keep the change
CLEAR THE CLUTTER
t’s the time of year when we’re ready to clear our homes to make space for less clutter and more calm. Sometimes decluttering can look like an expensive project. Here’s how to take on the clutter without extending the budget.
Angela Rowland
Assess the space. For each room, take a look at what is out of place and make a list. Organize your list into categories of things out of place. Are there consistently the same types of things in this room that don’t “belong?” Is there a need to give these things a space to belong in this room? Or is there another room that makes more sense for this category? If so, what is keeping you from putting the clutter away?
Make a plan. How can you make space for the things that belong in this room? Don’t assume this means purchasing the latest in home organization. Maybe you have a side table or spare shelf in another room that isn’t being utilized well. Try moving that in here. If you think some storage boxes or bins are just the ticket, try subbing in shoe boxes or a cardboard box as a temporary fix. Does this seem to solve the clutter problem? If so, you can look for a more permanent solution later and maybe allow time to search thrift stores or garage sales for a more affordable option.
Re-assess. Set a reminder to check this space again in a month or two. Are the systems working? Are things staying in their new spaces? If not, what is preventing this system from working properly? Ask the same questions you did in the beginning and consider if a new solution might work better. If things are working, congratulations. Move on to the next space in need of help.
Angela Rowland is an OBU graduate and a stay-at-home mother of four. She enjoys finding new ways to stretch the paycheck and sharing her favorite tips and deals.
AVOCADO OIL A GREAT ALL-PURPOSE OIL
eed oils like soybean, canola, corn, sunflower and safflower are everywhere. You’ll find them in salad dressings, processed foods and your favorite takeout meal. But lately, they’ve come under fire.
Wellness influencers and some health voices claim they’re harmful and inflammatory. So, what’s the truth? Let’s dive into some facts.
First, what are seed oils anyway? Seed oils are vegetable oils extracted from seeds, often using industrial methods. They’re rich in polyunsaturated fats, especially omega-6 fatty acids. These fats are essential, but when consumed in excess, they may disrupt the body’s balance.
The main concerns for seed oils are that they:
• Are over-processed with heat and chemicals.
• Contain excess omega-6 fats which lead to inflammation.
• Can form oxidized byproducts that some research shows can be harmful when heated.
• Are found in ultra-processed foods which are often eaten in large amounts.
Recent research has linked them to conditions like heart disease, obesity and autoimmune issues. Avocado oil is often considered a better option than many traditional seed oils for several science-backed reasons, especially when it comes to cooking and overall nutrient quality.
Avocado oil has a smoke point around 480–520 degrees Fahrenheit, which is significantly higher than many seed oils. This means it stays stable at high heat, making it ideal for sautéing, roasting and frying without breaking down into harmful compounds like oxidized fats or free radicals. Avocado oil is primarily composed of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat also found in olive oil. Monounsaturated fats have been linked to reduced inflammation, improved cholesterol levels and better heart health. High-quality avocado oil is typically cold-pressed or expeller-pressed, meaning it’s made without harsh solvents or extreme heat. Avocado oil naturally contains vitamin E, lutein and phytosterols, which support eye health, immune function, and lower inflammation. These nutrients remain relatively stable due to avocado oil’s gentle processing and fat profile. Avocado oil has a mild, buttery flavor that doesn’t over
Teriyaki Broccoli
One of my favorite ways to prepare vegetables is with a teriyaki sauce and in the skillet. This way of preparing it seems to always be a crowd pleaser and doesn’t take much time at all. Add this side dish to any main meal any day of the week.
Ingredients:
1 head broccoli cut into florets
8- oz fresh mushrooms sliced
3 Tbsp avocado oil
1 tsp minced garlic
¼ cup teriyaki sauce ½ tsp sesame seeds
Directions: Add oil to skillet over medium-high heat and let the oil get hot. Add broccoli and mushrooms. Cook until they start to soften, about 4-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add teriyaki sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until broccoli has reached the desired tenderness. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve.
Nutritional Information per Serving | Makes: 4 servings
Calories: 174 Total Fat: 11g Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg Sodium: 314mg Carbohydrates: 15g Fiber: 4.5g Protein: 5g
Nutrition 101: Broccoli is a highly beneficial vegetable due to its rich nutrient profile, including vitamins, minerals and fiber. These nutrients contribute to various health benefits, including reducing cancer risk, improving bone health and boosting immunity. Broccoli is a great source of antioxidants and may help with digestion and heart health. Many studies suggest cruciferous vegetables like broccoli may help reduce the risk of certain cancers. Eat broccoli your favorite way – sautéed, grilled, roasted, air-fried, raw, steamed. You can’t go wrong. Just get it in.
S
Andrea Beck, a registered dietitian and personal trainer, received her master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. She offers personal training and nutrition education through an online platform, StrongHER along with functional nutrition and labs through Laser Focus. For inquiries, visit strongherwithandrea.com, or the Facebook page, Nutrition and Exercise 101 with Andrea.
art of the matter
M INNESS SENSE
MGMoA Marks
200th Birthday Of Renowned Painter, George Inness
SUBMITTED BY DELAYNNA TRIM, CURATOR OF COLLECTIONS AT MABEEGERRER MUSEUM OF ART
George Inness created more than 1,150 paintings during his lifetime as he learned from some of the most renowned artists and institutions of the 19th century.
ay 1 marked the 200th anniversary of artist George Inness’s birth. You might recognize “Evening on the Farm” from the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art’s gallery. This painting was conserved in the 1990s, which helped brighten it as well as fix water damage from a leaking roof. Like many of Inness’ works, it is in soft focus. We can still differentiate the woman carrying a bundle with a house and cows in the distance. “Evening on the Farm” was donated to the museum by W. B. and Grace Davis in 1987.
On May 1, 1825, George Inness was born in Newburgh, New York. He was the fifth of 13 children. In 1839, he started studying with a traveling painter, John Jesse Barker. Later, he worked as a map engraver for Sherwin and Smith and then N. Currier (later Currier & Ives). He apprenticed with French landscape painter Régis François Gignoux. George also studied at the National Academy of Design.
In 1860, George and his family moved to Medford, Massachusetts. By 1877, he had moved to Tarpon Springs, Florida, only to move to Montclair, New Jersey, in 1885. During his last decade, he visited the Adirondacks, Niagara Falls, Nantucket, Virginia, Georgia, Chicago, California, Montreal and England. Inness died in 1894 at Bridge of Allan in Scotland. According to his son, he was viewing the sunset when he threw up his hands into the air and exclaimed, “My God! Oh, how beautiful!” He fell to the ground and died minutes later.
The MGMoA has another Inness painting and even one of his palettes. The second painting, “Woodland Scene,” features trees surrounding a pond. You can see that the dark colors he used take up much of the palette.
He created over 1,150 paintings, watercolors and sketches. Most of his works are landscapes as he wanted to capture the beauty of nature. His works are included in the collections of the Art Institute of Chicago, the National Gallery in Washington, D.C., the Musée d'Orsay in Paris and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York among others.
He opened his first studio in New York in 1848. A year later, he married Delia Miller, who unfortunately died only a few months after their wedding. In 1850, he married Elizabeth Abigail Hart, and they had six children together. In 1851, he went to Rome and Florence to study art. This was his first international trip. In 1853, he was elected to the National Academy of Design as an associate member and became a full academician in 1868. During the 1850s, he traveled to Paris many times and was influenced by the Barbizon school, whose artists were known for their looser brushstrokes and darker palette.
Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art’s athome project page.
Silhouette Painting
For videos on silhouette painting and other similar projects, check out: www.mgmoa.org/art-projects
Supplies: paint or crayons, paper
Paint the background using multiple colors. For example, you can paint like a sunset, starting with red at the top and continuing with orange, then yellow as you come down the paper. You can also start with a blue sky and go from there.
Now start drawing the ground, trees and buildings using black or dark brown.
Be creative.
Home... but better!
For those who need assistance but still want the privacy of their own home, Primrose offers assisted living with 24-hour on-site nursing care, where we help with anything from housekeeping to medication management.
Primrose assisted living apartments are the perfect size for entertaining friends, family and neighbors. The floor plans have been designed with your convenience in mind, plus:
• Three home-cooked meals per day
• Weekly housekeeping and laundry service
• Scheduled transportation
• Daily activities, social events and exercise classes
• On-site physical therapy services
Call (405) 777-4844 today to schedule a personal tour.
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MON-WED 10 AM - 12 AM THUR-SAT 10 AM - 2 AM SUN 6PM - 10 PM
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SPRING TOGETHER
‘Citywide Block Party’ May 10 To Kick Off Outdoor Gathering Season
As the weather warms and the storms settle, it’s time for block party season.
That’s the idea behind Spring Together, a new event this year from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the recently renovated Woodland Veteran Memorial Park at the corner of Highland and Broadway in downtown Shawnee.
This family-picnic, citywideblock-party-style event hosted by Community Renewal invites everyone in the community to come have fun in the park, enjoy some music, play some games and maybe even a free hot dog (for early arrivals). There will be raffle prizes and demonstrations by a local dance company. There’s even a Will Rogers impersonator who will be showing off his rope tricks.
“In the past, Community Renewal has done events early in the year to kick off block party season,” said Ed Bolt, the organization’s new neighboring coordinator. “We wanted to bring people together but also partners in the community that are doing good work that we think people ought to know about.”
Last year, the park took center stage during a live newscast as part of KOCO’s “On the Road” series that broadcast from downtown Shawnee and highlighted some of the things the community had to offer, and Bolt said that inspired him to put together an annual event to get people together there.
“Woodland Park is the perfect spot,” Bolt said. “It’s a nice green space, there’s the amphitheater, there’s the new
BY DAVID DINSMORE
Spring Together will be a new “citywide block party” happening 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 10 in Woodland Veterans Memorial Park at Highland and Broadway in downtown Shawnee and will feature games, food, music, raffle prizes and family fun with local groups showcasing their summer activities.
playground equipment.”
The simple concept of everyone getting together and having a good time fits Community Renewal’s goals of fostering and building meaningful relationships between neighbors in the community – whether next door or in the next town.
“It’s an opportunity for connection,” said Brandon Dyer, executive director of Community Renewal of Pottawatomie County. “Connections make our lives meaningful and make a community a great place to live.
“That’s what I’m excited to see.”
This can be a connection between two people or two families with more in common than they realized or two
organizations working in similar fields who may have not had the chance to share their experiences, Dyer said. These connections happen often at big annual events like the Christmas parade or Halloween events, but there aren’t many opportunities throughout the calendar for people to “bump into each other.”
Two years ago, the group helped organize an impromptu, locally driven resource center after the April 19 tornado to help deliver needed items for those most affected. Their efforts brought together people and partner organizations to accomplish this sense of community in the worst of times. Spring Together is a chance for these
same folks and some new neighbors to get to do the same thing under better circumstances.
The event also sets up the chance to be a “summer preview” for activities being offered this year. Partner groups in attendance can showcase some of the things they have planned for the vacation months and give families ideas of fun they can have close to home.
“We have so many resources in Shawnee, and there are so many things we have going on,” said Bolt, who has been a volunteer block leader for years before joining the staff at Community Renewal. “We’ve got to let folks know about it.”
Bolt also asked each of the participating organizations setting up at the park to also provide a fun activity for visitors to enjoy as they peruse the booths.
“I think it’ll be loads of fun,” Bolt said.
“Our goal is to see 100 block parties across town,” Dyer said. “When people know who their neighbors are, they feel safer and our neighborhoods are better because of it.”
For more information, call (405) 2731035 or check out Community Renewal of Pottawatomie County on Facebook. S
After the May 10 event, Community Renewal will continue its annual tradition of helping local block leaders and neighborhoods plan and execute block parties so people can get out and get to know each other better. The summer will bookend with the national Neighborhood Night Out event taking place in communities across the country.
NATIVE CONNECTIONS GRANT PROGRAM
• Promotes the health and well-being of Native youth who represent the future health of their communities.
• Helps American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities identify and address behavioral health needs of our Native youth.
• Supports grantees in reducing suicidal behavior and substance use among Native youth up to age 24, and supporting youth as they transition into adulthood.
• Promotes suicide and substance abuse prevention resources to our tribal members as well as our community.
• Encourages youth to develop strong bonds by arranging activity schedules around the AI/ AN youth and provide consistency (regularly scheduled activities).
• Plans monthly events for AI/AN youth and their families to attend. The grant has reached out for Native Instructors to teach our AI/AN youth traditional, native skills.
over the fence
LEAN INTO IT
Improvement, Positive Change Come From Intention
BY BRANDON DYER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMUNITY RENEWAL OF POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY
During a weekend a few years ago, my son invited a group of his friends and their parents over to take pictures of them all fancied up in their prom attire. They looked amazing, such a beautiful and handsome group. Dazzling dresses, suits and smiles lit up our backyard. The parents took pictures of every pose and combination of people imaginable, because that’s what we do, of course. It’s a memory worth preserving. Each parent was equal parts glowing pride, nerves and nostalgia knowing these soon-to-be adults were about to drive themselves to the city for dinner before returning for the prom. In the process, they would be creating a snapshot in time worth remembering.
That’s when things abruptly changed. A gentle south breeze brought with it an overwhelming reminder that our septic tank needed replacing. Pronto. With teeth clenched, an uncomfortably large smile and the skill of a ventriloquist I whispered to my wife, “Is this really happening?”
In retrospect, I probably should have checked her pulse instead, because I know her heart stopped. Let’s just say it was an unpleasant experience for all. In a moment like that, you really only have two options: ignore it and hope it goes away, or just lean into it and say, “Yep. That’s what you think it is.”
We chose option two and immediately expedited the photo opportunity.
The truth is I had already called the septic tank guy, and it was scheduled to be replaced. I’ll spare you the unsavory details, but when he came for the inspection, he explained that after 50 years of operation the system was failing. Its environment underground had gradually changed. A new system would be required for the future.
Change is inevitable. You don’t need me to tell you that. Try as we may, we cannot avoid it. With any luck, we see it coming and can prepare. However, it can also be abrupt. Sometimes it is relatively mild, and we can easily adapt, much like having to hold one’s breath during prom pictures. Other times it may be serious, like the loss of a job or
even the loss of a loved one. Changes of environment can put such pressure on our systems that it sometimes causes them to fail. This can happen both at a micro, personal level and also at a macro, societal level. In any case, what’s interesting is that we always have those same two choices. Ignore it. Or lean into it.
Around that time, it became clear that I could no longer manage my hectic, sometimes unpredictable schedule. Stress was trending upward and relief downward. Normal methods of coping with stress were failing. Something had to give.
My existing, some might say missing, system of organization that had mostly served me well my whole life was buckling under the pressure of a changing environment around me. For a while, I ignored it thinking I could tough it out and outlast the changes. It was a defensive move. I fought like my back was against the wall to avoid change.
Finally, I heard a wise person say that as leaders, we are our organization’s capacity. For whatever reason, a lightbulb went off. I chose to embrace the changes necessary to remake my system. Now I wish I had done this years ago. How many opportunities did I forfeit from my stubbornness to change? Have you ever been there?
Systems can also fail at the macro, societal level. As we know, these systems can be much more difficult to change. If any of us is paying even a modest amount of attention these days, we can see that many of our systems are buckling. Perhaps it’s time to consider something new. New collective solutions for our evolving future.
Brandon Dyer
In a moment like that, you really only have two options: ignore it and hope it goes away, or just lean into it and say, “Yep. That’s what you think it is.”
My purpose in writing this is not to suggest what those changes should be. Rather, my purpose is to offer a suggestion for how we ought to get there. Systems that work for all of us require all of us to be engaged in the process. As we work for solutions together, especially at the local level, we must hear each other as equals. Instead of starting with explosive differences that engage our defenses, perhaps we should begin with common hopes, common dreams.
Isn’t this how healthy relationships begin? Very little effort is necessary to become an enemy. One simply has to decide it to be so, but to be a friend requires intention. That means we have to go out of our way. It means leaning into the challenges and the differences and creating something new that works for all of us. Let’s not ignore it. Let’s lean into it. That would be a snapshot in time worth taking. S
KICKIN’ IT
Shawnee Soccer Association Seeks Community Support
After $17K Equipment Theft
BY DAVID DINSMORE
For 30 years, the Shawnee Soccer Association has given kids in the community the chance to fall in love with the game, sharpen their skills and pursue new opportunities.
“Our association aims to provide Shawnee and the surrounding communities an opportunity to play ‘the world’s game,’” said Brandt Beck, president of Shawnee Soccer Association. “We strive to foster growth of soccer skills, teamwork and evolution of our player’s individual character. Our association provides a positive competitive environment where hard work and discipline routinely yield direct observable accomplishments for our players and our communities.”
With a range of ages from preschool through high school, the organization has helped thousands of kids during that time develop and improve not only their skills on the soccer field – known more commonly internationally as “the pitch” – but also traits that will help carry them through challenges they may face in life.
“The Shawnee Soccer Association
objectives are to teach and train soccer players and coaches, develop leadership qualities and promote good sportsmanship among players, coaches, parents, referees and spectators,” according to the organization’s mission statement. “We provide children and young adults with the opportunity to participate in a soccer experience where they can develop positive selfesteem and build character by learning the virtues of hard work, respect, honesty, self-control, teamwork and sportsmanship.”
The nonprofit organization provides the facilities, structure, equipment, coaching, and other resources to accomplish these goals, but a major theft at the end of 2024 has required the group to reach out to the community it has served to raise funds to ensure these opportunities exist in the future.
“In December 2024, someone cut the locks on our gates and took a lot of the equipment we use to keep our facilities up and running,” Beck said.
Some of the items stolen included a self-propelled field watering device,
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The Shawnee Soccer Association provides children and young adults with the opportunity to participate in a soccer experience where they can develop positive self-esteem and build character by learning the virtues of hard work, respect, honesty, self-control, teamwork and sportsmanship. — Photos by Rachel Cleere
water hoses with reels and a 16’ utility trailer, Beck said when addressing a group of civic leaders at a meeting recently. The items stolen have a replacement cost of more than $17,000.
“Without these items, our fields become dangerous to practice and play on in the extreme heat and drought due to
the soil cracking and leaving big gaps,” Beck said.
Jordan McLaughlin – who also serves on the Shawnee Soccer Association board – said that the referees sanctioned to officiate games under the statewide entity under which they play have the ability to cancel games and activities if they observe unsafe conditions on the fields.
The Shawnee Soccer Association operates two seasons every year with the spring taking place between February and May and the fall season running from August to November, Beck said. As of now, the organization has had parents and supporters step up by using their own equipment and time to care for the fields, but this will be harder to manage as the hotter, drier months begin and summer vacations and schedules make it harder to bring in volunteers.
By next year, McLaughlin said they hope to have raised what they need for more permanent solutions to continue their work with the kids participating in their program.
The organization offers programs that help with players at different ages and skill levels. Most start with the in-house and recreational league structure. Some continue playing there for the enjoyment of the game while others choose to enter the association’s Academy level under the age of 10 to focus on further skill development. From there, they can try out to play for the organization’s United Competitive Soccer Program for ages 10 thru 17, which is the highest form offered by SSA. Some players have gone from the local program to being part of the Oklahoma Olympic Development Program and collegiate programs.
Photos by Rachel Cleere
Photos by Rachel Cleere
These are the opportunities that the association’s leadership is trying to preserve through its request for community support right now, McLaughlin said.
One of the fundraising methods they have undertaken is selling banners to businesses, organizations, and individuals who want to support the Shawnee Soccer Association. The organization will display these banners for all the players, parents and spectators in attendance for games and activities at the fields located at the west end of Independence Street near US-177 and south of the expo center.
While the organization turns its proceeds back to improving the Shawnee Soccer Association and its programs, there are costs that parents and guardians of the players do carry that are a consideration for many families, making the cost of replacing equipment – some of which was not eligible for insurance coverage – a fairly big ask for those groups.
As they have had to deal with other break-in attempts, the club has also had to increase its level of security and put in place other mitigation measures, Beck said. Other break-in attempts have cost the club several hundreds of dollars in new locks and security devices.
To help support the Shawnee Soccer Association and its fundraising goals, visit ShawneeSoccerOK.org, email ssa@ shawneesoccerok.org, leave a message at (405) 501-5695 or check out Shawnee Soccer Association on Facebook. S
ROCKET MAN
Space Flights Made Local Boy, Gordon Cooper, A Mid-Century Household Name
BY ANN MCDONALD, COURTESY POTT CO HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEMBER
erhaps you may have heard last month that April 9, 1959 was a big day in Shawnee when the whole country suddenly knew the city’s name.
On that day, NASA announced the first seven astronauts who would soon be flying into space. And one of those men was born and raised right here in Shawnee. He was introduced with that biography, and his family and friends here celebrated the news.
The space program was not new. Americans were glued to their TVs watching the “blast-offs,” sometimes carrying an animal. Then it was learned the Russians had sent a man into space, so this announcement meant a lot to the country.
Leroy and Hattie Cooper lived in Tecumseh where Leroy was a county attorney. Their son, Leroy “Gordon,” Jr., was born in March 1927 in Shawnee. Soon afterward, they moved across the river to Shawnee when the senior Cooper was elected to a judgeship. The family lived at 905 Jefferson Circle, and Gordon attended Jefferson School. Because their home was not far from the town’s airport, young Gordon ventured out there and fell in love with flying.
As the U.S. space program grew and began planning to send a man up in one of the capsules, Cooper applied. It required passing an intense test and was not an easy task for the many who dreamed of the adventure. Then it came to the selection, and the Shawnee boy was one of the first seven Americans to make the list that was announced in 1959.
Cooper’s father – who had joined the judge advocate’s staff in Denver – was able to know of the huge honor, but he died March 29, 1960 before Gordon made his first flight. In May 1962, Shawnee’s Army-Navy Reserve Center was dedicated in his honor. His son was in town for the dedication, which included a parade then an evening dinner with dignitaries. He also visited his grandmother in Tecumseh.
Gordon Cooper’s selection as one of seven Americans to take part in NASA’s first manned space flights gave him and his hometown national fame in the 1960s, and his legacy continues here and abroad to this day. — Photo submitted
Gordon Cooper played football for the Wolves and was involved in various other activities like Hi-Y and the National Honor Society. He was scheduled to graduate with the class of 1945 when suddenly – like so many during those war years – his life was changed. His father was called up to active duty with the JAG services. They moved to Kentucky, where Gordon finished his last few months of school.
After graduation, young Cooper joined the Marines and was stationed in Hawaii where he married and began college classes. He was then stationed in West Germany for four years, flying all types of aviation and logging more than 7,000 hours. He was back in Shawnee several times to visit friends, and in 1954, he was the speaker at a Civil Air Patrol meeting encouraging youngsters to follow a military career.
Gordon Cooper’s first space flight was May 15, 1963 aboard the final crewed mission of the Mercury program aboard the spacecraft designated Faith 7.
Six weeks later, June 29, 2963, a huge celebration and parade was held for Shawnee’s favorite son. His wife and two daughters were also part of the event as well as many important people from around the state. Locals have said it was by far the largest parade Shawnee has ever seen.
Astronaut Cooper’s next flight was Gemini 5, an eight-day flight with Pete Conrad. Once he left NASA, he served on several boards and was a technical consultant. He also authored several books.
Cooper died Oct. 4, 2004 of Parkinson’s disease in Ventura, California. His hometown’s special education school became known as Faith 7 and the local vocational and technical school was named in Cooper’s honor.
Though many advancements have taken place within space programs in the years since, Cooper’s role in the early days of American manned space flight was a bright spot for adventure after the long years of wars – and a Shawnee boy played a big part in that excitement.
mental health
A HONOR NEEDS
Living, Thriving With Chronic Illness Through Self-Care Routines
BY HOLLY GORDON
t 57, I have lived with chronic illness long enough to understand both its challenges and its lessons. My body, once strong and capable, now requires patience, gentleness and a level of attention I never imagined in my younger years. Chronic illness is an uninvited companion, shaping my days and defining my limitations, but it has also taught me the value of true self-care –not just the trendy kind that involves face masks and bubble baths, but the deep, intentional care that allows me to live as well as possible within my circumstances.
Gordon
breathing. Rather than rushing, I permit myself to move through the day at a sustainable pace. I also structure my days around energy levels. Mornings – when I tend to have the most energy – are reserved for important activities. Afternoons – when fatigue sets in – are for answering work emails, rest, reading or light tasks. Evening routines include winding down early, reducing screen time and creating a soothing environment for sleep – one of the most precious resources for anyone with a chronic condition.
Living with a long-term illness means accepting that life does not unfold as it once did. There are days when energy flows more freely, and I can enjoy a slow walk or a conversation with a friend. But there are also days when even the simplest tasks – brushing my hair, making tea, answering an email – feel insurmountable. Self-care, in this context, is about managing my limited energy wisely and making choices that support my well-being rather than deplete it. Over the years, I have developed strategies that help me navigate this reality, and I hope they can help others who are walking a similar path.
1. Honoring your body’s needs
One of the hardest but most important lessons I’ve learned is to listen to my body. It communicates constantly, sending whispers before it screams. Ignoring early signs of fatigue or pain never serves me well. It only leads to longer recovery times and greater discomfort. Instead of pushing through, I have learned to pause, rest when needed and set realistic expectations for myself.
A key part of this is pacing. Rather than using up all my energy on a good day, I spread tasks out over time, allowing for rest breaks and moments of recovery. I also prioritize tasks, focusing on what truly needs to be done and letting go of what isn’t essential. It has taken me a few years to learn that rest is not a luxury but a necessity.
2. Cultivating a gentle daily routine
Routine can be a powerful ally when living with chronic illness. I wake up slowly, allowing my body time to adjust before starting my day. My mornings include stretches that ease stiffness and a few quiet moments of meditation or deep
3. Nourishing the body with food and hydration
Eating well is another form of self-care. While there is no single diet that works for everyone, I have found that simple, whole foods make the biggest difference in how I feel. I focus on protein, healthy fats and vegetables, avoiding excessive sugar and processed foods that can contribute to inflammation and energy crashes. Remember, there are no food police. Eat the foods you enjoy and feel good in your body, including chocolate or ice cream.
Hydration is just as important. I keep a reusable water bottle nearby and drink water throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps with energy levels, digestion and even cognitive function – all areas that can be affected by chronic illness.
4. Setting boundaries and learning to say no
One of the hardest but most liberating lessons I have learned is how to say no. There was a time when I felt guilty for declining invitations or stepping back from responsibilities. Now, I understand that my health must come first.
Setting boundaries is an act of self-preservation. I limit social engagements to what I can comfortably handle, and I surround myself with people who understand my limitations rather than pressure me to push past them. I have also learned to ask for help when I need it, whether that means delegating household tasks or seeking emotional support.
5. Finding joy in small moments
Chronic illness has forced me to slow down, but in doing so, I have discovered the beauty of simple pleasures. A cup of tea in the afternoon sun, the laughter of a friend, the comfort of a well-loved book – these moments matter. They remind
me that joy is not found in grand achievements but in the quiet, everyday experiences that make life meaningful.
Creativity has also been a source of healing. On difficult days, when physical activity is limited, I turn to audiobooks, crocheting or listening to music. These activities keep my mind engaged and provide a sense of accomplishment, even when my body feels weak.
6. Prioritizing mental and emotional well-being
Living with chronic illness is not just a physical challenge. It is an emotional one as well. Grief, frustration and loneliness are all part of the experience. I have learned that acknowledging these emotions – rather than suppressing them – is essential to my well-being.
Journaling has become a valuable tool, allowing me to process my thoughts and release stress. Meditation and deep breathing exercises help calm my nervous system, especially during moments of overwhelm. And when needed, I reach out to a therapist or a support group – connecting with others who understand can be incredibly validating.
7. Practicing self-compassion
Perhaps the most important lesson of all is self-compassion. It is easy to feel frustrated with a body that doesn’t function as it once did and to mourn the loss of energy, independence or abilities. But I remind myself daily: I am doing
the best I can with the circumstances I have.
Instead of focusing on what I can no longer do, I celebrate what I can do. I remind myself that my worth is not tied to productivity, that rest is not laziness and that I am deserving of care and kindness – from myself most of all.
Living with chronic illness is not easy, but it has taught me resilience, patience and the importance of nurturing myself in ways I once overlooked. Self-care is not just about treating oneself. It is about making intentional choices that support long-term well-being. By listening to my body, creating sustainable routines, nourishing myself and embracing joy in small moments, I have learned not just to survive but to thrive in my own way.
To those on a similar journey, I offer this: Be gentle with yourself. Honor your needs. And most of all, remember that your life – though different than you once imagined – is still filled with worth and beauty.
SHolly Gordon, MBA, has been working in prevention and public health for more than 20 years, with the majority of that time with Gateway to Prevention and Recovery in Shawnee. Holly uses her love of community and connection to come alongside folks to support their wellness efforts in a sustainable way. Some of her favorite activities are meeting friends for Saturday morning coffee, listening to books and podcasts, learning new things and meditation.
TOP HONORS
OBU Students Earn National, International Attention For Achievements, Performance
COURTESY OF OKLAHOMA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY
Students from Oklahoma Baptist University took home top honors and gained attention from national and international level events focusing on their areas of study and engagement.
Ready to lead
Eight OBU students representing the university’s chapter of DECA shone at the Collegiate International Career Development Conference held in San Francisco last month.
DECA is an international organization with chapters on college campuses and high schools across the country and around the world. Its mission is to prepare emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management.
The OBU chapter of DECA offers students business skill development, networking opportunities and experiences that enhance their professionalism. Activities are designed to strengthen leadership, marketplace knowledge and career readiness. All OBU students are welcome to participate in DECA.
Four members of OBU’s delegation were named finalists in their respective categories.
Senior Rachel Antony, an international business major, earned first place in travel and tourism.
Lynnley Grindstaff, a freshman English major and marketing minor, was a finalist in the marketing management category. Senior finance major Sarah Black and junior marketing major Kenley York were finalists in the sports marketing category.
“I’m proud of the entire team’s performance and significant accomplishments,” said David Houghton, chair of OBU’s Paul Dickinson School of Business. “(Antony) is only the third student from Oklahoma to finish in first place in DECA’s CICDC history, and this is only our second year competing. OBU’s Sydney Gardner was the second student to achieve that distinction last year.”
Taking center stage
In February, OBU’s Theatre Department showcased its talent on a regional stage by presenting “Dreamers: A Depression-Era
OBU’s Rachel Antony is one of only three Oklahoma students to earn a first-place finish at the Collegiate International Career Development Conference. The senior international business major took the top spot in the conference’s travel and tourism category.
Musical Fairytale” at the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival regional conference.
The production, written by OBU junior Elena Streett, earned numerous accolades and consideration for national recognition at the KCACTF National Festival in April.
The OBU team included faculty, students and alumni performing “Dreamers” for festival attendees, the KCACTF National Executive Committee and invited guests from across the country. Alumni Jordan Evans (2023) and Garrett Wheeler (2022) joined the production team as a sound engineer and performer respectively.
KCACTF artistic director Gregg Henry and Dartmouth College playwriting faculty member, Georgina Escobar – a MacDowell Fellow – provided the cast and crew with professional feedback, helping shape the work for future development.
The OBU Theatre Department showcased its talent with the original work, “Dreamers: A Depression-Era Musical Fairytale,” at the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival with a cast and crew that featured from left on the front row, Sierra Graham, Abby Zang, Brianna Arledge, Madeline Carlson and Drew Rohrbach, and back row, from left, Gracie Carleton, Jubal Nelson, Cole Green, Elena Streett, Zack Dickens and Garrett Wheeler.
OBU Theatre received multiple honors for its work at the festival, including: Irene Ryan Acting Awards: Abby Zang and Madeline Carlson
Excellence in Playwriting: Streett.
Excellence in New Musical Mentorship: C. Alex Webster and John Dement. Excellence in Collaboration for Devised Theatre: Brianna Arledge and Drew Rohrbach
OBU students competed in various categories, showcasing their talents in musical theatre, devised theatre, and acting. Gracie Carleton, Sierra Graham, Cole Green, Jubal Nelson and Zang participated in the musical theatre initiative; Arledge and Rohrbach participated in the devised theatre initiative; and Streett and Rohrbach participated in the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship program.
OBU faculty played key roles at the conference. Dement presented two workshops on prop firearm safety, including one for students and another for faculty. He also served as a respondent for the Irene Ryan Scholarship auditions and directed “Dreamers.”
Webster coordinated regional events, taught a workshop on interdisciplinarity in musical theatre and directed the on-site devised theatre performance. She also served as music director for “Dreamers,” further strengthening the university’s presence at the festival.
“OBU Theatre’s strong showing at KCACTF Region 6 highlights the department’s commitment to excellence in performance, playwriting and theatrical innovation,” Webster said.
May 10: Community Renewal will host Spring Together, a free family community picnic in the park from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Woodland Park downtown featuring food, games, giveaways, music, door prizes and a special guest star. Check out communityrenewal.org or facebook.com/ communityrenewalpc for more updates.
May 10: Rev your engines and make a difference with the Gears & Giving car show from 3-6 p.m. on the Oval on the Oklahoma Baptist University campus at 500 W. University. Organized by In Luck Motorsports and Beyond the Spectrum, proceeds from the event will benefit kids with disabilities. Information: inluckmotorsports@gmail.com
May 14-18: The TAT FireLake Championship Bowling invites amateurs for the first time at FireLake Bowling Center to roll for their shot of up to $20,000 in prize money. Information: tatbowl.com
May 15: Bikes on Bell Bike Nights returns at 6 p.m. in downtown Shawnee. This monthly family-friendly gathering/ celebration of motorcycle enthusiasts, riders and their friends and family features events, vendors, giveaways and charity fundraising, A portion of the proceeds will benefit Shawnee High School band boosters. Information: facebook.com/ ToolboxLLC
May 15: The Third Thursday Poetry Reading will begin at 7 p.m. at the Lunch Box at 217 E. Main St. with a reading by a featured guest followed by an open mic session for attendees to read up to two poems of their own or from a favorite poet. The Lunch Box will open at 6 p.m. with desserts and drinks available.
May 16: Shawnee Homeless Resource Center will be hosting an Art and Craft Market in its parking lot at 506 S Beard Ave. The free event is open to the public and will feature music, baked goods and tons of art and crafts.
May 17-18 : The Shawnee Home Builders Association invites the community to experience the 2nd Annual Showcase of Homes, a two-day event spotlighting beautifully crafted homes across the Shawnee area 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday and 1-4 p.m. on Sunday for this self-guided tour celebrating the region’s top builders, home design trends and local craftsmanship. Information: ShawneeForward.com or Shawnee Home Builders Association on Facebook.
May 23: Dive into summer with Shawnee Splash 2024 opening day with slides, climbing walls, basketball and more across three pools and a splash pad. Season and day passes are available online, at the recreation center office at 401 N. Bell or at the Splash offices at 100 E. Highland. Information: facebook. com/shawneesplash
May 24: The Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art will host a culminating event for its SWANshop art workshops from 9 a.m. to noon sharing, reviewing and reflecting on all seven chakras. Information: mgmoa.org/swanshops
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May 24: Gold Star Families: Let Their Voices Be Heard is a Memorial Day weekend event featuring a number of activities honoring the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. A motorcycle procession starting at Papa’s Leather Barn 1t 6623 NW 23rd St. in Bethany will finish with a wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial at the Oklahoma Veterans Memorial just south of Highland on Broadway Street in Shawnee. The event will conclude at the Grand Casino where families will get to share stories about their lost loved ones.
May 29: Former Oklahoma State University and NFL player, Shamiel Gary, will be featured at the Avedis Special Speaker Series Luncheon, where he will share his insights on resilience, mental preparation and overcoming adversity that he learned on and off the field. Information: avedisfoundation.org.
June 1: Locomotive Operators of Central Oklahoma will host its monthly public run 1-4 p.m. at 29626 Lake Drive in McLoud. Ride the rails on powered ⅛-scale locomotives right outside of Shawnee Twin Lakes. Information: locotrains.org
June 2-July 24: St. Paul’s Methodist Church will host an eightweek Project Transformation summer literacy program 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays for students entering 1st grade through 5th grade who would benefit from a program to help maintain or improve reading skills using a super fun STEAMbased curriculum. This free camp will take place at the church at 301 N. Beard and includes breakfast, lunch and a snack. Information: shawneestpauls.com
June 5, 12, 19, 26: Enjoy fun, family-friendly concerts at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art courtyard on Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m., featuring Oklahoma Jazz Preserve, Shawnee Little Theatre highlights, Jacqueline Thomasson and Friends and MGMoA's own Sylwia Partyka. Bring a lawn chair as courtyard seating is limited. Concerts will be moved indoors in the event of inclement weather. Information: mgmoa.org
June 6: Redeemer Lutheran Church will host a free monthly movie night presented by for a fun night of fellowship, movie, pop and popcorn at 7 p.m. at 39307 MacArthur St. Parents and grandparents can enjoy a worry-free evening of movie entertainment while the kids watch an age-appropriate movie. Information: facebook.com/redeemerlutheranshawnee
June 7: With several appearances on the Billboard Top 100 list, Jackson Taylor & The Sinners will rock the stage with special guest, Shinedown, starting at 8 p.m. at the Historic Ritz Theater at 10 W. Main. Information: ritzshawnee.com
June 14: Get Leppard will pay tribute to its namesake band with a show starting at 8 p.m. at the Historic Ritz Theater at 10 W. Main. Information: ritzshawnee.com
If you know of any events you would like to see featured, email editor@shawneeoutlook.com.
