Tulsa, OK December 2018

DECEMBER 2018

TulsaLifestylePubs.com

bixby , broken arrow & jenks

MEET THE REAL SANTA

TULSA TOY DEPOT

LUXURY GIFT GUIDE

HOLIDAY TIPS FOR SENIORS

Think inside the box this holiday season.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2018 PUBLISHER

Kathy Slemp | kslemp@lifestylepubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

C.L. Harmon, Debra Laizure, CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Amber Gregg Photography

For Auld Lang Syne AS THE SAYING GOES, TIME FLIES WHEN YOU’RE HAVING FUN. And time sure has flown by this year as we can’t believe we’ve put together the final issue of Tulsa Lifestyle in 2018! It seems like just yesterday we were sitting down to write our January letter to all of you—talking about resolutions and renewal—and yet, here we are, almost time to do it again. There’s a unique perspective that working in publishing brings. While we certainly don’t want to wish our lives away, we’re always looking toward the future. Whether it’s planning our next issue or developing story ideas for the next year, we’re often already fast forwarded to future months before the current month has even begun. The fast-paced lifestyle this industry calls for can often make it difficult to really settle down and absorb what’s going on around us and, before we know it, the year is over and it’s time to move forward again. So this December, we hope you take the time to slow down a little bit. With the holiday season upon us, we hope you make the time to take it all in. Enjoy your time with family and friends, bask in the magic of the winter season, reflect on past memories you hold closely in your hearts and keep the new ones you create in the present for as long as you can. We’ll take your lead, and we can’t wait to see you next year!

Photo: Great memory in 2013. It was the last time all 3 kids were home at the same time for Christmas. Michael lives in Japan, Laura lives in CO and Tara (with Marlee) live in NJ.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin EDITORIAL Kate Baxendale AD MANAGER Chad Jensen AD COORDINATORS Cyndi Harrington | Alicia Huff | Jessica Soetaert LAYOUT DESIGNERS Cyndi King | Dana Rudolph | Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek | Adella Wrisinger FIELD SUPPORT Carli DiMarco | Victoria Perry PUBLISHER SUPPORT Melanie Carlisle ACCOUNTANT Austin Park APPLICATION ARCHITECT Michael O’Connell WEB DEVELOPERS Tejaswini Jagarlamudi | Harshith Potu

Kathy Slemp , Publisher KSlemp@LifestylePubs.com

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA

ON THE COVER Brooklyn Gregg

IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA

is in awe of Santa aka Richard Baxter

TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON

Jr. and how he snapped his fingers to

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

produce a shining sparkler.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMBER GREGG PHOTOGRAPHY

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Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

TulsaLifestylePubs.com

Proverbs 3:5-6 Tulsa Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Tulsa areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Tulsa Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Wishing Everyone a Christmas Season!

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INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2018

FEATURES 14 Put a Toy of Innovation Under the Tree This Year Don’t Get Lost in the Land of Misfit Toy Stores

18 Santa is Real! You Just Haven’t Met Him Yet The True Spirit of Christmas Is Closer Than You Might Think

24 Gift Guide Gifts For The Person Who Has Everything

18 24

28 Helpful Tips for Celebrating the Holidays with Seniors Sponsored by First Call Medical Staffing and Home Care Specialists

14

28 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

12

Around Town

14

Locally Owned

28 Healthy Lifestyle 30 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Parting Thoughts

GOOD TIMES

Ladies Night Out at Tulsa Stained Glass We’ve been having a good time at Tulsa Stained Glass. Ladies Night Out is sponsored by Tulsa Lifestyle and the events have been sold out. Tulsa Stained Glass is adding a ‘Ladies Only’ Afternoon Escape and ‘Sunday Surprise’ holiday classes for December. Events are listed on TulsaStainedGlass.com.

& Thousands of Lighted Displays Two Free Drive-through Family Events!

The Castleton Village, filled with thousands of colorful lights to create an unforgettable experience.

Guests may choose to ride under the stars on the Hayride, hop aboard the Castle Train or enjoy the comfort of their own vehicle.

The Garden of Lights, a display of over 1 million lights decorating the trees, bushes & walkways throughout Honor Heights Park.

Honor Heights Park & The Castle of Muskogee Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve 6 pm-10 pm

okcastle.com 8

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

800 - 439 - 0658

What makes Holland Hall unique?

Learn more at hollandhall.org.

We start with the exciting possibilities of AND — our many exceptional electives, athletic teams, arts programs, instructional approaches, and active learning opportunities on campus and across Tulsa — and connect them to the solid assurance of ALL — the complete educational experience that prepares students exceptionally well for college, work, and the world beyond.

AND/ALL highlights our inscribed values. As an Episcopal school, we honor the individual integrity of each child, and we provide the bedrock education every student needs.

It’s a commitment so strong, it’s quite literally who we are.

HollAND HALL. The possibilities of AND. The assurance of ALL.

Tulsa’s PreK through Grade 12 Independent Episcopal School

GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

HOLLAND HALL ARTWORKS GALLERY OPENING ON OCT. 23 Holland Hall featured local photographer Bob Sober in a unique residency/workshop program at its ARTworks Holliman Gallery Exhibit Oct.22-Nov. 20. Sober specializes in macro photography of insects.Â

1. Gary Bartlett, Andrea Nelson Bartlett, Bob Sober | 2. Kelly Wilkerson and Erin Yancy | 3. Bill Lawson

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Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

3.

LIQUOR LIQUOR LIQUOR

51st & Lewis

WINE & BEER TOO.

Start Your Holiday List at Parkhills South

10018 S. MEMORIAL 918.528.6700

www.parkhillssouth.com December 2018 | Tulsa Lifestyle

11

AROUND TOWN and visit with Father Christmas and the elves. Enjoy food and hot chocolate while holiday movies play.

Make ornaments in Santa’s workshop and warm up by the fireplace. Holiday lights are open every night, Thanksgiving through New Year’s, 5:30-10 p.m. Admission is free. Times vary on events, store openings and Father Christmas visits so check the calendar at OKCastle.com Be sure to visit The Castle’s neighbors in Honor Heights Park. Over 1 million lights decorating the trees, bushes, and walkways make for a beautiful, glittering display that is timed to holiday music as you drive through the park. Open every night from 6-10 p.m. The Castle is located at 3400 West Fern

LAFORTUNE PARK PAR 3 GOLF COURSE HAS A NEW LOOK LaFortune Park Par 3 Golf Course is now open

Road in Muskogee.

DELICIOUS SANDWICHES AT UPPER CRUST

after a six-month, $3 million renovation including

If you get tired of all the festive food at home, be

new tee boxes, fairways, sand bunkers, putting

sure to visit Upper Crust for something a bit different.

green and new, brighter lights for the course and

We love their pizza but sometimes their delicious

driving range. Pictured: Acting District 1 Tulsa County

sandwiches just speak to our soul. Try the Smoked

Commissioner, Michael Craddock; District 2 Tulsa

Pastrami Sandwich with pickled red onion, coleslaw,

County Commissioner Karen Keith; District 3 Tulsa

pepper jack cheese and spicy mustard on marble

County Commissioner Ron Peters; Tulsa County

rye, or for something especially decadent, go for their

Parks Director Richard Bales; former Tulsa Mayor

Parmesan Chicken Sandwich with fried eggplant,

Bob LaFortune; Tulsa Mayor GT Bynum; Golf Course

cheese blend, pie sauce and basil on sourdough. They

Architect Randy Heckenkemper.

even offer Grilled Cheese with House-Made Tomato

Soup! Follow @uppercrust_pizza on Instagram.

Ladies only afternoon and evening classes hosted

MAHOGANY PRIME STEAKHOUSE NOW OPEN IN NEW LOCATION

LEARN THE ART OF STAINED GLASS MAKING

Mahogany Prime Steakhouse relocated to 4840 E

by Tulsa Lifestyle and Tulsa Stained Glass (TSG).

Bring a friend or meet new friends. Cost of $35

61st Street in November 2018.

includes all project materials and a light meal. Use

The new space showcases a casual and modern

the same materials and tools in class that are used

energetic ambiance with an all new expansive bar

for making authentic leaded stained glass windows.

area that is perfect for gathering with friends and

Tuesday December 11th. Theme: Holiday Pointsetta

co-workers. An updated interior space with fash-

Ladies Afternoon Escape: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

ionable decor and seating provides an impressively

Ladies Night Out: 6-9:30 p.m.

welcoming cosmopolitan vibe for fine dining. The

During

December,

TSG

is

adding

Sunday

Surprise, festive holiday classes making projects to

redesign also includes more private dining rooms for group dining, private parties or company events.

To learn more, visit MahoganyPrimeSteakhouse.com

decorate or give as gifts. Reservations & details at TulsaStainedGlass.com.

CASTLE CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE OF MUSKOGEE Drive through Castleton Village, with over 2,000

12

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always

announcements

you’d

holiday displays and thousands of colorful lights,

in

and weather permitting take a train ride through

are

the Village or ride the ponies. Shop for unique gifts,

TulsaLifestylePubs.com.

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

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OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Sunday - ThurSday 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm Friday - SaTurday 3:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Meet me at Bluestone “I may apologize for price, but never for quality” - Bill Takett, Owner

www.Bluestonesteakhouse.com 10032 S. Sheridan Rd. • 918-296-9889

LOCALLY OWNED

PUT A TOY OF INNOVATION UNDER THE TREE THIS YEAR

Tulsa Toy Depot owner Ryan McAdams brings in the most innovative and fun toys to his store.

ARTICLE C.L. HARMON PHOTOGRAPHY AMBER GREGG

DON’T GET LOST IN THE LAND OF MISFIT TOY STORES 14

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

“McAdams pointed out that many of the new and innovative toys coming out are not made by large developers, but by individuals who have created truly amazing concepts.”

MOST EVERYONE HAS PROBABLY HEARD

added that these are the types of toys that kids

OF ‘THE LAND OF MISFIT TOYS’ FROM THE

will want to play with for years to come while

CHILDREN’S CLASSIC RUDOLPH THE RED-

also helping them to grow and learn.

NOSED REINDEER, BUT WHAT ABOUT THE

McAdams pointed out that many of the new

LAND OF MISFIT TOY STORES? In this land,

and innovative toys coming out are not made

those toy stores are broken just like the toys in

by large developers, but by individuals who

Misfit Land. In recent years, many big-box retail

have created truly amazing concepts. One

toy stores have found themselves in financial

such item is Dr. Cowol Science kits created

trouble with a dwindling customer base and thus

by a husband-wife team who love science and

have become the new misfits. As such, Santa

the art of teaching about it. But, there are so

found some new workshops. Small independent

many more just like them who are creating new

local toy stores have become the new “In” thing

toys. McAdams belongs to ASTRA (American

in recent years, and they are reminiscent of days

Specialty Toy Retailing Associates), which is

gone by when toys and the stores that carry

a group of the 1,400 independent toy retailers

them were something of awe and ingenuity.

in the country. He said that this number has

“We see it every day with feedback from our

steadily increased over the past ten years.

customers more and more how they get down

“People appreciate what we are bringing

because of the lack of quality toys at the big retail

into the store. We are bringing in toys that they

places. They had given up on the idea of finding

can’t even find in the bigger cities. We have the

unique and different toys,” owner of Tulsa Toy

freedom to bring toys from any toy company in

Depot Ryan McAdams said. Unlike those giant

the world, and we utilize that option. We strive to

retailers, independent toy stores are not focused

bring the ones in that we feel have a lot of energy

on quantity, but quality and quality doesn’t just

and design and not the ones that people can get

mean the way it is made. McAdams is refer-

anywhere.” McAdams said. He added that stores

ring to the quality of the idea behind the toy. In

like his are service-based as well. They talk to

other words, besides being fun to play with, is

people, spend time with them and learn about

the toy challenging, thought-provoking? Does it

the children whom the toys are to be given. They

stimulate the mind and senses offering years of

guide their customers to the toys that will be per-

enjoyment as opposed to many trivial ones that

fect for that special child. He adds though that

children only play with for a week or two?

the best customers are the children themselves.

“The whole industry this year really believes

“The best retail customers are three and four-

there are going to be a lot of people who are

year-olds! They are so fun and the most enjoy-

going to take a second look at other options and

able to help find toys. They are always happy

discover that there really are still great toys. And

with that sense of creativity that we as adults

it’s going to reinvigorate and re-inspire them to

tend to lose over time,” McAdams said.

believe that they can find great gifts for their children and grandchildren,” he said. McAdams

The Tulsa Toy Depot is located at 10114 S Sheridan Road.

December 2018 | Tulsa Lifestyle

15

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Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

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ARTICLE C.L. HARMON | PHOTOGRAPHY AMBER GREGG

SA NTA

IS

R E A L!

Santa shows off one his reindeer to Phoenix, Brooklyn and Nate Gregg who are on his nice list.

You Jus t Haven’t Met Him Yet THE TRUE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS IS CLOSER THAN YOU MIGHT THINK 18

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

YOU BETTER WATCH OUT, YOU BETTER NOT CRY, BETTER NOT POUT, I'M TELLING YOU WHY, SANTA CLAUS’ ALTER EGO MAY JUST WHACK YOU WITH A STAINLESS STEEL CANDY CANE! Okay... that’s not true, but he will find the exaggeration funny as he does so many things. What is true though, is that he is the real Santa.

I know that some may scoff and proclaim there is no Santa, but those people have never met Richard Baxter Jr. Most people though just call him Santa. He even has a belt buckle he wears year-round that reads Santa and is a card-carrying Santa which he takes with him so he can prove he’s the sleigh riding jolly man when children ask.

Every day 365 days a year, he looks like, acts like and even laughs like Santa. But more than that, he believes in the spirit of Christmas and the true meaning of the season every one of those days. He is a reminder to each of us why we should truly celebrate and to also never forget that the innocence of a child can teach us all that magic does exist if we just believe it does.

“If it weren’t for the birth of Jesus, we would be out of a gig,” he quipped. He shares that meaning in all other areas of his life by being an example of a giving person throughout the year. It’s almost as though he was born with the spirit of Christmas; he was even born on December 25 and has been fascinated with the holiday since he was a child.

CONTINUED >

December 2018 | Tulsa Lifestyle

19

SANTA IS REAL!

(CON TI N U ED)

YOU ARE WHO AGAIN?

The fact that he naturally looks and laughs like the Santa most of us envision just reinforces the belief that he is Mr. Claus. The first time I saw Baxter, I told the person I was with that he looked like Santa. Unbeknownst to me, he was behind me. Then a voice from behind me bellowed out, ‘well that’s because I am Santa,’ followed by a ho-ho. Of course he was referring to what people call him, but still, the image of Santa I have always had was very close to Baxter’s normal appearance. He even rolls his mustache and has “Santa street clothes” which he wears for any season. Whenever he happens upon a child and is out of his Santa suit and the child remarks he looks like Santa but is not dressed like him, he always has a story about how he is Santa. He is just out checking on the naughty and nice list or that he had to meet with toy makers. One might say he never misses an opportunity to be himself.

Baxter is also a member of the Amalgamated Order of Real Bearded Santas and takes the role of the holiday character very seriously. Although he portrays the actual character in costume only part-time, he is the spirit of Christmas fulltime. It’s difficult to imagine for most how someone could play a character year round, and so it makes sense that they wouldn’t believe. But that’s just it, it’s no act. That spirit of giving and laughter is with him wherever he might be at the moment. I had the privilege of working with him for two years at Webco Industries’ Stainless Division, and during that time, I never called him by his legal name or heard anyone else do it either. He was always Santa. He treated every single person with kindness and respect. He always conducted himself with humility and had a bellow of laughter that was unending.

Santa discusses the Christmas night route with one of his reindeer.

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Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

HIS HIGHNESS KING JOLLY He moved here from Washington, where he participated in many holiday activities including mall Santa. This is where he got his start 35 years ago as a professional Santa. This was back in the days of Polaroid's, and the “gig” lasted three years. In addition, it allowed him to become the photo location manager where he had seen as many as 9,000 children in just over a fiveweek period. He eventually tired of the mall scene and started his own business doing home visits, which included nursing homes, parties and holiday gatherings. He has continued that business here, and it has grown to include parades, organizations, and retail gigs.

“It took off like wildfire,” he said. Even his wife Rebecca got in on the act as Mrs. Claus during a cruise gig where he performed as the jolly gift giver. It is during this cruise that he knighted a young boy as the elf Sonic using a candy cane. This, he said, is one of his favorite memories as Santa, because the child had suffered tragedy in his life involving his parents and this small act of kindness was a gift to that child that made Christmas be the way it should for all children, Baxter expressed. He added that being Santa is his legacy, a way to live on after he has passed. Every person in which he interacts takes a photo with or who watches him with children keeps a little piece of him with them. It truly is an amazing experience that one keeps with them always.

CONTINUED >

December 2018 | Tulsa Lifestyle

21

SANTA IS REAL!

(CON TI N U ED)

AN AMBASSADOR OF GOODWILL

Santa and London Rayne Gregg

It should be noted that a professional Santa can work year round and make good money if he is willing to travel. But Baxter would rather make sacrifices so that he can be close to home and care for Rebecca who has health issues.

Just another example of how he puts others before himself. Of course, what else would one expect from the real Santa? He is a true believer in “the magic” of Christmas and that keeping Christ in Christmas is Santa’s job; an ambassador of sorts for its true meaning.

He has a long list of activities this holiday season, and so he will be around the area spreading cheer and making children smile. And though I can’t promise you will meet him while he is out and about, I can promise that you will realize he is the true Santa if you do meet him. He won’t be the one with a fake beard asking for a donation in front of the mall, but the one offering to share the true spirit of Christmas with you between bellows of ho-ho-ho and granting wishes with his stainless steel candy cane. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

22

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

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December 2018 | Tulsa Lifestyle

23

GIFT GUIDE

1.

GIFTS FOR THE PERSON WHO HAS EVERYTHING ARTICLE C.L. HARMON 2.

ONE THING IS UNDENIABLE, PEOPLE LOVE PRESENTS! The excitement and expression of a loved one as the gift is unwrapped and awe and amazement take over the moment is the gift for both the giver and receiver. The effort and thought put into a gift idea can enhance the holiday spirit like nothing else.

As the holidays fast approach, Santa’s helpers are out and about helping him fill those empty spots under the tree. But with so many stores and options, it can be difficult to choose just the right gift for that special someone for whom buying might be challenging.

Sometimes we have to go a bit unique, outside the box if you will.

Tulsa has much to offer when it comes to finding the perfect gift to delight on Christmas morning. The following pages are filled with just such gift ideas that can bring about the laughter and delight that accompanies the perfect present. So wrap a little outside the box this year and see what local stores and businesses have to offer for that special someone…except for the perfect gift from you.

Boardwalk Distribution 1. The perfect gift for the men in your life. Peg Leg Porker Straight

2. The perfect gift for the ladies. Hoopes Oakville Cabernet

Tennessee Bourbon is the signature bourbon from Award Winning

Sauvignon is a highly rated, highly allocated cab that captures

Pitmaster, Carey Bringle. Having a deep love for bourbon and appre-

the pure relationship between grape-grower and winemaker

ciation for the fact that bourbon and BBQ pair together so well, Carey

with an old-world-meets-new-world style profile. The philoso-

Bringle is the first Pitmaster in the US to start his own bourbon brand.

phy is simple: minimize after-harvest manipulation of the grape

Peg Leg Porker 8 year old was first released in 2015 and quickly

so that you can enjoy the most important ingredient in its true

gained popularity across the state of Tennessee. It was awarded the

form. This is true grower-made wine.

prestigious Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits competition the first year of its release.

24

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

You can find these items at your local retail store.

ALL I WANT FOR

CHRISTMAS IS...

Eye Candy Looking for a great stocking stuffer for the woman or man in your life? Eye Candy Eyewear carries Shwood eyewear (the Aurora pictured here at $200). Find it at 7891 E 108th St., at the Vineyard on Memorial. EyeCandyTulsa.com

Bubba-Q-Boys BBQ Bubba-Q-Boys BBQ Rub is ‘Salty Sweet with Just a Little Heat’.

Available online at Bubba-Q-Boys.com or in the following retailers: Akin’s in Bixby, Candy Castle, Carmichael’s Produce, Doc’s Country Mart, Harvard Meats, Ida Red, Lokal & Main, Midtown Hardware, OK Local Farms, Perry’s Deli & Meat, Jack Wills Outdoor Living and The Cook’s Nook. Made in Oklahoma.

Orangetheory® Give the gift of fitness this holiday season by signing up your friend or family member for classes at Orangetheory Fitness. Orangetheory® has many gift options including a 10-pack of classes, gift cards, or monthly memberships to one of our 2 convenient locations in Tulsa – Midtown on Cherry Street (918-900-2727) and South Tulsa at 91st & Sheridan (918-612-4364). Orangetheory® is the world leader in science-based workouts that use heart-rate-monitored technology to measure performance. The highly trained and certified coaches lead one-hour heart-rate based interval training in a group setting with options for every fitness level.

CONTINUED >

December 2018 | Tulsa Lifestyle

25

GIFT GUIDE

(CON TI N U ED)

THE MARKET AT WALNUT CREEK Located at 8281 S Harvard Ave has 100+ local businesses specializing in home decor, interior design, furniture, art, accessories, clothing and more. Saxons, Sparkles, Boggy Creek Terrariums and 57 Blue Collections are some of the businesses located inside The Market.

Boggy Creek Terrariums Looking for something unique or handmade for a gift?

This gorgeous castle themed terrarium running at a reasonable $69.00 is perfect for a girl that loves fairy tales or a boy that loves knights and kings! Or it could be a very special housewarming gift!

Saxons These soaps have unique scents and hilarious names that are perfect for that special guy in your life. Ranging from $8.99 to $10 they’re an affordable and fun gift that is sure to bring a smile to anyone you gift it to! Or you can keep it for yourself!

57 Blue Collections This retail space has beautiful giftable items, and the products pictured here range between $3.00 to $20.00! With crystal hummingbirds, bar shampoo, water paint themed mugs, delicious coffee, and hilarious coasters, you will find that special gift!”

Sparkles These gorgeous Swarovski crystal wine glasses are a very reasonable $59.99! These glasses would make a fantastic gift that could be used on New Years!

26

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

Parkhill’s

PARKHILL’S SOUTH LIQUORS & WINE AND PARKHILL’S WAREHOUSE LIQUORS & WINE

Need a gift for a party? Stop by Parkhill’s Liquors & Wine and pick up an already prepared gift basket, or design one of your own! Shop at one of our two stores. South Tulsa, located at 10018 S Memorial Dr. and Midtown at 2432 E. 51st St.

Upper Crust Pizza Don’t leave your holiday shopping until the last minute! Gift cards from favorite local restaurants like Upper Crust Wood Fired Pizza are always popular stocking stuffers. Stop by the restaurant at the southwest corner of E 91st St. and S. Yale Ave. to buy one in person, or send an e-gift card on their website at UCPizza.com.

If you love Bloody Mary’s pair The Real Deal Bloody Mary Mix with gluten free, Prairie Organic Vodka.

For the Collector! The MACALLAN Rare Cask

Trial & Error by Chef Justin Thompson

Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky is handcrafted

Chef Justin Thompson shares his experiences and recipes from his twenty-year

using an exceptionally high proportion of First Fill

career in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Trial & Error is a collection of Justin’s favorite dishes,

Sherry Oak Casks. Pair with a Crystal Vintage

beautifully presented with step-by-step instructions for easy replication in your

Decanter with hundreds of facets intricately cut from

own home. Available online at JTRGroup.com/store or available in any Justin

lead-free crystal.

Thompson Restaurant. Cost is $39.00 (tax included).

December 2018 | Tulsa Lifestyle

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

HELPFUL TIPS

SPONSORED BY FIRST CALL MEDICAL STAFFING AND HOME CARE SPECIALISTS ARTICLE DEBRA LAIZURE

FOR CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAYS WITH SENIORS

IT’S EASY TO FORGET THE NEEDS OF OUR ELDERS DURING THE HOLIDAYS. They may feel burdensome and not able to contribute to the festivities. Remind them of how important they are in your life with these easy tips.

DECK THE HALLS Take an afternoon and decorate your loved one’s home. Whether it’s trimming the tree, hanging outside lights, or decorating the fireplace mantle, the time spent with your senior will be much appreciated and will create a warm, festive atmosphere they can enjoy all season long.

MUSICAL MEMORIES If your senior has a Smartphone or computer, apps like Pandora and Spotify offer excellent choices for traditional holiday music. They will love singing along with artists like Bing Crosby and Andy Williams.

Involve the Grandchildren in setting up the app and showing Grandma or Grandpa how to use it.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS If they can travel in a car, grab some cocoa and enjoy Tulsa’s wonderful light displays, such as Utica Square, Philbrook Festival, and Rhema Bible Church.

TASTY TRADITIONS Food traditions are at the heart of the holidays. Gather favorite recipes and ask your elders to help plan the holiday meal. Cook traditional foods together or bring some goodies to the assisted living facility.

PRACTICE COMPASSION If your loved one has a memory problem or tends to repeat themselves, avoid correcting them or saying, “We’ve heard that story before.” Instead, ask family members to start a conversation about childhood memories, secrets to a happy marriage, or advice on living a happy, successful life.

KEEP IT SIMPLE As a caregiver, it’s easy to become overwhelmed making sure everyone has a “perfect” holiday. Be especially careful not to imply what you are doing for your elder is a duty. Remember to take time for yourself by hiring or asking for help from others.

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Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

NEED HELP THIS HOLIDAY SEASON? First Call Medical Staffing and Home Care Specialists provide private duty homecare, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Services include professional nurses and therapists providing skilled treatments and Home Health Aides assisting in daily living activities. Call toll-free at 877-665-1011 or visit My-FirstCall.com.

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DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR Jo Rowan, this new show will warm

ALL MONTH

1

ARVEST WINTERFEST

29TH ANNUAL CAROLS & CRUMPETS IS DECEMBER 1ST

200 South Denver Ave.

Winterfest is a seasonal celebration

your heart as 150 dancers create the spirit of the season with their love

Tulsa Garden Center

that is open to the public giving

Carols and Crumpets, hosted by the

everyone a chance to enjoy skat-

Tulsa Herb Society, is known for its

ing beneath Tulsa’s skyline. Come

unique handcrafted gifts for every-

lace up your skates and take in

one on your holiday list and beautiful

what has become one of Tulsa’s

decorations. There are over twen-

favorite holiday traditions! Check

ty-five vendors in this juried craft

the calendar for special events and

show. A delicious lunch is served

dates! TulsaWinterfest.com

from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Linnaeus Garden and the Tulsa

ALL MONTH

Garden Center. Admission is free.

TulsaGardenCenter.org

The Saturn Room

holiday-themed

tiki

cocktail

extension from Miracle - the beloved Christmas-themed pop-up bar – is coming to Tulsa’s very own The Saturn Room. Sales of Holiday mugs featuring

the

signature

cocktail

4 SALVATION ARMY AUXILUARY CELEBRATES I’LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS Renaissance Tulsa Hotel,

list of holiday themed drinks visit

HOME FOR CHRISTMAS will have

SaturnRoom.com

great prizes and a silent auction

66th

annual

Philbrook, 2727 S Rockford Rd

the

1

shopping. Clothing for the fashion show provided by Donna’s Fashions

EYE CANDY EYEWEAR’S TWO YEAR ANNIVERSARY PARTY!

season

& Memorial)

Eye Candy Eyewear will be celanniver-

sary at the store on December 1st from 1-4 pm. Champagne, wine, beer, food, football, and live music.

See the new eyewear lines! They

events, Santa, train rides, lego village, garden games, live music, shopping, décor, and thousands of

lights

reflecting

the

spirit

of the season. For details visit

7-16 LES MISÉRABLES (SCHOOL EDITION) PRESENTED BY THEATRE TULSA Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa PAC, 110

at 101st and Yale. Proceeds benefit

East 2nd Street

services provided by The Salvation

Tulsa’s most talented teens take on

Army. SalArmyTulsa.org/events

the masterpiece! Theatre Tulsa's Broadway Academy teenage stu-

7891 E 108th Street, X3 (108th

6 THE AMERICAN SPIRIT DANCE COMPANY PRESENTS HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

dents perform the inspiring saga of love, hope and redemption!

These incredible young performers won’t just dream a dream – they’ll achieve it! Music by Claude-Michel Schönberg / Lyrics by Herbert

Oklahoma city University, 2501 N.

Kretzmer

will be giving away free glasses and

Blackwelder, Oklahoma City

TulsaPAC.com

sunglasses during the day. “Come

The 2018 production of Home for

celebrate 2 great years with us!”

the Holidays will be ENTIRELY

EyeCandyTulsa.com

NEW PRODUCTION! Directed by

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

holiday

Christmas

where you can begin your holiday

30

PHILLBROOK FESTIVAL

Philbrook.org

6808 S 107th E Ave

Luncheon and Fashion Show, I’ll BE

year

FRIDAY NIGHTS AND CHRISTMAS EVE

comes alive with festive holiday

to Action Against Hunger. For a

2

renowned company! OKCU.edu

and Christmas Eve. The Museum

The

their

costumes from the internationally

Celebrate

menu gives 10% of all sales donated

ebrating

and the beauty of over 500 dazzling

with Philbrook on Friday nights

SIPPIN’ SANTA The

of dance choreographic surprises

and

James

Fenton.

CONTINUED >

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31

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

7-8

8-23

WILD AT ART

THE NUTCRACKER PRESENTED BY TULSA BALLET

Tulsa Garden Center

Wild at Art is the fundraising event for

secular compositions of Chesnokov, Grechaninov,

Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa PAC, 110

Rachmaninov

and

more. TulsaChorus.com

14-15

the Tulsa Audubon Society and their

East 2nd Street

wildlife rehabilitation group WING

The Nutcracker has been a Tulsa

IT. Shop local, support local art, and

favorite

help wildlife all in one! Proceeds

you've seen it once or one hundred

care for injured and orphaned wild-

times, this magical holiday spec-

life. Great holiday gift shopping with

tacular is guaranteed to capture

Performing Arts Center for Education

one of a kind gifts. December 7, 12-7

your imagination. TulsaPAC.com

Cherish the Ladies, the beloved Irish-

since

2003.

Whether

p.m. and December 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. TulsaGardenCenter.org

8-23

SIGNATURE SYMPHONY PRESENTS CHRISTMAS IN TULSA WITH CHERISH THE LADIES TCC Southeast Campus; VanTrease

American music group, celebrates

8

Celtic Christmas traditions with gorgeous harmonies, lovely instrumentation, and high-energy step-dancing

THE SEVILLE EXPRESS

with time-honored holiday songs and

Shops of Seville, 10051 S Yale Ave

popular carols. Signature Chorale joins

There is a new holiday tradition in south

the ladies on stage for favorite Signature

Tulsa! Bring the family and celebrate

Christmas

selections.

John H. Williams Theatre, Tulsa PAC,

the season at the Shops of Seville. Train

and

SignatureSymphony.org

110 East 2nd Street

rides, Santa Clause, hot chocolate,

or call 918-595-7777.

Robert Odle and Richard Averill's

cookies, prizes and much more.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL PRESENTED

BY AMERICAN THEATRE COMPANY

musical

adaptation

of

info,

For

tickets

Charles

Dickens' beloved novella about the joy of giving has been a Tulsa tradition for more than 40 years. It's a heartwarming story about Scrooge, a lonely humbug who is given the chance to change his life and find

14 TULSA ORATORIO CHORUS PRESENTS RUSSIAN CHORAL CLASSICS

We are always accepting submissions for events you'd like to

Holy Family Cathedral, 122 W 8th St, Tulsa

see included in our Calendar sec-

his heart. Revisit or start your own

Tulsa Oratorio Chorus presents a cap-

tion. Submissions are accepted

family tradition this holiday season.

pella choral classics from the Russian

via

TulsaPAC.com

repertoire including the sacred and

TulsaLifestylePubs.com.

the

Contact

Us

tab

Jules wishes you Happy Holidays and thanks you for your support!

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Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

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PARTING THOUGHTS

’Tis The Season to be You THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS

ARTICLE C.L. HARMON

I REMEMBER THE ANTICIPATION ON CHRISTMAS EVE

As I grew into adulthood though, I began to under-

FOR THE EXCITEMENT THAT WAS SURE TO COME THE

stand that it was not the toys or the stockings full of

FOLLOWING MORNING. There was an immeasurable

candy every Christmas morning which brought me such

amount of excitement with exclamations of joy and laughter

joy. It went deeper than the candy which had been eaten

as my siblings and I shredded wrapping paper tossing it

within hours of dumping the stocking out onto the floor

about the room without a care where it landed. My father

and the toys that were probably broken before the next

would then mill about the room shoving wrapping paper in

Christmas rolled around. It wasn’t even the family time or

the fire as though it were coal needed to keep a train moving.

the days away from school or work that brought me this

They were moments I have never forgotten and ones I would

sense of understanding. It was the sense in the air that is

eventually bring to my own children.

not there any other time of the year.

Christmas time brings with it a sense of sharing and forgiveness without any reason that can be put into words. The season transcends religion, race, viewpoints and other aspects of life which divide us the rest of the time. We are kind just to be kind. We share with others who have less than we do. We forgive because that time of year tells us it’s okay to let go of negativity. It even makes us sing in the streets. It is the one time of the year where we allow ourselves to be who we wish we were every other time of the year.

34

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2018

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Visit ‘Events’ on our facebook page for an up to date list of wine tastings, beauty demonstrations and much more!

Located at 81st & Harvard 8281 south harvard avenue

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tulsa, ok

|

918-492-3500