison for her business location and she is quick to reply. “It’s simple, my family is there. My

husband is the Superintendent of the school, and now my three children attend school there as well.

They ride the bus to the store every day, and we are all able to spend so much more time together.”

First being a committed stay-at-home mom, but having a nagging business savvy, and a perpetuating professional work ethic, Jenny Haken seems to overflow with these traits. Jenny will tell you she is also very fond of “a strong sense of community and Morrison is a great community.”

Besides her active family life, her family’s cattle operation, and her business, Jenny also works with other local Morrison businesses and townspeople who have joined together to form the first Morrison Chamber of Commerce. “We want to mold the town into a safe and beautiful environment for children to be raised in.”

Jenny has helped arrange Morrison’s first Christmas Parade and Pumpkin Patch with all proceeds going back to the town for improvements.

“We had to postpone many plans last year due to Covid (Covid-19 Pandemic),” added Jenny.

It has been a tough road these last few years, but this modern-day ‘mom entrepreneur’ takes life as it comes to her and rolls with it. She is devoted to her family and community.

Recently her husband gave the best description of his wife Jenny in a Facebook post on her birthday.

“Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.” Proverbs 31:29(ESV) “Happy Birthday to the one who works for all others above herself. She turns 29 today! Tell her happy birthday! She is my super HERO! I love her!!!”

Join her Facebook pages. She often showcases new items, hosts fun store events, holds silent auctions, and provides shopping information.

SCAN ME

WWW.SHOPVARNISHANDVELVET.COM

Grape Pickin’ at

REDBUD FARM & VINEY ARD

Once upon a time, before Rogers and Hammerstein penned “barley, carrots and pertaters,” Oklahoma was a major producer of grapes and wine. Unfortunately, Prohibition ended the wine trade and the Dust Bowl soon terminated the grape industry. In the more recent decades, however, viticulture in Oklahoma has been revived.

Tucked away between Interstate 35 and the town of Washington, sits a lovely vineyard adorned with many varieties of delicious grapes for eating, making jelly, or making wine. Behind the acres of grape vines, resides a beautiful home with a large pond in the back. Inside the house are puppy dogs, a sweet baby girl, a sincerely delightful lady, her loving husband, and many, many bottles of wine.

Living their dream, Susan Boehrer and her husband Terry have been grape growers since 2005 when they decided to retire to farm life. From an aerial view point, the vineyard looks organized, but from close up, the vines appear chaotic. “That pretty much describes our lives; organized chaos,” Susan said.

Redbud Farms has been a type of sanctuary over the years for the Boehrers and their “collection” of kids which includes their foster child and their own two grown children. I was confused by this unusual verbiage of collecting kids, but Susan explained, “For one reason or another, teenagers find themselves without a place to stay. We offer a safe place for teens and young adults, or anyone who needs it. We once had a mother and child stay with us. It might be for a night, a week, or as long as they need to stay to get their feet back under them.”

The Boehrer’s vineyard is also community driven. Charitable donations are made to Washington School booster clubs, and area students who want to earn extra cash often come to the farm to work.

They are happy to have visitors come to Redbud Farm and Vineyard to pick their own grapes, but the couple are also happy to teach guests to farm, to process poultry or grapes, and to make jelly. Plans for the 14

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

written by Shannon Ellis photos provided

ranch include a commercial grade kitchen and an event center.

What a beautiful venue for a wedding!

Redbud Vineyard has several varieties of grapes including: merlot, tempranillo, chambourcim, riesling, vidal blanc, and seyval blanc. The red grapes (the merlot, tempranillo, chambourcim) are popular for making jelly and wine. Susan enjoys using the white grapes (riesling, and the blancs) for jelly because variant flavors like mint, lavender, or jalapeno can be added. Many people find that the most difficult part of jelly or wine making is processing the grapes, but Redbud Vineyard has the machinery to easily destem and process the grapes for their customers. Don’t know how to make jelly? Have you always wanted to make wine? They are delighted to offer their expertise in both jelly making and wine making to fellow hobbyists. The Boehrers are exceptionally generous with their knowledge and time.

One thing that Susan wants people to know about viticulture is that it is an important agricultural and historical aspect of Oklahoma. It is also essential to understand that not all Oklahoma wineries used Oklahoma grown grapes. Put a Cork in It and Canadian River Winery are a couple of wineries who use Redbud Vineyard grapes, but 405 Brewing also uses them for a special beer-wine blend.

The best grape-picking time is in August. To learn more about this unique spot, check out the Redbud Farm and Vineyard on Facebook for more information about upcoming events.

SCAN ME

W W W . R E D B U D F A R M . N E T

Custom Sweets for the Soul

Jennifer Lane, known to many as Jenn, understands that the path to someone’s heart is to first go through their stomach.

This is exactly what she’s set out to do with her business, Honeycomb Bakeshop.

job, her kids don’t get to see what she does at that job. She’s glad that she can share her passion for baking with her family. Her kids not only get to see her r un the bakeshop, but they get to help.

The name, Honeycomb Bakeshop, was inspired by a verse of scripture, Proverbs 16:24. Proverbs 16:24 says, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”

“They offer up creati ve ideas,” Jenn says. When she is stuck creatively, sometimes her kids can see a w ay to do something that she can’t.

Jenn’s idea was to name her bakeshop something that was positive. She said, “There’s enough negativity in this world.” If her goal with Honeycomb Bakeshop is to bring sweetness to the soul, then I think she is succeeding in that endeavor.

It seems baking just fell into her lap in high school, a seemingly unknown talent that she decided to pursue. Jenn decided in high school to take a culinary course because it would earn her more credits. While baking in this course, her teacher was the one who encouraged her talent. She went on to compete in baking competitions. Ultimately, she pursued baking as a career by attending the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York.

She now lives in Cushing, OK with her husband, who is also in the culinar y arts, and her tw o young children.

She shared with me about running a business while also working a separate full-time job and having a young, active family. While she appreciates the security of her full-time 16

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

When asked about how she juggles all of it, she shared a popular saying in the culinary arts: mise en place.

“It means e verything in its place,” she e xplained. Her advice is to plan, prioritize, and then stick to your plan to accomplish your goals or tasks . “But, don’t schedule all your time.”

It’s important to her to have time for fun, family, and rest.

So, be sure to make time for those important things outside of work.

I asked J enn to tell me about the most extravagant confection she’s created. Early on in her career, she worked on a five-tier tres leches wedding cake. It had hand-carved chocolate seahorses and molded seashells for a seahorsethemed wedding. To give readers a bit of an understanding of the size of this creation, the bottom tier was thirty-five pounds alone.

We discussed a popular trend among cakes: fresh plants written by Sara Lane photography by Kayla Tomlinson

or flowers included on cakes.

If you look at w edding or celebration cakes online , I’m certain you will see many cakes with fresh flowers used as decoration.

“Baking doesn’t have to be just for the professionals. It’s for everyone.”

-Jenn Lane

But, Jenn cautions bakers from putting just any plants and flowers on cakes or other confections. Some flowers are nonedible or toxic. Jenn takes great care when including flowers and plants on cakes.

Some non-edible flowers or plants can be used, but must be wrapped with great care and encased with something. Jenn uses straws to encase the f lowers. She also sugg ests working with a florist who can advise you or help you by suggesting alternatives.

If real f lowers are not an interest of yours, there are other ways to incor porate floral designs. Many bakers can incorporate floral designs by creating flowers out of icings or gum paste. This can be a very creative and lovely alternative to real plants.

What are some other trends that Jenn expects to see during the summer season? “Bright colors, cake cones, waterthemed or mermaid-themed designs.” She expects to do many projects that lean heavily on summer activities, which of course includes water.

There are a fe w items Jenn will definitely offer more of during the summer season. Aside from regular cakes with certain summery themes, Jenn expects to make cake-sicles (cake pops that look like popsicles). They are easier to serve during the hot summer and she expects people to be more interested in something convenient to serve at a celebration.

As for techni ques and methods in baking , Jenn can be found using a variety of ideas.

However, some common techniques she uses because she lo ves them and they’re trendy are drip cakes and edible gold leaf.

She also tends to prefer to use buttercream icing on sugar cookies instead of the popular royal icing. One of her personal favorite methods OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

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Old Fashioned Butter

Lavender & rosemary fields scented.

This Butter is great for dry skin and general skin irritations such as eczema, psoriasis, cradle cap, acne, dry hands, poison ivy & oak, shingles, bug bites, stretch marks, and more.

Lipbom

Chocolate Mint scented with a hint of citrus.

This product may be used as a lipstick primer, a gloss over lipstick to prevent dryness & sticking. The combination of pepermint & citrus have been known to decrease anxiety Made with real cannabis fats & full spectrum and alleviate heasdaches. cannabis oil. Fresh, raw ingredients, no parabens or chemicals.

WWW.ITSFOODFORYOURSKIN.COM to use right no w is the re verse creaming method with her cakes. If you have no kno wledge of the re verse creaming method, don’t fret, neither did I, but Jenn enlightened me.

Most cakes are made with the creaming method. This is where you cream the butter and sugars tog ether first, then add liquids and dry ingredients. The re verse creaming

uses it frequently.

What about home-bakers? J enn offered up some baking advice for any home bakers out there. “Don’t be afraid to try things. Even if it fails, you can learn from it.”

She also suggested to not be afraid to research techniques or methods you are unfamiliar with when baking at home. If there is something y ou have questions about, social media may provide an answer. Don’t be afraid to reach out to any bakers you follow online because many may offer advice or help to answer the questions you may have.

Her last bit of guidance was to use quality ing redients. “It will make a difference in your final product.” She adds: “Baking doesn’t have to be just for the professionals. It’s for everyone.”

method starts with dry ingredients and butter. Then, add part of the liquid and beat to incor porate air. Finally, the remaining liquid is added to achieve the final product. This method is used to produce a fluffier cake, which is why Jenn 18

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

But, if you are interested in getting in touch wit h a professional, may I suggest Honeycomb Bakeshop? You can find Honeycomb Bakeshop on Facebook and Instagram. So, go on and order yourself a custom sweet. You just might find it’s good for the soul too.

SCAN ME

JULY 10th

Second Sunday Poetry Reading 1-5pm at Tidewater Winery in Drumright

“The Not So Newlywed Game”

at Cushing Community Theatre in Cushing 21st

24th

Un-Wine Wednesday 4-8 pm at Tidewater Winery in Drumright

“Celebrating the Past, Funding the Future.”

Right Path Riding Banquet hosted at the Tidewater Winery

Un-Wine Wednesday 4-8 pm at Tidewater Winery in Drumright

18th

Second Sunday Poetry Reading 8th 1-5pm at Tidewater Winery in Drumright

“Greater Tuna” Show

at Cushing Community Theatre in Cushing

To Be Announced: -Murder Mystery Dinner at Tidewater Winery in Drumright -Grand Re-Opening & 10 Year Anniversary Celebration at After FX Spa & Salon Send your events to okiecharmedmag@gmail.com.

6th, 7th, 8th, 13th, & 14th

AU G U S T

Event Calendar

7th

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

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OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

ome to the Woods

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

21

Driving

onto

the

grounds

of

St.

Francis of the Woods, a spiritual retreat

twenty

minutes

from

Stillwater, Oklahoma, you might be greeted by a dog or the rustle of leaves in the wind. Simple cottages huddle together, and even nature is unpretentious—a tree

holds

barely

its

own

blossoming beside

the

wash house, which is adorned by a whimsical mural of a bison and other animals.

It is quiet. You might expect the artist-in-residence to be quirky and talkative, bearing paint splatters.

When

Mary

Wilson

emerges

from

a

small house, she is unadorned, and has the face of someone who abstains from her

worldly baby,

pleasure.

Auden,

Mary’s

Bearing presence

invites us to “be here now,” the mantra of those who are disinclined to engage in shallow chit-chat or to distract themselves with elaborate creativity rituals.

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OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

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OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

Life in the forest is grounding; this

has

explore

enabled her

the

inner

artist

to

landscape.

Like the American naturalist and philosopher Henry David Thoreau, Mary came to the woods because she “wanted to live deliberately.”

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

25

Most of us never have to make peace with solitude.

Surrounded by social rules and roles, we constantly compromise

and

make

decisions impulsively.

Believing

we

are

free

to make choices, we are actually reeling from the forces

around

us

which

shape us into who we think we are. What if we weren’t always

cornered

into

reaction? What if we simply walked away from that life of “quiet desperation”?

26

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

You would be wrong to imagine

Born

unbridled self and creative

Auden keeps Mary grounded as

luxury. Living as an artist

well;

is

the

by the feeding of the infant

boundaries of art. A canvas

who falls asleep cooing under

has borders beyond which we

the prairie sun. Babies tend

cannot apply paint.

to

always

tempered

by

in

December

this

be

is

fairly

of

2020,

demonstrated

zen

as

they

face few societal mandates. things

Mary seeks to preserve this

occupy her mind and body (in

simplicity in her family life,

the woods these are not so

and is grateful for the love

separate) since coming to the

by which she is surrounded.

Mary

has

had

many

retreat center in October of 2019. She had been looking

Not an especially religious

for

person,

an

opportunity

like

doesn’t

into

wanted to narrow the scope

of iconographer or monastery

of her life and tone down her

resident.

impulsivity.

commission this year required she

traditional

fit

this for a long time. She

that

the

Mary

Yet paint

her two

idea major life-

Mary met her partner at a

sized saints in traditional

drum circle the first night

Byzantine

she stayed at St. Francis.

much of her work time thinking

style.

She

spent

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

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W W W. S T F R A N C I S O F T H E W O O D S . O R G

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OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

about what it means to represent these saints of Assisi, St. Francis and St. Claire; inevitably the question evolved.

What does it mean to be faithful? And what does it mean to be an artist, inside or outside the context of faith?

Almost

naturally,

Mary

came

to

an

understanding of humility. One is not an artist based on how much money one makes or how much acclaim one has. There’s not a particular level of expertise that makes one an artist. One is an artist when one can serve with her or his art.

Her icons serve the spirituality center bringing awe to the people who visit.

Up the lane from the wash house is the chapel. An ecumenical location, there are services there every Sunday. As one enters the sanctuary, there is a room of painted icons.

Mary’s depictions of St. Francis and St. Claire are reflections of each other.

Both are wearing draping green robes with folds that seem three-dimensional. Both saints have the arresting eyes of someone looking attentively into another’s.

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

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As

is

traditional,

the

humility

of

St.

Francis is shown because of his association with and protection of animals. St. Claire is usually depicted as holding a light or a flower. Her role as a student of St. Francis was to copy his teachings for groups of women; she is thought to be one of the first females to write down scripture and share it with others.

Two thousand years of art theory and religious history have come before Mary and her recent passport to iconography. Had she been aware of the task and journey that awaited her, Mary might have been intimidated. Relinquishing struggle and doubt, she chose to say “yes” to the natural world.

Her ability to recognize the beautiful and remain humble while using her gift brought the spiritual vision to life. This is one of the laws of nature that beckoned to Mary during

her

tenure

at

St.

Francis.

True

retreat requires surrender.

There is no navel-gazing at St. Francis.

One who goes to the woods discovers that shedding one’s ego and consciousness, even artistic vision, leaves us where we need to be. Here. Now. The opportunity for a reflective life is closer than we think.

wri�en by Belinda Bruner 30

OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

photography by Kayla Tomlinson

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Out of Oklahoma When Danci Johnston was a small child, she lived and breathed cheerleading. Babysitters were instructed to play Bring It On over and over; the child quickly had the dialogue memorized. Danci taught herself backflips and handsprings, ultimately participating in competitive tumbling.

Friends and family envisioned her flying through the air for eternity, knocking away mean girls left and right.

A childhood illness interrupted dreams when she was just twelve old. Intense surgery on her feet left in a wheelchair for two months. She

those years Danci didn’t

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receive physical therapy and taught herself to walk again through her own fortitude.

But she didn’t stop there.

Many of us hope to turn what we love into a career. We look to our choice past-times, beloved mentors, and our favorite subjects in school as we begin to formulate our plans.

Danci had done this once already and ended up watching her dreams crumble like the bones in her feet. She loved tumbling so much that she attended practice until the day of her surgery on her feet.

Danci’s self-led recovery gave her courage,

and gave her time to consider her options An internship in Missouri gave Danci a chance to monitor streams and she “fell and her attitude: in love with freshwater.”

“Being in a wheelchair made me realize how fortunate I was to be Danci has able to rely on my body still, and to two undergraduate do things for myself.”

Back in school, Danci concentrated on her studies and changed her hobby to showing livestock. Her study paid off; with high test scores and her experience in agriculture, Danci received scholarship offers and chose to study Ecology Management in the agriculture department at Oklahoma State University.

She set her sights on a career in natural resources, but her story doesn’t end there.

On a study abroad trip to Trinidad and Tobago, Danci had the experience of a

lifetime. She helped with an ocean preserve team and got to tag a leatherback turtle while the turtle was laying her eggs. After that, she was ready to go home and change her major to marine biology.

There was just one (more) problem.

Oklahoma is landlocked. She also considered the rare chance of getting a job at sea. As an Oklahoma girl, the closest she’d ever been to the ocean was the pond where as a little girl she went frog-catching with her dad.

degrees from OSU, one in zoology and one in Natural Resource E co l o g y .

She’s back in Missouri for now pursuing a graduate degree. She also works summers as a fisheries technician for the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism.

Danci is excited about her research program.

She tags white and black crappie with an ID number and her phone number. When anglers catch a tagged crappie they call Danci so she can record when and where the angler caught the crappie and whether it was harvested or whether it was a catch and release. This provides information for the healthy management of each reservoir.

Danci Johnston proves the adage about taking the girl out of Oklahoma. You simply can’t take the Oklahoma out of the girl.

From cheerleader wannabe to streams and river management scientist, Danci has fought her way to a happy and fulfilling life.

This young woman’s attitude of grace under fire has made all the difference. That, plus her love for catching frogs at night with her dad, makes her a stand-up person and a fine research scientist. Oklahoma-grown! written by Belinda Bruner photos provided OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

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Covid-19 and The Sac & Fox Nation When exploring the impact of Covid-19 on the tribes, it is necessary to revisit the history of the Sac and Fox tribes. The Sac and Fox Nation also known as the “Sauk’’ and the Meskwaki “Fox’’ bands originally come from the Canadian borders of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. Eventually, their home reservation was made in the late 1860’s in the 3 counties of Payne, Lincoln, and Potawatomi of the “not yet” State of Oklahoma. The tribe formed a new government and became sovereign and independent from the Federal Government under the 1934 Indian Reorganization Act. The Nation now resides their business headquarters in present day Stroud, Oklahoma. The tribe serves and facilitates their tribal members to this day within their tribal jurisdictional boundaries. Over five hundred years ago, the Sac and Fox people, along with other tribes, had endured many pandemic episodes of infectious diseases and plagues such as measles, mumps, smallpox, and malaria. These diseases diminished the tribal nations population by the millions.

Ultimately, the Sac and Fox people and their ancestors survived all those years of near extinction and now have become a strong united tribal nation that supports and celebrates their ways of life.

Today, the Sauk people still carry out their traditions through clan ceremonies and their annual Sac and Fox Nation Pow-Wow. Like the rest of the world, the year 2020 was a year of hardship, pain, and mourning for the Sac & Fox Nation and all of Indian county. The tribe lost many of their tribal members to the Coronavirus pandemic, medically termed Covid-19. Hundreds had encountered the virus and tested positive while several did not survive.

The Sac and Fox Nation made many changes among the tribe. They made sure their members and 34

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Sauk Nation Clan Chief Robert Williamson

written by Alicia Renee Chaino-Ahkeahbo

families were safe and had the essentials to survive the coronavirus. Robert Williamson, the Sauk Nation Clan Chief leader and a member of their tribal business committee, gave me as much heartfelt information that he could concerning the tribe and his tribal members. Our interview took place on March 28, 2021 at his home place where they have conducted Sac and Fox ceremonies and traditions that were passed down to him. To this day, he strives to carry out these traditions for us, including myself as a descendant and for the Sac and Fox people.

When the pandemic started early 2020, the tribe like everyone else in the world did not know how bad it would affect the environment, communities, and families. The Sac and Fox Nation focused and took sincere precautions while watching our country’s coasts as people were getting infected, and it was rapidly spreading. While the virus was migrating towards the central part of the United States, the tribe gained knowledge and began getting educated about the severity of the virus.

They immediately mandated safety precautions and enforced CDC guidelines to social distance and wear masks. They also had to make difficult decisions regarding ceremonies and events, which also led to the cancelation of the annual Sac and Fox Nation Pow-wow. The clan chiefs came together early on to pray, discuss, and make vital decisions on how they would conduct their ceremonies while keeping everyone safe, but still maintaining their vow to Sauk ancestors to keep their ceremonies alive.

The identity of a tribe is distinguished by their beliefs, traditions, rituals, and ceremonies. Within the Sac and Fox Nation, they have ceremonies that have been passed down for thousands of years to their people to carry on for eternity. Their ceremony requires all their clans to come together

photo provided by Mike Brown

with their chiefs, other leaders, and participants.

They also have their four-day annual Sac and Fox Nation Pow-wow each year in the middle of July that brings thousands of singers, dancers, vendors, and spectators from across the nation and around the world. Changes had to be made for the safety of the tribe and local communities. The Nation adheres to CDC guidelines from federal policy and procedures to cancel social events.

Mr. Williamson said, “there was sadness and disappointment among the tribe due to the traumatic news of members being hospitalized, quarantined, and some even dying.” The Sac and Fox Nation did their best to assist each family in their time of need during this crisis. When there was loss, they wanted to accommodate the families by sponsoring monetary donations and helping with funeral and food expenses. The clan chiefs and leaders also came together to carry out the necessary ceremonies for the family’s loss or also for their annual traditional seasonal ceremonies.

Robert is a very respected leader

among the tribe and many people come to him for advice, knowledge, or prayers to help their families.

He does his best to serve all members equally and wholeheartedly. He is still dealing daily with all the loss and changes that were addressed to keep the tribe going and to help carry out the tribe’s vital possession of identity through ceremony. He believes their language and traditions are just as important as their business agenda because that is what distinguishes their unique, self-determined identity.

The Sac and Fox Nation has been vaccinating members for many months now. The tribe continues to vaccinate, and Robert acknowledges that he has had both of his required shots. He supports if you feel the need to have it for the safety of yourself, family, friends, and community, then get the vaccine done. He wants the community and other tribal nations to be safe and to always keep being mindful of those around you for protection against this deadly virus, especially those that may have an underlying health condition.

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The House that Holmberg Built This year, I wanted something different and special for Valentine’s Day rather than the normal date night routine of eating out and going to a movie. I decided a night away would be a pleasant change, and we could still eat out. Scouring the web, I came across the Holmberg House in Norman. It isn’t very far from us, but it would be something different.

We missed Valentine’s weekend, thanks to the inclement weather, but managed to reschedule for the next weekend. After a week of snow and being cooped up, we were very ready for different scenery and for our romantic stay. When Friday rolled around, the main streets were clear. We drove through Norman and around the very crowded, bustling Campus Corner, then made our way to Dean’s Row. A short walk from the University of Oklahoma campus, and there was the beautiful Holmberg House decorated with Mardi Gras bunting on the front porch. We stepped into the living room which boasted a mix of old home charm and pop art with framed Breakfast Club prints on the wall. Our host Melanie Millsap greeted us and directed us to the Blue Danube room.

Charming is the mildest adjective I can think of to describe this room. It was impressive how the decorator, Melanie, managed to incorporate old OU football programs that fi t naturally in the room along with vintage postcards, blue china plates, and framed sheet music to Blue Danube. The room was smaller than a regular hotel room, but held twice the charm and comfort. Additionally, it lacked the aesthetic aroma of bleach that one expects from a hotel. We immediately felt at home.

The next morning, because of pandemic protocols, our breakfast was left outside our door. I know this is completely a non-Oklahoman thing to say (my family have been Oklahomans since before statehood, and I have lived here most of my life, and I am Sooner bred), but I don’t like biscuits and gravy. However, the breakfast Melanie served us almost made me change my mind. The biscuits were thick, yet fl uffy and delicious, and the gravy was smooth and fl avorful. Her crowning achievement were the scrambled eggs were so delicious, you knew you wanted to have more. When I return, I will defi nitely have biscuits and gravy.

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written by Shannon Ellis Photos provided

Melanie and Mark Millsapwere married in a bed and breakfast, the Graham Carrol House in Muskogee. After living in Louisiana for several years, the couple returned to Norman with their two children. One day while looking for old friends who used to live in the Holmberg House, Mark knocked on the door and started visiting with the current owners who were interested in selling the bed and breakfast. The Millsaps dove in and have been innkeepers of the Holmberg House since 2016.

Built by Professor Fredrik and Signey Holmberg, the first Dean of Fine Arts at the University of Oklahoma, the Holmberg House contains four guest rooms, each with a private bath. The Blue Danube honors Professor Holmerberg’s career as a music professor with a bit of Louisiana flair thrown about. Another featured room with a sea theme is Port Arkansas, a place that Melanie used to vacation to when she was younger.

The bathroom has a beautiful claw-footed bathtub. The Norman Room is dedicated to both the town and the University. It boasts a signed picture of OU football star receiver Ryan Broyles. Because this room has two beds, it is often occupied by parents visiting their children. The fourth room is the Magnolia, and is often occupied as the bridal suite. It is a romantic, light, comfortable, floral themed room with a jetted tub.

While the Holmberg House is a popular place to stay during football season, the Millsaps find the rooms full many times during the year. Guests include: future OU students and their parents who are taking campus tours, guest speakers for the University, mothers for Mom’s Day visits, and guests for graduation. The Holmberg House is also a great venue for small bridal or baby showers and weddings or brunches.

Melanie is happy to help customize the event.

Reservations for a stay at the historic Holmberg House can be made at their website.

WWW.HOLMBERGHOUSE.COM

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Summer Delights at

Hey Sister Boutique OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

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OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

Sister Boutique (HSB) just flows, so it sealed the name at that moment.”

I visited with Terrill in the store as we perused her merchandise, and this lady just knows how to make you feel at home.

She welcomes you to browse through her delightful merchandise and just pause to enjoy the moment. This attitude of “take a load off, look around, stay and chat for awhile” is just one of the things that makes this small business great.

Love and support of her hometown has always been important to Terrill. She grew up in Perkins and her children, Tatum and Tegan go to school there. Her business partner, Vickie grew up in Wilburton, Oklahoma. They met as dance moms who became friends and eventually boutique owners. Their mutual

Ahh summertime! How we anticipate you year after year. This year especially, we can’t wait to embrace your presence. One boutique that knows and loves summertime merchandise is Hey Sister Boutique in Perkins, Oklahoma. This cute little store is filled to the brim with all kinds of fun delights that will help you enjoy the summer weather that is quickly approaching.

Co-owners Terrill Story and Victoria Wackerly aptly named their business, Hey Sister Boutique. From the moment you step in the store, you will feel the kinship of their sisterhood. Terrill related that the name was inspired by her daughter, Tatum. She said, “We literally had a full sheet of paper full of names, and my daughter Tatum who was 11 at the time walked in the room and said “Hey Sister!” I loved the way it sounded and Hey OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

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love of clothing and shopping brought them together.

Terrill relates “There is a story. Sometimes I tell it.”

Victoria was brought to Perkins by the oilfield.

She has a daughter who is 14 and a son who is 16. She loves living in Perkins because of its small, hometown feel and how friendly everyone is. She is delighted in the fact that their shop has brought people all over

America to visit Perkins. She told me about a time when customers came all the way from Florida to visit Hey Sister.

One of the best things about these owners and this boutique is their sense of connectedness with their customers. Terrill spent some time describing their Wednesday Night Facebook Live Sales. Every Wednesday at 8 p.m., Terrill and Victoria go live with brand new items that have just had arrived at the store. Customers have the opportunity to shop from the convenience of their own homes and get first pick of some of the newest fashions that have just arrived. The way it works is that you comment on the items you want, and Terrill will make sure 42

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that you get them shipped ASAP to your house. The first person who comments will get to purchase the item. If there is more than one, they will take the next additional customers.

Terrill told us, “We got our start on Facebook Live so I felt that it would only be fair to continue to give our fabulous Facebook family the first choice every week. Second shipping is only $5! We eat a lot in shipping, but we love our friendship from Facebook.”

They also feature sweet Savannah Linn, a family friend, on another Facebook Live. She picks some of her favorites from the store and features it at 7 p.m. on Monday nights. Just like Wednesdays, you can comment on any items you would like to purchase.

Although this is a great way to shop, and I can’t wait to try it, I also highly recommend visiting the boutique in person. When you walk into the store, the first thing that might greet you is the aroma of the yummy car scents that the ladies hand make in their store. They carry a variety of shapes, scents, and bright colors. I found it hard to choose between an Oklahoma shape and a cute one shaped like a cow’s ear tag. I purchased the cologne scent “New Car Smell” that Terrill said reminds her of a good smelling man. One week and going, my car still smells great!

Terrill’s favorite items they carry are the KanCan brand of jeans and shorts. I enjoyed sifting 44

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through her fashionable jeans. The ladies both realize the importance of feeling fashionable no matter what shape or size you are. One pair of shorts I spied had a relaxed fringed, distressed edge. They looked perfect for a summertime concert. No matter what you are looking for, be it a romper or a new shirt, HSB carries so many items and many sizes.

The variety of fun shoes would make any shoe lover happy. HSB’s cute tennis shoes made me realize that I need some fun-loving tie-dyed ones. I begged Terrill to get in a few more pairs.

Her sandals were also perfect to show off your latest pedicure. They could be paired with jeans or a flowy dress for a night out on the town.

In fact, this boutique has a bit of everything you might need for the perfect gift for a friend. The prices run from $5 to $50. If you need a cute ball cap for the game, Hey Sister Boutique had quite a variety of colors. Be sure to take home one of her many soft t-shirts with so many sayings to inspire you. I was pleased to see cute Swig brand cups and neat koozies that 46

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THANK YOU to all of our Models that voluntered to be in this feature.

Amanda Kashwer from Chandler Jerri Harris from Drumright Lauren Summers from Bartlesville Savannah Truesdale from Perkins

A special Thank You to the

Pawnee Recreational Area & Bath House

for hosting this photo shoot at your beautiful location.

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OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

written by Sharen Smith photography by Kayla Tomlinson

could work for both men or women. There were also car coasters that would be great for those long road trips this summer. A few other cool gift items for yourself or others include: humorous inspiring signs, a variety of colorful tank tops, and some nice boxed candles.

I am an avid jewelry lover, and Terrill’s merchandise does not disappoint. I spent several minutes looking and wanting all of the sparkly things. She carries the affordable Paparazzi line, but also a variety of more casual items that can be worn with her fun baseball caps. This would add just the right touch to step up your everyday outfits.

In the future, the ladies dream of expanding their business in hopes of being big enough to need a warehouse. Terrill also told us that she wants to be able to say she has shipped a package to all 50 states. She is well on her way.

Those of you from Oregon, Utah, and Hawaii, please get online and do some shopping.

When I left the store, I felt like I had made a new friend. This is what makes Hey Sister Boutique such a great place to shop because they know the value of connecting with their customers. When asked what advice would you give to other new entrepreneurs, Terrill said, “Listen! Build relationships! My ladies will tell you I’d rather have someone in the shop telling me a story or about their day than to be in there alone.” These ladies pride themselves on their love of family, faith, and fashion. What more could you want from a store?

To see Terrill or Victoria in person, head on down to 122 S. Main in Perkins, Oklahoma. To shop their online store, visit hey-sister-boutique. myshopify.com or check out their Facebook Live Sales on Wednesday evenings.

Owners Terril & Victoria pictured above.

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In the Business of Hope There is a lovely quote by Mandy Hale that says, “There is nothing mor e beautiful than someone who goes out of their way to make life beautiful for others.”

Sabra Denson of Chandler, Oklahoma has now made her life’s work all about helping others. Sabra is the director and founder of Helping Hands Community Foundation in Chandler, Ok. According to Sabra, Helping Hands Community Foundation was created to aid families in need by providing food, clothes, and other services.

But, Helping Hands Comm unity Foundation is not the onl y beautiful thing Sabra is working on. She is also r esponsible for fiv e outdoor food pantr ies in Lincoln County, as well as a stor e in Chandler that is meant to serve the public on a daily basis.

I had the pr ivilege to ask Sabra a fe w questions about what she does and how she got involved. Her work is incredibly inspiring. She is w orking to make others’ lives easier, and it is noticeable. Sabra shared a bit of her heart with me when explaining ho w she star ted these projects, and how she began to help her community.

“I always knew that my passion w as to help people.” Sabra told me. “It started as a small dr eam to help people in a bigger way, and the vision just k ept getting bigger.”

She started out helping other s in the position of child welfare specialist for the State of Oklahoma for nearly a decade. During that time, she founded Helping Hands Community Foundation, but saw a need for more to be done than what she could do at the time.

“In 2020, God called me to lea ve my career and devote myself full time in helping the people of Oklahoma. I just kept hearing ‘Be the hands and feet of Jesus.’” Sabra explained.

For this past y ear, she has follo wed what God called her to do , and she’s found she still has more dreams for the future of these projects.

“My next and even bigger pr oject is to open Lincoln County’s first homeless shelter,” she said. “My dream is to be able to provide skills to these individuals and families that help them get bac k on their feet to maintain safe and secure housing for the r est of their lives.”

She is not the onl y one out ther e putting in the work. She has a team of v olunteers called, “Hope

SCAN ME

Dealers.” The Hope Dealer s are out there working to not only provide services of aid to f amilies in need, but show them love free from judgment.

Sabra is always looking to add more volunteers to her team as w ell. If an yone out ther e is inter ested in volunteering or donating to her foundation, check out their website at www.hhcommunityfoundation.net or stop b y their office and store located at 112 E 7th St. in Chandler, OK. Sabra is not onl y trying to mak e a differ ence in her community, but she’s also a mom tr ying to mak e a difference in her children’s lives. She shared with me some advice on how she tries to maintain the balance between her community work and being a parent who is present in her kids’ lives.

“I’m not going to lie. This is a very hard task which requires you to be intentional. Being present is the single

written by Sara Lane photo provided

most important thing w e can do as mother s. This means putting your work to the side,” she explained. She goes on to encourage, “It’s okay if you fail, get back up and try again tomorrow.”

Sabra is not the only woman trying to better her community, so she offer ed some ad vice for other w omen that may be interested in serving their community.

“My advice would be to pray about it and go with your gut. If you feel God saying ‘Go,’ then you better listen.

There will never be a perfect time.” She offers. “You have to speak life into what your dreams are and just take that first step.”

Thank you, Sabra, for not only being an inspiration to others, but for saying “Yes” to those small dreams that are changing people’s lives. You are truly making life beautiful for those in Lincoln County.

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Your Year Round Retreats, Oklahoma’s Botanical Gardens written & photographed by Cindy Lockstone

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Summer is a great time to step outside and enjoy one of Oklahoma’s impressive botanical gardens. It might just be the best decision you make all summer.

Oklahoma’s botanical gardens provide relaxing atmospheres, inspiring places, and energizing entertainment.

The northeastern part of Oklahoma is home to five botanical gardens. Making these spots true gathering places, visitors can experience lavish gardens, spectacular water features, abundant plants, tropical vegetation, themed lawns, native trees, unique art, and a variety of entertainment.

One popular botanical garden is The Myriad Botanical Gardens & Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory located in downtown Oklahoma City.

Marked pathways and sidewalks take sightseers through the Meinders Terrace and the Star Fountain, showcasing flowering gardens, lush plant life and on-site ponds.

Chill-out on the Sheridan Lawn and take in the sounds of the Wave Fountain water feature.

Younger visitors and families will enjoy spending time at the Thunder Fountain, the Children’s Garden, and Mo’s Carousel. Pets are welcome to enjoy the Dog Release area.

During warmer months, the 17-acre garden offers summer concerts, festivals, special performances, outdoor movies, picnic spaces, weddings, meetings, and reunions.

Tanenbaum

The quintessential Reflection Garden is a shaded spot for a quiet break, silent meditation, and peaceful harmony. This garden features a collection of shade trees, ornamental shrubbery and fragrant hostas, hydrangeas, azaleas, and Japanese maple trees.

This summer and next summer the historically popular Crystal Bridge Conservatory is closed for major renovations and improvements. The Bridge is set to reopen toward the end of 2022.

Another one of Oklahoma’s best botanical gardens is the Tulsa Botanical Garden, located eight miles northwest of downtown Tulsa on 170 acres of secluded land. Far from the ‘hustle and bustle’ of city life, this garden is still close enough to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Tulsa city skyline.

Just inside this botanical garden’s gates

is The Lakeside Promenade. This picturesque, man-made lake is surrounded by sidewalks outlined by colorful flower gardens, robust shrubbery, inviting grasses and comfortable benches.

Both children and adults will enjoy spending time in the Children’s Discovery Garden. The Spring Giant

alongside the Cross Timbers Trail. The grass trail loops through wildflowers, natural grasses, indigenous trees, plants, and fauna. Benches are placed throughout the trail allowing hikers to enjoy the spacious views.

An additional stop should include the Botanic Garden of Oklahoma State University. Located west of OSU’s main campus, both locals and visitors are always welcome to enjoy this beautiful garden spot. This area allows all ages to enjoy the outdoors, learn all about gardening, and participate in yearly events and activities all basically free of charge.

The Botanic Garden at OSU is situated on 100-acres and is home to several college horticultural studies. It is also the site of the successful television program Oklahoma Gardening.

There are many types of active gardens water feature is like no other, keeping watchful eyes over i n c l u d i n g this garden. Visitors standing inside the stone face can f o r m a l look through the giant’s mouth as water cascades from g a r d e n s , the giant’s upper teeth into a pool below. perennial The A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Floral Terraces are f l o w e r another spectacular sight. This three-acre ornamental beds, water garden is home to over 8,000 permanent plants and 7,000 gardens, a seasonal plants. In the fall 100,000 bulbs are also planted b u t t e r f l y so the spring garden boasts a huge flower display. garden, an West of the Tandy Floral Terraces is a persimmon alpine rock tree grove known as the “gateway” into the garden’s garden and a Japanese Tea garden. Recently a patio remaining 110 acres of preserved natural beauty garden spot was added, along with a chicken moat, a lotus garden, a sun perennial garden, and the Oklahoma Proven garden.

Visitors participate in guided tours, walking trails, open spaces for kite flying, perfect spots for hammocks, on-site yoga, lawn games, playhouses, swings, and so much more.

Two other Oklahoma botanical gardens to visit include The Lester & Mary Cann Memorial Botanical Center in Ponca City and The Hambrick Botanical Garden at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.

A trip to any of these Oklahoma botanical gardens will be a refreshing choice for anyone.

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The Myriad Botanical Gardens & Crystal Bridge Conservatory 301 W Reno Oklahoma City, Oklahoma WWW.OKLAHOMACITYBOTANICALGARDENS.COM

The Lester & Mary Cann Memorial Botanical Center 1500 E Grand Avenue Ponca City, Oklahoma WWW,PONCACITYOK.GOV

The Tulsa Botanical Garden 3900 Tulsa Botanic Drive Tulsa, Oklahoma WWW.TULSABOTANIC.ORG

The Hambrick Botanical Garden 1700 NE 63rd Street Oklahoma City, Oklahoma WWW.NATIONALCOWBOYMUSEUM.COM

The Botanical Garden at Oklahoma State University 3300 W 6th Avenue Stillwater, Oklahoma WWW.BOTANICGARDEN.OKSTATE.EDU 54

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Stop by The Salty Creek Boutique in Bristow for these Beaded Cactus Earrings. Then swing by PAVILION in Tulsa and snag these Lavender Shades.

Find your Summer Tank at the Orange Armadillo Apparell Co. in Stillwater.

These Star Bell-Bottom Jeans scream 4th of July Style and can be found at Rust & Ruffles Boutique in Owasso.

And don’t forget your Hand Tooled Leather Wallet at Justin Cargill Custom Leather in Cushing.

And finally, complete the look with Freedom Moses Black Splatter Sandals from EVEREVE in Tulsa.

- SHOP LOcAL - shop local -

Summer Style

ACHIEVING INNER PEACE Hi, I’m Jessica Ledgerwood, and I’m a Yin Yoga instructor.

I’ve been teaching yoga for a short time, but practicing it for about 10 years. It started as a way to get fit and flexible and quickly evolved into a way to connect inward and upward. My soul began to crave the peace that came from it. When I discovered Yin yoga, EVEN more peace was found as the past traumas in my life began to release in various poses. Yoga, along with a few other tools, has helped me to achieve inner peace. I want to dive a little deeper into those tools with you and also tell you a little about myself. I hope you can relate in some way, and that this article gives you hope in knowing that you are never too far gone. Peace is attainable.

Let me start by telling you that I am not a stranger to anxiety and depression. I have been through many things that have shaken me to my core and pushed me down deep into the pit of sorrow and suffering. This life can be very hard to navigate through. People can be cruel, and pain is real on a mental, physical, and spiritual level. By going through these trials of grief, addiction, self-sabotage, difficult relationships, and chronic pain, I believe I’ve begun to kind of scratch the surface of this inner peace thing. I am still learning however, and will be every moment of my life.

At the beginning of my “journey to the center of Peace,” it really started with my thoughts. I had to accept all things as part of life instead of looking at myself as a victim to them. I had to quit labeling feelings and experiences as “good” or “bad” and learn to live in the here and now.

You don’t have to pretend that things didn’t happen to

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you, that people didn’t exist, or that happiness is the only emotion that is allowed to be felt. This approach is actually quite the opposite. We have to learn to accept life as a whole. Not buffering or stuffing feelings down, but living in the present with them.

It is vital to feel the uncomfortable feelings and then release them. I began to realize that whether the next big thing was labeled by the world as good or bad was really irrelevant. Ultimately, life is going to happen with or without the label. Our mission is to adapt to it and continue to grow.

The second half of this puzzle for me was getting to the heart of the matter. I had to learn to love others and myself- at the same time. This part requires you to really get serious about: A) finding your tribe, B) letting go of people and things that aren’t serving you, and C) knowing when to say “No.” This part was hard for me, and I have to keep checking in on these three things periodically to make sure I’m not falling back into old patterns.

Inner peace is a daily practice! It takes time and patience to go from a state of negativity to a state of peace. Don’t shy away from getting counseling. To be honest, we all need it. Journaling and meditation are also wonderful tools. Just start out with five minute guided meditations on YouTube and go up from there.

Get a pretty journal that you are more likely to look forward to writing in every day. Remind yourself daily that you are not your thoughts. You are the person deeper inside observing the thoughts. These are tools, not quick fixes, and it takes time, dear friend! Just as yoga is a practice that you come back to daily, inner peace is also a practice. We are not in control of our outer world, but we can choose how to respond to it in our inner world.

written by Jessica Ledgerwood photography by Kayla Tomlinson OKIE CHARMED - SUMMER 2021

SCAN ME

I hope this plants a seed for you to work towards healing and attaining inner peace every day! You got this!

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Trout Fishing for Beginners

...it’s Me, I’m Beginners.

written & photography by TaMara Skipworth

When I think of trout fishing, my brain conjures up a Hemingway-esque image that is very A River Runs Through It, in a New England looking background with the fall colored leaves swirling beautifully in the wind as a statuesque middle aged man with salt-and-pepper hair in waders very gracefully wisps the pole back and forth in a beautiful stream. On the other hand, when I envision myself trout fishing, my brain conjures up a very different image! Something along the lines of Shera in tank-top, hip-waders, and a ballcap wielding the pole like a Greek goddess….but in reality it is probably closer to the female version of Dennis the Menace falling off the bank into the water and breaking my pole, blacking my eye and tearing a hole in my jeans on the way down! The waders and fly pole, the fish basket, the solitude and calm sportsman conduct has always looked very interesting. It never struck me as something that we could do here in Oklahoma, and it honestly never crossed my mind much over the years that trout fishing was actual sport fishing. One day in my classroom, I was talking with a student that had gone over the weekend, and it sparked my interest. I talked to my boyfriend about it, and he was interested as well. He grew up trout fishing the creeks and streams around Creede, Colorado but had never fished for trout in Oklahoma either. So it was decided…..this was happening. We were going on a

new adventure, and I could not have been more excited!

In true Outdoor Gal fashion, I had prepped some, planned a tad and the day before we planned on leaving packed a little bit...in a very organized and mannerly fashion...paying close attention to detail and making a list of the things I would need. That next day, I did my chores and headed out..….accidentally leaving my kayaks, heavy coat and every single fishing pole I own at home! Oopsie...there is a long story-slash-excuse about yard work, lawn mowers, clearing fence rows and the such...but the point is, I loaded up about half of the supplies that I needed and rolled out.

Those of you that know me won’t be surprised! It’s just who I am! *insert facepalm Bitmoji here. We set our GPS navigation on Tishomingo and started on this great new adventure.

The Blue River is a spring fed river that is located in Johnson County, just outside of Tishomingo. We chose

Hughes Crossing which is on Blue River Public Hunting and Fishing Area. The campsites are free, but non reservable, so it is first come first serve. There are a few signs on the way that you have to pay attention to, one of which states no ATVs allowed, meaning foot traffic and bicycles only on the trails. I can roll with that. This trip has been off to a great start, again...insert facepalm Bitmoji with an eye roll added for a dramatic flair.

We eventually found the site we wanted, got the camper set and decided to brave the gale force Oklahoma winds and go for a walk and look around to come up with a game plan. When I say gale force winds, I mean Okie level hurricanes status wind gusts! The goat-trails that flank the bank of the river are very well marked and decently cleared, though not very wide in some places. The walking is a little treacherous in places, but I’m all about a good hike so that didn’t bother me much. You can walk for miles on either side of the banks.

There is something for everyone (if you are looking for that northeastern Hemingway-esque seclusion where it’s just you, your waders, your fish basket and your fly rod against the rainbow trout).

If you’re looking for that easily accessible, easy to walk to spot where you can chit chat with the other people of nature that have gathered to try their luck, you can have it.

Outdoor Gal

I chose both; I like walking around and asking “Hey, whatcha using?” or “What are they nibbling on today?” I very politely explain that I’m a newby, have no experience, and have NO IDEA what I’m doing; so I’m just being nosy trying to learn.

Everyone I talked to politely and jovially answered my questions! A plan was hatched. I drove back to the cute little store just outside the Wildlife area and started gathering things that we’d need.

While wandering around, we noticed a wall that had photos of people holding up their trophy fish! I love trophy pictures like that. You can learn a lot from those so it is always something I pay attention to. Each photo had writing chronicling how big the fish was, when it was caught, and what bait or lure was used! “Winner winner chicken dinner baby!” There were photos of trophy catfish, bass, and most importantly TROUT! I gave it a good study and then bought what lures were listed on the photos that the store had available! (Literally, a little bit of everything) I bought a couple of rods with nice spinning reels, a soft sided tackle box to carry with me, you know...for important things like snacks and such….also tackle. I got flies, crank baits, rooster tails, salmon eggs, and a few other things.

As I walked out of the store with my brown paper ‘sacklebox’ full of new goodies, I had high hopes that this Oklahoma weather would straighten up and act like it was Spring Break and cooperate with the people who were trying to do things outside.

On to the next step...Me learning to use and ‘flick’ the fly rods was entertaining….! I’m sure the fellow campers enjoyed the show. I could not

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NOT whip it, which apparently is not what you’re supposed to be doing. I spent countless hours as a kid learning to POP the bullwhip in the yard, and it felt close to the same motion….but not, and my brain couldn’t handle it! I prefer the spincast, but you can certainly use a baitcaster or a good ole’ enclosed reel. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again; use what you are comfortable with and works for YOU!

As the sun peeked over the horizon, coffee was made and we prepared for the day. We walked and waded and fished for hours. It was so much fun, even though we weren’t

catching anything. The wind was being a serious vibe killer! Between the rushing water and the wind, walking out across some places on the river became very tricky. It didn’t deter us though! After walking quite a ways, there was a bend in the river just right where it cut the wind. The water was deep and calm. I cast a few times, and studied the water. I recalled that morning as we were walking in, I saw a guy with a film crew had caught a nice rainbow trout, the color stuck with me. I thought a second and then pulled out the brightest red-est rooster tail I had bought. My boyfriend came around the bend about the time

never heard them called this! Is it just me? Anyway, back to the image of She-Ra in pigtails and a hat and rippin lips…..That’s how I imagined the scene looked as it was happening. Probably not, but it’s my story, and it IS a fishing story so…..you know what they say.

The very next cast, I snagged up in a tree underwater and very obviously lost the only lure that had been successful. I expect nothing less from myself at this point!

The rest of the day was as uneventful as the first part, but I didn’t care. We spent the rest of the afternoon fishing and meandering and taking in the sights. We eventually headed back to camp with my catch in tow. It was a fun walk back with people pointing out the fish, asking questions, congratulating us and making me feel like a fishing rockstar.

I’ve filleted many fish in my day, but never a trout. They are a very tender fish. Most times they are simply rolled in cornmeal and fried whole after cleaning the entrails or guts out. I didn’t pack cornmeal or oil, so I opted to filet it out, and left the skin on. At this point, I had been walking around in leaky boots all day, had fish and blood and dirt on my pants, so it seemed like a good time to clean up a bit. A clean up and change of clothes made me feel much more fabulous sized rainbow! civilized. I will advise all of you to take

You know I was grinning from more clothes than you think you need ear to ear y’all! I wasn’t quite prepared camping or fishing! You won’t be sorry for the teeth that this fish was packing, if you need them.

I lipped it and immediately regretted As the sun was setting, we it. Luckily my boyfriend knew what got the campfire going, and I started was up from his years of trout fishing cooking. There is absolutely nothing experience and had packed a pair of better to me than cooking a meal ‘bird bills’ in the tacklebox (snack bag) that I provided in a very organic so I was able to remove the hook and and primitive way. It’s extremely leave most of my finger skin intact. satisfying. I prepared my filets and They are a very tender mouthed made blackened trout, wrapped it in fish, even with the set of prehistoric a foil pouch, made fried taters and teeth they have, so be careful. Now, onions and waited on the coals in let’s address this….who calls needle the campfire to get just right. When nose pliers ‘bird bills’? I have been on they were good, we placed the foil this earth for FORTY YEARS and have pouches on top and waited. Not only I was finished tying it on, and I told him what I was doing and….he says, “Well, it’s worth a shot.”

I walked down the bank into the water where I balanced on a piece of a deadfall. I cast my line, started to reel and BAM! Just like that it had happened! He hit it hard and fast! I was reeling, my pole was bent, and the line was running! I knew it had to have been a good one whatever it was….it felt like I had snagged a good blue cat. It was a very exciting fight.

When I got it reeled in enough to see what it was, I was ecstatic! I had done it! I caught my first trout, and it was a

was this my first time to fish for trout, catch a trout, but I had never eaten any either. Let me tell you, they are delicious! My brain was running wild with possible ways to prepare future catches!

All in all, the trip was successful and one of the most memorable Spring Break adventures I have ever been on. There were bathrooms within walking distance of where we camped, so if you were to go and tent camp, it would still be very accessible. The trail head on one side of the river is also handicapped accessible with handicapped parking for a ways down the trail. There is truly something for everyone looking for an adventure on the Blue River, whether trout fishing, day hiking or taking the littles for a day trip to swim and wade around in the shallows.

The fishing is diverse, we saw people catching bass, catfish and trout while we were there, so you don’t have to solely trout fish. The fishing and camping folk were all very friendly and full of good information!

While I still consider myself a trout fishing beginner, I didn’t fall down the bank and black my eye like I was afraid I would, nor did I break a pole. I hope you ladies get out there and give it a try because you never know what can happen! A good day of fishing, whether you catch anything or not, is never wasted time. In the words of Henry David Thoreau, “Everyone should believe in something; I believe I’ll go fishing,” and at the end of the day, when I am sunburned, wind chapped, and have fishing hair and don’t care….is when I am most content. Get out there and get wild y’all! ~TaMara, The Outdoor Gal

Pickled Quail Eggs Spring has sprung and now summer is just around the corner! It is time for wild edibles like morel mushrooms and wild onions! ἀi s is one of my favorite recipes for spring and summer. I love all things pickled, but these are such a versatile item to have available in the kitchen. You can snack on them like they are or use them in other dishes. ἀ ey are light, slightly spicy and pack a flavorful punch!

Now obviously, one could pickle any species of egg they fancied......chicken, goose, ostrich, crocodile, frog, dinosaur...if one had access to those things that is. I am a fan of using what you have available to you, and I j ust happen to have a w onderful source of fresh quail eggs very close. ἀ ey are also a great size. Boiled quail eggs are a bite sized snack of baby bird goo that pickles well ( and quickly) and goes great in salads, on a relish tray, in a Ramen bowl

or straight from the jar into the mouth!

I start by gathering the things I need to make this simple recipe. It usually takes me about a week............because that is how I roll....slowly! LOL. Start with the eggs you plan on pickling. ἀi s step is a t ricky one so pay close attention.........boil them! It is as simple as that. Some people get all fancy with a fancy basket and flip and flop them all fancy like around to make sure the yolk stays in the center to ensure that the peeling process..blah blah blah....” Yer’ makin’ pickled eggs folks!” I j ust throw them in the pot without crackin’ the shells, cover them with water and boil the H-E-DOUBLE HOCKEY STICKS out of them! I normally give them about 5-7 minutes of a hard boil. (you can add about a quarter teaspoon of baking soda in the water to facilitate an easier peeling process, though I am not sure how this will affect the quail eggs...... if any of y’all try them, let me know how it turns out! ;) After the boiling, put the eggs out to cool. I normally go fold some laundry or weed the garden or maybe take a nap all fancy like...I most certainly DO NOT go start looking at things on Pinterest no matter what you think.....by the way... I don’t actually know what a fancy nap is, but it came out and there it is....deal with it. photography & written by TaMara Skipworth

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T

here are many to remember among the Sac and Fox Nation that had passed away due to the virus, and there are still some today that are fighting for their lives. One that I would like to honor a special remembrance for is a resilient woman among the tribe named Wa-Ko-Thi meaning “Suddenly Appearing” of the Bear clan. Her legal name w as Ms. Cheryl L. McClellan. She is also a descendant of the Creek, Seminole, Seneca Cayuga, and Wyandotte tribes.

Cheryl was educated at the University of Oklahoma. She r eceived a Bac helors of Science Degree in Engineering and then went on later to get her Master’s in Organizational Management. In 1976, while a student at OU, she formed a student organization called American Indian Science and Engineering Society “AISES” and became the first president at OU for the society. Since 2013, she has been employed at The Boeing Company in OKC where she worked in the quality control department and was also president of the Native American Network.

Her education and leadership among the tribe culminated in her becoming the Second Chief from 2007-2013. Her leadership experience transformed her into a role model for all women across this nation. She received many awards and honors throughout the country and was immensely proud of her her itage and culture. Cher yl was gracious, highly respected, and loved wherever she w as present at various events. I always admired the beauty she car ried from the inside out and ho w she loved everybody and wanted them to be their absolute best in life.

Cheryl’s unexpected death due to Co vid-19 happened the da y after putting her companion Dwayne F. Tofpi to rest. Dwayne also passed away from the disease. She is survived by her children, Timothy “Tahlee” Redbird Jr. of Nor man, Lyndee McClellan-Tofpi and companion J oe Jourdain; Lisa Little Iron and companion George C. Tsouhlara; Grandchildren Wynema & Adam Hernandez of Arizona; Joe Jr. and Joslyn Jourdain of Minnesota; Suzanah and Georgianna of Nebraska; and GreatGrandchildren Lilyanna and Marcello Hernandez.

She loved her family, many relatives, and friends she had made throughout her life. According to her daughter Lyndee, she loved going to po w-wows and to her Sauk ceremonies that were incredibly special and important to her. She made the most of every chance she got and enjoyed the riches of her culture that had brought many friends and relatives together.

Lyndee was remarkably close to her mother, and they did everything together including making regalia and beadwork for traditional outfits. When she made her outfits, she would place homemade tags inside that read “Made with love’’ by Cheryl McClellan. I asked Lyndee “If there would be one life quote that your mom lived by, what would that quote be?” and she replied, “Treat people how you want to be treated.” Cheryl is greatly missed and will always be remembered as a kind loving human being that loved who she was and where she came from.

Please be mindful of the survivors of Covid-19; they have endured life changing events and still mourn their loved ones that have gone on to be with the creator. Also, keep your distance, wash your hands, and wear a mask in public. We all want to be safe and keep those we love safe.

Men-We-Wah-Pen “Big Thank You from the heart.”

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written by Alicia R. Chaino-Ahkeahbo photo provided

In Loving Memory of

Cheryl McClean

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During my childhood, many of our summer days were spent in my aunt and uncle’s swimming pool. While my dad and uncle worked and my mom and aunt did “mom” things, we played King of the Raft, had endless rounds of Marco Polo, and competed in underwater relay races.

I practiced for what seemed like hours to hold my breath and swim underwater in preparation for my future career as a mermaid. Unfortunately, that dream never transpired, but I never lost my enthusiasm for a great, relaxing swim. To escape the oppressive Oklahoma heat, there are several places you can spend your summer days. One swimming spot to try out this summer is the Pauls Valley Water Park.

First opening in 2013, the Pauls Valley Water Park is an aquatic fun fest right at the edge of Wacker Park. The park features a splash area to keep the little ones cool, while older adventurous children, teens, and adults will enjoy the slides and a diving board. A lazy river meanders among the slides and swimming area for those like me who want to relax and be wet. Sliders will delight in the spiraling sensation of the popular blue and white Bowl Slide that swirls into the water. After enjoying the slides and pool, swimmers and sliders can take a break under the

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shade of the pavilions to enjoy snacks from the concession stand. These include: ice cream, pretzels, and more.

This water park is a great addition to the community of Pauls Valley and is enjoyed by so many. It hosts the morning session of the local senior citizen’s group, the Silver Sneakers, who sometimes enjoy a turn down the slides. In August, it hosts a Duck Derby (prizes for the best decorated duck) and a diving contest for participants to show off their best belly flop or cannon ball.

The water park is open from noon to 6 p.m. on Monday through Saturday. On Fridays they extend this time from noon to 8 p.m., and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Daily prices are $7 for adults and children 48 inches and above, $4 for children under 48 inches, and $5 for senior citizens. You can follow Pauls Valley Water Park on Facebook for their events.

While you are in Pauls Valley, you might also check out the Toy and Action Figure Museum and eat at the iconic Bob’s Pig Shop. The Washita Valley Lobster Sandwich is my all time favorite thing to eat there.

written by Shannon Ellis Stock Photo used

Wonderful

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The Chatter Box

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