I’m pretty good at sitting and reclining. I may even be an expert, as evidenced by our worn-out sectional in the den. This gray-green, low-slung beauty has been a trooper. It hugged us through the pandemic, provided much-needed rest through my chemo treatments, and was our companion through countless binge-worthy (and not-so-binge-worthy) Netflix series. On slow Sunday mornings, it was our read-thenews nesting spot and in football season, our family gathering place for Chiefs games. Sectional, we salute you. Service complete. Time for a new couch.
Furniture shopping. Oh, joy. After checking out our local furniture options, we head south to “shopper stalker” territory. At each furniture mega-store, a helpful salesperson greets us. And at each store, we politely interrupt their discourse, and introduce ourselves as “not today buyers.” Alison then recites some loosely quoted Dave Ramsey wisdom - and finally, we demonstrate our fiscal commitment with a classic spousal pinky promise. We are left alone. We aren’t searching for just any couch. In the past, we were “style over comfort” shoppers. With age comes wisdom and more frequent body aches. Our current customer demographic is somewhere between firm, supportive seat depth and not quite ready for motion furniture with cup holders. We have a couple of acres to sort through.
The rest of the afternoon is a blur of beige, greige, white, and off-white sectional selections. And soon my posterior portion loses its keen ability to discern firmness and comfort. With numb butt setting in, we head home to our familiar slouchy sectional. After arranging a ridiculous amount of pillows to support our tired selves, we settle in to watch the Chiefs. With our halftime sponsored by ibuprofen.
Dave Miller Publisher & Back40 Design President
Cover Photo submitted by Oklahoma City Thunder Pictured: Kennedi Yates
Off the Hook Alex Turner Catches 77 Fish in 77 Counties
By Amy Dee Stephens
Few ten-year-olds can rattle off the names of all 77 Oklahoma counties with ease, but it’s simple for Alex Turner because he has distinct memories of visiting each one. For two-and-a-half years, Alex and his dad, Neil, traveled the state with the goal of catching a fish in each county. Besides catching fish, Alex caught the travel bug. He learned some geography, discovered a lot of Oklahoma history, and practiced a ton of patience.
Fishing for Adventure
Alex’s story began with a tent and a volcano….and it ended with chocolate cake.
“It started during Covid,” said Neil. “We were all packed into the house. It was hard for Alex to focus on schoolwork, so I loaded a tent onto the truck, and we hit the road.”
One morning in New Mexico, Alex completed a science lesson about volcanoes. Shortly afterward, they drove past a real volcano. “It was a moment of serendipity! We immediately pulled over and took a hike,” Neil said. “All of a sudden, Alex realized learning was an adventure!”
“What Dad didn’t say was that I thought I hated learning,” Alex said, “but on the road, if I got my schoolwork done, there was more time to explore.”
After their extended road trip, Neil homeschooled Alex as a stay-at-home dad. They began seeking experiences closer to home. Following a fishing clinic in Leflore County, Alex realized that he had caught fish in five of Oklahoma’s counties. Could he try for all 77 counties?
“I wasn’t a great fisherman, but I figured we could see the state,” Neil said. “Along the way, we had so many adventures, like mushroom farming, cotton ginning, an archaeological dig, a wastewater treatment plant tour...”
“Don’t forget about the fishing, Dad,” Alex said.
“Go ahead. Tell about your favorite fish,” Neil said. “It was on Doc Hollis Lake in Greer County,” Alex said eagerly. “The water was perfectly clear and we could see all the fish, but no luck. We had to go back another day, but that time, I caught
a bass in the first five minutes. I caught it before Dad even finished rigging up his line.” Alex grinned with obvious glee.
Neil and Alex shared other fish stories, which varied widely by county. Some fish came easily, some got away, and once, they arrived at a lake to find it drained dry. “It took patience. Sometimes we’d pack up and go home,” Neil said. “It became a lesson in handling disappointment.”
During their travels, helpful people guided them to the best fishing spots, from city creeks to private farm ponds. The Turners began creating videos of their explorations, which have been used by teachers and parents around the world. Alex, who has autism, helps with the narration, editing, and grammar as part of his schoolwork.
“It’s hard to believe he was non-verbal until he was three, starting to talk at five, and was narrating videos by the age of six,” Neil said.
Final Fish Story
August 8th was the day Alex hoped to catch his 77th fish. It was his seventh time to attempt Lincoln County. With the added pressure of a supportive audience and news crew, Alex prepared his line. He could almost taste success.
“I remember saying, ‘I can already taste the chocolate cake!’” Alex said.
Sure enough, a fish cooperated, and celebration was in order. It was time for chocolate cake.
“Just think––if we hadn’t gone on that road trip during Covid, we might still be fighting through schoolwork,” said Neil. “We would have missed out on this great adventure.”
Visit okieschool.org for more information. Alex’s video channel is called Okie School of Adventure and Charm.
Alex Turner and Tim Maxberry
By Laura Beam
Game DayEats
BRICKTOWN BREWERY
There’s nothing better than a party platter for tailgating, watch parties, and gatherings! Bricktown Brewery even has a Watch Party Package that includes 50 boneless wings and sauce of choice, dressings, celery, housemade white queso, tortilla chips, and choice of any three of their pizzas. Now that’s a crowd-pleaser! Their Party Platter menu has endless options, like Big Mike’s Meatloaf, Yardbird Chicken Mac & Cheese, Pretzel Stick Party Pack, Big Cobb Salad, and more. Party Platters can be ordered for pickup or delivery at bricktownbrewery.com or in the BTB Fan Club mobile app. Check out their 64oz growlers of Bricktown Brews and select canned 6-packs available to-go. Visit 1150 E. 2nd St. or 5516 W. Memorial Rd., or online at bricktownbrewery.com.
THE FROSTED MUG
Make this lively neighborhood sports bar your game day headquarters! They bring the party to life with a massive 60-person bar, multiple big screen TVs, arcade games, shuffleboard, and a spacious patio with TVs. Enjoy hand-cut steaks, fish and chips, Philly Cheesesteaks, chicken fried steak, Southwest Egg Rolls, and their popular wings. Soak up the fun over an Espresso Martini, Frozen Jack and Coke, or one of their 28 beers on tap. Taking the party home? Order their Wings Party Pack, Sandwich and Wrap Platter, Burger Bar or Taco Bar. And don’t forget about their made-from-scratch brunch with a Bloody Mary bar on Saturday and Sunday. Visit 1333 N. Santa Fe Ave., Edmond, or frostedmugedmond.com. Online orders, pick up, delivery, and catering are available.
Gear up for an exciting game day with festive platters, saucy wings, chips and dip, pizza, tacos, and all your favorite nibbles and bites. Enjoy some of Edmond’s best football foods that make the big day a win, no matter what the final score is!
DONATOS PIZZA
Will and Matt McLain, Edmond natives and franchise partners of Donatos Pizza in Edmond, invite you to try Donatos for your next football gathering. Try Donatos thin crust, hand tossed or thicker crust pizza and enjoy famous edge-to-edge toppings with 100 pepperonis on every large, fresh veggies, aged smoked provolone, Romano cheese, and a choice of toppings. Or try their ovenroasted wings, oven-baked subs, fresh salads and more.
Feed your game-day crowd with their NEW bakery crust pizza - an 11” square crispy crust cut into 9 pieces. Score two onetopping bakery crust pizzas for only $19.99. Make Donatos your fan-favorite choice. Dine-in, delivery, or pick up at 1148 S. Bryant Ave., Edmond. Call 405-562-6263 or visit donatos.com.
THE FRIED TACO
Change the way you do tacos!
The Fried Taco blends bold Puerto Rican and Caribbean cuisine to create the most exciting flavor combos of slowsimmered meats, house-made salsas, creamy sauces, crunchy slaws and more. Wrap it all up in their signature light, crispy shell with a soft, melty inside, and you’ve got a winner. New to the menu this fall, and just in time to be the star at your football gatherings, they’ve added a Taco Salad with ground beef or asada, Loaded Nachos, and Spanish Torrijas–French Toast with syrup and whipped cream cheese. Visit 119 W. 2nd St. at The Icehouse Project, Edmond, or 308 NW 10th at the Collective Food Hall, Midtown, or thefriedtaco.com. Catering and food truck bookings are also available.
LAURA BEAM
Account Executive, editor, and writer with experience in radio, newspaper and magazines. Interested in what Outlook can do for your business? Contact her at laura@edmondoutlook.com
Tree Care Q&A with Arbor Image Tree Care
1. What are some of the most resilient and popular trees around the metro?
Red Maples, Bald Cypress, Chinese Pistache, and Shumard Oak.
These species are welladapted to the local climate and soil conditions, making them excellent choices for residential and commercial properties.
Crabapples, in particular, are favored for their beautiful spring blooms, while the Bald Cypress is known for its tolerance to wet conditions. The Shumard Oak is a favorite for its strength and vibrant fall color.
2. What are common mistakes people make when choosing and planting trees?
Selecting trees not suited to Oklahoma's climate and soil conditions is a common mistake. Another is improper planting, such as planting too deep or too close to structures, which can lead to poor growth and future issues. Over-watering or under-watering newly planted trees is also a frequent issue we encounter.
3. Do you help customers determine the best trees to plant and where and how to plant them?
We help customers select the best specimen-grade trees, carefully inspecting root systems, tree
Owners Koree & Christa Vanzant
spacing, and branch structure while only using nursery stock that meets the highest standards of nursery practices. Plus, with our "Healthy Tree Guarantee," the trees we plant and care for come with a lifetime warranty.
4. What are your most requested services?
Tree pruning to maintain tree health, structural support, and safety. We also offer a full range of tree care services, including tree health services like fertilization, insect/disease treatments, health diagnosis, tree pruning, removal, and tree planting. We specialize in diagnosing and treating tree health issues.
5. You have several ISA Certified Arborists on staff. Why is that important?
Having multiple ISA Certified Arborists is crucial because it ensures that every tree receives expert, science-based care. ISA certification represents a deep understanding of tree biology, safety, and best practices. With several certified professionals, we can address even the most complex tree health issues and guarantee that every project meets the highest standards. This gives our clients peace of mind, knowing they’re getting the best care from a team dedicated to tree health and safety.
6. Do you help care for and clean up trees damaged by a storm?
Yes. It's crucial to address these issues promptly to prevent further harm to your property or the tree itself. Our team is experienced in storm damage assessment and cleanup, offering emergency tree removal, pruning of broken branches, and overall tree care to help your trees recover.
Kennedi Yates Edmond T hunder Girl
By Taylor Bollinger
When Kennedi Yates sat down to share her story, it might have been the first time she had sat down in weeks. Earning a degree, teaching dance, nannying, and fulfilling the duties of an Oklahoma City Thunder Girl doesn’t leave a lot of time for sitting. But she’s in it for every fast-paced second.
If you see her on your TV screen, around the metro, or on the floor of the Paycom Center giving it her all, you’re witnessing the fruition of a dream that started with a toddler in a tutu.
“I grew up doing mostly ballet styles, but when I was about 16, I discovered hip hop and mom and I realized there was a whole other side to dance that I’d never seen.” Her exploration continued after high school when she moved to California to train at a prestigious dance center called “The Space.”
“I was there forty hours a week,” she said. “I learned so much there, and am grateful for the experience but it wasn’t where I wanted to stay.” So she left the intensely competitive environment and returned home to Edmond.
I am surrounded by incredible women who lift me up, encourage me, and make every day better.
“When I came home, I felt like dance might be off the table for me.” But when a friend connected Kennedi with a Thunder Girl, she realized that was not the case. “I decided to attend a prep class just to see what it was all about. When I walked into the room I thought, ‘I have to be a part of this team.’ The environment just ignited something in me.”
After making it through the strenuous audition process – prep-class, prelims, interviews, and all - Kennedi became a Thunder Girl. “It’s something I never thought I’d be doing. As a little girl, I never thought I’d someday dance for an NBA team. I feel like God really opened up this opportunity for me.”
Now entering her second season, she is anything but complacent. “I always want to stay in a state of growth,” she said. “So even though I’m on the team, I’m still looking to improve, to strengthen not only my dancing but also my leadership.”
She has ample opportunity to do so, with four weekly practices and a calendar full of community appearances and, of course, games. Kennedi says the games are exhilarating, but her favorite part is the people. “It’s about connecting with people from all walks of life. You hear everyone’s stories and I love that part of the job.”
While she and her teammates aim to be positive, inspiring role models to the children who look up to them, Kennedi says there is plenty of inspiration internally, as well. “There’s sometimes that perception that cheerleaders or dancers are the ‘mean girls,’ but that couldn’t be farther from the truth,” she said.
“When I walk into practice I am surrounded by incredible women— not just dancers—who lift me up, encourage me, and make every day better. They are some of the most intelligent, uplifting people I’ve ever met and I believe they’ll be lifelong friends.”
Catch Kennedi courtside this season or on Instagram @kkyatesdance.
Photo: Oklahoma City Thunder
Timeless Treasures: Collecting Vintage Football Keepsakes
By Amy Dee Stephens
Like most serious sports collectors, Casey Moore has very specific interests. His genre of choice is football illustrations from the late 1890s to 1930s—the time-period when college sports began to develop.
“I collect the artwork that would have been adorning college dorm rooms in the early 1900s, which might be posters, pennants, or magazine prints,” said Moore. “These were temporary items used for marketing a team or sport to students, meaning they were considered disposable. Some still exist, so for me, finding them is treasure hunting.”
Moore grew up in a family of avid sports fans, either watching or playing sports. He collected sports cards as a kid, which he came back to as an adult. He attended the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) for his Kinesiology degree and a masters in Sports Management from Wichita State.
After graduating, Casey worked for the UCO Athletic Department, fundraising for the Wellness Center and for the Paralympic programs, then moved to the City of Edmond in 2013, where he is now the Director of Management Services.
“The first piece I bought was an old Central State (now UCO) postcard of a football player from 1907-08. I bought it off eBay in 2003. I was in grad school and didn’t have much money, but I was studying early-era football, and I really liked the style.”
As Casey dug into the history of early sports, he learned the significance of college football back before professional football began. Baseball was the “king” of professional sports, and basketball was considered mainly a women-only sport––but football is what college towns thrived on, and Edmond was no exception.
Over time, his collection of Edmond-specific items has grown to include postcards, photographs, and recently, two early1900s Central State pennants that are on prominent display. His collection extends beyond Edmond, however, to feature pre-war football equipment, ephemera and advertising art.
“The art I like is referred to as “illustration art,” which was created for magazines, posters and other publications,” Casey said. “It’s a narrow focus, but everyone has different collecting preferences. Sometimes the things I buy live with me long-term, while others get traded or sold over time. I only have so much wall space to display my collection.”
Although every item Casey collects comes with a story, a few stand out in his mind. “I love that first Central State football card, but I once found an autographed book in a used
Above: 1900’s era UCO Football postcard. Right: Player holding a “melon” type of football (circa 1920s)
bookstore, authored by Casper Whitney, the sports journalist who coined the term 'All-American' in the late 1800s. The book was inscribed to F. C. Selous, the incredibly famous big game hunter who took Teddy Roosevelt on hunts through Africa,” Casey said. “I was fascinated that this sports-related book, given to a Tanzanian conservationist, ended up in a bookstore in Oklahoma.”
Casey admits that “the hunt” is as much fun as acquiring a new piece, which he might find online, at an antique store or a flea market. He has also developed a network of friends around the country who also like sports collecting.
“We all have our own niches of interest, but we help each other be on the lookout. Sports is too broad a genre to collect everything, so serious collectors have to pick a specialty. I think it’s fascinating that the same hobby can be done so differently,” Casey said. “As a college student, I didn’t realize I loved history so much, but I do. History is part of collecting, and I’ve learned that the best way to be a collector is to have broad knowledge and a narrow focus.”
Casey Moore
Sam The Concrete Man
By Maria Veres
When you think of Edmond, you think of community—neighbors helping neighbors. Scott Condict, the owner of Sam The Concrete Man, embodies that spirit. As a longtime Edmond resident and former UCO football player, Scott has deep roots here. He’s raising his family in the same community he proudly serves, and he’s passionate about making homes in Edmond and the OKC metro more beautiful and durable.
Expert Concrete Installations
Scott and his team specialize in driveways, patios, and sidewalks, and they understand that quality craftsmanship can transform the look
of a home. “We focus on doing the job right the first time,” Scott explains. That’s why every project includes rebar for added strength and comes with a one-year guarantee on the sealer. Unlike many companies, all installations are handled by Scott’s team of trusted professionals—nothing is subcontracted. The company offers free consultations and same-day quotes whenever possible. Throughout each project, Scott keeps in close contact with customers, making sure they feel informed and confident every step of the way.
Affordable, Friendly, and Locally Owned
Since opening his Sam The Concrete Man franchise two years ago, Scott has built a reputation for delivering excellent service at fair prices. “Concrete can be more affordable than people realize,” says Scott. “We believe in providing excellent value for your investment. By using top-quality materials and paying attention to every detail, we ensure you get results that last without cutting corners.” This balance of affordability and quality has earned him many word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied homeowners across the metro.
As a locally owned business, Sam The Concrete Man is focused on building long-lasting relationships with neighbors. “We’re not just a company, we’re part of this community,” says Scott. “When we work on your home, it’s personal to us. We want to help make Edmond and OKC even better places to live.”
To learn more or schedule a free consultation, contact Sam The Concrete Man at 405-303-9950 or visit oklahoma-city.samtheconcreteman.com.
Owner Scott Condict
Local Builder-Designer Duo Films TV Pilot
By Taylor Bollinger
Kelsey and Scott McGregor were busy running family businesses – the well-known McGregor Homes and Kelsey Leigh Design Co. – when they were approached about a TV show. As Scott puts it, “We were just minding our own business, when we got a DM from an old college friend.”
As the best opportunities often do, it felt random and out of the blue, but they agreed to submit a video. In addition to the skills that are evident by their beautiful builds and interior design, the two demonstrated the personality it takes to captivate an audience and their show “Building Oklahoma” aired its pilot episode in August on Magnolia Network. The show will follow the duo as they restore older Oklahoma homes to their original charm – or perhaps, better.
“It is surreal,” Scott said. “It doesn’t always feel like real life.” Though Kelsey was accustomed to encountering fans of her design in everyday life, the family is adjusting to the new exposure. “It’s new to have our lives on display, but we are so excited about the opportunity.”
“You can ask our friend group, Kelsey and I are typically the party starters,” Scott said. “We are pretty lively, and with four kids, our house is never quiet. There’s almost always a dance party going on somewhere.”
Another theme both in life and on the screen: laughter. “We don’t take ourselves too seriously, and we hope that is evident on the show,” Scott said. “If you’re watching, and you’re not having a good time, then we’re not doing it right.”
While they enjoy the levity of life, Scott and Kelsey also respect the seriousness that accompanies quality building and design. And they aren’t holding any of it too tightly. “We believe God gave us this opportunity, and if he takes it away tomorrow, that is okay.”
But for as long as the journey lasts, the McGregors hope fellow Oklahomans feel very much a part of it. “We are just normal people who got a call and were happy to say ‘yes.’”
If greenlighted, the show will air on the Magnolia Network and HBO/Max next year. You can currently stream the pilot episode on HBO/Max or on Discovery Plus.
Kelsey and Scott McGregor and family
Garage Innovations
By Maria Veres
Celebrating 20 years in business, Garage Innovations is Oklahoma’s original garage renovation company. With showrooms in Edmond and Tulsa, the locally owned business serves residential customers across the state.
Value and Quality Are the Top Priorities
Owners Jason and Jennifer Johnson offer four services: floor coating, Simply Storage cabinets, slatted wall paneling, and attic elevators. “We’re very focused in what we do,” says Jason. “That’s one of the reasons I feel we’re successful.”
The company’s spacious showrooms also set Garage Innovations apart, giving clients the chance to see and
touch the products. To provide the best value, Jason and his team manufacture all the cabinets in-house, and the floor coating is also made in Oklahoma. Keeping it local allows the company to pass the cost savings on to their customers, who are often pleasantly surprised by how reasonable the quotes are.
Garage Innovations is fully local, not a franchise. All work is done inhouse by the company’s sixteen fulltime employees, and every project is guaranteed.
A Leader in Garage Renovations
The company started when Jason couldn’t find a contractor to remodel his own garage. With his passion for home renovation projects and Jennifer’s background in marketing and business, the couple was able to meet an unfilled need in a growing community. They’ve never looked back.
If you’re thinking about a garage remodel, Jason offers free consultations and estimates. After talking with you about your storage needs, his team will create a 3D CAD diagram that
shows exactly what the remodel will look like. You’re also invited to stop by the showroom and explore the many possibilities for upgrading your garage.
Garage Innovations is located at 14000 N Santa Fe Ave Unit B, Edmond. To learn more or schedule a complimentary consultation, contact them at 405-285-2922 or online at garageinnovation.com.
Owner Jason Johnson
Arcadia Lake Storybook Forest
By Maria Veres
All the magic of Halloween, without the scary parts—that’s what you’ll find at Edmond’s Storybook Forest. A cherished family tradition, the outdoor event has been bringing fairy tales to life for more than two decades.
The Magic of Classic Fairy Tales
The centerpiece of Storybook Forest is a short trick-or-treat trail through the woods, with scenes from beloved fairy tales recreated along the way. Children receive candy from a volunteer at each stop, and they can stay to enjoy a story if they choose. Some volunteers even dress as characters from the fairy tales.
Families can also enjoy a hayride and old-fashioned carnival games, which are included in the admission price. If the fresh outdoor air makes you hungry, you can purchase hot dogs or s’mores kits from the concession stand and roast them at the nearby campfire.
An Enchanting Experience for Everyone
If you’ve been to Storybook Forest before, you’ll discover that each year is different, but also familiar. Some of the scenes rotate, while other favorites are showcased every year. “We try to make everything as detailed and real as possible,” says Arcadia Lake Manager Nicole Offutt.
To avoid overcrowding, tickets are sold in advance, with a limited number available for each night. Entry is staggered to give participants plenty of space. Some families meander down the trail and linger around the campfire, while others collect their candy and make a quick exit. “You can spend as much time or as little time as you want,” says Nicole. “It’s really what you make it.”
Storybook Forest will run from October 23 - 30, 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm (come and go) at Arcadia Lake's Spring Creek Park, 7200 E. 15th Street. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Learn more at storybookforestok.com.
A Call to Create Sydnie Banks Handbags
By Taylor Bollinger
In 33 years, Sydnie Peebles has accomplished what would take most people a lifetime. Her luxury, hand-stitched handbags have graced runways and magazine racks around the world – the result of her tireless determination, incredible resilience and an innate call to create.
“Growing up I was always interested in building, creating and making things,” Sydnie said. “I wasn’t great academically, but I knew I had an interesting set of skills that I wondered how I’d apply in my future.”
Raised by a bronze sculptor and avid collector, Sydnie was always surrounded by art and encouraged to find her passion and follow it. When she came across a YouTube video of Hungarian craftsman Marcell Mrsan, making leather shoes, she was sold. Her father connected her with Guthrie-based bootmaker Lisa Sorrell, who agreed to accept Sydnie as an apprentice.
“Making boots is incredibly challenging,” Sydnie said. “She told me if I could learn to do that, I could make anything.” During their time together, Sydnie built essential skills (and muscles) that set her ahead by decades.
Sydnie applied these skills for a time, opening a baby shoe company in honor of her late brother. But after facing yet another loss, the stillbirth of her son, Banks, at 25 weeks, she spent a period paralyzed by fear.
“So many scary things had happened, I just kind of
hid from the world for a bit.” In 2020, Sydnie woke up from her creative slump – literally. “Twice, I woke up in the middle of the night with the strongest impression that I needed to create again.”
“I pulled out some old hand-stitching tools and started working on a bag, and it clicked – this is what I was meant to be doing. It really ignited something within me.”
Once again, Sydnie tackled the learning process head-on. “I hunted down the top hand-stitcher in England and asked for an apprenticeship. I knew it was impractical, but it was worth a try.”
He accepted, and 10 days spent working side-by-side set her skills leagues ahead. “When I got home, I made my first bag and it sold before it was even finished.”
Her bags are for people in search of something unique... or as she puts it “for anyone who appreciates art.”
The appeal of Sydnie Banks bags is obvious, even to an untrained eye. They are unique, widely varied, colorful, and detailed – entirely one-of-one. “The quality is truly what sets them apart,” she said, explaining how she sketches, cuts, and stitches with thread coated in her father-in-law's beeswax. And she does it all by hand.
Her bags are for people in search of something unique, those looking for a little luxury, or as she puts it “for anyone who appreciates art.” Her art has earned recognition in Elle UK and on the runways of New York Fashion Week.
She was recently invited to participate in Paris Fashion Week. But each time she sat down to accept an invitation, something stopped her. Call it intuition, the mother of four and accomplished artist said. “It just didn’t feel right.”
Since similar signs had guided her craft to this point, she wasn’t going to stop listening to them now. Rather than unveil her latest collection of Sydnie Banks luxury handbags abroad, the 33-year-old mother of four is finalizing plans for a fall fashion show held in her Edmond home. The collection is aptly titled ‘Homeward Bound’.
Learn more about the brand and the real, raw stories that inspire it at sydniebanks.com.
Photo: STUDIO
Photo: STUDIO V
Photo: Justin Troung
Photo: Sydnie Peebles
Forever Loving Jay!
By Louise Tucker Jones
It has been two years since my son, Jay took his flight to heaven. Two years of missing his hugs, laughter, love, singing, dancing, teasing and all that made Jay unique. Two years without Sunday morning church, Sonic runs, trips to Arkansas and daily mac & cheese. Two years without Jay!
I wrote this poem for Jay when he graduated from high school. I’m sharing it in memory of Jay.
A Mother’s Love
If love could take away each hurt and dry up every tear
If love could keep you safe and well I'd have no reason to fear
If love could give you words to speak when no one understands The things locked deep inside your heart I'd place them in your hands
If love could give you a perfect world you'd have sunshine all day long Angels would dance in your room each night while the heavens sing you a song
If love could grant each "wish on a star" and make all your dreams come true The earth and the sky could not contain all the treasures I'd give to you
But this thing called love is a mystery; it's fragile yet very strong I can't shield you from every heartache but I'll be there when things go wrong
My love and my arms have embraced you throughout all of these years And my love will reach through eternity until the end of time is here.
My sweet Jay! How I miss you!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Louise Tucker Jones is an award-winning author, inspirational speaker & founder of Wives With Heavenly Husbands, a support group for widows. LouiseTJ@cox.net or LouiseTuckerJones.com.
'Mama, I tried to end my life.' When I heard her start crying, I knew something had to change.
Giving Back After Getting a Second Chance
By Taylor Bollinger
At only seven years old, Luke Weeks felt "different." Though he didn’t yet have all the words to explain it, the emotions he experienced were very real.
“I felt like there was something wrong with me,” Luke said. “I had a lot of friends, I did well in school, and I had a good relationship with my parents. But I felt different, and I didn’t know what to do about it.”
Luke said these feelings scared him as a child. “I didn’t know what to do, or who to turn to.” As he grew up, the feelings didn’t leave or lessen. “I kept it all to myself because I was afraid of what people would think, or that they’d judge, or assign thoughts to me that weren’t my own.”
At 17, Luke lacked the resources to manage these feelings or the ability to make them disappear. Instead of driving to high school one Monday morning, Luke got in his car and drove it into a bridge.
“I woke up to a man knocking on my window, telling me I needed to get out of the car,” Luke said. He obeyed, crawling over broken glass and debris to escape his totaled vehicle. “Once we were about 50 feet away, I looked back and my car was up in flames.”
It wasn’t until he overheard first responders asking where the body was that Luke realized the incredible odds of his survival. When a paramedic handed him a phone, Luke made the call that changed his life.
“I called my mom and said, ‘Mama, I tried to end my life.’ When I heard her start crying, I knew something had to change,” Luke said. “For my mom, my family, my friends, for everyone who’d been cheering me on all those years, I had to change.”
Now, he is single-minded in his mission to help others struggling with depression or suicidal ideation. Luke is studying psychology at UCO, works part-time at a local psychiatry clinic, and serves as a mental health technician at the same center where he initially received help.
Luke’s past, along with his head-on approach to managing depression in the present, combines to create a powerful story he isn’t afraid to share. “I finally found the courage to talk about what I was feeling, and I’ve made sure I have a community who will listen ever since.”
Photography by Michelle Ridner
Luke also said strategies like fitness and setting achievable shortterm goals have proven successful strategies for him. But when it comes to mental health, he calls it a “two-way street.” To those struggling with depression and thoughts of suicide, Luke says, “You have to be willing to be helped.” And he reminds others that “depression isn’t always obvious, and it doesn’t always have a clear cause.”
Luke partners with local resources like Heroes in Waiting, an antibullying organization whose curriculum and live programming focus on helping kids shape a culture of empathy in their schools and peer groups and on specific ways they can step up to make a life-changing difference for someone else.
For resources on how to help, visit 988oklahoma.com. If you need help, call 988 today. Visit heroesinwaiting.org to see more of Luke’s story.
