Twenty Something Magazine - November 2011

Twenty Something November 2011

Lil Doescher Hair & Makeup Artist Salon 9309 405.607.4247

Meredith Foerster Feature Writer

Meagan Owen Feature Writer

Sherree Chamberlain Feature Writer

Jacob Peregrin Stylist

Christina Fallin-Bacon Feature Writer

Alex Mendez-Kelly Makeup Artist Feature Writer

Denver Duncan Feature Writer

Interns: Kylee Gwartney & Ashley Foster

CONT

Luke Stephens Feature Writer

Sarah Ethridge Feature Writer

Jeff Ragan Feature Writer

Abigail Ogle Feature Writer

Bethany Young Editor-in-Chief Co-Creative Director Photographer

Kelsey Self Fashion Director Co-Creative Director Stylist

Jamy Green Hair Stylist Duncan Brothers Salon 405.748.8688

Sharon Tabb Makeup Artist MakeupOklahoma.com

Steve Clausen Fitness Trainer OneHealthyBod.com

Emily Davis Feature Writer

TRIBUTORS

Fashion

Fashion

Hair & Makeup: Lil Doescher Photography: Bethany Young Styling: Kelsey Self & Jacob Peregrin Models: Kendall Harris & Kojo Yeboah Clothing Provided by: Blue Seven, Gil’s & Shoe Gypsy

Fall Fashions

Fashion

Fashion

Makeup: Alex Mendez-Kelly Photography: Bethany Young Model: Kelsey Self Furs provided by Koslows

“There is always a way to wear fur.”

Anna Wintour

Fashion

November Trend: The ‘Stache

Some things in life are very enjoyable, but only meant for short periods of time, i.e. family visits, jumping rope, playing Monopoly or pogs. The list could go on and on. Most items on the list know their place and don’t stick around too long, but occasionally one comes to town, LOVES the scenery, gets an apartment, a girlfriend, a scooter, and over stays its welcome. The most recent unwanted drifter is the mustache.

Now I love a good mustache just as much as the next upper lip, but in honor of No Shave November, we should cover some ground rules when contemplating the growing and sporting of a ‘stache. If you’re Doug Sauter, Tom Selleck, or your mustache looks like it has a mustache, then just stop reading. This will not apply to you. Tom, I know you’re an avid reader of mine so you can just take a little break. For the other 99 percent, please pay close attention and follow these guidelines. Always ask who, when, and where before adorning a nose mullet.

The Who For most of us, this is the most important place to start when growing a lip blanket. If you are not any of these people or people groups, bust out the Mach 5 and keep that lip smooth.

1.

Law Enforcement- The only thing scarier than getting pulled over by a cop is getting pulled over by a cop with an intimidating mustache.

2.

Cowboys- I think the saying goes, “The tighter your Wranglers are, the longer your mustache grows.” I could be misquoting that.

3.

Adult film professionals- That’s a given.

4.

Navy Seals- You guys do whatever you want. Forget I even said anything.

5.

Tom Selleck- You’re simply the best!

6.

Cab Drivers- There is something terrifiying, yet intriguing, about your mustache prowess.

7.

Yosemite Sam- Technically more ‘stache than man. Amazing.

8.

Men over the age of 40- There is a miraculous metamorphosis that takes place in a man’s life when he turns from just a man to a man who can wear a mustache.

Doctors say it’s at age 40.

I know there is a group of people who think they are wildly ironic with the way they flaunt their “mustache” (said in fancy voice) that would like to weasel their way onto this list, but I won’t let that happen. Hulk Hogan and I will stop it at all cost!

The When Here are some questions to ask yourself if you choose to ignore the first step.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Is Halloween fast approaching?

Is it November?

Do you have family portraits scheduled for Thanksgiving break?

Are you booked to give the keynote at the adult industries convention in Vegas?

Are you entered in a Tom Selleck look-a-like contest? (Tom, I knew you couldn’t stop reading) Are you mad at your mom, girlfriend, or wife?

These are really the only times it would be appropriate for the general population of men to wear a cookie duster. Oh, I probably don’t have to put this in here but I am, just to be clear. Ladies, NEVER, NEVER, NEVER have any kind of hair growing from your lip!

The Where If you’re still in denial about the quality of your ‘stache, and you’re choosing to move forward in this period that you will most definitely call a “weird time in your life”, here are some acceptable places to wear a lip rug.

1.

Mustache themed parties 2. Hungary 3.

The woods That’s it. So all of you out there who think you can just keep letting it grow and it will fill in. I say just give up and grow a goatee. Maybe that will come back in style. Oh, if you have a goatee… Bic it.

Writen by Denver Duncan

Fashion

Beauty

Time Saving Glamour Tips

Time is of the essence, yes? And who doesn’t need a little extra time this time of year? I know this is the “time” to be thankful for all those people and blessings in our lives, and believe me I am! I am extremely grateful to who ever invented waterproof, smudge proof and longwearing eyeliner and lip stain! I don’t know about you, but I just can’t be primping all day long in between every single client, although I have to say that wouldn’t be the most horrible thing ever, especially since I love to do that for all of you! However it is not very realistic. Here are some tips and some products to help get the most mileage from your day.

Let’s start with blush. I know I look really washed out by mid afternoon and I have a lot of day and night left to go! The best thing to do for yourself is to get handy with a little cream blush. I love Lipstick Queen’s Oxymoron Minor Crisis. The best part is that you can use your fingers to glide over your cheek bones and blend it out over your tinted moisturizer or foundation. If you only use powder foundations hold your horses! Cream first, then powder. Always use cream with cream and powder with powder. Once your cream blush is where you want it, powder away in either a loose or a compact powder. Once you are done buffing that out smile wide and place a little powder blush to your apples (the roundest part of your cheek under your eyes) of your cheeks. Viola! You have blush that will last a long time! The powder color can be light and fresh like Hot Mama from The Balm!

Now on to the eyes. Eyeliner can be a b*tch! It smudges, it rolls, gets in your eyes, makes black eye buggies and can age you like a mother by creating dark shadows under your eyes. So layering here my friends is the trick, thin layers like an entremets (French cake with crazy little even layers - way yum, just sayin’). If you know you are a smudge-er and no matter what you do, you still crease under your eyes, guess what? There is nothing to help you there! Don’t believe the lies you hear from the sales ladies. Unless you are willing to look old from the amount of powder you would have to use or constantly fix your under eye, just give it up. Concealer is probably more important, so use a dark eye shadow color and place across the lashes on the bottom and really play up the upper lashes where creasing can be more forgiving. Be sure and follow the line all the way through, from inner to outer edge. Eyeliner should not stop half way through. (major pet peeve of our beloved Kim Mertens, Makeup Artist extraordinaire!) On the top lashes place a little black

liner (or color of your choice) and smudge with an eye shadow and the finish off with liquid eyeliner. I love the T.LeClerc liquid eyeliner. Truly one of the best! Time consuming? Yes a little in the morning but it will make a huge difference throughout the day.

Aannnddd it really perks your eyes up and makes you look more alert, even when we all know you were up late watching Rachael Zoe marathons! Once you master this you can make thicker lines or cat eyes and use all kinds of colors.

And for the piece de resistence - Lips! I love a lip product! Don’t you? I am a child of the 80’s so I love a good lip liner! Pick a good neutral color and line your lips the shape you want them to have. I love Lipstick Queen’s Natural lip liner. Find a stain, a berry or red. I die for Liptini stains. It’s what they do! Try Singapore Sling or Kirsh. Let it dry and apply lipstick. Traditional lipstick. Like the old fashioned kind in a tube with color! No one beats Lipstick Queen in this department either. Also try NARS - always a winner! You are set and all you have to do is apply a little lip balm or gloss throughout the day. I call these walk and talk colors! Just apply and purse lips together and go!

I hope you are thankful for some of these helpful hints on this busy, crazy, wonderful time of year! Now show me what you got!

Writen by Alex Mendez-Kelley Owner of The MakeUp Bar

Beauty

Pimple Problems

It’s the day before your first big interview, and disaster strikes. You wake up early to hit the gym only to discover you have a gargantuan pimple on your face.

Perfect timing.

When first impressions are everything, this terrible event can feel like the end of the world. After all, acne is supposed to be reserved for brooding, hormonal teenagers. But it isn’t. The pimple has struck as another reminder that you’re still not that old yet.

What are you going to do? Book a last minute facial? Try putting Windex on it like in My Big Fat Greek Wedding?

Before you freak out, there are four proven products that can help you – and fast. So ditch your Proactiv (it hasn’t worked since 7th grade anyway) and head to your nearest Ulta.

Product # 1 Mario Badescu Drying Lotion $17 This product is an absolute must-have for everyone. It kills pimples faster than anything out there. Even supermodels like Kate Moss, who have no option but perfect skin, are said to use this pink lifesaver. Plus, the bottle lasts a long time.

Simply dip a cotton swab into the sediment and dot it on the problem area.

Leave it on overnight. When you wash it off the next day either a) the pimple is completely gone, or b) the gunk has come to the surface so it can easily be popped without scarring your skin.

Product # 2 Mario Badescu Buffering Lotion $17 Okay, I’m a huge fan of Mario’s products. He’s such a genius that even Oprah uses his stuff.

That being said, sometimes your skin can still be inflamed even after the pimple’s fate has been sealed. That’s when you need the buffering lotion. It helps to shrink your skin back to normal and make sure that pimple doesn’t come back.

It’s also really effective at clearing up smaller, less noticeable outbreaks and relieving the pain of “underground” or cystic acne. All you do is apply a few

drops to the problem area and rub it in.

Best of all, the buffering lotion does not contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. So to you twenty somethings with sensitive skin, you’re covered.

Product # 3 Acne Free Terminator10 $6.49 If you want a product that’s cheaper, and still effective, the terminator is your best bet. You can pick this up at most drug stores, including CVS. The terminator is a dermatologist recommended spot treatment that has the most benzoyl peroxide you can get without a prescription – 10 percent. No more messing around with those silly 2.5 percent spot treatments! If your skin tolerates benzoyl peroxide, then get this.

Apply a dot of the treatment to the pimple. Leave it on for as long as you can, preferably over night.

Product #4 Campho-phenique $5.29 You mean the stuff you put on cuts and bug bites? Yes. Chances are if you have a first aid kit anywhere, this is probably in it.

Guess what? It works on pimples too. My great grandma swore by this, and grandmas are never wrong.

It contains camphorated phenol, which is almost 11 percent camphor. Camphor oil is good stuff! It’s used in plenty of acne products including Mario’s drying lotion.

Like most products, this works best when your pores are open. Use a cotton swab to dab some on the affected area when you get out of the shower. Apply it a few more times before bed. Doing this helps to dry up the pimple.

Also, if you’re super bad about picking at your skin, Campho-phenique is good for repairing whatever damage you’ve done.

There you have it ladies and gentlemen. Your days of freaking out or refusing to be seen in public are over. At least one of these products will become your new skincare BFF and leave you looking even more amazing.

Writen by Kylee Gwartney

Feature

Holiday Hosting

Being a Twenty Something and having your first home often means having guests for the first time. At my house, I have been so blessed to host lots of visitors and I always try to go the extra mile to make anyone feel as at home in my house as I do. And with the holidays coming up, knowing what do to make your guests comfortable is so important. Really, all I had to do is figure out what I would like my host to do for me if I was staying at their house, and do the same for my guests! Once you know what makes you want to return to someone else’s home time and time again, it’s a lot easier to make your home a place people want to be in.

1.

First things first. Let your guests know what to expect from their trip. I love knowing what the plans are so I can pack accordingly. Anytime someone is coming to stay at my house, I contact them at least a week before they arrive to let them know what all we will be doing.

2.

Make sure you have the necessities in the bedroom your guests will be staying in. Make it a welcoming space. Having a plush bed with plenty of pillows is definitely a must. Spray the sheets with linen spray to make them smell extra fresh. Having fresh flowers in the room is always a great touch, too. Have magazines and books in the room. Including books or magazines from the city that you live in is a great way to get guests acquainted with the city, and a nice ‘local’ touch. I think it also goes without saying that the room should be cleaned, vacuumed and dusted J 3.

Make room in closet so your guests can hang up their clothes as well. For us, this means the Hubs moves some of his stuff into my closet.

Not ideal, but it works. Also, if you have a pet, leave a lint roller in the guest room. It’s also a good idea to get a luggage rack to accommodate extra bags.

4.

I like to have some sustenance in the guest room as well. A carafe of water and a few snacks in the guest room will do. That way, your visitors won’t have to traipse to the kitchen in the middle of the night to get a drink.

5.

Other little things to consider: make temperature control easy - keep an extra blanket and fan where your guests can access them. Make sure they know where the outlets are so they can plug in their phone chargers, curling irons, laptops etc. Put a mirror in the room so getting ready is easy.

6.

Don’t overlook the guest bathroom. Make sure there are extra toilet paper, tissue and towels available. A few other basics that you should leave for your guests: toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, lotion, Qtips, cotton balls and Advil. There is nothing better than going to a house where I know if I forget something, it won’t be a problem because it will already be there waiting for me and I won’t have to run to the Walgreens.

7.

Lastly, find out some of your guest’s favorite foods and have them in house. Show them where the coffee maker is so if they are the first up, they aren’t waiting on you.

Trying to anticipate your visitors’ needs will ensure they have a great time in your home and will definitely come back! There is nothing better than getting affirmation that your guests feel like your home is theirs as well!

House Beautiful. Room design by Marshall Watson.

Written by Emily Davis

Feature What Your Favorite Thanksgiving Dish Says About You: Turkey: You want to be a real man, but you didn’t quite make the cut. Perhaps your dad envisioned you to be the star hat quarterback on the football team, or the Valedictorian.

You, however, are the lighter version of your parent’s expectations. You’re an exceptional ping-pong player, and an excellent flautist. There’s a certain level of sleepiness and lack of energy that holds you back from being bold.

Advice: Not to worry - there’s nothing wrong with being the mildest of all your sib lings. You’re good at what you do.

Works well with: Gravy, Cranberry Sauce, and Stuffing types

Mashed Potatoes: You’re kind of like everyone’s doormat. You’re likeable, don’t get me wrong, but people usually have to add their own little flair to make you what they want you to be. And the crazy thing is? You go along with it. While there’s nothing innately wrong with accepting outside help, the sad truth of the matter is, you are dull without it.

Your personality is bland, and tasteless.

Advice: Go along with what others put on you, because you never know . . . accept ing a little outside help just might make you the star of the show.

Works well with: Gravy types

Gravy: Gravy can go two ways. If you are white gravy, you’re a bit of a country bumpkin.

If you’re brown gravy, you bring a little kick with you wherever you go. Regardless of color, you both deliver the same result. You are nosy and incessant upon meddling with everyone else’s business. You are able to effortlessly glide into almost any social circle, and add your own flair.

Advice: Be careful where you show up. You can either be the element of unexpected greatness, or can turn a sweet moment sour.

Works well with: Turkey, Mashed Potato, Stuffing, and Roll types

Stuffing: You are the wild card. While universally welcome at most any household, people hold their breaths waiting to find what you bring to the table. You vary depending on from what region you originate. Sometimes you bring a peppery fury, and other times provide the right amount of warm comfort.

Advice: Though you may vary from household to household, try to be consistent in your dealings. People seem to warm up more quickly to you when they know what to expect.

Works Well With: Turkey, Mashed Potatoes, and Gravy types

Green Bean Casserole: You, my friend, are a wolf in sheep’s clothing. You masquerade as an exciting, edgy person, while you are in fact - no fun at all. You are the HR guy that tries to hang with the office cool kids, the teacher that tries to be BFFs with her students.

You are in a word - a fraud.

Advice: Stop the charade. We all know who you really are.

Works well with: Salad types

Salad: You suck you suck you suck. You’re probably really skinny and never go out and have fun with your friends. Lighten up . . . better yet, fatten up and let loose. This is Thanksgiving for heaven’s sake.

Advice: I don’t really want to talk to you.

Works well with: Nothing. Nobody likes you.

Sweet Potatoes: You are all things to all people. If your friends need you to be sweet . . . you can be sickly so. If they need you to be a bit heartier, you can do the same. Yet there are drawbacks to being so unique. While you are quite the chameleon, you don’t necessarily fit in with any specific crowd.

Advice: There’s nothing wrong with being a little different if you own it. Get down with your bad self.

Works well with: Most anything, but best to be taken separately.

Rolls: You are an old standard. You get along with everyone you meet, never really branch out much, and are reliable in most any situation. You weren’t meant for the spotlight, but that’s okay with you. You usually end up in the service business of some type. Pushing people to get to where they need to go, helping others make it on their way up, or sopping up the messes others have made.

Advice: Everyone loves a giving heart, but try to stand alone sometimes. People forget to appreciate you for who you are.

Works well with: All things. You are a welcome addition to any situation.

Cranberry Sauce: There’s a pretty good chance you’re over 50 if this is your dish of choice.

You’re a special breed of person that is despised by some, and relished by others. You tend to be a bit unexpected. Sometimes complimenting the occasion, other times leaving a sour taste in people’s mouths.

Advice: It’s okay to be both loved and hated. Though you can’t win them all, be careful in your dealings. Be selective with who you let in.

Works well with: Turkey types, and the occasional Roll type

Pumpkin Pie: You are pretty into the classics. There’s a good chance you’re wearing a crisp white collared shirt and checking your gold wristwatch as this article continues to ramble on and on. You are universally accepted, never in question, and well liked by others. Other types not only assume you will be in attendance, they even anticipate your presence.

Advice: Don’t show up with the rest of the dishes. You are to be fashionably late...

people will savor your presence that much more.

Works Well With: Although you can mingle among the likes of the Sweet Potato

and Roll types, you are truly in a class of your own, and you’d like to keep it that way.

Writen by Sherree Chamberlain

Feature

How To Survive the Holidays

Ready or not, here they come! The holidays are in full swing. No more procrastinating or trying to run from grandma’s dinner. Let’s face it…you’re going to attend, but how do you get through these next couple of months with your sanity still intact?

Here are a few tips to making it through Thanksgiving and Christmas.

1. Ask for Help Let’s face it, there is no way that you can set the table, make the turkey, pour wine and entertain guests all at the same time. Everyone will ask to help with something, so let them. Don’t feel like you have to do everything. Guests would rather eat on time and be helpful than wait on you to do everything all by yourself just so you can have the limelight. If you’re a guest rather than a host, OFFER TO HELP! 2. Be Realistic Your expectations might be similar to that of Martha Stewart, but let’s face it… you’re not the homemaker she is.

3. Stick to a Budget Every year Christmas wraps up and we tell ourselves, ‘next year I’m going to buy things early.’ Well, did it actually happen? If not, chances are you’ll buy the first thing you come across for those on your list, regardless of the price. Do your best to shop early and have in mind a price point for each person. Then stick to it! While you would like to give everyone the gift of their dreams, sometimes it’s just not realistic.

4. Plan Ahead Make to-do lists. As stupid as they may seem, they will actually save you time and heartache during crunch time. And if you keep yourself on track, you may just remember to shop early, which will help with tip #3.

5. Make Time for Yourself The holidays are all about spending time with family, but don’t devote every waking hour to only pleasing those people. You’ve got to enjoy time to yourself as well.

Make sure to take a date night with your boo or get a mani/ pedi after a long week.

The small breaks will make the big events seem more worth it.

6. Let Your Diet Slide… BUT ONLY A LITTLE! The jury is out on how much weight the average person can gain during this season, but it’s decidedly easy to indulge on holiday cookies, cakes, pies, candies, turkeys, hams… need we go on? Don’t deny yourself; have a little reward every now and again, but just keep it in check and you’ll feel a lot better physically and emotionally as the season progresses.

We know that not everyone is perfect, so if you can only stick to a couple of these tips this year, that’s okay. Just do your best and you’re sure to feel better than ever.

Most of all, just remember to enjoy this exciting time of year!

Written by KSBI All About You hosts Kealey McIntire & JaNiece Cranmer

Feature Pinterest Inspirations

Often times I feel as if I am behind in the techno-world. (I.E. Was the last of my friends to join Facebook, gave Twitter a while before joining and carried a T-Mobile Sidekick well up until the iPhone 3 was over and people were upgrading to the 4.) Likewise, I gave this new “Pinterest” site a while before I was fully sucked in. And truly, you almost can’t sign up without devoting a significant three hours the day of to be completely overwhelmed and obsessed with “pinning.”

For those of you that don’t know, Pinterest is a site that acts like an online pinboard (you know, those cork boards in the old days that you actually used those thumb tacks to tack up pictures, ideas, reminders, etc.) Well they have made a website that allows you to sign up and create different boards for yourself according to your likes. You can “follow” your friend’s boards much like Twitter and re-pin your favorite things from theirs to yours. Clearly, a giddy version of plagiarism.

Most everyone’s favorite pins usually have things to do with DIY projects, crafts and recipes.

Most of which we pin with lofty expectations that we will do them but probably will never find the time. There are several tutorials on how to make everything from fabric flowers on wreaths or distressing furniture, but what about the non-crafty people? The people that try to sew and the seams are inside out, the people that try to use hot glue gun and only end of with a puddle of scalding glue and several blisters and for the twenty-something girl whose cooking repertoire consists of: toast, eggs, Easy Mac and a baked potato. We have solved your problem!

I consider myself a crafty person but felt for the people who sign on and think, “there is no way I can do this?!” and for the girls that have no time. Since fall and Thanksgiving are right around the corner, everyone is decorating their house/apartment, right? Right. So I have put together four crafts, all within different budgets to help spruce up your living space and make you look like a craft wizard. As a bonus, with help of my best friend and editor of the magazine, (who can attest to the toast, eggs, baked potato portion of this article) we have put together an awesome edible arrangement to take to Thanksgiving at your house and surely stun the folks! $0-$5 Stick Wrapped Candles Like me, I am sure you have several candles in your house that you currently aren’t burning and/or love a great fall scent and can run to the store quickly and grab a few inexpensive fall smells to do this project. Four things to complete this: several twigs from any tree, fall candle (preferably in a glass jar), hot glue and a fall colored or patterned ribbon. Start by snapping the twigs all in a uniform length (about the length of the candle jar.) Glue strips of hot glue onto the jar and carefully place twigs as close together as possible until the whole jar is covered. (You will need to do this in small sections because the glue will harden fast!) After all twigs are assembled, let it cool for a few minutes and tie a ribbon around the outside and glue into place! For a fancier look, you can use cinnamon sticks instead of twigs!

$6- $10 Pumpkin/Gourd stuffed vase Everyone has a vase lying around the house that they have received flowers in at one time. Put it to good use by placing small craft pumpkin/gourds/corn into the vase until they reach the top. Craft a bow out of fall fabric or tulle and tie it around the middle to finish off the look!

All these supplies can be found at craft stores and if you catch them at the right time- they might even be on sale! Seriously, all you have to know is how to tie a bow for this one… and there are even ways to cheat that!

$11-$15 Spray painted pumpkins Occasionally you see cute pumpkins and hay bales outside friend’s houses during the fall but imagine how cute different color pumpkins with easy designs are in front of your house or apartment? All you need for this craft is a few pumpkins, whatever colors of spray paint you prefer, some cheap paint brushes and acrylic paint and possible a pair of patterned pantyhose. Spread out some newspaper on the porch and spray your pumpkin in whatever color or texture you want. Let them dry and decide what to embellish with. Polka dots are relatively easy as are cute words or sayings. These can be painted on with inexpensive acrylic paint from craft stores. If you don’t have the steady hand for this, take a pair of patterned pantyhose and put a small pumpkin in one of the feet. You should be able to see the pumpkin through the pattern of the hosiery. Cut the top of the hose where the stem is and cover up your tracks with a tulle or fabric bow. Who knew pumpkins could be so chic?

$20-$30 Wreath with fall swags Lastly, if you are looking for something to adorn the door, head to a craft store and buy an empty twig wreath, a garland of fall leaves and several swags or picks from the fall aisle. First, wrap the garland of leaves around the wreath and pin in place (twisty-ties work great for this) to create a base of color. The second step couldn’t be easier- just stab the picks in! Take several of the picks or swags you bought from the craft store and insert them in the twig wreath. Most should stay in place but you might have to utilize the twisty ties again for those gone rogue. These are easily rearranged and you can always change it if there is something you don’t like! Grab a wreath hanger and hang it on the door or over the mantle, like mine!

Cont. on Next Page

Finally, for those of you who feel guilty not brining a dish to the family Thanksgiving, be sure and grab these ingredients to wow them with your masterpiece this year.

Head to the grocery store and get: 1 cantaloupe or honeydew melon Several red, yellow and orange bell peppers 1 sack or purple grapes 1 or 2 bags of cubed cheese 1 bosc pear 1 bag of skewers 1 package of toothpicks Any other good fall colored veggies or fruit.

Start by slicing the bell peppers into decent size (1/2 inch) strips. Poke toothpicks through the pepper strips and poke them into the melon in a half-moon shape to create a fan of “turkey feathers”. Keep placing the peppers (in alternate colors) around the fan until it looks full.

After the peppers have been placed, fill a skewer with the grapes and cheese (in an alternating pattern) and place them behind the front feathers to make the fan thicker and taller. Finally, attach the face by placing several toothpicks in the melon (or pear) and placing the pear onto the melon (via picks.) The toothpicks should act as the “glue” holding the head to the body.

Finally, decorate your turkey face and cut him some feet out of the leftover peppers!

Everyone will surely get a kick out of you bringing the Thanksgiving turkey this year! Bonus points if you bring a dip along side to dip the veggies in. (But lets face it, you can buy that at the store.)

Writen by Meagan Owen

Food

Turkey Day Health Plan

According to the Calorie Control Council, the average American consumes 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat on Thanksgiving Day. Alarmingly, this is approximately 2 to 3 day’s worth of calories for most people and enough fat to make “America’s Worst Meal”, Outback Steakhouse’s Aussie Cheese Fries with Ranch Dressing, look like a bonafide health superstar. It is 1,600 calories (a day’s worth for some) and 47g fat less than the norm on Thanksgiving.

When you make the worst meal in the country in comparison look like broccoli and chicken you know something is seriously wrong. You might be saying, “What’s the big deal? It’s just one day”. Well it wouldn’t be a big deal if people could get back to a good eating routine, but unfortunately that’s not the case.

Since Thanksgiving marks the official start to the Holidays and the beginning of “Winter Weight Gain” season we need to get off on the right track. We need to lay the foundation with good habits so we don’t gain that 5 to 10 pounds of unwanted flab from now until New Years as most Americans do. Research also suggests that a percentage of fat gained during this time never gets burned back off. Frightening to think about what you’ll look like several years down the road if the rate continues.

As you can see this is a critical point of year for our waistlines. Let us avoid being a part of the scary statistics above by creating some great habits that will allow us to enjoy the holiday season without letting our health slip up. For a great start to the holidays follow a few of these tips on Thanksgiving Day and through the New Year. Think of every tip you incorporate as saving you a pound of weight gain during the season.

Morning Workout - As usual, burning more calories and jump-starting the metabolism is a great way to go. The more calories you burn the more calories you can consume guilt free. I prefer a weight lifting workout, as I’ll be burning more calories hours later as my body is building and repairing muscle. The additional surplus in calories will be better used here in comparison to cardio.

Girls you can do this too. Don’t be scared of the weights. You don’t have the testosterone or the ability to consume copious amounts of calories consistent enough to get all big and bulky like most fear.

Have Breakfast – Refuel your body from the workout and keep yourself from overeating later. People make the mistake of skipping breakfast on a day like this to save calories. Bad idea. What you would have saved by skipping breakfast you more than make up for later as you are so hungry by the time you eat you’ll have zero self-control at the table.

Have a Game Plan – Make your calories count and know what you want to eat before getting started. Prioritize your favorite foods, put seasonal foods ahead of other foods such as bread that you can get throughout the year. Keep your portions reasonable. Don’t stuff yourself into feeling miserable. Have a scale from 1 to 10 gauging how full you are with 10 being more stuffed than the turkey. Aim for a 7.

Be Realistic – Have a weight maintenance mindset. Be smart and save calories on the days before or after Thanksgiving. Ex: if your normal maintenance caloric level is 2000/day, eat 1500 the day before, 3000 on Thanksgiving, and 1500 the following day. This will allow you to eat more than normal without having a caloric surplus for the 3-day period. If you really go overboard, consider fasting the following day. There are a lot of health benefits for an occasional fast, specifically following a “reward/cheat day”. This will help offset your high calorie day and reset your hormones to get your metabolism going again.

Easy on the Alcohol – Don’t waste lots of your calories on alcohol. Not only will you increase your calories, but this will make you more likely to over consume all foods in sight. Lastly, your metabolism will be slowed and your body won’t begin processing the food you ate until the alcohol has been processed by your liver.

Smaller Plate – People are most likely to fill their plate regardless of size, so start with a smaller plate so you consume less. This will help, considering most people have a “happy plate” mentality. Don’t overcompensate by refilling your plate too many times.

Table Manners - Don’t sit down, put your head down, and devour your food without hardly chewing or saying a word to anyone. Eat slower, chew longer, put your fork down or drink water between bites. Savor the food. Try to pick up individual flavors within every bite.

Go for a Walk after the Meal – Avoid the post meal food-induced nap and, instead, go for a walk. This will help you get in some exercise, some family time, and reduce/eliminate your post meal crash.

Real Reason for the Season – Last, but not least, remember the purpose for the day. Give thanks for your family, friends, the country you live in, and anything else important to you. Appreciate the small and often overlooked things.

Verbalize this to whoever you are sharing the day with. The more you talk, the less you will be eating (unless you’re the guy or gal that always talks with their mouth full).

Writen by Jeff Ragan

Feature

Twenty Something G Trang Cao

Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Melissa Cosper Clothing Provided by TEN14 and Royce Clothing

Girl

Just who is Trang?

I have never seen myself as anything amazing or special. You are who you are. I am a lover of all things unique and my biggest passion is to get to know people. My parents always taught me, “When you judge others, you don’t define them, you define yourself,” so I’ve been conditioned to just appreciate everyone.

How others perceive me? Well, I hope people see me as a Christian, a good person with many flaws and a humble individual. I just want to help others see their potential and self worth. That’s who I always strive to be.

What is your educational history?

Education is such an important building stone in life. I was born in a refugee camp in Malaysia and we immigrated to the USA when I was about 10 months old. The only reason my parents fled Vietnam was to give their children a better life. I grew up in a very strict, disciplined, Catholic household.

Education has always been very important in Asian cultures. So naturally, my parents made me study and take any extra classes and/or tutoring while I was growing up. Never really had time to play sports or been outdoorsy due to that!

I graduated from Putnam City West and went to the University of Central Oklahoma where I pursued my education in Communications and Public Relations. Throughout my studies I made sure I traveled, did charity work and involved myself in as many extracurricular activities as possible. I guess I didn’t know how much I stressed myself in college until I after I graduated in 2008. I was in about 26 organizations, was Miss Asian UCO and held two presidencies in two different clubs in one academic year! I was even in Miss Vietnam USA in Las Vegas and made the Top Five nationally, but made certain to get back to school in time for finals that fall. I was such a typical over-achiever. All of that is definitely nothing to brag about, but it showed me how amazing my parents were in teaching me to organize and prioritize. It really makes your life easier and you can do a lot more with your time. My education lays in my life experiences; my degrees are just the icing on the cake for me.

How did you get started with MDA? In college I spent three years tutoring in inner city schools. No one should ever doubt those kids; just because it’s called “inner city” doesn’t mean they will always have a difficult time getting where they want in life. That also applies vice-versa. Just be-

cause someone comes from a private school background doesn’t mean they will have it easier to get where they want. You should never assume positive or negative things about people. That’s why I love working with MDA. Individuals who need to be in a wheelchair don’t want you to assume that they can’t do what a person with use of their legs can.

What they lack in muscle strength, they make up in intellect and motivation to persevere.

When I graduated college I made sure I took time to travel and see the world. I got to visit Australia and lived in London last summer. I always love learning about others, where they came from and how they got to where they are. I noticed that people universally are willing to lend a helping hand.

My experiences in traveling and my work with youth throughout my life made me push for working in non-profits. I chose the most reputable charity that works one-on-one with the people they serve. The Muscular Dystrophy Association is something I have been so blessed to be part of.

What do you do for MDA now?

I’m the Healthcare Service Coordinator and Camp Director. I get to see our families we serve at our non-profit clinic at SW Integris every week. I also help facilitate support groups for our patients and their families. The days I’m not at the clinic, I am in my office working on fundraising events and preparing the summer camp for our children who are battling neuromuscular diseases.

These children are always told “no” they can’t do things other kids can do. At our camp we tell them “yes” you can do whatever you set your mind and heart to. It’s a blessing to be part of a week where these kids get to experience a camp that is adapted for their leg braces and wheelchairs. They look forward to being around kids just like them.

Battling an incurable disease is very heart-wrenching for me to witness every day. I see them every couple of months for their follow-ups in clinic and it tugs at my heart when I see progression in their disease. One month they can walk, in a few months they have to get leg braces and a wheelchair. But I learn so much from them. Getting upset, crying and taking pity are always initial and normal reactions to have. But I quickly learned it isn’t the approach to take.

We honestly take so much for granted. They show me that life isn’t supposed to be about stressing

over things we want; it should be about appreciating what we already have. No amount of schooling or degrees can teach you that.

What is the most rewarding part of what you do?

The most rewarding part of my job is that I get to grow as an individual by helping others through their obstacles and having these special people in my life. I am in awe of their will to fight this disease and share their stories. I had a camper who finally had to get his wheelchair; his lower extremities had gotten so weak and he had some bad falls. When he was in clinic getting fitted for his wheelchair, I just had to step out in the hall to collect myself.

I had seen him running around at camp just two months ago and now he has to be in a chair and get fitted for leg braces. It just broke my heart, and it hit me that this is a real disease that so many people battle with every day. I think he knew I was upset and, when no one was in the room, he leaned over and gave me a hug and said, “It’s okay Miss Trang. Now I can cut the line at Frontier City!”

It’s a beautiful thing to see others whose lives are unfortunately shorter than ours still be such an inspiration. I’m still learning about how wonderful little things are that I sometimes take for granted, and are the things I should be thankful for.

How can other Twenty Something’s get involved?

Everyone should do selfless deeds. There is always someone or something that needs our attention.

I had one of my campers send me a letter and a check for $54 dollars for MDA a few months back.

In the letter he told me he made his money by sitting at the end of his small town’s Easter parade selling cookies and lemonade. Then he said, “Thank you for all you do. I hope to do more in the future.”

I just want everyone in the community to be involved with MDA. I would love to see more faces at camp this upcoming July! Volunteering at our camp to be a counselor with our children is such a rewarding experience. I guarantee you will leave with a different perspective about life. If anyone is interested, please feel free to shoot me an email acao@mdausa.org or call the local MDA office.

Charity is important for anyone to truly grow in their journey to become a better person. I know I am growing through these experiences.

You are very fashionable. Who or what inspires your style?

Well, when you say fashionable, I hope you mean thrifty. I grew up in a family of five kids and, with my parents starting from scratch in a new country, we definitely were dressing on a budget! I am thankful for that upbringing though, and have a strong dislike about spending a lot of money on small items. I don’t think I could ever spend $1,000 on just a top. That just wouldn’t seem right. I would rather spend that on a timeless piece. I don’t mind splurging on a nice pair of pumps or handbags.

I always shop to find things that represent my mood and personality. I am a very simple person and want my style to exude that. I like solid colors that have simple lines and compliment my skin tone. Building my closet to have simple pieces makes it easier to mix and match my outfits. It saves me a lot of time and money in the long run.

When I lived in London last summer, I found a lot of simple blouses, skinny leg trousers, and pencil skirts at market; they are must haves for me. You can dress professional or go out on the town with those pieces. Just a quick hair change and jewelry can spice up that outfit.

Fashion shouldn’t be measured by your wallet size, or to show off or mask your body. It should be about what compliments your personality. Mine is just simple.

Do you have any encouraging words or advice for fellow Twenty Something’s?

My advice is to always strive to be better. Don’t ever become content with life because there is so much more you can do! No one person will ever be the same and, for that, we should all be thankful.

That being said, I learned that appreciating others for their good is a lot easier than judging them for the bad. If everyone will just lead by example, you will say more than words ever could.

Feature

Thirty Before Thirty

by Denver Duncan and Taylor Upchurch

Taylor: I’ve known Denver for 18 years. We met at a church camp in southwest

Oklahoma in the 4th grade.

Denver: If I remember right, Taylor tried to go out with my sister who was in the 3rd grade!

Taylor: Ha ha. I don’t remember that! It was too long ago!

Denver: She’s never been the same.

Taylor: Anyways, Denver moved from Hobart to Woodward in the 5th grade.

Denver: It was the middle of my 3rd grade year. Oak Park, Mrs. Fischer. She hated me.

Taylor: I moved a couple of years later from Burns Flat. That’s when our friend

ship really started to blossom.

Denver: Blossom? That was right before the 7th grade, right?

Taylor: Ya, little did we know that our paths would cross again. Let the hi-jinks begin.

Denver: We’ve been through a lot together.

Taylor: Girls, wrecks, marriage, kids, even loosing family.

Denver: I was there when Taylor thought he fell in love for the first time. He

came in to my room, fell back on the bed and said, “Denver…..(exhale)

I think I’m in love.” I’m pretty sure he had just met her.

Taylor: Ha ha. I don’t think that relationship ever materialized. Like he said, it

was everything together.

Denver: We’re starting to get a little older and we thought it would be fun to

come up with a list of things to do.

Taylor: Not a bucket list!

Denver: Right, not a bucket list. Just a fun Oklahoma-themed list of things to do

before we turn 30.

Taylor: Since we are both Okies born and raised.

Denver: Without further a due, here is our list! #1 Go to a rock concert in all leather Denver: This was Taylor’s idea. I think deep down he has a leather fetish.

Taylor: What!?! #2 Survive a day and night in the wilderness Taylor: Now when we say wilderness, it is Oklahoma. So I don’t think there are

any lions or that sort of thing. Just us living off the land.

Denver: I’ve got to start working on my trapping skills. #3 Stay the night in a jail cell Taylor: Alone. As an experiment. I’m not getting arrested.

Denver: What if they make us stay in a communal cell? I won’t do it!

#4 Be in a rodeo Taylor: That could be in any fashion. Like carry a flag in the opening ceremony

or partake in the muttin’ bustin’ contest.

Denver: Or ride on the back of a horse with a real cowboy or cowgirl. #5 Street perform and make $50 Denver: I’m making Taylor do this one. I’ll be his agent.

Taylor: Break dance or bucket drums? #6 Play basketball with a Thunder player Denver: I’m calling out Nick Collison. Tay, who do you want?

Taylor: I’ll take the honeybadger, Westbrook. #7 Emcee a beauty pageant Taylor: I’ve got to get fitted for a tux. I’ve gained weight since senior prom. #8 Have dinner with Gary England Denver: This will be huge if we can pull it off.

Taylor: He’s a northwestern Oklahoma boy like us, so maybe he’ll say yes.

Denver: If you know The Eng’s help us out. #9 Drive entire Route 66 Denver: Road trip!!!

Taylor: And only drink route 66’s!

Denver: I think it’s route 44’s ha ha. #10 Eat Bobo’s chicken Taylor: If you haven’t had Bobo’s Chicken, then you haven’t lived!

Denver: Eastside!!! #11 Kayak the Oklahoma River Taylor: We should do this right after we eat Bobo’s.

Denver: The grease will act as a water repellent! #12 Go Noodling Denver: I’m not going to lie. I’m kind off regretting putting this on the list.

Taylor: What about beavers and snakes man! #13 Win a trophy at the Okeene Rattlesnake Hunt Talent Show Taylor: We’re thinking of selecting a non-traditional talent. Something a little

more off the beaten path.

Denver: Really catch the judge’s eye.

#14 Hike the Black Mesa Denver: All the way to the top! Highest point in Oklahoma.

Taylor: Thank you Mr. Herron, 9th grade Oklahoma history.

Denver: Ha ha! #15 Stay the night in a Wal-Mart Supercenter (not get kicked out) Taylor: Denver doesn’t like this one.

Denver: I’ll like it if we can talk the dude who rides on that floor mopper, squee

gee thing into letting me give it a go. #16 Eat Calf fries at Cattleman’s Denver: No matter how you slice it, they’re still steer nuts. #17 Throw the first pitch at a Redhawks game Taylor: We will probably need a little help on this one. So if you know some

body who knows somebody, hit us up! #18 Drop in on a half pipe Denver: This will most likely end badly, but I think we will be really cool looking

standing atop a half pipe. What are your thoughts?

Taylor: The last skateboard I owned had a picture of Snoopy on it and said “Joe

Cool” on the bottom. It will end badly. #19 Milk a Cow at the Braum’s farm Denver: Do you think they’ll let us have a little taste?

Taylor: You’re going to shoot it directly into your mouth?

Denver: Maybe? If they turn their back for a sec.

Taylor: Gross. #20 Job shadow a police officer/fireman Taylor: We prepped ourselves by watching Starsky and Hutch and Backdraft. #21 Attend a party at the Governor’s Mansion Taylor: I will try to cut in on a dance with the First Lady.

Denver: No you won’t! $20 says you won’t.

Taylor: OK then. #22 Get Glamour Shots Taylor: “Not it” on wearing the feathered boa.

Denver: Dang it! Ok, “not it” on wearing the American flag jacket. #23 Be a ranch hand for a day Denver: This will be harder than we think. I’m not artificially inseminating a cow.

Taylor:

And shovel feces. I hope I don’t get a blister.

#24 Run in the OKC Marathon Taylor: We should take this off. There’s no way we can do this. #25 Hang out at a nursing home for the day Denver: Anyone want to play “Life”? #26 Thank our kindergarten teacher in person Taylor: Mrs. Davis taught me to share and play well with others.

Denver: Road trip to Burns-Flat and Hobart! #27 Help a damsel in distress Denver: I hope we get there before the train does.

Taylor: I was thinking something more like changing a tire. #28 Dress as Count Dracula to the Breaking Dawn premiere Denver: Real vampires can’t go out in the sun.

Taylor: I hope Taylor Lautner doesn’t try to fight me. #29 Only eat local for a week Taylor: Everyone should support local business.

Denver: I’ve got my “Keep It Local” card ready. Shout out to Chris Branson and Bryce Bandy. #30 Bike with Mat Hoffman Taylor: This would be big!

Denver: Biking with a legend would get me through my mid-life crisis.

Taylor: Follow @CondorBMX and beg him on behalf of us.

It’s a short time until May. We’ve got some work to do. Follow us on Twitter for weekly updates, @denverduncan and @taylor_upchurch (probably the most unoriginal twitter handles ever), and @20SomethingMag as they chronicle our adventures.

Feature

Beard Off 2011

November is finally here! To be quite honest, I don’t have that much to talk about this month. It’s mainly because I have only had one thing on my mind throughout October. I want to shave my beard.

Late in August, I decided to take part in Tree & Leaf ’s first annual beard growing contest, Beard Off. Two months of nonstop beard growth. There would be prizes given in categories such as Best Moustache, Fullest Beard, Beard Fail (worst beard), and a fan vote. If you want to get a look at the full group of bearded gentlemen, check out www.treeandleafclothing.com. Looking back, I didn’t know what I was getting myself into.

As part of the contest, the contestants had to take a picture of their beard progress every Thursday, to track our progress. And now, I would like to share my beard journey with you. Buckle your seatbelts, its gonna be a hairy ride.

Week Zero

Week Two

Week One

Week Three Notice how far back my beard extends on my neck, that is expert level beard growing, folks.

Week Four This is the week where my beard

got out of hand and I briefly lost my mind.

Week Six

Week Seven

Week Five With a beard this manly, you don’t need a shirt.

Week Eight

Week Nine The final week of Beard Off 2011 (also, HAIRCUT WEEK)

It was a hard journey, but I made it. I’ve never had a beard so big and so manly. But like all good things, it couldn’t last forever. I had to say goodbye to the bearded goodness.

Shaving a big ole’ beard is one of my favorite things to do, because I get to experiment with facial hair that I normally wouldn’t dare let see the light of day. People couldn’t handle me if I looked like these next few pictures all the time.

The Goatee I look 35, and evil.

‘Stache and Soul Patch

Moustache

And now, after two long months of uninterrupted facial hair growth, I am back to my old self. I look about ten years younger. The only problem is that my face is much colder now that the weather is changing, but I will persevere. A little face frostbite is worth being rid of my beard.

With all that said, next year I will probably take part in Tree & Leaf ’s Beard Off 2012, and for all the guys out there reading this, I hope that you take part as well.

See you next month, Luke Stephens www.everygirliveeverkissed.com

Music

What We’re Listen Song of the Month: “Lofticries” by Purity Ring I’ve only heard a couple songs by Purity Ring, but man do I like them. So smart. I share a lot of electronic music with y’all and I hope that you guys appreciate it as much as I do. “Lofticries” has some sort of a dark mysterious factor that makes it interesting. Plus, it’s just an easy song to listen to. This is a band to watch out for, with other great songs, like “Belispeak” and “Ungirthed.”

Album of the month: ‘Audio, Video, Disco’ by Justice

Does anyone out there listen to these guys? Well, if you haven’t heard of them, and you by chance like shopping at Urban Outfitters, like to dance, and appreciate a little turntable action, then you’ll love Justice. Consisting of two guys, Gaspard Auge, and Xavier de Rosnay, the French duo recently released their new album on October 24 after their near four year hiatus from their last major project ‘Cross.’ The best way to describe Justice is a French band who sounds like MGMT without a tenor-voiced emo boy and likes to get a little crazy from time to time. Apparently they put on a stellar show with incredible energy, making it impossible to leave, according to a friend of mine who saw them in Miami. I’ll take that piece of information to heart. I’m all about having a good time.

ning To...

Artist of the month: Little Dragon

I first started listening to Little Dragon when I got one of their songs for free on an iTunes playlist in 2008. (Everyone should be a fan on facebook by the way.) For some reason their song “Blinking Pigs” really stuck out to me, and it wasn’t until recently when I heard “Seconds” how good I realized they are.

They’re a group of friends from Sweden and were formed in 1996. I’m happy they’ve stuck to their day job making good electronic jams that’s influencing the world of Indie music. ‘Ritual Union’ is their latest album that was released this July making it their third studio album. This band is smart and doesn’t try too hard. The lead singer Yukimi Nagano has such a unique voice and thankfully you can recognize it anywhere.

Music

Stoney LaRue

“Live at Billy Bob’s Texas,” this country crooner gave us all a taste of an “Oklahoma Breakdown.” Today, Stoney LaRue gives us the sweet sounds of his latest album, “Velvet.”

Before Stoney LaRue became the household name he is today, he grew up in a family of music. “We did this thing called the ‘Fun Machine,’” Stoney says of his past. “We took old standard songs like ‘Mary Ann’ and ‘Yankee Doodle Dandy,’ but it was a way of coming out. We listened to a lot of country radio too; my dad was a bass player.” His father was the reason Stoney LaRue took to the guitar. “My dad introduced me to the guitar. When I was about ten years old, he taught me the chords. I do everything by ear, I can’t really follow music or anything,” he reveals.

Stoney LaRue always knew he wanted to do something musical with his career, despite his elder’s advice to have a backup plan. “I knew I’d always do something with music,” he explains. “I always pictured it being a rock star or something. As a little kid I had dreams about it. There was something in my hands and my brain and it came out with me doing [music].”

Born in the small town of Taft, Texas, Stoney LaRue found his roots in Oklahoma where he camouflaged into the crowd of Red Dirt music and came out a front-runner. “It’s an ideal,” he says of Red Dirt music origins. “It’s something that’s a philosophy more than a genre. It’s writing a song and sharing that song with the world; it’s very protected. I wouldn’t really give it a genre as much as I would an ideal.”

During his time in Stillwater, Stoney LaRue lived in “Yellow House” with fellow musicians Jason Boland and Cody Canada. “It was a constant, constant dream,” he says of the experience. “This house was, well…the Jacuzzi was full of beer cans. I woke up one time with a squirrel on my chest. We called him Carl the squirrel, and he would eat our leftovers,” he says laughing.

Though he was born in Texas, Stoney LaRue does not shy away from his Oklahoma influences. “I guess it was just where I was,” he explains. “Out of Stillwater, I don’t know what threw everything together at a certain time. I don’t know what the motivation was. I feel like I was kind of riding a wave. At the time it was just full throttle, and Oklahoma was there.”

Stoney LaRue’s latest installment, “Velvet,” was released six years after his previous album, “Live at Billy Bob’s Texas.” “I have been traveling around the world,” he says of the passing time. “Just as of lately I have been trying to work

on this latest product, if you want to call it a product. There were many times when I could have put something out, but I wanted it to be something that people still believed in.” One listen to “Velvet,” and his fans are sure to agree that it was worth the wait. “I realized that at times the world goes at its own pace and turns on its own time.”

In describing his album, Stoney LaRue says it is more revealing than previous records. “All the things on the album, you can place yourself there; it’s supposed to be creative,” he explains. “It was more of an opening of the nutshell.

More of opening your awareness to tragic things. Challenging your ‘will do list’ and your ‘won’t do list.’ Being a little reckless with your art.”

Although the album has iTunes bestsellers, Stoney LaRue cannot name his favorite track, but rather describes the album as a collectively seamless piece.

“The idea with this album was to make it have a scene,” he reveals. “It kind of follows itself. It’s more of an album than a one track thing. You listen to it and you get the feel of what’s going on there.”

Stoney LaRue has been on the music scene for a number of years, making his mark in Red Dirt and country music each and every time, but perhaps one of his best known staples is his bandana. “I started doing that [wearing a bandana] with the hair and that was my phase, so I used it to keep my hair and sweat out of my eyes,” he says laughing. “I don’t have a favorite. I just go to Hobby Lobby, and I give them out to people when they ask.”

Another favorite the country star has trouble pin-pointing is his favorite music career moment. “I forget where I’m at to compare it to where I was,” he reveals.

“I love life. There’s moments, but I think if I found one, I’d find another right when I hung up with you. It’s too hard to think of just one,” he says, proving that the memories of his career are never fleeting. “I love interaction, and meeting people and being with people. By nature I just love watching people.”

For all the aspiring musicians of the world, Stoney LaRue leaves us with a simple piece of advice – “Do what you love. That’s the main thing. If you don’t love it, you shouldn’t be doing it.”

Stoney LaRue is currently on tour promoting “Velvet.” Visit www.StoneyLaRue. com for tour dates.

Writen by Meredith Foerster

Movies

Hair & Makeup: Jamy Green Styling: Kelsey Self Clothing Provided by Bohemian Spirit Vintage Photography: Bethany Young Models: Alex Eppler, Matt Tracy, Addison Donahoo, Mason Treat

Sports

Well, my friends, it has been a CRAZY month to be a sports reporter... or a fan. We’ve had college and NFL football AND the World Series.

Let’s start with football.

Oklahoma State is still undefeated for the first time since 1945. If the Cowboys keep this up, which I think they have the talent to do so, they will be one of the two teams playing for the National Championship; an OSU first.

“How is OSU ranked higher than OU? I thought OU was the better football team!” I’ve heard this from many of my girlfriends, so I’m sure you are wondering the same thing.

Oklahoma State is led by a very mature quarterback, Brandon Weeden. Not only is Brandon mature physically (he is 28-years-young) but mentally, too. The Pokes* have several weapons (the cool word for “athlete”) to make their offense so good. Justin Blackmon, Joseph Randle, Jeremy Smith and Josh Cooper, to name a few.

Now to OU... ohhhhhh you. I’m sure many of you tweet. If you don’t, I’d like to take this time to personally endorse Twitter and it’s ability to make creeping so much easier.

If you tweet, you’ve probably seen a lot of #ChaseFor8. This means, OU is chasing its eighth national title. The Sooners entered this season with sky-high expectations, and I don’t think those expectations were uncalled for.

Oklahoma has enough talent on both sides of the ball (offense and defense) to be a national championship contender... then they lost to unranked Texas Tech... in Norman.

How could a team that’s supposed to be so good, lose to a team that is equally bad?

I believe that OU showed up half-asleep in this game. I think the Sooners thought they had the game in the bag. Yes, some of their key players were injured... but Tech had injured players too.

The weekend after the stunning loss at home, OU goes to Kansas State and demol-

ishes them 58-17. Needless to say, I think OU learned the lesson that no team is good enough to sleepwalk through a game. Not even the Sooners.

How many of you opened this magazine and the first thought that entered your mind was, “I hope Abigail writes about the first eight weeks of the NFL!” ?? Probably close to 1,000. However, I will save the NFL chatter for the playoffs, when the NFL gets really exciting!

Baseball season is officially over. The St. Louis Cardinals won the World Series in Game 7.

Of course, the World Series winner is whoever wins four games out of seven and this year was the first time since 2002 that the World Series required a Game 7. You can imagine how excited my fellow sports geeks and I were to have a seventh game.

Another interesting World Series fact: the Cardinals ALMOST lost the entire series during Game 6 because the Texas Rangers had already won three games. The Cards were ONE STRIKE away from losing the World Series... only the second time ever that a team has been a strike away from losing, but came out on top.

Before I send you over to the next page, I want to remember Bob Barry, Sr., who passed away October 30.

Bob and my grandfather Jack Ogle did OU and OSU play-by-play together for many years. They also worked together in television broadcasting.

I lost my Grandpa Jack years before I was old enough to start thinking about a sportsbroadcasting career... so I looked to Bob for help and guidance in my young career. He watched my show and gave me feedback and advice. I had the pleasure of seeing him at every OU press conference and OU game that I covered (those can be intimidating, so it was comforting to see a familiar face).

While I was in college, Bob told me, “If you want to have a happy life, pick something you like to do. Then do it and do it well and work at it. You’ll have a very successful life.

You’re doing something you like to do. It’s as simple as that, really.”

*When people say “Pokes” they are referring to the Cowboys. The nickname Poke came about a long time ago when cowboys would have to load cattle onto railroad carts. The cows would walk through chutes to get on the carts and if they didn’t move fast enough, the cowboys would use long sticks to POKE them along.

Writen by Abigail Ogle

Fitness

Fashion

Since 1959, Barbie has been a household name.

Whether she was your doll, your best friend or the girl whose closet you envied, Barbie has been an icon of fashion for decades.

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