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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Thankful!

November 2023 PUBLISHER

Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@citylifestyle.com 405.541.5650 MANAGING EDITOR

If you have a roof over your head, money to pay your heating and other bills, can afford three square meals a day, and don't have to choose between eating or getting your prescriptions filled, you are among the more fortunate, as am I. But many people in our community, people of all ages, ethnicities, backgrounds and educational levels, are experiencing one or more of these challenges. Fortunately, we are a caring community offering a wide range of services that are helping address these concerns. Giving truly is more rewarding than receiving, and there are so many worthy organizations out there that are providing essentials including (but not limited to) shelter, food, medical assistance, mental health counseling and transportation, while others are offering seasonal assistance such as community meals and food and toy drives. If you have children, make sure to invite them to participate in one or more charities of your choice; maybe they will carry on the giving spirit into their adulthood! Other articles explore: • ways a credit union goes the extra mile to help out its customers and the communities it serves • a bakery that is more than just a bakery, albeit a really good one; it's also a haven for those seeking a sense of belonging • and a Holiday Makeover Guide on how to reduce stress this time of year, written by Anthony Haskins, a Certified Life Coach and multidisciplinary mental health professional whom many will recall from his years on the Dr. Phil set. There's lots more of interest inside, so grab your hot cocoa, find a warm coverlet and a cozy spot, and curl up for some stories that are sure to inspire, inform and entertain you. Publisher Jimmy Darden and I wish you and your family a fun-filled and safe Thanksgiving and holiday season.

Jerri Culpepper | jerri.culpepper@citylifestyle.com SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

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inside the issue The Thankful Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Not Your Usual Credit Union

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Giving Back FI NA NC E + LEGA L SE RV IC E S

Mental Wellbeing HEA LT H + W E L L N E SS

Home Update HO ME + DES I GN

Expert Help HEA LT H + WELLNE SS

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

Events

Realty Report R EA L ESTAT E

Self Care A RTS + C U LT U R E

True Sky Dedicated to Helping People

20 Countertop Transformations

Castle Rock Countertops’ Shara Costillo Works to Turn Visions Into Reality

24 Restore the Magic

A Holiday Season Makeover Guideline by Anthony Haskins

28 Sweet Friends Bakery

Where Community and Quality Confections Meet

O N T H E C OV E R

Friends of Sweet Friends Bakery owners Nicole and Kevin Hanson gather to celebrate a special occasion recently. The bakery offers an escape into the welcoming embrace of a tight-knit community. See related story, p. 28.

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business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

OKC Zoo Safari Lights Returns on Nov. 11 ‘Tis the season to brighten the OKC skyline with the glow of OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS, back with allnew larger-than-life light displays. OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS returns nightly beginning Saturday, Nov. 11, through Monday, Jan. 1, from 5:30 –11 p.m. Drive-through and walkthrough options offered. For ticket and other information, visit OKCZoo. org/our-events#collection=1609

Scan to read more.

Candle-making Workshop to Be Offered at the Myriad

OKC Renaissance and Scottish Festival Set for Nov. 4-5

Join Jeff Chambless of MoonGlow Maven in embracing intentionality and crafting your own botanically inspired, hand-poured candle in this workshop, to be presented from 10-11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 18, in the Terrace Room of the Myriad Botanical Gardens. Register by Nov. 14. Cost $35 for members, $40 for non members. Each participant will leave with one 8oz candle—perfect for gift-giving! To register and FMI, visit MyriadGardens.org/events/work shop-botanical-candle-pouring-3.

The second annual OKC Renaissance and Scottish Festival iis set for Nov. 4-5 at the OKC Fairgrounds, 3001 General Pershing Blvd. Aye, there'll be jousts and jests, fairies and pirates, Vikings and vagabonds, minstrels and magicians, fire breathers and falconry, kings and queens, dancers and daredevils, turkey legs and always great family fun. Also featuring the OKC Highland Games! FMI and tickets, visit OKCFairgrounds.com.

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Not Your Usual Credit Union TRUE SKY DEDICATED TO HELPING PEOPLE

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BARNETT PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAYLIN HILL/ KOLLAB CREATIVE & SUPPLIED

True Sky Credit Union’s Sean M. Cahill has worked in the financial industry for nearly 30 years. Throughout his career, he has worked for both large and small financial institutions, working his way up from a teller to his current position as president and CEO. While he has experience in both banks and credit unions, he is passionate about being able to give back to members in the way that is unique to credit unions. Since he took the helm five years ago, True Sky has doubled in asset size, added 10 new locations, and has been named by Forbes as the Best Credit Union in the state for the past three years. For Cahill, this proves that the sky really is the limit for his member-centered financial institution.

This page: True Sky Credit Union President and CEO Sean Cahill says "Our goal is to move from a credit union that simply has cool technology, to a Technology Company with Purpose." Next page: True Sky Chief Information Officer Alex Michaud, President and CEO Sean Cahill, Senior Vice President and Chief Lending Officer Mike Shockley, Chief Financial Officer Mike Workman

G IV IN G BAC K | FINAN CE + LE GAL S E RVI CE S

Q. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR POSITION AT TRUE SKY? WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY TO GO TO WORK EVERY DAY? A. At the heart of what we do is people helping people. As a not-for-profit financial cooperative formed for the benefit of our members and communities, it feels amazing to come to work every day for a company that mirrors my personal values. The biggest influence in my life and career is my wife and soulmate, Melissa. As a former credit union professional herself, she has guided me to where I am today, not just as a professional, but as a husband and father as well. With her at my side, anything is possible.

Q. WHAT WAS THE MAIN IDEA BEHIND THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE BORROW & SAVE PROGRAM? HOW WILL IT SERVE TRUE SKY MEMBERS?

“As a not-for-profit financial cooperative formed for the benefit of our members and communities, it feels amazing to come to work every day for a company that mirrors my

A. We know bad things sometimes happen to good people, and we should be there to support them, not take advantage of them in their time of need. The Borrow and Save Program was created to defend against the predatory lending practices of PayDay Lenders. The True Sky Borrow and Save Loan provides emergency cash when a person needs it, at a much, much lower rate than a PayDay loan shop. It has a special component that takes 25% of the loan amount and pledges it in your savings account until the loan is paid off. That way, if another unexpected expense occurs, you can use your savings account to help with it, rather than going and getting another loan. I know that may sound counterintuitive from a lending institution, but we are truly here to help people.

CONTINUED >

personal values.”

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Q. WHAT WAS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE DIGITAL BRANCHES? A. Our goal is to move from a credit union that simply has cool technology, to a Technology Company with Purpose. This starts with understanding our membership and delivering value with technology that makes their lives easier. Our newest branch in Oklahoma City, located at the corner of 23rd Street and Missouri, is a great example. From the minute you enter this technology branch, you can just feel how it’s different and exciting. It is all technology and no employees. From a concierge video service when you enter the facility, to lights on the floor that direct you to the proper office, opening an account, applying for a loan, or just chatting with our fantastic employees will never be the same. Through an innovative partnership with New Bethel Baptist Church, which allowed us to lease the land, we added a large community room. We will use that space to offer things the community really needs, like financial literacy, job skills clinics, a VITA site for low-income free tax preparation, and more.

Q. HOW DOES GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY AND THOSE IN NEED HELP FULFILL TRUE SKY’S MISSION? A. Philanthropic efforts play a massive part of what we do as a credit union. We have a group called the Sky Crew that goes out to perform random acts of kindness. You can see them taking over a gas station to give out free gas during times of high fuel prices, taking over a grocery store to give out free groceries in a food desert community and more.

This page: True Sky Senior Vice President and Chief Lending Officer Mike Shockley, President and CEO Sean Cahill, Chief Financial Officer Mike Workman, Chief Information Officer Alex Michaud Next Page, Top: Employess take part in True Sky’s Foundation Golf Tournament, proceeds from which benefit Children’s Miracle Network. Bottom: President/CEO Sean Cahill helps bag groceries at True Sky’s Grocery Shopping Give Away for their 23rd grand opening, held in a food and financial desert area.

G IV IN G BAC K | FINAN CE + LE GAL S E RVI CE S

“True Sky is open to everyone. We’re here to serve you, empower your financial decisions, and enrich your lives.”

Our True Sky Foundation plays a huge part in everything we do. They support scholarship and grant programs and allow us to give a significant amount of money to the Children’s Hospital Foundation as part of Children’s Miracle Network every year. We are also deeply involved with the World Council of Credit Unions in support of the tragic things that are happening in Ukraine. Almost 50% of their country’s credit unions have disappeared since the beginning of the conflict. We have raised over $30,000 to help get credit unions and credit union employees back on their feet. In addition, through the World Council of Credit Union’s Global Bridges Program, we are working with Polish Credit Unions to help with the Ukrainian diaspora that is still occurring. I would urge everyone to take a look at our website and donate even $5 to help the effort. Every dollar goes a long way.

Q. HOW WILL TRUE SKY CONTINUE TO SERVE THE NEEDS OF YOUR MEMBERS AND THE LARGER COMMUNITY? A. We want to be that trusted resource you can go to, to get your questions answered. Sort of like your financial doctor, where you can trust the advice that you are being given is in your best interests. We will continue to listen to the voice of our members, and create the safest, most sound financial institution in the state of Oklahoma. True Sky is open to everyone. We’re here to serve you, empower your financial decisions, and enrich your lives. As a member of True Sky, you are an owner, and have a voice in how our company is run. Come give us a try, I can guarantee that you will not be disappointed. For more information about True Sky Credit Union, visit TrueSkyCU.org. Find them on Facebook at facebook. com/TrueSkyFederalCU, or @trueskycu on Instagram.

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / O KC

KEEP C ALM & C A R RY ON STORY BEHI N D TH E ICON IC P OSTE R MAK E S MESSAGE EV EN MORE P OW E RFUL

ARTICLE BY PETER LEVINSON

M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | H E ALTH + W E LLNE S S

Keep Calm and Carry On. I’m sure you have seen this iconic poster somewhere. A few years back, it was all the rave after being discovered in an old bookshop in Alnwick, England. As a real estate agent, I couldn’t tell you the number of times I saw this poster hanging in someone’s home. The poster became iconic in pop culture. Yes, the phrase is fun and in itself is powerful. If you know the story behind the poster, the meaning behind the slogan becomes so much more powerful. The poster is one of three created by the British government in preparation for World War II. The first poster read our Courage, Your Cheerfulness, Your Resolution; Will Bring Us Victory, the second, Freedom is in Peril; Defend it with all Your Might. The third was never nationally dispersed and posted: the now infamous “Keep Calm and Carry On.” This last poster was created, printed and held in reserve in preparation for being distributed in the event of the Nazi German blitzkrieg bombing of London. It was a simple message to potentially frightened people. Fortunately, the poster was never needed, and eventually, most of the 2.4 million posters printed in 1939 were recycled in the 1940s during a paper shortage. Equipped with that knowledge, imagine with me, if you will: It’s the 1940s, and your city is being bombed by a tyrannical country led by an evil man bent on putting the world under his thumb. At a moment’s notice, one of those bombs could fall on you or one or more of your loved ones. The world as you know it can change in a moment. Possibly forever. Yet, plastered throughout your bombed city is a single, stoic message: “Keep Calm and Carry On.” It’s a simple but powerful phrase that says to remain calm in the presence of adversity. It’s not the 1940s. And we don’t face the possible imminent bombing of our home. That, however, does not diminish the feeling many have today of bombs going off in their lives. Maybe not actual military bombs, but that doesn’t lessen the effect that the challenges in your life may have on you, the feeling that everything around you is falling apart. Life can feel very chaotic at times—like you’re walking

“THE WORLD AS YOU K N OW IT CAN CHAN G E I N A M O M E N T. PO S SIBLY FOREV E R. Y E T, P L ASTE RE D THROUG H O U T YO U R B O M B E D C I TY IS A SING L E , STOIC ME SSAG E : ‘ K E E P CA LM A N D CA R RY ON .’ IT’S A SI MP L E B UT P OW E RFUL P HRAS E T H AT SAYS TO R E MA IN CA LM IN THE P RE SE N CE OF ADVE RSI T Y.”

through a minefield with bombs going off all around you. But hey, it’s OK. Just keep calm and carry on. You cannot affect what others do. And unfortunately, there probably is not much, if anything you can do to affect what happens on a national level. What you can control is how you react. You have the ability to control your response to what’s happening around you. You have the ability to turn something negative into something positive. The first step, though, is to keep calm and just keep pushing through. Boats don’t sink from the water around them; they sink when the water gets in. Don’t let the negativity in; keep it all around you and float on top of it as you float on by what the world throws at you. You now know the first step to get through any adversity. Keep Calm and Carry On.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Peter Levinson is the eXp Branch Office Broker for the Levinson Real Estate Team. Find more information at forsaleokc.com or call 405.285.5750.

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / O KC

Countertop Transformations

Castle Rock Countertops’ Shara Costillo Works to Turn Visions Into Reality ARTICLE BY ANNABELLA POTTS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY HART

H OM E U P DAT E | HOM E + DE S I GN

Shara and Raul Castillo (Photo supplied)

Whether you’re planning to remodel your kitchen or simply looking for a way to spruce up your space, countertops are the best place to start. Many home remodels start in the kitchen—for many of us, it’s the focal point of celebrations (think Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve!) as well as social gatherings throughout the year. While most people would consider it an easy decision to make, kitchen countertops come in many different designs that revamp the place where you gather amongst friends and family for a meal. It’s important to review the many styles and stones before choosing the best centerpiece for your kitchen. At Castle Rock Countertops (CastleRock Countertops.com), Shara and Raul Castillo built their family business with over 20 years of experience between the pair. Both professionals work hands-on with their clients to fabricate natural stone into high-end countertops alongside the help

of their team. By staying up-to-date with the industry and combining their skilled workmanship, Castle Rock Countertops consistently transforms your countertops from basic to breathtaking. Shara Castillo considers her first steps into the business as a fluke. In 2002, she was employed as a funeral director. One of her friends worked at a stone yard and encouraged her to take a leap of faith into the world of countertops, where Shara met her husband. She has been in the business ever since. Shara works closely with sales and customer service, and she refers to her team of three as “the talent.” From templating to installation, her team works diligently to craft personalized countertops as they specialize in fine detailed marble work. Shara and Raul’s relationship with their clients sets them apart from other businesses. “I’m very hands-on, and I will go out every single time to the client’s house and look at their space and listen to what they

are thinking,” Shara said. “Then, I personally take them to the stone yard to let them look and give them some guidance as far as what materials work well together. I always give people large samples so that they can take it home and admire it for a few days.” When it comes to the client’s vision, some want to craft their dream kitchen while others aim to create a kitchen space for future homeowners to enjoy. At Castle Rock Countertops, the Castillos suggest designing for yourself if you don’t plan on moving for the next five to 10 years. If you’re looking to change locations in less than five years, consider designing your kitchen countertops based on what is trending. Shara and Raul believe kitchen renovations should do one of two things: either increase the quality of your home life or benefit you financially should you decide to move. Turning a vision into reality starts with deciding which style of countertop to choose from. Shara recommends quartz

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“I FOCUS ON EVERY SINGLE JOB, NO MATTER HOW BIG OR HOW SMALL.” -SHARA CASTILLO

as her go-to, as it comes in so many different looks that can be tailored to the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Quartz is also made to last, as this stone acts as an extremely strong surface material that is resistant to chips and scratches. With a large family, quartz is a viable option that resists stains and water damage in case your home tends to get a little messy. Cambria Portrush is another style of countertop that incorporates rich navyblue, gray and black veins throughout a porcelain slab. This stone option works with a variety of kitchen designs, from farmhouse to modern. The Cambria Portrush is nonporous and nonabsorbent, giving your kitchen a bold, clean surface to work with. It is also available in high gloss or matte finish, according to your preference. After choosing which stone works best with your ideal kitchen design, it may be time for the construction of your perfectly tailored countertops. While working inside the home can cause a frenzy, Castle Rock Countertops aims to minimize the effect on their client’s indoor living and personal routines. Shara and Raul strive for fastpaced construction to impact their customers’ lifestyles as little as possible. To

H OM E U P DAT E | HOM E + DE S I GN

keep things running smoothly, Shara says to consider keeping your pets in another room, as a furry friend underfoot a countertop construction might cause more than just a little ruckus. Kitchen countertops serve as more than just a food preparation area–they are a gathering place where friends and family come together. When looking for your next kitchen project, consider consulting a professional in the countertop business. Castle Rock Countertops’ mission is to design a countertop that flows best with your desired home interior. Regardless of the size of the project, Shara and Raul Castillo are prepared to turn your dreams into action. “I focus on every single job, no matter how big or how small,” Shara said. “I work as if it were my own home. I want everyone to be as thrilled with the finished product as they were when they started thinking about redoing their kitchen.

CASTLE ROCK COUNTERTOPS 4410 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73118 405.819.0011 castle-rock@cox.net or castillo@castlerockcountertops.com

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R E S T O R E t h e M A G I C

A H O L I D AY S E A S O N MAKEOVER GUIDELINE ARTICLE BY ANTHONY HASKINS

EXP E RT H E LP | HEALTH + W E LLNE S S

By the look in the eyes of the lovely people I see as I’m out and about, in family and many friends, I sense feelings of overload and discouragement. So much hustle, bustle and stress to arrive at some family and social standard of expectations for the glorious achievement of hollow appearances! I see them feigning joy as they scurry and worry about having the money to buy presents while desperately trying to figure out what to get and for whom to buy for this year, sweating and tired as they pour themselves relentlessly into planning and preparing meals, jamming their schedule with events and gatherings where they are expected to be, living in constant conflict with trying to make everyone happy and accommodating all needs and requests from the grandparents, Mom and Dad, and the kids. So much of the magic of the holidays is overshadowed by these fruitless efforts— and the main ingredient necessary to destroy your ability to unite with peace and joy is found in the devastating stress

that, like cancer, eats away so much from the experience that you become a shell of yourself going through the motions, until it’s time to pack away the decorations again with a feeling of relief that you made it through … barely. This is the exact opposite of the real reason for the holiday season. Let’s you and I make a declaration this year to Restore the Magic and make a memorable, beautiful season for your own personal enjoyment. This isn’t selfish, and I’ll tell you why: your happiness, peace, and joy are the best gift you can give to those people you love and to all of those you bump into in life on your way through the holidays. Right now, make a deal with me and yourself that, this year, you will take a different outlook and activity pattern that aligns with bringing in your deepest true joy: true giving, true loving, with the absolute freedom to create a unique experience of the holidays for yourself and those you choose to bring into your experience with you.

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H E R E ’ S A HOL I DAY SE AS ON MAKEOVER GUIDELINE:

SAY Y E S TO SAY I NG NO. You don’t have to go. You don’t have to cook. You don’t have to please everybody. You don’t have to buy gifts. You don’t have to do anything at all. I find that, in most cases, once you give yourself permission to say NO, your true intentions surface with an authentic motivation to do those things that bring peace, love, and joy without the weight and burden of expectation.

H U R RY U P T H E SLOW I NG DOW N . Take a deep breath and decide you’re going to end the rushing and cramming and jamming of activities and “to-do” lists. Follow Nature’s winter pace of becoming more still and slowing down. A famous psychologist and Nobel Prize-winning economist, Daniel Kahneman, wrote an excellent book, titled Thinking, Fast and Slow, the basic premise of which is: You get a lot more done—without as many mistakes and with a whole lot more joy—when you take it easy and focus on enjoying the present moment on your way to goals.

YOU M AT T E R . Spend time with people it feels good to be with. Use your energy to create experiences that bring YOU joy. Allow yourself the freedom to give yourself the gift of magic this holiday season. Stress really is a state of mind. You put the pressure on yourself; it’s up to you to let it go. Take a note from Frozen’s Elsa and LET IT GO, LET IT GO!

“Release family tradition. Release obligation. Release outside appearances. Release the pressure to be everything for everyone. Once you do, you naturally start to CHOOSE your way into creating pure holiday magic!” Have the most beautiful holiday season ever this year!

EXP E RT H E LP | HEALTH + W E LLNE S S

Anthony Haskins is a Certified Life Coach and multidisciplinary mental health professional who, inspired by the work of Hans Selye, the “stress master,” has passionately focused his education, practice, and presenting on spreading the power to understand, overcome, and harness the life stress that underlies much of mental illness and human suffering. For almost 20 years, he sat at the intersection (as resource director) of the “Dr. Phil” platform and the millions of viewers seeking to learn and grow. He grew up in a small town in Oklahoma, continues to live in Oklahoma. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State University and his juris doctorate from Southern Methodist University Law School. Learn more about him at AnthonyHaskins.com.

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / O KC

Sweet Friends Bakery

ARTICLE BY KAYLIN HILL/KOLLAB CREATIVE CO.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

WHERE COMMUNIT Y AND QUALIT Y CONFECTIONS MEET

In a world filled with fast-paced lives and hectic schedules, Sweet Friends Bakery in Edmond offers an escape into the sweet, welcoming embrace of a tight-knit community. Founded by a dedicated entrepreneur with a passion for both baking and family, this IG-worthy bakery has quickly become a local favorite for its custom cakes, daily baked goods, and fostering a sense of togetherness. Nicole Hanson, the owner, heart and soul behind Sweet Friends Bakery, has a rich history of managing bakeries for over a decade. However, in September 2022, she made a big decision driven by her desire for a better work-life balance. With two young boys and a need to be present for their school events and basketball games, she realized that the sacrifices she was making in her previous bakery role were no longer worth it. After a brief stint at another bakery in the city, she felt a nagging sense that something was amiss in her professional journey. Following her heart, she took a job as a baker in Edmond. The hours were perfect, and she found genuine joy in her work. Sadly, after only three weeks, she was let go, leaving her in shock and devastation. It was a new and challenging experience for someone who had never been fired in her 21 years in the working world. However, from this unexpected turn of events, Sweet Friends Bakery was born. Nicole’s husband, recognizing her talent and passion for baking, supported her in finding the perfect location for her own business. “This bakery definitely wasn’t in our five-year plan a year ago,” Nicole says. “But because of the community I have chosen to surround myself with, who provide encouragement and sweat equity in the bakery, my dreams have come true.”

What followed was a remarkable journey of determination and community support that brought her dream bakery to life in Edmond. Located at 309 S. Bryant Ave., Suite 120, Sweet Friends Bakery is more than just a bakery; it’s a haven for those seeking a sense of belonging. With a mission centered on community and people, Nicole emphasizes the importance of “community over competition” and “people over profit.” Sweet Friends Bakery specializes in custom cakes, each one a masterpiece crafted with love and precision. But that’s not all; their daily offerings are equally enticing. The bakery case brims daily with an array of cupcakes as well as chocolate chip, peanut butter, oatmeal and sugar cookies. In addition to these staple treats, you’ll find scones, donuts, lemon bars, breakfast sandwiches and toasts to satisfy every craving. And for coffee enthusiasts, Sweet Friends Bakery offers a full menu with seasonal specials, featuring house-made syrups crafted from organic ingredients. One of the pillars of Sweet Friends Bakery’s philosophy is to support local businesses. Nicole is a firm believer in the power of community and collaboration and. That’s why her bakery proudly features baked goods from several local artisans, including: • Twisted Tree Bakery in Edmond • Stefanie from the Golden Spoon • More than a Mom Sourdough • Sincerely Coffee These partnerships aren’t just about business; they’re about building a stronger local economy, creating more jobs for the community and supporting families in their dreams. Nicole shares, “I know it means so much to me when someone walks through my doors, and I want to support these other businesses in their dreams!” To place holiday orders or learn more about Sweet Friends Bakery’s offerings, call 405.216.3648 or email orders@ sweetfriendsbakery.com. Follow them on Instagram (@Sweetfriendsbakery_ edmond) and Facebook (Sweet Friends Bakery) to stay updated on their delicious creations and community initiatives.

“I know it means so much to me when someone walks through my doors, and I want to support these other businesses in their dreams!” Opposite Page, Top: Nicole Hanson, owner, heart and soul behind Sweet Friends Bakery, and her husband, Kevin (Photo by Kaylin Hill/Kollab Creative Co.) | Bottom Left: Friends of the bakery owners celebrate at the store recently. The Hansons consider their bakery a haven for those seeking a sense of belonging. | Bottom Right: In addition to cakes, cupcakes and cookies, the bakery features scones, donuts, lemon bars, breakfast sandwiches and toasts to satisfy every craving. (Photo by Dennise Toews @studiodokc) | This Page, Top Left: One of Sweet Friends Bakery’s luscious cupcakes (Photo by Dennise Toews @studiodokc) | Top Right: For coffee enthusiasts, SFB offers a full menu with seasonal specials, featuring house-made syrups crafted from organic ingredients. (Photo by Dennise Toews @studiodokc) | Bottom: Sweet Friends Bakery’s offerings are diverse - and delicious! (Photo by Dennise Toews @studiodokc) NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / O KC

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. N OV E M BE R 2ND - 4TH

PhotoCon OKC

N OV E M BE R 4 T H - 5T H

Oklahoma City Train Show

N OV E M BE R 9TH - 19TH

Oklahoma Shakespeare presents: Born With Teeth

E MBAS SY S UITES BY HILTON , O KC This three-day photography conference will feature everything from hands-on workshops and formal classes to photo critiques, contests and much more. Attendees will also have a chance to see an inspiring array of industry products and services, including cutting-edge innovations and new techniques. PhotoConOkc.com

O K LAHOMA STATE FAIR PAR K, O KC This two-day event will feature operating model train displays, workshops and clinics, vendors, exhibitors and manufacturers from more than a dozen states. Bring the entire family to see railroad memorabilia, toy trails, scale model trains and an assortment of railroad items this November. OkcTrainShow.com

O K LAHOMA S HAKES PEARE ON T H E PAS E O, O KC Performed inside the Indoor Theatre, this quick-witted tragic comedy explores the relationship between two great English literature writers; William Shakespeare and Kit Marlowe. Will the two figure out how to successfully create art under the restrictions proposed by their period's totalitarian regime? OkShakes.org/Indoor-Theatre

N OV E M BE R 10 T H & 1 1 T H

St. Elijah Mediterranean Food Festival

ST. ELIJAH AN TIOCHIAN ORTH O DOX C H R I ST I A N C H UR C H , O KC Curb your appetite on Mediterranean cuisine, then stop by the Culinary Cupboard where you can purchase all your favorites from the hot menu, refrigerated or frozen, allowing you to bring the festival home. Guided tours, offered throughout the day, showcase the church’s ancient history, beliefs, architecture and beautiful icons. StElijahOkc.com

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N OV E MB E R 10TH - 30TH

Devon Ice Rink

M YRIAD BOTAN ICAL GARDEN S , OKC This Downtown in December premier attraction returns for another festive season from November 2023 through January 2024. Skate across 5,500 square feet of real ice and indulge in seasonal food and beverage offerings, while losing yourself in a magical, park-like atmosphere surrounded by glittering lights. MyriadGardens.org/Visit-Us/ Seasonal/DevonIceRink

N OV E MB E R 11TH

OKC Zoo Safari Lights

O KLAHOMA CITY ZOO & BOTANICAL GAR DEN , OKC Go wild and fill your holiday season with the magic of light. OKC Zoo's Safari Lights features a largerthan-life light display showcasing over 59 wildlife-themed light sculptures viewable on a driving tour through the zoo. In addition, Safari Lights includes a separate walking experience with interactive light exhibits, musical light performances and lots of other winter magic. OkcZoo.org/Our-Events

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NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / O KC

N OVE MBE R 2 0 2 3

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in OKC. N E I GH BO RH O O D

OR IGIN AL PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

Nichols Hills

$5,950,000

$5,750,000

97%

7.2

UNPLTD PT

$2,350,000

100%

4.2

Nichols Hills

$2,250,000

100%

5.2

Unpltd Pt

$2,350,000

$2,150,000

91%

5.1

2400 Grand Blvd

$2,299,000

$2,125,000

92%

5.2

Black Oak/Iron Horse Ranch

$2,149,000

$1,970,000

92%

5.2

Edgewater To Edmond

$2,000,000

$1,900,000

95%

163

5.2

Lakeside Of Oakdale

$1,950,000

$1,899,000

97%

5.1

Highland Terrace Winans

$1,405,000

100%

4.2

Classens Highland Park Add

$1,490,000

$1,380,000

93%

4.2

Black Oak at Iron Horse Ranch

$1,295,000

$1,250,000

97%

4.1

Pravada

$1,239,000

$1,210,000

98%

3.2

Cobblestone Park III Sec 2

$1,285,000

$1,150,000

89%

4.2

Summit Lake Estates Sec 2

$1,125,000

$1,105,000

98%

4.1

Quail Creek 10th

$1,100,000

100%

3.1

Douglas Place Add

$1,090,000

100%

3.2

Rose Creek Blk 30

$1,062,880

$1,050,000

99%

3.1

Nichols Hills Add

$1,100,000

$1,025,000

93%

152

2.1

Unpltd Pt

$1,500,000

$1,000,000

67%

Nichols Hills

$5,950,000

$5,750,000

97%

7.2

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LevinsonRE.com Tara Levinson 405.414.8750 Hello@levinsonteam.com Call us today for your Home Value!

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Daily Gratitude Journal Prompts ARTICLE BY DELIA JO RAMSEY The art of gratitude can be healing well beyond the month of November, but this is a great time of year to get in the true mindset of gratefulness. To aid in your endeavors, check out these 30 daily gratitude journal prompts and stick to them until it feels natural.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.

14. 15. 16. 17.

18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25.

26. 27. 28. 29. 30.

Five things that make you happy instantly: Did you get any pleasant surprises today? Did you do any acts of kindness today? What's something big or small you can do for those less fortunate than yourself? Five personality traits you're grateful for: Favorite song and how does it make you feel? One small step you can take toward overcoming a challenge you currently face: List something good that caught your attention today. What nice thing did another person do for you this week? What's something you did for another person this week? Three things you own that make your life easier: How can you turn something that makes you angry into something more pleasant? Think of five people who irritate you or you have trouble getting along with. Name three positive qualities about them. What are you most thankful for in your life? Name three of your significant accomplishments. Most stunning place you’ve ever visited: Think about the personalities and unique qualities of someone you admire. Which qualities of them do you want to see in yourself, too? What's your favorite holiday and why? What friends are you most grateful for having in your life? What basic daily necessities are you thankful for today? What are you grateful for in your career? Focus on your five senses and write down how you can make them more active. Three elements of nature you're most grateful for: Three things you love about your town: List three struggles you experienced and overcame in your life. What did you do to overcome them, and who helped you through them? What meals do you enjoy most? Something you saw this week that melted your heart: A time when someone went out of their way to support you: A happy memory from childhood: Make a list of five places you'd like to visit and consider visiting at least one very soon.

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A FRESH PERSPECTIVE WITH AN OLD SOUL

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with Downtown Views

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Tara Levinson 405.414.8750

LevinsonRE.com Levinson Real Estate Brokered by eXp 9300 N Bryant Avenue, Oklahoma City

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