(253,1,'2009-08-24 18:35:00','2009-08-24 18:35:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3852748091/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2553/3852748091_467626286f.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Dear Sirs:<div><br /></div><div>While at your county fair last weekend the fact came to my attention that several items and livestock in your exhibition hall are in violation of one or more of the following universal rules: </div><div><br /></div><div>1. No animal on the face of the planet should be allowed to be this cute.</div><div>2. No animal on the face of the planet should be allowed to be this ugly. </div><div>3. No such animal as pictured can exist on this planet and is, therefore, an alien life form and should, therefore, be studied by scientists and psychics and producers of silly reality television shows. </div><div><br /></div><div>To wit:</div><div> </div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3853548652/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3428/3853548652_bc2d86445a.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">This animal is in violation of Rule 1 as stated above. Upon beholding the intense and excessive cuteness of this baby bovine quadruped, my husband was forced to call your janitorial staff to squeegee my puddly remains from the floor of your livestock expo area. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">This scene could have been avoided had your board ensured all animals on display at your county fair were in compliance with the aforementioned three rules. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Other examples of violations of Rule 1 include:</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3853547462/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2672/3853547462_0d6de95306.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3852754461/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2596/3852754461_f1783337bc.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3852753025/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2664/3852753025_6716eb2fbf.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3852748969/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2513/3852748969_5e69eb39c9.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3853538390/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3576/3853538390_d71a416d19.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3852747603/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3574/3852747603_6c3a1ba7e3.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Last but not least of the violations of Rule 1, sirs, was this little number: <div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3852738739/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2481/3852738739_505686fb5c.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>And...I just spontaneously became pregnant with three sets of twins. Maybe four.<br /><br />The 2009 Ottawa County Fair reckless rule-breaking madness didn\'t end there. Just look at the following photo accounts of violations of Rule 2 I recorded while visiting your ignoble and base gathering of beasts:<br /><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3853540546/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2435/3853540546_bb58d75d18.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3852741173/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3478/3852741173_b0f5996ed8.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3852744453/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3647/3852744453_c0e438579a.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3852745839/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3439/3852745839_7f0b20cc46.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3853541834/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3429/3853541834_5797258a02.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3853543046/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2656/3853543046_283e629c9c.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3853679632/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3463/3853679632_fb01ed197d.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><br />That this man, dressed in overalls and a trucker\'s cap, was posed to look incredulously at a tornado shelter in the middle of a public fair was obvious. <div><br /></div><div>If the budget funding your attempts to portray the local townsfolk in a realistic way is running low, allow me to suggest turning the produce and baked items sections of your expo center into cash cows by unleashing them onto the free market:<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3852739333/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2629/3852739333_e3544dbf43.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3853530364/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3505/3853530364_80a135ee29.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><br />Perhaps your fundraising efforts will yield a surplus profit that could cover shipping costs incurred by sending the following specimens in violation of Rule 3 to appropriate authorities for study and, if necessary, deportation to their native planets:<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3852747051/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3552/3852747051_260667c7d3.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3852740663/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3535/3852740663_61ebebdb9f.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><br />See how these beings perplex your locals. This befuddled man was later seen putting cereal in the refrigerator and milk in the pantry and, later still, beer in the grill and burger patties in the makeshift ice bath he made in his wife\'s prized Maytag.<br /><br />As for this specimen, no one has seen or head from it since its escape from this year\'s Ottawa County Fair:<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3852739929/\" title=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2614/3852739929_f8b1e4030d.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Ottawa County Fair 2009\" /></a></div><br />If local search parties are unsuccessful in locating this escapee, I would be happy to help connect you with the federal or even intergalactic authorities, both of whom seem particularly interested its apprehension.<br /><br />Thank you, sirs, for your attention and prompt cure of these violations. I trust the 2010 Ottawa County Fair will warrant a different sort of letter entirely - perhaps a benign form letter, or maybe even a congratulatory one, if you play your cards right.<br /><br />Warmest regards, </div><div><br />Tasha Ball<br />Official Blogger of the Tulsa State Fair Cheese on a Stick<br />Auxiliary Strawberry Newberg Photographer<br />Amateur Funnel Cake Taste-Tester, API (Always Prepared Interpreter)<br /><br /></div>','To The Board of the Ottawa County Fair','','publish','open','open','','to-board-of-ottawa-county-fair','','','2009-08-24 18:35:00','2009-08-24 18:35:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=253',0,'post','',8),(254,1,'2009-08-25 20:18:00','2009-08-25 20:18:00','Since <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/08/tasha-does-tulsa-run-training.html\">I announced the birth of the \"official\" Tasha Does Tulsa Run 5k team</a>, I\'ve had several questions about how to properly train to run 3.1 miles without suffering shin splints, <a href=\"http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A27911\">exercise-induced asthma</a> (EIA) or, worse, Dorky Running Gear Syndrome (just say no to DRGS).<div><br /></div><div>For the edification of all, I\'d like to post here a few of what I feel are the questions most pertinent to you fledgling runners out there. </div><div><br /></div><div>Dear Tasha, </div><div>With so many options for running trails in Tulsa, where do you usually train? </div><div>-Curious George</div><div><br /></div><div>Dear George, </div><div><a href=\"http://www.parks.tulsacounty.org/LaFortune.aspx\">LaFortune Park at 51st and Yale</a> is my favorite close-to-home running spot, but once a week or so I like to head to <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/tulsariverparks\">Tulsa\'s RiverParks</a>. Now that the splash pad at 41st Street is open, I like to start and end there so I can let my kid loose in the water after being tethered for 30-45 minutes in an ergonomically-challenged stroller. </div><div><br /></div><div>Plus, the new, expanded trail system at RiverParks is lovely. It rocks. I love it. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3857222484/\" title=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2591/3857222484_4986a50a62.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>I get run over by cyclists much less often these days. Share the trail, cyclists. Share the trail. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3857176604/\" title=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2450/3857176604_041daf019e.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Ah, the Pedestrian bRRidge. It\'s so exhilarating to run. </div><div><br /></div><div>One problem, though: </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3857203230/\" title=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2606/3857203230_58665aa97a.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Every time I run across it, I get this intense craving for Ovaltine. Weird, huh?</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3856413453/\" title=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2458/3856413453_e309897618.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Mmm. And only 170 calories per 8-ounce serving.<br /></div><div><br />Dear Tasha,<br />As a fellow running mom, what jogging stroller would you recommend?<br />-Maurine<br /><br />Dear Maurine,<br />I have two tips for you.</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3856432363/\" title=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2515/3856432363_84d96011a4.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Choose the stroller on the right if you plan to run on a track that\'s straight as an arrow, since the front wheel doesn\'t pivot and it\'s next to impossible to turn without lifting up the front wheel and risking dumping your kid in the track gravel in front of God and everybody in town who owns a dog pretty enough to take promenading at RiverParks.<br /><br />Choose the stroller on the left if you enjoy being thrown over the handle when you break a run for the first time in six months and the front wheel flies off, nearly decapitating a frisbee golfer.<br /><br />Or, spend more than $80 on a stroller. The choice is yours.<br /><br /></div><div>Dear Tasha, </div><div>What stretching exercises do you think are best for the new runner? </div><div>-Splinting Down Sheridan</div><div><br /></div><div>Dear Sheridan Splinter, </div><div>I\'m no stretching expert (if you don\'t believe me, just ask my old cheerleading coach; how I made the squad without being able to do the splits or a cartwheel, I\'ll never know), but I\'ll give you the gist of my personal routine. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3856441399/\" title=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3475/3856441399_2edbe92e61.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>I begin each training session by attempting to climb on public art. This practice challenges the limbs at the same time that it tests the durability of the seams of your new running pants. It\'s also a great way to make contact with local law enforcement. </div><div><br /></div><div>Or, you can stretch the Holly Wall way. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3857221950/\" title=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3434/3857221950_4c7260ec31.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Either way, you\'ll be stretched and set for the best training session of your life. I think. </div><div><br /></div><div>There\'s still time to sign up for the \"official\" Tasha Does Tulsa Run 5k team. <a href=\"mailto:%20tashadoestulsa@gmail.com\">Send me your contact info by the end of the month</a> to receive encouraging e-mails, invitations to \"official\" TDT training sessions and, most important, a cool t-shirt. </div><div><br /></div><div>Even if you don\'t join the team, I wish you happy training out there. Even though it\'ll be totally useless because every member of the \"official\" Tasha Does Tulsa Run team is gonna slap you on the butt as they pass you on their way to the finish line come this year\'s Halloween race day.  </div>','Tasha Does Tulsa Run: The Advice Column','','publish','open','open','','tasha-does-tulsa-run-advice-column','','','2009-08-25 20:18:00','2009-08-25 20:18:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=254',0,'post','',1),(255,1,'2009-08-28 01:50:00','2009-08-28 01:50:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3319924263/\" title=\"Mecca Coffee Company by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3625/3319924263_551b86a1ac.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Mecca Coffee Company\" /></a></div><br />Love coffee? Me too. As with food, I enjoy coffee best when someone else makes it for me, and especially if I\'m being served coffee in a mismatched mug in some cute, moody little coffee house somewhere.<br /><br />Problem is, in this here town, a standard 12-ounce cup of black, coffee house coffee costs about $2. Swig one of those every day of the month and you have practically another utility bill on your hands, with nothing to show for it except pampered taste buds and a circular file with coffee breath, constantly full of cup sleeves and stirrers.<br /><br />Here\'s another idea: Make your own coffee, and keep the change.<br /><br />Read the rest of this story in Consumer Watchdog in <a href=\"http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A27930\">this week\'s edition of Urban Tulsa Weekly</a>.','Hot Off The Presses','','publish','open','open','','hot-off-presses','','','2009-08-28 01:50:00','2009-08-28 01:50:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=255',0,'post','',0),(2066,1,'2010-09-14 16:09:36','2010-09-14 21:09:36','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2059\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2059\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2059\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069018757_3c275c47d2.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIf you\'re the kind of person who turns to a blog to find out what\'s going on in Tulsa, then odds are you probably know all about <a href=\"http://ignitetulsa.org/\">Ignite Tulsa</a>, or you\'ve at least heard of it.\r\n\r\nIn case you haven\'t, though, here\'s the scoop: <strong>Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks</strong>.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->To me, it\'s like a blog written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time.\r\n\r\nIt\'s also the best networking event in the city right now, but you know what? I hate the term \"networking event.\" So I won\'t say that. Let\'s just say that it\'s a huge party with a microphone, some bright lights and a camera in the middle, and that all the cool kids - including you, TDT readers - are invited.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2060\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2060\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2060\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069738922_e1dc9c95fe-1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"334\" height=\"500\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAt the center of the event are nearly 20 speakers as they do their best to get through their five-minute talks without falling behind the automagic slide advancer, which does its thing every 15 seconds. At the top of the heap is <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/jackfrank1\">local filmmaker Jack Frank</a> with his talk, <em>Stuff That\'s Gone: Lost Tulsa Icons</em>. I have it on good authority that he\'ll talk a great deal about <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/admiral-twin-drive-in-burns/\">the late Admiral Twin Drive-In</a>. The award-winning <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/talkradiojoe\">Joe Kelley of the KRMG Morning News</a> will lead the event as its emcee.\r\n\r\nTopics of other speakers\' talks range from genetic mutations to yo-yos to kicking ass to robots to the importance of small adventures. My talk will be about hacking into the best of what your city has to offer, whether it\'s Tulsa or not.\r\n\r\nBut it should be Tulsa. Because, well, read this blog.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2061\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2061\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2061\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069721836_ec247f67b1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWe also do arts and crafts with common office supplies at Ignite Tulsa.\r\n\r\nThat\'s how we roll.\r\n\r\n<strong>General admission tickets are sold out at this point, but VIP tickets are still available.</strong>\r\n\r\nFr $14.97, VIP ticket holders get the following:\r\n\r\n<strong>Prime seating</strong>. You\'ll be able to see the whites of my eyes and whether or not <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/08/the-spa-tulsa/\">my pesky ninja chin hair</a> makes a surprise appearance during my talk from where you\'ll be sitting. And if I choke, you\'ll be the first to know that I\'m a sweaty nervous person. That\'s close, baby - real close.\r\n\r\n<strong>Extra beer tickets</strong>. Ignite attendees get two beer tickets, but you\'ll have more. Which automatically makes you cooler and mightier than everyone else there. You could carry a jewel-encrusted staff and subjugate your fellow Ignite attendees accordingly.\r\n\r\n<strong>Recognition at the event</strong>. Here\'s your chance at 15 minutes of fame. Actually, it might be more like 15 seconds, but still. It\'ll count.\r\n\r\n<strong>Good karma</strong>. All proceeds of VIP ticket sales benefit the Admiral Twin rebuilding effort.\r\n\r\nSo what are you waiting for? Grab your VIP tickets to Ignite 3. All of your wildest dreams will come true.\r\n\r\nExcept the one about the three-story Thundercats birthday cake topped with glitter and 150,000 slap bracelets. You know - the one that you\'ve wanted since you were five? That\'s never going to happen. Not on my watch. Because this is a <a href=\"http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/barbie-doll-cake/Detail.aspx\">Barbie dress cake</a> kind of universe, man. Barbie dress cakes for the win!\r\n\r\nIf you want to help in the rebuilding effort and score tickets to this sold out Ignite event at the same time, spend $14.97 - you know, roughly what you spent at the bar on two measly drinks and a tip Saturday night - and get a ticket to the top.\r\n\r\nOr, if you\'re lucky, <strong>you can win a pair of tickets, right here at TDT</strong>.\r\n\r\nHow? <strong>Head to the comments section of this post and tell me about your favorite birthday cake ever.</strong> Don\'t ask why, especially when it comes to birthday cake. It\'s just to just go with the flow when it comes to these kinds of matters.\r\n\r\nYou have until tomorrow (Wednesday, Sept. 15) at 11am to enter. I\'ll pick a winner Wednesday afternoon.\r\n\r\nGood luck! And starting thinking about what you could speak about at Ignite Tulsa 4. Submissions will be due before you can say \"I want a that-floozy-Midge-needs-to-keep-her-hands-off-of-Ken cake for my birthday.\"','Ignite Tulsa 3: Get a ring-side seat.','Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks. To me, it\'s like a blog written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time. Wanna come?','inherit','open','open','','2044-revision-6','','','2010-09-14 16:09:36','2010-09-14 21:09:36','',2044,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/2044-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(2067,1,'2010-09-14 16:09:42','2010-09-14 21:09:42','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2059\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2059\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2059\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069018757_3c275c47d2.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIf you\'re the kind of person who turns to a blog to find out what\'s going on in Tulsa, then odds are you probably know all about <a href=\"http://ignitetulsa.org/\">Ignite Tulsa</a>, or you\'ve at least heard of it.\r\n\r\nIn case you haven\'t, though, here\'s the scoop: <strong>Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks</strong>.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->To me, it\'s like a blog written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time.\r\n\r\nIt\'s also the best networking event in the city right now, but you know what? I hate the term \"networking event.\" So I won\'t say that. Let\'s just say that it\'s a huge party with a microphone, some bright lights and a camera in the middle, and that all the cool kids - including you, TDT readers - are invited.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2060\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2060\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2060\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069738922_e1dc9c95fe-1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"334\" height=\"500\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAt the center of the event are nearly 20 speakers as they do their best to get through their five-minute talks without falling behind the automagic slide advancer, which does its thing every 15 seconds. At the top of the heap is <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/jackfrank1\">local filmmaker Jack Frank</a> with his talk, <em>Stuff That\'s Gone: Lost Tulsa Icons</em>. I have it on good authority that he\'ll talk a great deal about <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/admiral-twin-drive-in-burns/\">the late Admiral Twin Drive-In</a>. The award-winning <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/talkradiojoe\">Joe Kelley of the KRMG Morning News</a> will lead the event as its emcee.\r\n\r\nTopics of other speakers\' talks range from genetic mutations to yo-yos to kicking ass to robots to the importance of small adventures. My talk will be about hacking into the best of what your city has to offer, whether it\'s Tulsa or not.\r\n\r\nBut it should be Tulsa. Because, well, read this blog.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2061\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2061\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2061\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069721836_ec247f67b1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWe also do arts and crafts with common office supplies at Ignite Tulsa.\r\n\r\nThat\'s how we roll.\r\n\r\n<strong>General admission tickets are sold out at this point, but VIP tickets are still available.</strong>\r\n\r\nFr $14.97, VIP ticket holders get the following:\r\n\r\n<strong>Prime seating</strong>. You\'ll be able to see the whites of my eyes and whether or not <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/08/the-spa-tulsa/\">my pesky ninja chin hair</a> makes a surprise appearance during my talk from where you\'ll be sitting. And if I choke, you\'ll be the first to know that I\'m a sweaty nervous person. That\'s close, baby - real close.\r\n\r\n<strong>Extra beer tickets</strong>. Ignite attendees get two beer tickets, but you\'ll have more. Which automatically makes you cooler and mightier than everyone else there. You could carry a jewel-encrusted staff and subjugate your fellow Ignite attendees accordingly.\r\n\r\n<strong>Recognition at the event</strong>. Here\'s your chance at 15 minutes of fame. Actually, it might be more like 15 seconds, but still. It\'ll count.\r\n\r\n<strong>Good karma</strong>. All proceeds of VIP ticket sales benefit the Admiral Twin rebuilding effort.\r\n\r\nSo what are you waiting for? Grab your VIP tickets to Ignite 3. All of your wildest dreams will come true.\r\n\r\nExcept the one about the three-story Thundercats birthday cake topped with glitter and 150,000 slap bracelets. You know - the one that you\'ve wanted since you were five? That\'s never going to happen. Not on my watch. Because this is a <a href=\"http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/barbie-doll-cake/Detail.aspx\">Barbie dress cake</a> kind of universe, man. Barbie dress cakes for the win!\r\n\r\nIf you want to help in the rebuilding effort and score tickets to this sold out Ignite event at the same time, spend $14.97 - you know, roughly what you spent at the bar on two measly drinks and a tip Saturday night - and get a ticket to the top.\r\n\r\nOr, if you\'re lucky, <strong>you can win a pair of tickets, right here at TDT</strong>.\r\n\r\nHow? <strong>Head to the comments section of this post and tell me about your favorite birthday cake ever.</strong> Don\'t ask why, especially when it comes to birthday cake. It\'s just to just go with the flow when it comes to these kinds of matters.\r\n\r\nYou have until tomorrow (Wednesday, Sept. 15) at 11am to enter. I\'ll pick a winner Wednesday afternoon.\r\n\r\nGood luck! And starting thinking about what you could speak about at Ignite Tulsa 4. Submissions will be due before you can say \"I want a that-floozy-Midge-needs-to-keep-her-hands-off-of-Ken cake for my birthday.\"','Ignite Tulsa 3: Get a ring-side seat.','Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks. To me, it\'s like a blog written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time. Wanna come?','inherit','open','open','','2044-revision-7','','','2010-09-14 16:09:42','2010-09-14 21:09:42','',2044,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/2044-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(2068,1,'2010-09-14 16:09:42','2010-09-14 21:09:42','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2059\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2059\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2059\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069018757_3c275c47d2.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIf you\'re the kind of person who turns to a blog to find out what\'s going on in Tulsa, then odds are you probably know all about <a href=\"http://ignitetulsa.org/\">Ignite Tulsa</a>, or you\'ve at least heard of it.\r\n\r\nIn case you haven\'t, though, here\'s the scoop: <strong>Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks</strong>.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->To me, it\'s like a blog written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time.\r\n\r\nIt\'s also the best networking event in the city right now, but you know what? I hate the term \"networking event.\" So I won\'t say that. Let\'s just say that it\'s a huge party with a microphone, some bright lights and a camera in the middle, and that all the cool kids - including you, TDT readers - are invited.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2060\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2060\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2060\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069738922_e1dc9c95fe-1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"334\" height=\"500\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAt the center of the event are nearly 20 speakers as they do their best to get through their five-minute talks without falling behind the automagic slide advancer, which does its thing every 15 seconds. At the top of the heap is <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/jackfrank1\">local filmmaker Jack Frank</a> with his talk, <em>Stuff That\'s Gone: Lost Tulsa Icons</em>. I have it on good authority that he\'ll talk a great deal about <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/admiral-twin-drive-in-burns/\">the late Admiral Twin Drive-In</a>. The award-winning <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/talkradiojoe\">Joe Kelley of the KRMG Morning News</a> will lead the event as its emcee.\r\n\r\nTopics of other speakers\' talks range from genetic mutations to yo-yos to kicking ass to robots to the importance of small adventures. My talk will be about hacking into the best of what your city has to offer, whether it\'s Tulsa or not.\r\n\r\nBut it should be Tulsa. Because, well, read this blog.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2061\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2061\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2061\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069721836_ec247f67b1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWe also do arts and crafts with common office supplies at Ignite Tulsa.\r\n\r\nThat\'s how we roll.\r\n\r\n<strong>General admission tickets are sold out at this point, but VIP tickets are still available.</strong>\r\n\r\nFr $14.97, VIP ticket holders get the following:\r\n\r\n<strong>Prime seating</strong>. You\'ll be able to see the whites of my eyes and whether or not <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/08/the-spa-tulsa/\">my pesky ninja chin hair</a> makes a surprise appearance during my talk from where you\'ll be sitting. And if I choke, you\'ll be the first to know that I\'m a sweaty nervous person. That\'s close, baby - real close.\r\n\r\n<strong>Extra beer tickets</strong>. Ignite attendees get two beer tickets, but you\'ll have more. Which automatically makes you cooler and mightier than everyone else there. You could carry a jewel-encrusted staff and subjugate your fellow Ignite attendees accordingly.\r\n\r\n<strong>Recognition at the event</strong>. Here\'s your chance at 15 minutes of fame. Actually, it might be more like 15 seconds, but still. It\'ll count.\r\n\r\n<strong>Good karma</strong>. All proceeds of VIP ticket sales benefit the Admiral Twin rebuilding effort.\r\n\r\nSo what are you waiting for? Grab your VIP tickets to Ignite 3. All of your wildest dreams will come true.\r\n\r\nExcept the one about the three-story Thundercats birthday cake topped with glitter and 150,000 slap bracelets. You know - the one that you\'ve wanted since you were five? That\'s never going to happen. Not on my watch. Because this is a <a href=\"http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/barbie-doll-cake/Detail.aspx\">Barbie dress cake</a> kind of universe, man. Barbie dress cakes for the win!\r\n\r\nIf you want to help in the rebuilding effort and score tickets to this sold out Ignite event at the same time, spend $14.97 - you know, roughly what you spent at the bar on two measly drinks and a tip Saturday night - and get a ticket to the top.\r\n\r\nOr, if you\'re lucky, <strong>you can win a pair of tickets, right here at TDT</strong>.\r\n\r\nHow? <strong>Head to the comments section of this post and tell me about your favorite birthday cake ever.</strong> Don\'t ask why, especially when it comes to birthday cake. It\'s just to just go with the flow when it comes to these kinds of matters.\r\n\r\nYou have until tomorrow (Wednesday, Sept. 15) at 11am to enter. I\'ll pick a winner Wednesday afternoon.\r\n\r\nGood luck! And starting thinking about what you could speak about at Ignite Tulsa 4. Submissions will be due before you can say \"I want a that-floozy-Midge-needs-to-keep-her-hands-off-of-Ken cake for my birthday.\"','Ignite Tulsa 3: Get a ring-side seat.','Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks. To me, it\'s like a blog written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time. Wanna come?','inherit','open','open','','2044-revision-8','','','2010-09-14 16:09:42','2010-09-14 21:09:42','',2044,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/2044-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(257,1,'2009-08-31 02:32:00','2009-08-31 02:32:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3873300400/\" title=\"Merritt\'s Bakery by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2669/3873300400_420c0240ee.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Merritt\'s Bakery\" /></a></div><br />At the close of the summer of 1979, a little cake shop called The Cake Box opened its doors on Tulsa’s historic Cherry Street. The store, manned by Larry Merritt and his wife, Bobbie, offered decorated cakes for special occasions, namely birthdays and weddings.<br /><br />Thirty years later, that family-owned bakery, now known as <a href=\"http://www.merrittsbakery.com\">Merritt’s Bakery Cakes &amp; Pastries</a>, has grown to employ 85, boasts four locations plus a commissary and offers 300 different baked goodies and a full lunch menu, an operation headquartered at a 6,000-SF flagship location at 3202 E. 15th Street, just across the street from where The Cake Box once stood.<br /><br />Read the rest of this story on <a href=\"http://www.tulsabusiness.com/article.asp?aID=62085688.607429.644046.6707972.8883463.450&amp;aID2=49533\">the food page in this week\'s edition of Tulsa Business Journal</a>.','Once Upon a Pie: Merritt\'s Celebrates 30 Years','','publish','open','open','','once-upon-pie-merritts-celebrates-30','','','2009-08-31 02:32:00','2009-08-31 02:32:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=257',0,'post','',1),(258,1,'2009-09-01 04:30:00','2009-09-01 04:30:00','In the interest of letting The Glory of the Pie shine through, I leave you with only this:\r\n\r\n<iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" class=\"youtube-player\" type=\"text/html\" width=\"496\" height=\"309\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/EzsK-8Ha88s\" frameborder=\"0\" allowFullScreen></iframe>\r\n\r\nEnjoy.','More on Pie','In the interest of letting The Glory of the Pie shine through, I leave you with only this.','publish','open','open','','more-on-pie-merritts-bakery','','','2011-01-23 15:50:39','2011-01-23 20:50:39','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=258',0,'post','',2),(259,1,'2009-09-01 15:00:00','2009-09-01 15:00:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://jeffmartinauthor.com/images/my-dog-ate-my-nobel-prize.jpg\" /></div><br />Tonight my favorite little downtown boutique, <a href=\"http://dwellingspaces.net/\">Dwelling Spaces</a>, will erupt in a fit of literary glee with a fresh-and-never greasy side order of that Tulsa patriotism that\'s the driving force behind so many of the fun projects and partnerships thriving in this city right now. <div><br /></div><div>Case in point: <a href=\"http://jeffmartinauthor.com/\">Local writer, social media aficionado and champion of books and all that is Tulsa Jeff Martin</a>.<br /><div><br /><div>In case you didn\'t already know from <a href=\"http://www.booksmarttulsa.com/\">Booksmart Tulsa</a> meetings, <a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Customer-Always-Wrong-Retail-Chronicles/dp/193336890X\">The Customer is Always Wrong</a>, <a href=\"http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2009/07/well-titled-well-covered-bonus-edition.html\">his recent splash in The New Yorker</a> (check out slide 3 of 5) and <a href=\"http://goodbyetulsa.com/\">my favorite new local blog, Goodbye Tulsa</a>, and <a href=\"http://www.philbrookmuseum.blogspot.com/\">his work to make Philbrook Museum a pioneer among the social media-treading public spaces</a>, this Jeff Martin guy is quite a talented individual. </div><div><br /></div><div>Let me count the ways. </div><div><br /></div><div>Did you know that Jeff Martin:<br /><br />-Was born in 1980?<br />-Made millions on the stock market?<br />-Lost millions on the stock market?<br />-Stopped a Chinese tank at Tiananmen Square?<br />-Managed Michael Dukakis\'s 1988 presidential campaign?<br />-Co-wrote Aliens 2: More Aliens with James Cameron?<br />-Had a torrid and brief creative relationship with Disney\'s animation department?<br />-Disguised himself as a midget, joined NASA, and became the first-ever child in space, all in tribute to the Challenger space shuttle tragedy?<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://jeffmartinauthor.com/images/event.jpg\" /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Who knew such accomplishment was roaming freely among us.<br /><br />Back to what I was saying about the explosion of Dwelling Spaces tonight. Get there at 7 to celebrate the launch of Martin\'s latest book, <i><a href=\"http://jeffmartinauthor.com/my-dog-ate-my-nobel-prize.php\">My Dog Ate My Nobel Prize: The Fabricated Memoirs of Jeff Martin</a></i>.</div><div><br /></div><div>While the novel will always be my first love, I am totally digging on the memoir form right now. It\'s become such a huge literary space, at least to me, since I consider pretty much all the forms of social media, from the dinosaur that is the long-form blog (sorry, TDT.com, but it\'s true) to the microbloggyness that is Twitter, along with reality television, as belonging to or growing immediately from the memoir genre.  </div><div><br /></div><div>It\'s fun. There\'s just something about that line, \"based on a true story,\" whether that\'s actually said or implied. It draws us in. It gives us a forum in which to try on another life, practically without consequence.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway. Jeff Martin can write this thing, a memoir. If you\'re not reading him, you\'ll probably never manage Michael Dukakis\'s 1988 presidential campaign or be the first-ever child in space or go torrid on Disney\'s animation department.</div><div><br />Want a free copy of <i>My Dog Ate My Nobel Prize</i> before pretty much everyone else? <b>Simply enter the title of your favorite book in the comments before 4pm today (Tuesday)</b>. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you put something that\'s in Oprah\'s book club, watch out - Jeff Martin will be hunting you, Lord-of-the-Flies style.</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://jeffmartinauthor.com/images/jeff-martin.jpg\" /></div><br />Be afraid.</div><div><br /></div><div>I\'ll announce the winner from the My Dog Ate My Nobel Prize launch party tonight at Dwelling Spaces.</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy reading, everyone. </div><div><br /></div><div>Photos from <a href=\"http://jeffmartinauthor.com/\">Jeff Martin\'s home on the Web</a>.</div><div><a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/02/local-encounters-plus-giveaway.html\">Click here for more about Jeff Martin at TashaDoesTulsa.com</a>.</div></div></div>','My Dog Ate My Nobel Prize (Plus, A Giveaway)','','publish','open','open','','my-dog-ate-my-nobel-prize-plus-giveaway','','','2009-09-01 15:00:00','2009-09-01 15:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=259',0,'post','',16),(260,1,'2009-09-02 05:50:00','2009-09-02 05:50:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/SlH52DRj_QI/AAAAAAAABaQ/1uJ4u43qzc0/s400/DSC05793.jpg\" /><br /></div><br />Sometime in the future: the first Native American-Polish, ambidextrous, former college hockey star, soccer mom Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court hands down the long-awaited ruling on who owns the right to market and sell the ground beef patty sandwich historically known as the \"hamburger.\" The obviously high court decides in favor of the plaintiff in <a href=\"http://www.webersoftulsa.com/webers_story.asp\">Weber\'s Superior Root Beer Restaurant</a> vs. McDonald\'s Corp. Indeed, Weber\'s did, in fact, invent and name the hamburger, says the Court.<br /><br />All of a sudden, this prototypical American sandwich begins making a comeback. Sushi dives, salad bars wilt, Buffalo wings fly away, pizza loses its pizzaz.<br /><br />Read the rest of this story <a href=\"http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A27987\">on the cover on this week\'s edition of Urban Tulsa Weekly</a>.','First Come, First Served','','publish','open','open','','first-come-first-served','','','2009-09-02 05:50:00','2009-09-02 05:50:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=260',0,'post','',0),(261,1,'2009-09-02 05:55:00','2009-09-02 05:55:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3354758252/\" title=\"Boston Avenue, Looking South by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3592/3354758252_332e55c250.jpg\" alt=\"Boston Avenue, Looking South\" height=\"375\" width=\"500\" /></a><br /></div><br />When I first heard the word \"staycation,\" a portmanteau of \"stay\" and \"vacation\" that describes a vacation light on traveling and the pocketbook, here\'s what came to mind:<br /><br />Grandma lounging in the kiddie pool in the front yard, donning one of those plastic bathing caps with the plastic daisy. Junior sitting cross-legged on the porch, drenched in sweat and trying desperately to keep up with a melting ice cream cone. Mom and Dad washing the car and cleaning out the garage because -- as we all know - vacation time spent at home inevitably turns into days of chores we never got around to during spring cleaning.<br /><br />Bor-ing, right? That is, unless you enjoy helping Granny with her sunscreen in those hard-to-reach places.<br /><br />Read the rest of this story <a href=\"http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A27979\">in Consumer Watchdog in this week\'s edition of Urban Tulsa Weekly</a>.','Staycation Awhile','','publish','open','open','','staycation-awhile','','','2009-09-02 05:55:00','2009-09-02 05:55:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=261',0,'post','',1),(262,1,'2009-09-02 21:25:00','2009-09-02 21:25:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3834219306/\" title=\"T-Rex Pie at Joe Momma\'s Pizza Downtown by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3475/3834219306_d73a84491d.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"T-Rex Pie at Joe Momma\'s Pizza Downtown\" /></a></div><br />There are 50 days and 37 minutes until the kickoff of <a href=\"http://www.tulsaoktoberfest.org/index.html\">the 31st Annual Oktoberfest</a>, starting Oct. 22 at River West Festival Park on the West Bank of the Arkansas River, 2100 South Jackson.<br /><br />Tulsa\'s own <a href=\"http://marshallbrewing.com/index.asp\">Marshall Brewing Company</a> will be at Oktoberfest this year. Imagine - a local purveyor of a craft alcoholic beverage representin\' at Oktoberfest, <a href=\"http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A24025\">one of Tulsa\'s very favorite festivals</a>.<br /><br />To celebrate the landing of Marshall at Oktoberfest 2009, Marshall Brewing Company is hosting a launch party for its Oktoberfest brew at <a href=\"http://www.joemommas.com/\">Joe Momma\'s Pizza downtown</a>. Marshall pints will go for a mere $3, and flights of all five of the Marshall labels are discounted to $10. <div><br /></div><div>The party starts at 6.<br /><br />Eric Marshall will be on hand to give a talk on craft and his oh-so-tough life as a brewmaster, and he\'ll also be giving away Marshall merchandise.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://marshallbrewing.com/images/merchhome.jpg\" /></div><br /></div><div>Yeah, you read that right: Free Marshall merchandise. You\'ll have the chance to win sweet Marshall gear by just attending the event, but you could <span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">seal the deal by being the first person of the night to offer to buy me a Marshall beer</span>.<br /><br />Not that you actually have to buy me a beer. It\'s just nice to to be asked, you know? A girl always likes to be asked.<br /><br />If you\'re indeed the first to ask me, I\'ll give you a Marshall Brewing Company t-shirt, absolutely free. Bitchin, huh?<br /><br />In the meantime, go ahead and <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/tulsa.oktoberfest\">slap Oktoberfest on the ol\' Facebook calendar</a> and start preparing now for the massive amounts of delicious food, carnival rides, plenty of opportunities to do the chicken dance (drunk or sober, it\'s up to you), live German music, family fun and, of course, thousands and thousands of pints\' worth of refreshing, tasty beverage.<br /><br />Ah, the sound of screaming livers. So tragic, yet so refreshing. </div><div><br /></div><div>Merchandise photo from <a href=\"http://marshallbrewing.com/merch.asp\">the Marshall Brewing Company Web site</a>. </div>','Mmm...Marshall. Mmm.','','publish','open','open','','mmmmarshall-mmm','','','2009-09-02 21:25:00','2009-09-02 21:25:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=262',0,'post','',1),(263,1,'2009-09-02 22:55:00','2009-09-02 22:55:00','<a onblur=\"try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}\" href=\"http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/Sp76iYa-MYI/AAAAAAAABew/9RQUKUGA7sQ/s1600-h/DSC06698.jpg\"><img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;\" src=\"http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/Sp76iYa-MYI/AAAAAAAABew/9RQUKUGA7sQ/s400/DSC06698.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377010473705025922\" /></a><br />Storytime is kind of a big deal in our house. By that I mean, our lives revolve around books. When my husband, Aaron, has tons of reading to do for his college courses, he kills two birds with one stone by reading his assignments to our 18-month-old son, Sam. He\'s good at making endoplasmic reticulae and derivatives and graphic calculator manuals sounds just as interesting as the adventures of Curious George, as soothing as Goodnight Moon or even as funny as Scaredy Squirrel.<br /><br />Read <a href=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/?page=blogs/view&amp;BLID=5955\">the rest of this story and see the video at tTownMoms.com</a>.','Storytime','','publish','open','open','','storytime','','','2009-09-02 22:55:00','2009-09-02 22:55:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=263',0,'post','',3),(264,1,'2009-09-03 22:30:00','2009-09-03 22:30:00','<img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 274px;\" src=\"http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/SqBKeki8GNI/AAAAAAAABfA/XheIn6R6Iz0/s400/Picture+11.png\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377379844147124434\" /><br /><div>Within hollering distance of a busy highway are mammoth shade trees, the sound of roosters heralding day, and five acres\' worth of farmland open for anyone with a hankering for southern-style, down-home produce.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href=\"http://www.newsomecommunityfarms.org/\">Newsome Community Farms, opened more than ten years ago in north Tulsa by Rufus and Demalda Newsome, is a farm</a>, but it is also a farmers\' market and a community garden. In addition, it is a teaching tool the family uses in its mission to eradicate health and hunger issues. These are problems the Newsomes believe are at the root of some of the area\'s larger social and economic woes. </div><div><br /></div>Read the rest of this story in <a href=\"http://miamagazine.net/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=3&amp;Itemid=4\">the fall issue of Mia Magazine</a>.','Demalda Newsome: Food Warrior','','publish','open','open','','demalda-newsome-food-warrior','','','2009-09-03 22:30:00','2009-09-03 22:30:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=264',0,'post','',0),(2072,1,'2010-09-14 16:10:48','2010-09-14 21:10:48','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2059\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2059\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2059\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069018757_3c275c47d2.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIf you\'re the kind of person who turns to a blog to find out what\'s going on in Tulsa, then odds are you probably know all about <a href=\"http://ignitetulsa.org/\">Ignite Tulsa</a>, or you\'ve at least heard of it.\r\n\r\nIn case you haven\'t, though, here\'s the scoop: <strong>Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks</strong>.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->To me, it\'s like an evening of live blogging written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time.\r\n\r\nIt\'s also the best networking event in the city right now, but you know what? I hate the term \"networking event.\" So I won\'t say that. Let\'s just say that it\'s a huge party with a microphone, some bright lights and a camera in the middle, and that all the cool kids - including you, TDT readers - are invited.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2060\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2060\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2060\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069738922_e1dc9c95fe-1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"334\" height=\"500\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAt the center of the event are nearly 20 speakers as they do their best to get through their five-minute talks without falling behind the automagic slide advancer, which does its thing every 15 seconds. At the top of the heap is <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/jackfrank1\">local filmmaker Jack Frank</a> with his talk, <em>Stuff That\'s Gone: Lost Tulsa Icons</em>. I have it on good authority that he\'ll talk a great deal about <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/admiral-twin-drive-in-burns/\">the late Admiral Twin Drive-In</a>. The award-winning <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/talkradiojoe\">Joe Kelley of the KRMG Morning News</a> will lead the event as its emcee.\r\n\r\nTopics of other speakers\' talks range from genetic mutations to yo-yos to kicking ass to robots to the importance of small adventures. My talk will be about hacking into the best of what your city has to offer, whether it\'s Tulsa or not.\r\n\r\nBut it should be Tulsa. Because, well, read this blog.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2061\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2061\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2061\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069721836_ec247f67b1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWe also do arts and crafts with common office supplies at Ignite Tulsa.\r\n\r\nThat\'s how we roll.\r\n\r\n<strong>General admission tickets are sold out at this point, but VIP tickets are still available.</strong>\r\n\r\nFr $14.97, VIP ticket holders get the following:\r\n\r\n<strong>Prime seating</strong>. You\'ll be able to see the whites of my eyes and whether or not <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/08/the-spa-tulsa/\">my pesky ninja chin hair</a> makes a surprise appearance during my talk from where you\'ll be sitting. And if I choke, you\'ll be the first to know that I\'m a sweaty nervous person. That\'s close, baby - real close.\r\n\r\n<strong>Extra beer tickets</strong>. Ignite attendees get two beer tickets, but you\'ll have more. Which automatically makes you cooler and mightier than everyone else there. You could carry a jewel-encrusted staff and subjugate your fellow Ignite attendees accordingly.\r\n\r\n<strong>Recognition at the event</strong>. Here\'s your chance at 15 minutes of fame. Actually, it might be more like 15 seconds, but still. It\'ll count.\r\n\r\n<strong>Good karma</strong>. All proceeds of VIP ticket sales benefit the Admiral Twin rebuilding effort.\r\n\r\nSo what are you waiting for? Grab your VIP tickets to Ignite 3. All of your wildest dreams will come true.\r\n\r\nExcept the one about the three-story Thundercats birthday cake topped with glitter and 150,000 slap bracelets. You know - the one that you\'ve wanted since you were five? That\'s never going to happen. Not on my watch. Because this is a <a href=\"http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/barbie-doll-cake/Detail.aspx\">Barbie dress cake</a> kind of universe, man. Barbie dress cakes for the win!\r\n\r\nIf you want to help in the rebuilding effort and score tickets to this sold out Ignite event at the same time, spend $14.97 - you know, roughly what you spent at the bar on two measly drinks and a tip Saturday night - and get a ticket to the top.\r\n\r\nOr, if you\'re lucky, <strong>you can win a pair of tickets, right here at TDT</strong>.\r\n\r\nHow? <strong>Head to the comments section of this post and tell me about your favorite birthday cake ever.</strong> Don\'t ask why, especially when it comes to birthday cake. It\'s just to just go with the flow when it comes to these kinds of matters.\r\n\r\nYou have until tomorrow (Wednesday, Sept. 15) at 11am to enter. I\'ll pick a winner Wednesday afternoon.\r\n\r\nGood luck! And starting thinking about what you could speak about at Ignite Tulsa 4. Submissions will be due before you can say \"I want a that-floozy-Midge-needs-to-keep-her-hands-off-of-Ken cake for my birthday.\"','Ignite Tulsa 3: Get a ring-side seat.','Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks. To me, it\'s like an evening of live blogging written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time. Wanna come?','inherit','open','open','','2044-revision-12','','','2010-09-14 16:10:48','2010-09-14 21:10:48','',2044,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/2044-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(2073,1,'2010-09-14 16:13:19','2010-09-14 21:13:19','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2059\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2059\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2059\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069018757_3c275c47d2.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIf you\'re the kind of person who turns to a blog to find out what\'s going on in Tulsa, then odds are you probably know all about <a href=\"http://ignitetulsa.org/\">Ignite Tulsa</a>, or you\'ve at least heard of it.\r\n\r\nIn case you haven\'t, though, here\'s the scoop: <strong>Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks</strong>.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->To me, it\'s like an evening of live blogging written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time. And ones in the audience are the ones that benefit, having the opportunity to soak up the varied (and sometimes quite strange) expertise of nearly 20 individuals in one evening.\r\n\r\nIt\'s also the best networking event in the city right now, but you know what? I hate the term \"networking event.\" So I won\'t say that. Let\'s just say that it\'s a huge party with a microphone, some bright lights and a camera in the middle, and that all the cool kids - including you, TDT readers - are invited.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2060\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2060\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2060\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069738922_e1dc9c95fe-1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"334\" height=\"500\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAt the center of the event are the speakers as they do their best to get through their five-minute talks without falling behind the automagic slide advancer, which does its thing every 15 seconds. At the top of the heap of talks is <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/jackfrank1\">local filmmaker Jack Frank</a> with his talk, <em>Stuff That\'s Gone: Lost Tulsa Icons</em>. I have it on good authority that he\'ll talk a great deal about <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/admiral-twin-drive-in-burns/\">the late Admiral Twin Drive-In</a>. The award-winning <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/talkradiojoe\">Joe Kelley of the KRMG Morning News</a> will lead the event as its emcee.\r\n\r\nTopics of other speakers\' talks range from genetic mutations to yo-yos to kicking ass to robots to the importance of small adventures. My talk will be about hacking into the best of what your city has to offer, whether it\'s Tulsa or not.\r\n\r\nBut it should be Tulsa. Because, well, read this blog.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2061\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2061\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2061\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069721836_ec247f67b1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWe also do arts and crafts with common office supplies at Ignite Tulsa.\r\n\r\nThat\'s how we roll.\r\n\r\n<strong>General admission tickets are sold out at this point, but VIP tickets are still available.</strong>\r\n\r\nFr $14.97, VIP ticket holders get the following:\r\n\r\n<strong>Prime seating</strong>. You\'ll be able to see the whites of my eyes and whether or not <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/08/the-spa-tulsa/\">my pesky ninja chin hair</a> makes a surprise appearance during my talk from where you\'ll be sitting. And if I choke, you\'ll be the first to know that I\'m a sweaty nervous person. That\'s close, baby - real close.\r\n\r\n<strong>Extra beer tickets</strong>. Ignite attendees get two beer tickets, but you\'ll have more. Which automatically makes you cooler and mightier than everyone else there. You could carry a jewel-encrusted staff and subjugate your fellow Ignite attendees accordingly.\r\n\r\n<strong>Recognition at the event</strong>. Here\'s your chance at 15 minutes of fame. Actually, it might be more like 15 seconds, but still. It\'ll count.\r\n\r\n<strong>Good karma</strong>. All proceeds of VIP ticket sales benefit the Admiral Twin rebuilding effort.\r\n\r\nSo what are you waiting for? Grab your VIP tickets to Ignite 3. All of your wildest dreams will come true.\r\n\r\nExcept the one about the three-story Thundercats birthday cake topped with glitter and 150,000 slap bracelets. You know - the one that you\'ve wanted since you were five? That\'s never going to happen. Not on my watch. Because this is a <a href=\"http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/barbie-doll-cake/Detail.aspx\">Barbie dress cake</a> kind of universe, man. Barbie dress cakes for the win!\r\n\r\nIf you want to help in the rebuilding effort and score tickets to this sold out Ignite event at the same time, spend $14.97 - you know, roughly what you spent at the bar on two measly drinks and a tip Saturday night - and get a ticket to the top.\r\n\r\nOr, if you\'re lucky, <strong>you can win a pair of tickets, right here at TDT</strong>.\r\n\r\nHow? <strong>Head to the comments section of this post and tell me about your favorite birthday cake ever.</strong> Don\'t ask why, especially when it comes to birthday cake. It\'s just to just go with the flow when it comes to these kinds of matters.\r\n\r\nYou have until tomorrow (Wednesday, Sept. 15) at 11am to enter. I\'ll pick a winner Wednesday afternoon.\r\n\r\nGood luck! And starting thinking about what you could speak about at Ignite Tulsa 4. Submissions will be due before you can say \"I want a that-floozy-Midge-needs-to-keep-her-hands-off-of-Ken cake for my birthday.\"','Ignite Tulsa 3: Get a ring-side seat.','Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks. To me, it\'s like an evening of live blogging written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time. Wanna come?','inherit','open','open','','2044-revision-13','','','2010-09-14 16:13:19','2010-09-14 21:13:19','',2044,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/2044-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(266,1,'2009-09-06 23:15:00','2009-09-06 23:15:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3861436458/\" title=\"Tasha\'s Kid Tells All by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2516/3861436458_6a368e0a05.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tasha\'s Kid Tells All\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Hello, everyone. I\'m Tasha\'s kid. You may remember me from such posts as <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/08/is-it-breakfast-time-yet.html\">Is It Breakfast Time Yet?</a>, <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/08/out-rock-bus.html\">Out-Rock the Bus</a> and <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/08/kids-social-guide-to-park.html\">A Kid\'s Social Guide to the Park</a>. <div><br /></div><div>Yeah, that\'s right. I\'m kind of a big deal. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3860657227/\" title=\"Tasha\'s Kid Tells All by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3506/3860657227_ddb2af05f3.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tasha\'s Kid Tells All\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Life as Tasha\'s kid has been pretty good lately. She feeds me, she dresses me (even though it\'s in a romper virtually everyday) and I still don\'t have an official bedtime. </div><div><br /></div><div>There\'s just one thing, and I hate to say it, but here it is: </div><div><br /></div><div>She\'s kind of whiny.</div><div><br /></div><div>Wanna know why? Hop over to <a href=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/?page=blogs/view&amp;BLID=5981\">Tasha Does Tulsa on tTownMoms.com</a> to get the whole shameful story.</div>','The Kid Tells All','','publish','open','open','','kid-tells-all','','','2009-09-06 23:15:00','2009-09-06 23:15:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=266',0,'post','',2),(267,1,'2009-09-07 23:00:00','2009-09-07 23:00:00','It\'s a holiday, everyone, and you know what that means: It\'s link day here at TashaDoesTulsa.com. <div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3898808942/\" title=\"Labor Day 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3426/3898808942_881acdc5a9.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Labor Day 2009\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Link day around here isn\'t anything fancy. I don\'t pore over the Intertubes to bring you eccentric content from sites of gravitational subcultural appeal or anything like that. </div><div><br /></div><div>Instead, I run down my list of local blogs and post my favorite finds here to assist you in your efforts to divert yourself from whatever you\'re really supposed to be doing on the computer right now. </div><div><br /></div><div>Ready? Here goes.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Y\'all ready to vote? </b>That\'s okay - lots of folks out there aren\'t, especially when there are 11 Republicans vying for a spot on the ticket in the general election. Batesline.com blogger Michael Bates delivers again with <a href=\"http://www.batesline.com/archives/2009/09/tulsa-2009-election-info.html\">a rundown of 2009 election info, all hot and ready for the primaries tomorrow</a>. There\'s only one way to get that snazzy \"I Voted\" sticker, and tomorrow\'s an opportunity as good as any. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Queen-sized giving</b>. Not only is her site new and improved and all super-swanky, but <a href=\"http://www.918couponqueen.com/2009/09/queen-size-giving/\">918 Coupon Queen Sarah Roe also has a short tutorial on how to donate expired coupons to military families serving overseas</a>. As a former military family, we really appreciated and most definitely could have used any help we could get during deployments and extended training. If you love our nation\'s men and women in service for reasons more than just their uniforms, snip your bit and send those expired coupons across the pond. </div><div><br /></div><b>Got Turkey?</b> <a href=\"http://crustygasguy.blogspot.com/2009/09/sunday-afternoon-running-with-eagles.html\">This post from Yogi\'s Den inspired me during my own run earlier today</a>, and trust me, I need all the inspiration I can get.<br /><br /><b>We all miss Pennington\'s Black-Bottom Pie</b>. Grab a bite of something pretty darn close to the real McCoy at <a href=\"http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/tulsafoodblog/~3/OHqiJ5plBWs/comfort-yourself-at-kari-okies\">Kari Okies in Bixby, as featured on Tulsa Food Blog</a>. Love, too, that <a href=\"http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/tulsafoodblog/~3/oL4bBe-awv8/tcc-cooking-classes-tulsa-oklahoma\">you kids are looking to start cooking classes at Tulsa Community College this fall</a>. You can come to my house with cookie bouquets and wedding cakes anytime.<br /><br /><b>It\'s okay to be different, thank God.</b> <a href=\"http://blogs.tulsalibrary.org:8080/b2evolution/index.php/news/2009/09/05/it-s-ok-to-be-different-books-to-help-yo\">The Tulsa City-County Library posted a reading list ranging from picture books to tween and teen books for those of us who struggle with our “eccentricities” on the TCCL blog</a>. Thanks for showing us your books, TCCL.<br /><br /><b>Laborious.</b> One hour, four hours, 12 hours or 25 – ladies, for how many hours were you in labor with your kids? <a href=\"http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/RocksInMyDryer/~3/Dy3s3rJ1Ny8/laborious.html\">Shannon Lowe at Rocks in My Dryer tells all</a>.<br /><br /><b>How poetic.</b> Charlie, the floppy Basset Hound/fifth child of Pawhuska-ish dweller <a href=\"http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/pioneerwoman-full-rss-feed/~3/yvG9il2nlr4/\">Ree Drummond (of the inimitable bloggy conglomerate Confessions of a Pioneer Woman) waxes poetic about Labor Day</a>.<br /><br /><b>He only speaks the truth.</b> The wacky Irritated Tulsan shares with his readers <a href=\"http://irritatedtulsan.wordpress.com/2009/09/04/labor/\">an inspired list of things to be sure to do in Tulsa before Labor Day weekend is over and done with</a>.<br /><br /><b>Home Sweet Loam.</b> After spending what spare time they had during this growing season looking for their own personal land of milk and honey, <a href=\"http://bootstrapfarm.blogspot.com/2009/09/home-sweet-loam-we-bought-land.html\">Don Drury and Chelsea Coleman found a new home for their formerly Bixby-based Bootstrap Farm</a>. Their new place is in the Council Valley just north of Cushing. This move brings the promise of farm tours, farm parties, farm table dinners and all manner of fun for the Green Country foodies and farmers. P.S. - If you want <a href=\"http://bootstrapfarm.blogspot.com/2009/08/bootstrap-farm-csa-has-arrived.html\">a piece of the farm that produced the markets\' pride in cantaloupes this summer, not to mention some of the best tomatoes and peppers I\'ve ever eaten, check out the Bootstrap Farm CSA</a> (Community Supported Agriculture, a type of loan from consumers to farmers that pays dividends in veggies. Yum).<br /><div><br /></div><div><b>It\'s Only A Day Away.</b> <a href=\"http://philbrookmuseum.blogspot.com/2009/09/tomorrow-tomorrow-its-only-day-away.html\">Tomorrow (Tuesday) marks the opening day of the new modern and contemporary design gallery at Philbrook Museum</a>. The gallery will feature the exhibit, \"Better Living By Design: Selections from the George R. Kravis II Collection.\" Come to the opening to see and be seen Thursday night at Philbrook at 5:30pm and on to Pohlenz Modern Cuisine on Brookside at 7.</div><br /><b>Music Together</b>. The girls at tTownMoms will draw a winner for their latest contest, which will award two moms and their kiddos two free classes at the <a href=\"http://ttownmoms.com/TulsaCons\">Music Together program</a>, tomorrow (Tuesday) at 10am. Music Together is an early childhood music program at <a href=\"http://www.tulsabartmusic.com/\">downtown\'s Barthelmes Conservatory</a> for children ages 0-5 and the adults who love them. Good thing there\'s still time to enter, right?  <a href=\"http://ttownmoms.com/data/assets/boards/ttownmoms/showthread.php?p=1692#post1692\">Simply post a reply on the contest threat ad tTownMoms.com to enter</a>.<br /><br /><br />There, now. Wasn\'t that refreshing? I sure hope you Okie Dokes had a great holiday weekend. Catch you on the flip side. Until then, happy clicking.','Tasha\'s Labor Day Links','','publish','open','open','','tashas-labor-day-links','','','2009-09-07 23:00:00','2009-09-07 23:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=267',0,'post','',1),(268,1,'2009-09-08 20:45:00','2009-09-08 20:45:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3900957903/\" title=\"An the election results are... by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2597/3900957903_9d9eea19d4.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"An the election results are...\" /></a></div><div><br /></div><a href=\"http://www.newson6.com/global/story.asp?s=11089488\">It\'s an election day here in Tulsa, Oklahoma</a>, folks, and there\'s no better way to relax after using your lunch hour to stand in a voter\'s box than to throw a few down the hatch at a local election watch party. <div><br /></div><div>As with mayoral candidates, Tulsa, you have several parties from which to choose. Behold: </div><div><br /><b>Adelson for Mayor Primary Watch Party</b><br />When: 7-10pm<br />Where: El Guapo\'s Mexican Cantina, 332 E. First St.<br />When the polls close, it\'s time to hit El Guapo\'s with Democrat mayoral candidate Mark Adelson. Bonus: It\'s Taco Tuesday. Get traditional-style carnitas tacos for $1 each. Woot!<br /><br /><b>Grizzle for City Council Election Watch Party</b><br />When: 7-10pm<br />Where: Renaissance Hotel, Ste. 427<br />Watch the returns prom-party style at the Renaissance Hotel with District 8 Councilor candidate Scott Grizzle. Bring snacks.<br /><br /><b>Watch Party for Mark Perkins</b><br />When: 5-10pm<br />Where: Leon\'s On the Restless Ribbon, 33rd and Peoria<br />Grab some buds and meet at Leon\'s to watch election returns and talk Tulsa with Independent mayoral candidate Mark Perkins. Proceeds from the sale of the Mark Perkins for Mayor specialty pizza (!) and Tulsa\'s own beer from Marshall Brewing Company will be donated to the Perkins cause. </div><div><br /></div><div>Is your election watch party of choice missing from this list? <a href=\"mailto:%20tashadoestulsa@gmail.com\">E-mail me details</a> or leave \'em in the comments and I\'ll get them posted. </div><div><br /></div><div>For up-to-the-minute cover of today\'s election, tune in to <a href=\"http://krmg.com/\">News Talk KRMG at AM 740 or FM 102.3</a> and get the scoop with Dan Potter and <a href=\"http://batesline.com/\">Michael Bates of Batesline.com</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you\'re considering playing hooky and skipping the trip to the polls today, just go. Go right now to your polling place and vote. In an election like this, every vote really does count. </div><div><br /></div><div>Go now or I\'ll come after you with my spanking hand. You have until 7pm before I bring the crazy.</div>','Primary Election Watch Parties Tonight','','publish','open','open','','primary-election-watch-parties-tonight','','','2009-09-08 20:45:00','2009-09-08 20:45:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=268',0,'post','',1),(10011,1,'2011-12-19 09:30:41','2011-12-19 15:30:41','<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2011/12/around-town-j-j-gourmet-burger-cafe/picture-2-23/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-9835\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-9835\" title=\"J.J. Gourmet Burger Tulsa Oklahoma Badger\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Picture-22-500x500.png\" alt=\"J.J. Gourmet Burger Tulsa Oklahoma Badger\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Burger badger don\'t care</strong>. If you\'ve ever grabbed a famous ribeye burger at J.J.\'s Gourmet Burger Cafe, odds are this guy, wearing a wine-colored yarmulke and Top Gun sunglasses, was looking over your shoulder. (The sign, by the way, says, \"STOP: If this isn\'t one of the coolest places you\'ve ever been in, there is no hope for you in this world.\") <a href=\"http://thislandpress.com/02/18/2011/no-phones-no-fools-no-frets-the-j-j-behind-j-j-%E2%80%99s-gourmet-burger-cafe/\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more about J.J.\'s, a true Tulsa original, at This Land Press</a>.\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[adrotate banner=\"8\"]</p>','Around Town: J.J. Gourmet Burger Cafe','Burger badger don\'t care: Patrons of J.J\'s Gourmet Burger Cafe share what\'s probably Tulsa\'s most exclusive (and most thoughtfully decorated) dining room with, but what else, a stuffed badger. ','inherit','open','open','','9834-revision-12','','','2011-12-19 09:30:41','2011-12-19 15:30:41','',9834,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2011/12/9834-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(270,1,'2009-09-09 15:57:00','2009-09-09 15:57:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3904299264/\" title=\"Hang Me Out to Dry by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2509/3904299264_8e495de902.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Hang Me Out to Dry\" /></a></div><br />When my clothes dryer went to the big laundry room in the sky early this summer, my first reaction was to cry.<br /><br />Second, I turned on my computer and opened <a href=\"http://maytag.com\">Maytag.com</a>. I\'d just spent nearly five years with a dryer (circa 1968), and I soon found all the fancy features now available on this humble household appliance.<br /><br />In fact, clothes dryers didn\'t need to be humble at all. Some models come with that hip, brushed aluminum finish, for crying out loud. I wanted to plunder our kid\'s college savings account and put one of those bad boys in my living room. Why relegate it to the same place where I store my old paint cans, rakes and sundry combustibles? It would have been the prettiest thing I\'d ever owned. I was ready to welcome it as a full-rights member of the family.<br /><br />Enter my ever-frugal, always-sensible husband.<br /><br />Read the rest of this story <a href=\"http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A28031\">in Consumer Watchdog in this week\'s edition of Urban Tulsa Weekly</a>.','Hang Me Out To Dry','','publish','open','open','','hang-me-out-to-dry','','','2009-09-09 15:57:00','2009-09-09 15:57:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=270',0,'post','',3),(271,1,'2009-09-09 18:20:00','2009-09-09 18:20:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3904570882/\" title=\"DIVAS 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2472/3904570882_22b21d7a81.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" alt=\"DIVAS 2009\" /></a></div><br />If you don\'t know this little tidbit about Tulsa already, you really should be told:<br /><br />Some of the best original music in the country has come and continues to come from Tulsa, Oklahoma.<br /><br />Rather than mark up your datebook with multiple events in search of the hottest musical acts in this town (though you\'ll want to anyway after this), make plans to be at the Tulsa Zoo this weekend for DIVAS 2009, the eighth annual benefit concert for <a href=\"http://www.hopetesting.org/\">H.O.P.E., a local organization that makes its mission the prevention of HIV and the promotion of health services</a> and, obviously, rocks in its own right.<br /><br />Get a load of the goods:<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3904571792/\" title=\"DIVAS 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2499/3904571792_48666c3685.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" alt=\"DIVAS 2009\" /></a></div><br /><b>The girls</b>, slated to cover our classic favorites (click the links to get a preview of the music): <a href=\"http://www.myspace.com/rebeccaungermanstuff\">Rebecca Ungerman</a>, who\'s producing the event. <a href=\"http://www.cindycain.com/music.htm\">Cindy Cain</a>. Pam Van Dyke. <a href=\"http://www.myspace.com/theredalert\">Christy Hanewinkel of The Red Alert</a>. <a href=\"http://www.myspace.com/fiawnaforte\">Fiawna Forte</a>. Kelly Morrison. Janet Rutland. Emcee is the fabulous <a href=\"http://www.fox23.com/content/contactus/bios-2009/story/Mia-Fleming/0e4MVKSClEu8D8brSZMiuw.cspx\">Mia Fleming of Fox 23</a>. Oh, and don\'t forget the (lucky) boys: John Sawyer and Darrell Christopher.<br /><br />The combined talent of these artists includes experience on Broadway, national and international cabaret tours and local Spot Music and <a href=\"http://contest.flyfi.com/tulsamusicawards09/\">Absolute Best of Tulsa Music Awards</a>.<br /><br /><b>The night</b>: The evening gala edition is this Saturday, 8pm. Or, catch the no-frills matinee show Sunday at 4pm.<br /><br /><b>The place</b>: <a href=\"http://www.tulsazoo.org/\">Tulsa Zoo in the H.A. Chapman Event Lodge</a><br /><br /><b>The price</b>: $15-40 for general admission seating<br /><br />That is, unless you\'re feeling lucky. Then there\'s no admission price at all.<br /><br /><span>Whoever\'s entry in the comments below is chosen by <a href=\"http://random.org/\">Random.org</a> gets his or her choice of</span><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\"> two general admission tickets to Saturday night\'s event, or two tickets, front and center, in the general admission section on Sunday</span>.<br /><br />What to put in your comment? <span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Your favorite artist or musical group of all time</span>. Don\'t worry about your choice marring your chances in this contest. I might judge you, but the computers at Random.org, they feel no disgust. Be thee not afraid, but be thee hasty. <b>Have your entry in the comments by tomorrow (Thursday) at 9pm</b>.<br /><br />This event isn\'t all about music, mind you. Look also for the silent and live auctions, dancing, hors d\'oeuvres and drinks. Proceeds from the event will help support H.O.P.E. programs like prevention education about HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis and other STDs; the only statewide, 24-hour HIV/STD resource hotline and the only free, anonymous testing and counseling facility in the entire state.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3904573014/\" title=\"DIVAS 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2504/3904573014_4d6b7218a3.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"DIVAS 2009\" /></a></div><br />Here\'s the deal about HIV and other STDs: Young people and minorities are disproportionately affected, but HIV doesn\'t discriminate. Know your status - meaning, get tested regularly - and you\'re better able to protect yourself and others. Prevention education and testing are the keys to decreasing the stigma and infection rate of HIV.<br /><br />As the saying goes, if you don\'t have your health, you don\'t have anything at all. If public health isn\'t worth our attention and investment, then I don\'t know what is.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3903789205/\" title=\"DIVAS 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2427/3903789205_5e018623e5.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"357\" alt=\"DIVAS 2009\" /></a></div><br />To trade cash for tickets to this year\'s DIVAS event, call H.O.P.E. at 918.749.8378 or <a href=\"http://www.hopetesting.org/\">visit H.O.P.E. on the Web</a>.<br /><br />For those of you letting it ride by entering the contest for free tickets: Good luck! Remember, when 9pm tomorrow rolls around, this contest goes into pumpkin mode.','Divas Gone Wild','','publish','open','open','','divas-gone-wild','','','2009-09-09 18:20:00','2009-09-09 18:20:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=271',0,'post','',13),(272,1,'2009-09-10 14:34:00','2009-09-10 14:34:00','<a onblur=\"try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}\" href=\"http://www.beachbumwannabe.com/beachbumwannabe/Home/Entries/2009/9/6_Local_Restaurant_Feature%3A_Campus_Grill_files/shapeimage_2.jpg\"><img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 539px; height: 308px;\" src=\"http://www.beachbumwannabe.com/beachbumwannabe/Home/Entries/2009/9/6_Local_Restaurant_Feature%3A_Campus_Grill_files/shapeimage_2.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" /></a><br />In case you didn\'t notice the last time you drove down 11th Street, <a href=\"http://www.thecollectivetulsa.com/Welcome.html\">the spot that formerly housed The Collective</a> is alive again. <div><br /></div><div>Now open in the space is Campus Grill, a spinoff of the Midtown, homegrown breakfast haven Brookside by Day, by BBD founder and owner Kyle Phillips.</div><div><br /></div><div>While I haven\'t tried the place yet, my expectations are high. With the creators of the BBD food and atmosphere working behind the scenes to get that place off the ground, I\'m confident it\'s going to be a hopping place. </div><div><br /></div><div>I don\'t know what our crazy Oklahoma beer and liquor laws have to say about this, but since Campus Grill is hurry-up-and-waiting for its liquor license, it\'s conceivably possible, at least to me and my depraved little mind, to be able to order a beer with breakfast at this place. </div><div><br /></div><div>It\'d be like a dream come true: <a href=\"http://www.marshallbrewing.com\">A Marshall brew</a> with BBD-esque breakfast. </div><div><br /></div><div>Beer wouldn\'t be just for breakfast at Campus Grill, though. I\'ve heard Phillips is working out the hours of operation for the cafe - it opened just a week ago, after all - and it\'s looking like late night is going to be the way to go. Plus, there\'s the impending schedule of live entertainment. </div><div><br /></div><div>It all sounds good. It all sounds real, real good.</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://www.beachbumwannabe.com/beachbumwannabe/Home/Entries/2009/9/6_Local_Restaurant_Feature%3A_Campus_Grill_files/IMG_1311.jpg\" /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>And guess what. You can be one of the first to try Campus Grill, and you can try it on the house. All you gotta do is <a href=\"http://www.beachbumwannabe.com/beachbumwannabe/Home/Entries/2009/9/6_Local_Restaurant_Feature%3A_Campus_Grill.html\">g</a><b><a href=\"http://www.beachbumwannabe.com/beachbumwannabe/Home/Entries/2009/9/6_Local_Restaurant_Feature%3A_Campus_Grill.html\">o to the comments in the post on Campus Grill at the Owasso-based blog Beach Bum Wannabe</a></b><b> and tell the blogtista Laura about your favorite game-day food for the chance to win a $25 gift certificate to CG</b>. </div><div><br /></div><div>CG. Not quite as catchy as BBD, but it works for our purposes today. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Get over to Laura\'s before midnight tonight to be eligible for the giveaway</b>. Good luck, and happy eating.</div>','Campus Grill, On The House','','publish','open','open','','campus-grill-on-house','','','2009-09-10 14:34:00','2009-09-10 14:34:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=272',0,'post','',1),(273,1,'2009-09-10 21:00:00','2009-09-10 21:00:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3319935499/\" title=\"DoubleShot Coffee Company by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3620/3319935499_e3ea014e32.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"DoubleShot Coffee Company\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>One of my favorite local podcasts to follow (besides <a href=\"http://www.idaredboutique.com/tag/podcast/\">the one produced by the fine folks at Ida Red - love those local artist jams</a>) is <a href=\"http://aacafepodcast.blogspot.com/\">that of DoubleShot Coffee Company, headquartered right here in Tulsa</a>. He doesn\'t publish often, but when he does, it\'s a barrage of information. <div><br /></div><div>And I mean that in the best possible way. We foodies love all things barrage, especially when it comes to arcane tidbits about our food and drinks. </div><div><br /></div><div>Pretty much everything I know about coffee I owe to Brian Franklin, founder and owner and \"roastmaster\" at the DoubleShot and receiver and conqueror of much Starbucks throwing around of weight, and also to <a href=\"http://www.doubleshotcoffee.com/blog\">his snarky blog posts</a> and podcasts. </div><div><br /></div><div>I\'m not the only one who thinks Brian is probably a pretty knowledgeable guy. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href=\"http://www.cappuccinomovie.com/\">Amy Ferraris, a maker of indie films, found her way to Tulsa as she filmed for her documentary, The Perfect Cappuccino</a>. As it turned out, Amy really liked the cappuccinos at DoubleShot, and she ended up hanging around in our neck of the woods for quite awhile. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://www.doubleshotcoffee.com/blog/uploaded_images/capposter-725103.jpg\" /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Much of the film ended up being shot in Tulsa, giving our city some recognition across a wide variety of America\'s fooderati. Which is always a very cool thing - food is yet another area in which T-Town is grossly under-sung. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href=\"http://www.doubleshotcoffee.com/blog/2009/08/perfect-cappuccino-at-doubleshot.html\">See the film itself and meet Ferraris via live Web chat at the DoubleShot tonight</a>. Brian will have the doors open and the espresso machine ready for business at 6pm, with the film starting at 7. Admission is zilch, zero, $0, nada. </div><div><br /></div><div>That\'s a lot of yummy for not a lot of money, I\'d say. See you on the couch. </div>','I Did It All For the Coffee','','publish','open','open','','i-did-it-all-for-coffee','','','2009-09-10 21:00:00','2009-09-10 21:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=273',0,'post','',0),(274,1,'2009-09-11 02:30:00','2009-09-11 02:30:00','<a onblur=\"try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}\" href=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2472/3904570882_22b21d7a81.jpg\"><img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 333px;\" src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2472/3904570882_22b21d7a81.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" /></a><br /><div style=\"text-align: left;\">You may recall that, <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/09/divas-gone-wild.html\">courtesy of the fabulous folks at H.O.P.E. Tulsa, I was able to host a giveaway for two tickets to this weekend\'s Divas Gone Wild event</a>, which will rock Tulsa Zoo to its diva-lovin\' knees from Saturday come Sunday.</div><div><br /></div><div>I loved reading about your personal divas (yes, I think dudes can be divas, too - after all, who, male or female, is more of a diva than Justin Timberlake?), and I\'ll definitely be hitting the reserve button on my Tulsa Library account more times than is usual over the next day or so.</div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div>But enough about me. Let\'s talk about you. </div><div><br /></div><div>The winner of the two Divas tickets is:</div><div><br /></div><img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 178px; height: 187px;\" src=\"http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/SqnL7q65n8I/AAAAAAAABfQ/QtenPVqCxKo/s400/Picture+19.png\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380055455864823746\" /><div>talktome! </div><div><br /></div><div>Hey, talktome? <a href=\"mailto:%20tashadoestulsa@gmail.com\">Talk to me</a>. Let\'s get these tickets into <a href=\"http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2007/08/128288825100746250jazzhands.jpg\">your fabulous jazz hands</a> as soon as possible.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks to everyone for playing, and don\'t forget, the Divas Gone Wild event isn\'t just for the 8 percent of us who win two free tickets (though those are pretty good odds, eh?). There\'s still plenty of space, and the price to get through the gate and into a showcase of some of the most talented music artists in Tulsa starts at a mere $15.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here\'s to a rockin\' weekend.</div><div> </div>','We Have A (Diva) Winner','','publish','open','open','','we-have-diva-winner','','','2009-09-11 02:30:00','2009-09-11 02:30:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=274',0,'post','',0),(2077,1,'2010-09-14 16:19:11','2010-09-14 21:19:11','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2059\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/ignite-tulsa-3/4069018757_3c275c47d2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2059\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069018757_3c275c47d2.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIf you\'re the kind of person who turns to a blog to find out what\'s going on in Tulsa, then odds are you probably know all about <a href=\"http://ignitetulsa.org/\">Ignite Tulsa</a>, or you\'ve at least heard of it.\r\n\r\nIn case you haven\'t, though, here\'s the scoop: <strong>Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks</strong>.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->To me, it\'s like an evening of live blogging written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time. And the members of the audience are the ones that benefit, having the opportunity to soak up the varied (and sometimes quite strange) expertise of nearly 20 individuals in one evening.\r\n\r\nIt\'s also the best networking event in the city right now, but you know what? I hate the term \"networking event.\" So I won\'t say that. Let\'s just say that it\'s a huge party with a microphone, some bright lights and a camera in the middle, and that all the cool kids - including you, TDT readers - are invited.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2060\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/ignite-tulsa-3/4069738922_e1dc9c95fe-1/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2060\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069738922_e1dc9c95fe-1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"334\" height=\"500\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAt the center of the event are the speakers as they do their best to get through their five-minute talks without falling behind the automagic slide advancer, which does its thing every 15 seconds. At the top of the heap of talks is <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/jackfrank1\">local filmmaker Jack Frank</a> with his talk, <em>Stuff That\'s Gone: Lost Tulsa Icons</em>. I have it on good authority that he\'ll talk a great deal about <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/admiral-twin-drive-in-burns/\">the late Admiral Twin Drive-In</a>. The award-winning <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/talkradiojoe\">Joe Kelley of the KRMG Morning News</a> will lead the event as its emcee.\r\n\r\nTopics of other speakers\' talks range from genetic mutations to yo-yos to kicking ass to robots to the importance of small adventures. My talk will be about hacking into the best of what your city has to offer, whether it\'s Tulsa or not.\r\n\r\nBut it should be Tulsa. Because, well, read this blog.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2061\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/ignite-tulsa-3/4069721836_ec247f67b1/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2061\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069721836_ec247f67b1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWe also do arts and crafts with common office supplies at Ignite Tulsa.\r\n\r\nThat\'s how we roll. Arts and crafts and a total aversion to long, drawn-out, over-inflated Powerpoint presentations.\r\n\r\n<strong>General admission tickets are sold out at this point, but VIP tickets are still available.</strong>\r\n\r\nFr $14.97, VIP ticket holders get the following:\r\n\r\n<strong>Prime seating</strong>. You\'ll be able to see the whites of my eyes and whether or not <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/08/the-spa-tulsa/\">my pesky ninja chin hair</a> makes a surprise appearance during my talk from where you\'ll be sitting. And if I choke, you\'ll be the first to know that I\'m a sweaty nervous person. That\'s close, baby - real close.\r\n\r\n<strong>Extra beer tickets</strong>. Ignite attendees get two beer tickets, but you\'ll have more. Which automatically makes you cooler and mightier than everyone else there. You could carry a jewel-encrusted staff and subjugate your fellow Ignite attendees accordingly.\r\n\r\n<strong>Recognition at the event</strong>. Here\'s your chance at 15 minutes of fame. Actually, it might be more like 15 seconds, but still. It\'ll count.\r\n\r\n<strong>Good karma</strong>. All proceeds of VIP ticket sales benefit the Admiral Twin rebuilding effort.\r\n\r\nSo what are you waiting for? Grab your VIP tickets to Ignite 3. All of your wildest dreams will come true.\r\n\r\nExcept the one about the three-story Thundercats birthday cake topped with glitter and 150,000 slap bracelets. You know - the one that you\'ve wanted since you were five? That\'s never going to happen. Not on my watch. Because this is a <a href=\"http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/barbie-doll-cake/Detail.aspx\">Barbie dress cake</a> kind of universe, man. Barbie dress cakes for the win!\r\n\r\nIf you want to help in the rebuilding effort and score tickets to this sold out Ignite event at the same time, spend $14.97 - you know, roughly what you spent at the bar on two measly drinks and a tip Saturday night - and get a ticket to the top.\r\n\r\nOr, if you\'re lucky, <strong>you can win a pair of tickets, right here at TDT</strong>.\r\n\r\nHow? <strong>Head to the comments section of this post and tell me about your favorite birthday cake ever.</strong> Don\'t ask why, especially when it comes to birthday cake. It\'s just to just go with the flow when it comes to these kinds of matters.\r\n\r\nYou have until tomorrow (Wednesday, Sept. 15) at 11am to enter. I\'ll pick a winner Wednesday afternoon.\r\n\r\nGood luck! And starting thinking about what you could speak about at Ignite Tulsa 4. Submissions will be due before you can say \"I want a that-floozy-Midge-needs-to-keep-her-hands-off-of-Ken cake for my birthday.\"','Ignite Tulsa 3: Get a ring-side seat.','Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks. To me, it\'s like an evening of live blogging written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time. Wanna come?','inherit','open','open','','2044-revision-17','','','2010-09-14 16:19:11','2010-09-14 21:19:11','',2044,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/2044-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(2078,1,'2010-09-15 07:30:48','2010-09-15 12:30:48','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2091\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/mcnellies-mustache-contest/3320759598_f96a806689_o/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-2091\" title=\"McNellies Public House\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/3320759598_f96a806689_o-500x666.jpg\" alt=\"McNellies Public House\" width=\"500\" height=\"666\" /></a>\r\n\r\nSome men grow mustaches. And some men grow <em>mustaches</em>.\r\n\r\nIf you\'re a man of the latter type, then the newest competition at Tulsa\'s <a href=\"http://www.mcnellies.com/\">McNellie\'s Public House</a>, home of the most diverse on-tap beer selection in Tulsa and a perennial choice for T-Towners looking for a burger and a drink, is for you.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->From McNellie\'s owner Elliot Nelson in the most recent McNellie\'s e-mail newsletter:\r\n<blockquote>Hall &amp; Oates, the rockingest soft rockers ever, just announced that they\'ll be playing in Tulsa on Friday, October 22nd [<a href=\"http://www.hardrockcasinotulsa.com/thejoint/Pages/DarylHallJohnOates.aspx\">at Hard Rock Hotel &amp; Casino\'s The Joint</a>]. Therefore, it\'s time to start our long-awaited John Oates mustache-growing-look-a-like-competition.</blockquote>\r\nHere are the rules of the game:\r\n\r\nOne. Head to McNellies, at 409 E. First Street, this Thursday, Sept. 16th, between 6-9pm, to have your \"before \'stache\" mug photographed.\r\nTwo. Return to McNellie\'s on Thurs., Oct. 14th, between 6-9pm, to have your \"after\" mug photographed.\r\n\r\nThat\'s practically a month for you to grow the most beautiful \'stache you can muster.\r\n\r\nThe judges at McNellies will review all of the before/after pictures and announce four winners via the e-mail newsletter on Friday, October 15th.\r\n\r\nThe winners will be based on seven factors that Nelson said are \"essential to an Oates-esque mustache:\"\r\n<blockquote>1.) Ability to retain Guinness foam\r\n2.) Fullness\r\n3.) Amazingness\r\n4.) Awesomeness\r\n5.) \'Stacheability\r\n6.) Tone\r\n7.) Luster</blockquote>\r\nNelson said each of the four winners will receive:\r\n\r\n1.) Two tickets to the Hall &amp; Oates concert;\r\n2.) A limo ride from McNellies to the concert and back;\r\n3.) A $50 gift card to McNellie\'s;\r\n4.) Bragging rights.\r\n5.) Most important of these enviable prizes, an incredible new look that your wife/girlfriend/mom/mother-in-law is sure to love.\r\n\r\nHere are Nelson\'s competition rules:\r\n\r\n<strong>One</strong>. Absolutely no pre-growth (all competitors must start the competition <em>without</em> a mustache)\r\n<strong> Two</strong>. You can\'t shave the \'stache until after the concert (meaning you need to be willing to go toe-to-toe with The \'Stache of Oates in person)\r\n<strong> Three</strong>. Respect the \'stache.\r\n\r\nFinally, here\'s how to get involved in this \'stachy \'stachyness: Send an email to <a href=\"mailto:oatesmustachecontest@mcnellies.com\">oatesmustachecontest@mcnellies.com</a>. Put \"I want to look like John Oates\" in the subject line.\r\n\r\nHeh. Heh heh.\r\n\r\nAfter that? \"Grow \'em long. Grow \'em strong,\" Nelson said.\r\n\r\nIf you want to send your photos here to TDT as you progress in your journey from a face that\'s smooth as a baby\'s bottom to a mustache that could send a chill of fear and intimidation up the spine of the likes of John Oates, I totally wouldn\'t be mad. In fact, I would be glad. <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/tashadoestulsa\">And I\'d probably tweet it</a>.\r\n\r\nAfter you win the contest and you\'re looking for someone to do a little \'stache elimination (or, if you\'ve seen the light, a little \'stache maintenance), check out this post here at TDT about <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/08/clays-barbershop-for-the-guys/\">the awesomeness of a trip to a real barber shop</a>.','McNellie\'s Mustache Contest','Some men grow mustaches. And some men grow <em>mustaches</em>.','publish','open','open','','mcnellies-mustache-contest','','\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/08/clays-barbershop-for-the-guys/','2010-09-15 07:30:48','2010-09-15 12:30:48','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=2078',0,'post','',3),(2079,1,'2010-09-14 16:20:58','2010-09-14 21:20:58','','McNellie\'s Mustache Contest','','inherit','open','open','','2078-revision','','','2010-09-14 16:20:58','2010-09-14 21:20:58','',2078,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/2078-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(3224,1,'2010-10-23 15:15:41','2010-10-23 20:15:41','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3197\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1652-2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3197\" title=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16521-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIdeas that come to mind when one thinks of a deli don\'t usually include chicken parmesan made in house, wine-braised beef brisket, pints of locally brewed beer or four-layer chocolate cake made from scratch.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[adrotate group=\"2\" banner=\"8\"]</p>\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3198\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1598-2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3198\" title=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_15981-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nBut these dishes and drinks, along with the traditional soups and sandwiches that do come to mind at the mention of a deli, are exactly the ones you can expect at <a href=\"http://www.thebostondeli.com/\">The Boston Deli Grill and Market</a>, found on the northwest corner of 61st Street and Sheridan Road.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3199\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1601-3/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3199\" title=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16012-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nEveryone knows that a girl\'s birthday isn\'t just a day. As a matter of course, I try to stretch my own birthday celebrations to last a week or more. And why not? It takes us an entire year to earn a birthday. Why not milk those suckers for all they\'re worth?\r\n\r\nThough I knew that later in the week I had waiting for me a birthday dinner with family, <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/anns-bakery-barbie-dress-cake/\">complete with a remake of the Barbie dress cake I had when I was four years old</a>, I still wanted to dine somewhere fancy on my actual birthday, which sadly fell in the middle of the week this year.\r\n\r\nThere\'s a buzz about The Boston Deli Grill in Tulsa\'s food circles as of late. The cafe hosted a <a href=\"http://www.marshallbrewingcompany.com/\">Marshall Brewing Company</a> beer dinner last month and according to some of the T-Town fooderati, it went over really, really well.\r\n\r\nThe chatter about how the deli served up unexpectedly gourmet fare grew louder. So when I was thinking of where I\'d like to have dinner with the two handsomest men I know on the evening I officially entered into my late twenties, one place came to mind.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3200\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1627-3/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3200\" title=\"The Boston Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16272-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Grill and Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3201\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1621-3/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3201\" title=\"The Boston Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16212.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Grill and Market\" width=\"426\" height=\"640\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3202\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1619-2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3202\" title=\"The Boston Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16191-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Grill and Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3203\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1633-2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3203\" title=\"The Boston Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16331-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Grill and Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIt all started with a little cup of this: What the folks at The Boston Deli call white bean chili. Which is really more soup-like, actually, but warming and delightfully spicy nonetheless.\r\n\r\nThe soups are constantly different at The Boston Deli - the menu is, too, actually, and <a href=\"http://www.thebostondeli.com/MenuRegular.aspx\">it\'s reset at the beginning of each week</a> - but the white bean chili is a constant favorite.\r\n\r\nSpeaking of the menu, The Boston Deli Grill and Market is another Tulsa restaurant where several items available for order are made from ingredients procured from local sources. <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/04/shop-eat-local-diagram/\">Which is so important to our health, our economy and our community</a>.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3204\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1613-2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3204\" title=\"The Boston Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16131-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Grill and Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOur little guy opted for this, which our waitress brought out before our meals.\r\n\r\nAnd as every parent knows, bringing kids\' meals out before the adults\' meals is almost always appreciated. Kids get pretty impatient when there\'s food around, you know, and toddlers are especially lacking in the ability to keep their feelings to themselves.\r\n\r\nIn other words? There is no such thing as an inside voice when a little belly is empty.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3205\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1625-2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3205\" title=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16251-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\n\"No, Dada - you get away from my grilled cheese now!\"\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3206\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1637-2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3206\" title=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16371-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nI, however, opted for this: Home made chicken parmesan, with house red sauce, angel hair pasta and just the right amount of cheese.\r\n\r\nIn a word? Yum. In three words? Yum, yum, yum. The sauce had a bright flavor and was full of texture, and the chicken was so tender that I didn\'t need a knife to eat it. The breading was light and crispy, too. This isn\'t the kind of chicken parmesan that will put you to sleep for 12 hours. It was filling, not overly so.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3207\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1641-2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3207\" title=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16411.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" width=\"425\" height=\"640\" /></a>\r\n\r\nMy husband went with the wine-braised brisket with caramelized pearl onions and dried apricots, served on a bed of smashed potatoes and a side of roasted kale.\r\n\r\nAnd it\'s the only way I want to have brisket ever, ever again. It was one of the best meat-and-potatoes dishes I\'ve had. I loved the pairing of robust meatiness with the delicate, wine-soaked fruit, all on top of flaky potatoes, crisp potato skin and the bitter tenderness of slow-roasted kale.\r\n\r\nGolly.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3208\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1647-2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3208\" title=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16471-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWe had a hard time choosing what to have for dessert. But that\'s what happens when there are a dozen or more choices that range from cakes to tortes to pies.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/09/yet-more-about-pie/\">And you all know how I feel about pie</a>. But I felt that cake was more appropriate to cap off a birthday dinner.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3209\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1652-3/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3209\" title=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16522-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe Chocolate Wall got the job done quite right.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3210\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1657-2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3210\" title=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16571.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" width=\"425\" height=\"640\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3211\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/boston-deli-grill-and-market/dsc_1658-2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3211\" title=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_16581-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"The Boston Deli Grill and Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe 61st and Sheridan intersection is an unsung foodie treasure here in Tulsa. There\'s The Boston Deli Grill and Market, <a href=\"http://www.gauchotulsa.com/\">Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse</a> and Ti Amo on the northwest corner, <a href=\"http://www.silverflamesteakhouse.com/\">Silver Flame Steakhouse</a> open again on the southwest corner, <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/07/savoys-famous-cinnamon-rolls-boy-and/\">Savoy Restaurant</a> on the northeast corner and <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/08/in-the-raw-on-the-hill-a-top-view-of-tulsa/\">In the Raw on the Hill</a> on the southeast corner.\r\n\r\nNext time you\'re hungry, this part of Tulsa offers a wide selection. And The Boston Deli Grill and Market is to thank for much of it.\r\n\r\n<strong>The Boston Deli Grill and Market</strong>\r\nWhere: 6231 E. 61st Street\r\nWhen: Monday, 11am-3pm; Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-3pm; 5-9pm\r\nCall: (918) 492-4745\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://www.thebostondeli.com/\">TheBostonDeli.com</a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/58/630153/restaurant/Woodland-Hills-71st-Street-Corridor/Boston-Deli-Tulsa\"><img style=\"border: none; width: 130px; height: 36px;\" src=\"http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/630153/minilink.gif\" alt=\"Boston Deli on Urbanspoon\" /></a>','The Boston Deli Grill and Market','Ideas that come to mind when one thinks of a deli don\'t usually include chicken parmesan made in house, wine-braised beef brisket or five-layer chocolate cake made from scratch. \r\n','inherit','open','open','','3196-revision-13','','','2010-10-23 15:15:41','2010-10-23 20:15:41','',3196,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/3196-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(4004,1,'2010-11-26 10:03:21','2010-11-26 15:03:21','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-4006\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/11/billys-at-the-bok/dsc_1759/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-4006\" title=\"Billy\'s at the BOK\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/DSC_1759-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"Billy\'s at the BOK\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nI\'m not usually a fan of dinner in a styrofoam box.\r\n\r\nBut when I\'m busy watching a fast-paced sporting event at <a href=\"http://www.bokcenter.com/\">the BOK Center in downtown Tulsa</a>, I\'m always willing to make an exception.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[adrotate group=\"2\" banner=\"8\"]</p>\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-4005\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/11/billys-at-the-bok/dsc_1682/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-4005\" title=\"Tulsa Oilers\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/DSC_1682-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Oilers\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nMy husband and son and I were treated to our first <a href=\"http://www.tulsaoilers.com/\">Tulsa Oilers</a> game of the season earlier this week (more about this soon), and it wasn\'t until we made it downtown that we realized we hadn\'t had dinner. We\'d spent the afternoon at <a href=\"http://www.parks.tulsacounty.org/HaikeyCreek.aspx\">Haikey Creek Park in Broken Arrow</a> foraging for what ended up being a three-pound haul of native pecans (it\'s a good crop this year, y\'all - go getcha some!) and you\'d better believe that when the hunger hit, it was fierce.\r\n\r\nThe best thing about realizing you\'re hungry at the BOK Center is that you know you have options beyond the standard nachos with the weird rubbery melty cheese and the stale hot dogs that are grayer than your grandpa that constitute the limited menu available at most event venues. In fact, <a href=\"http://www.bokcenter.com/default.asp?bok=228&amp;urlkeyword=Arena\">several of Tulsa\'s hoomegrown eateries have counters in the newest jewel of the downtown skyline</a>. There\'s pizza from Mazzio\'s, sushi from In the Raw and gourmet hot dogs from The Dog House.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-4007\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/11/billys-at-the-bok/dsc_1738-2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-4007\" title=\"Billy\'s at the BOK\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/DSC_17381-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"Billy\'s at the BOK\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAnd then there\'s <a href=\"http://www.billysonthesquare.com/\">Billy\'s at the BOK</a>, the only outgrowth of one of my all-time favorite Tulsa restaurants, Billy\'s On the Square.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-4006\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/11/billys-at-the-bok/dsc_1759/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-4006\" title=\"Billy\'s at the BOK\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/DSC_1759-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"Billy\'s at the BOK\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWhen I worked downtown I practically lived on the mushroom burger at Billy\'s. With a side of onion rings - which are famously delish, by the way - and a cup of ranch dressing (or Oklahoma ketchup, as I like to call it), it was a meal fit for a king.\r\n\r\nOr a fledgling, hungry reporter, as it were.\r\n\r\nMy beloved mushroom burger isn\'t on the menu at Billy\'s at the BOK, but the landmark Theta and Hickory burgers ($6 each) are. And then there\'s the kid-approved standard Billy\'s burger, complete with cheese and all of your classic burger fixin\'s, also $6.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-4008\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/11/billys-at-the-bok/dsc_1752/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-4008\" title=\"Billy\'s at the BOK\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/DSC_1752-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"Billy\'s at the BOK\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nMmm - om, nom, nom.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-4005\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/11/billys-at-the-bok/dsc_1682/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-4005\" title=\"Tulsa Oilers\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/DSC_1682-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Oilers\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nMmm - om, nom, nom.\r\n\r\nOops - Did I just say that out loud?\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-4009\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/11/billys-at-the-bok/dsc_1761/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-4009\" title=\"BOK Center Tulsa Oilers\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/DSC_1761-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"BOK Center Tulsa Oilers\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe good news? The burgers at Billy\'s at the BOK are just as juicy and flavorful as the ones at the Billy\'s at 5th and Main. And at $6, they\'re a bargain both in terms of venue food and of the world of burgers in general.\r\n\r\nPair a Billy\'s burger with a drink and an order of fries or onion rings for each member of the entire family and you\'re not really in value meal land anymore (even on Tuesday night Oilers games when beer and soda are $2), but who wants to eat that stuff anyway?\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-4010\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/11/billys-at-the-bok/dsc_1814/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-4010\" title=\"Tulsa Oilers\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/DSC_1814-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Oilers\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nEspecially if you want to be an Oilers Ice Girl someday.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-4006\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/11/billys-at-the-bok/dsc_1759/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-4006\" title=\"Billy\'s at the BOK\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/DSC_1759-500x332.jpg\" alt=\"Billy\'s at the BOK\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a>\r\n\r\nYou definitely don\'t want to be the guy without a Billy\'s burger sitting next to the guy who has a Billy\'s burger at the BOK. So be sure you get one, OK? Because those burgers have tractor beams, man. And the last time I checked, burger theft and assault in the name of burgers are both still prosecutable crimes in the state of Oklahoma.\r\n\r\n<strong>Billy\'s at the BOK</strong>\r\nWhere: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave.\r\nWhen: During BOK Center events\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://BillysOnTheSquare.com/\">BillysOnTheSquare.com</a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/58/630132/restaurant/Downtown/Billys-on-the-Square-Tulsa\"><img alt=\"Billy\'s on the Square on Urbanspoon\" src=\"http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/630132/minilink.gif\" style=\"border:none;width:130px;height:36px\" /></a>','Billy\'s at the BOK','You definitely don\'t want to be the guy without a Billy\'s burger sitting next to the guy who has a Billy\'s burger at the BOK. So be sure you get one, OK? Because those burgers have tractor beams, man.','publish','open','open','','billys-at-the-bok','','','2010-12-22 16:22:17','2010-12-22 21:22:17','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=4004',0,'post','',2),(4005,1,'2010-11-26 09:52:35','2010-11-26 14:52:35','','Tulsa Oilers','','inherit','open','open','','dsc_1682','','','2010-11-26 09:52:35','2010-11-26 14:52:35','',4004,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/DSC_1682.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(4006,1,'2010-11-26 09:52:59','2010-11-26 14:52:59','','Billy\'s at the BOK','','inherit','open','open','','dsc_1759','','','2010-11-26 09:52:59','2010-11-26 14:52:59','',4004,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/DSC_1759.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(276,1,'2009-09-15 21:58:00','2009-09-15 21:58:00','Who needs words when you\'ve got art?<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3924425200/\" title=\"Restaurant Week 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2528/3924425200_a9ef6ecf4f_o.gif\" width=\"650\" height=\"749\" alt=\"Restaurant Week 2009\" /></a></div><br />Your line: \"I know, right?\"<div><br /></div><div>While you\'re out, make sure to order <a href=\"http://marshallbrewing.com\">beer from Marshall Brewing Company</a> or <a href=\"http://www.tulsawine.com\">a bottle of Girouard Vines Fire Alarm Red</a>. Be a patriot (not to mention an individual of impeccable taste) and support local brewers and winemakers as you\'re chowing down on three-course meals created by some of Tulsa\'s greatest chefs. </div><div><br /></div><div>Yum, yum, glug glug. That\'s how we roll.</div>','2009 Restaurant Week','','publish','open','open','','2009-restaurant-week','','','2009-09-15 21:58:00','2009-09-15 21:58:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=276',0,'post','',1),(277,1,'2009-09-16 22:00:00','2009-09-16 22:00:00','<a onblur=\"try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}\" href=\"http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/SrF0DBcP-WI/AAAAAAAABfY/17KjaXaWoNU/s1600-h/DSC06613.jpg\"><img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;\" src=\"http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/SrF0DBcP-WI/AAAAAAAABfY/17KjaXaWoNU/s400/DSC06613.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382210624959805794\" /></a><br />I\'ve talked to a lot of folks over the past couple of years about our public transit system here in Tulsa.<br /><br />While patronizing everything from local clothing boutiques to local farms is glamorous in a town that\'s riding a serious wave of citizen patriotism, <a href=\"http://tulsatransit.org/\">riding the bus with Tulsa Transit</a> is far from being as good as <a href=\"http://elotetulsa.com/\">being seen dining at Elote</a>.<br /><br />Read the rest of this story <a href=\"http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A28073\">in Consumer Watchdog in this week\'s edition of Urban Tulsa Weekly</a>.','Get on the Bus','','publish','open','open','','get-on-bus','','','2009-09-16 22:00:00','2009-09-16 22:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=277',0,'post','',1),(278,1,'2009-09-16 23:19:00','2009-09-16 23:19:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3927512372/\" title=\"DSC07097 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2517/3927512372_72c754731f.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"DSC07097\" /></a></div><br />My husband and I went on a short vacation over the weekend. It was no big deal - just a few days in Napa Valley, California. Three days of watching acre after acre of vineyard pass by from a limousine window, of lounging in a Tuscan-inspired suite, of eating some of the best meals of my life.<br /><br />It was also three days of not having to chase after an active, curious toddler. Three days of not having to cut up chicken nuggets with a kid-sized fork. Three days of sleeping in past 9.<br /><br />Grab the Kleenex and read the rest of this story <a href=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/?page=blogs/view&amp;BLID=6071\">on my blog at tTownMoms.com</a>.','Weepiness','','publish','open','open','','weepiness','','','2009-09-16 23:19:00','2009-09-16 23:19:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=278',0,'post','',0),(279,1,'2009-09-17 13:30:00','2009-09-17 13:30:00','<div style=\"text-align: left;\">Rather than head to Applebee\'s at lunchtime today, why not scurry downtown <a href=\"http://bokcenter.com/general.asp?id=179\">to help kick off the first-annual Rock N Rib Festival</a>?</div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://www.bokcenter.com/upload/image/Winterfest/Ribfestlogowebpage.JPG\" /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">This isn\'t just some random ribs buffet, folks. This is the coming together of some of the most legendary cooking teams in the world, more than ready to melt your face off with prime, hot ribaliciousness. It\'s also a showcase of some of the best bands in this here town. Do the names <a href=\"http://mysolsticeband.com/press.php\">My Solstice</a>, <a href=\"http://www.myspace.com/samandthestylees\">Sam &amp; the Stylees</a> and <a href=\"http://www.reddirtrangers.com/\">Red Dirt Rangers</a> ring any bells? </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">I thought so. Each of the bands I just mentioned plays at 9pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday, respectively. The rest of the festival will rock out to tunes by bands of the likes of <a href=\"http://mlcband.net/\">The Fabulous Mid Life Crisis Band</a>,<a href=\"http://www.admiraltwin.com/\"> Admiral Twin</a>, <a href=\"http://www.tkidd.com/\">Travis Kidd</a>,<a href=\"http://www.south40band.com/\"> South 40</a>, <a href=\"http://www.myspace.com/turnpiketroubadours\">Turnpike Troubadors</a> and <a href=\"http://www.ecjazz.com/index.html\">Earl Clark</a>.</div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Woo-wee, that\'s a lotta rockin\'.  </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.bokcenter.com/general.asp?id=180\"><img src=\"http://www.bokcenter.com/upload/image/Winterfest/FAQsheader2.jpg\" /></a></div></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">If you get there by 1pm today, Friday and/or Saturday, you get in free. Otherwise, adults pay a measly $3. Kids get in free every day, all the time.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">If you\'re reading this from out of town, first thing\'s first: Wipe the drool from your keyboard. Second, <a href=\"https://resweb.passkey.com/Resweb.do?mode=welcome_ei_new&amp;eventID=1261276&amp;fromResdesk=true\">book a room at Crowne Plaza hotel, mere blocks from the aromatic action at BOK Center, for just $89</a>. If you\'re reading this from south of 71st Street, you might want to book a room, too. It\'ll a long drive home from downtown with a belly full of awesomeness and a head full of rockin\' tunes trying their damnedest to lull you to sleep. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Think of the children, people. Think of the children.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.ribcrib.com/flash/home.htm\"><img src=\"http://www.bokcenter.com/upload/Image/Winterfest/webpagegraphic.jpg\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Follow your nose to BOK Center at Third and Frisco until midnight tonight. The Rock N Rib festival will continue Friday 11am-12am, on Saturday 11am-12am and Sunday 11am-3pm.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://www.bokcenter.com/upload/Image/Open%20House%20ftr.jpg\" /></div></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">If you go Saturday, don\'t forget to venture into the BOK Center itself for its second annual open house event from 10am-2pm. There will be guided tours, live music by <a href=\"http://usualsuspectsband.org/\">The Usual Suspects</a>, a commemorative gift and, most interesting to me, high school marching bands. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">I love high school marching bands. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;\" src=\"http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/SrI9chZ5TuI/AAAAAAAABfg/yEgCMCxGx8E/s400/scan0001.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382432064873778914\" /><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Ha! That\'ll teach you not to take me seriously. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">For more info, check out <a href=\"http://tulsabusiness.com/article.asp?aID=36049652.1836206.644813.3960797.1009267.397&amp;aID2=49592\">Holly Wall\'s story on the Rock N Rib Festival in this week\'s edition of Tulsa Business Journal</a>. She\'s got the full scoop, y\'all, as usual.</div>','Mmm, Ribs (and Rock)','','publish','open','open','','mmm-ribs-and-rock','','','2009-09-17 13:30:00','2009-09-17 13:30:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=279',0,'post','',0),(280,1,'2009-09-17 14:00:00','2009-09-17 14:00:00','Say you\'re given a microphone, 20 Powerpoint slides and five minutes\' worth of the attention of a room full of Tulsa\'s movers and shakers.<div><br /></div><div>Now what? </div><div><br /></div><div>Good question. Before you give it your best shot, why not see how other folks - a librarian, a computer scientist, an author, an attorney, just to name a few - would do it first?  </div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight\'s the night for <a href=\"http://ignitetulsa.org/\">such an opportunity, and it\'s called Ignite Tulsa</a>. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://hphotos-snc1.fbcdn.net/hs150.snc1/5580_137668425336_137667485336_3000981_4806587_n.jpg\" /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>If you like to think, laugh and befriend people with some of the best connections this city has to offer, then you\'d better be at <a href=\"http://www.myspace.com/bluedomediner\">Blue Dome Diner (downtown at Second and Elgin)</a> at 7pm and ready to tune in to rapid-fire talks on topics from technology to entrepreneurship to sustainability, by folks from <a href=\"http://twitter.com/sean_griffin\">Sean Griffin</a>, <a href=\"http://batesline.com/\">Michael Bates</a>, <a href=\"http://jeffmartinauthor.com/\">Jeff Martin</a>, <a href=\"http://www.srfunds.com/site/do/team/detail?id=25\">William Paiva</a>, <a href=\"http://twitter.com/geoffreysimpson\">Geoffrey Simpson</a> and some dude named <a href=\"http://www.thebasement.com/\">Matthew Galloway</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href=\"http://twitter.com/mattgalloway\">Whoever that is</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Did I mention that with each RSVP comes free drink tickets? And that it\'s free to RSVP in the first place? And that a mystery competition and I are hurtling through space and time together toward a shared destiny? </div><div><br /></div><div>It\'s all true. So very, very true. Especially the parts where I twice wrote the word \"free\" and the bit about me and a double secret probation-style competition being inextricably intertwined.</div><div><br /></div><div>Do it now. <a href=\"http://ignite-tulsa.eventbrite.com/\">RSVP to Ignite Tulsa</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>See you tonight. Punks.</div>','You Have Five Minutes.','','publish','open','open','','you-have-five-minutes','','','2009-09-17 14:00:00','2009-09-17 14:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=280',0,'post','',0),(281,1,'2009-09-18 01:00:00','2009-09-18 01:00:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3909529964/\" title=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2575/3909529964_d78508e775.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nMaybe you didn\'t already know, but I have a thing about pie. (Don\'t believe me? See <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/08/once-upon-pie-merritts-celebrates-30.html\">here</a>, <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/08/more-on-pie.html\">here</a> and <a href=\"http://mylifeastoldbyfood.blogspot.com/2009/01/pie-and-measure-of-womanhood.html\">here</a>. That\'ll teach you to be incredulous.) \r\n\r\nOnce fall hits, it\'s not unusual for me to make at least one pie a week. I think this fall is going to be special, though, because the season hasn\'t even landed and I made two - count \'em - <i>two</i> pies last week.  \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3909699506/\" title=\"Patty Pan Pie by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2663/3909699506_2222d25071.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Patty Pan Pie\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nI made two pies not for the sake of eating them (though don\'t worry, they didn\'t exactly go to waste), but because I needed to practice for the 2009 Cherry Street Farmers Market pie contest. \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3908913831/\" title=\"2008 Pie Contest by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3520/3908913831_d021233356_o.jpg\" width=\"360\" height=\"480\" alt=\"2008 Pie Contest\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nI had my heart set on entering this year. I wanted to take part in the 2008 contest, but a six-month-old and training for last year\'s Tulsa Run rained on pie-baking my parade. \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3909689814/\" title=\"Pie Contest 2008 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2547/3909689814_2cc339dac1.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Pie Contest 2008\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nFast forward to last Tuesday night, the night before my pie was due at the Brookside Farmers Market bright and early at 8am. I\'d just eaten the last slice of <a href=\"http://bootstrapfarm.blogspot.com/2009/07/look-at-them-melons.html\">a patty pan squash pie, the recipe for which was written by my favorite farmer friend, Chelsea Coleman</a>, and I just couldn\'t get past the whole veggies-in-my-pie schtick. It seems so wrong, so weird, so, well, gross. \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3908917483/\" title=\"Patty Pan Pie by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2671/3908917483_76f0035224.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Patty Pan Pie\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nBut if you\'ve ever eaten a veggie pie of the sweet variety, you know that it\'s not wrong, it\'s not weird and it most definitely is not gross. \r\n\r\nSince the patty pan squash recipe wasn\'t exactly mine, and since I had <a href=\"http://bootstrapfarm.blogspot.com/2009/09/sweet-potatoes-are-everywhere.html\">a load of sweet potatoes from Chelsea and her husband Don\'s farm</a>, I thought, duh, make a sweet potato pie. Come up with a magical, life-changing recipe and take this pie contest home in a bunny sack. \r\n\r\nIt\'s the only way. \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3908748319/\" title=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2596/3908748319_b958d726fd.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nHowever - and however is the operative word here - it didn\'t go down as easily as I had imagined it would. At the risk of public humiliation and the deconstruction of my self-identification as a domestic goddess, I must confess that I suffered a pie crust fail.\r\n\r\nLordy. My ears, they\'re a burnin\'. How could I think I was above the power of pie weights? Because I\'m not. I am so, so not. \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3930654449/\" title=\"Pie Fail by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2486/3930654449_17aab863b7.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Pie Fail\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nSee? \r\n\r\nUgh. I\'m so embarrassed. \r\n\r\nSo, there went the pie contest. After struggling to write a sweet potato pie recipe that wouldn\'t taste like a pumpkin pie wannabe and using the cranky toddler that had been wrapped around my ankles whining the entire time I spent re-creating every pie baker\'s nightmare to mop the kitchen floor, I was not about to go through all the hoo-ha that making your basic, from-scratch pie crust requires a second time in one evening. \r\n\r\nSo, I went to bed. \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3931439972/\" title=\"More Pie Fail by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2587/3931439972_48268a252f.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"More Pie Fail\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nThe pie contest came and went, and I sulked. All I had to show for my efforts was a bag full of sweet potato pie filling in the fridge, a shriveled crust and a bruised ego. \r\n\r\nSo, the next morning, I mashed some of my kid\'s graham crackers with some sugar and melted butter, pressed it into a pie pan, squeezed my pie filling from its Ziploc bag into the pan, stuck the whole mess in the oven and called it a day. \r\n\r\nAnd you know what? It wasn\'t a bad pie. Not a bad pie at all.\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3909529964/\" title=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2575/3909529964_d78508e775.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3908748399/\" title=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2506/3908748399_13bc7a8565.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nI\'d like for you all to have my sweet potato pie recipe. \r\n\r\nIt\'s for those of you who like your sweet veggie pies to have a little kick (read: bourbon!). It\'s also for those of you who wish you had more chances to wear your \"roomy\" jeans because, gosh, they just look so neglected there, hanging in the shadows in the back of the closet. \r\n\r\nOf course, <a href=\"http://bootstrapfarm.blogspot.com/2009/09/sweet-potatoes-are-everywhere.html\">I recommend Bootstrap Farm sweet potatoes for this recipe</a>. They baked up nice and sweet, and they\'re a great size right now. They\'re pretty inexpensive, too - about $2 per pound. Catch them at <a href=\"http://www.cherrystreetfarmersmarket.com/\">the Cherry Street Farmers Market every Saturday morning, 7-11am</a>, from now until October, or at the Brookside Farmers Market, 8am-12pm. \r\n\r\n<em><strong>UPDATE:</strong> While Bootstrap Farm closed in 2009 and the farmers\' markets aren\'t open in Tulsa year-round, it\'s still possible to obtain either locally farmed sweet potatoes from the farmers themselves either directly or through CSAs, and it\'s also great to buy sweet potatoes from locally owned and operated stores like <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/09/found-along-charles-page-boulevard/\">Blue Jackalope</a> and <a href=\"http://reasors.com/\">Reasor\'s</a>.\r\n</em>\r\n\r\nAnother thing: There\'s nothing quite like the warm fuzzies you get knowing you are nourishing your fat stores as well as your heart with locally, responsibly grown produce, especially when that produce was grown by a couple of really nice folks. It makes you want to send them Facebook messages (read: love notes) in the middle of the night about how you cooked their peppers with dinner that night or how kick-ass their cantaloupes are. \r\n\r\nWhat? You didn\'t know there was a fan culture in farming? Well, I\'m here to tell you there is. Oh, boy, is there. It might be all me, but still, it\'s there.\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3908748365/\" title=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2515/3908748365_4931fafc4c.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<b>Tasha\'s Bootstrap Farm Sweet Potato Pie</b>\r\nServes 8-10\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://docs.google.com/View?id=dgnsd5g6_20zhr48xgb\">Click here for a printable version of this recipe</a>\r\n\r\nCRUST: 1 1/2 c. graham cracker crumbs (made from about 7.5 oz. graham crackers, finely ground in a processor)\r\n3 Tbsp. sugar\r\n7 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted\r\n\r\nFILLING:\r\n2 c. sweet potato, mashed, roasted and slightly cooled (from about 5 medium-sized spuds)\r\n2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened\r\n3 eggs\r\n2 egg yolks\r\n1 c. granulated sugar\r\n1/2 tsp. freshly ground nutmeg\r\n1/4 tsp. salt\r\n3 Tbsp. bourbon\r\n1 Tbsp. molasses\r\n1 tsp. vanilla extract\r\n2/3 c. whole milk\r\n1/4-1/2 c. packed dark brown sugar\r\n\r\nFirst, get the crust cookin\'. Turn the oven to 350 degrees. In a food processor with with a pastry cutter, blend crumbs, sugar and butter until the mixture starts to hold together. \r\n\r\nPress crust into a nine-inch pie plate, saving enough mixture to work up the sides. Pop the crust into the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it starts to firm and brown slightly. Set aside to cool.\r\n\r\nNow for the filling: Mash together potato and butter - don\'t worry about getting it as smooth as Antonio Banderas or anything. Lumps are OK. \r\n\r\nIn a separate bowl, whisk eggs, yolks, sugar, nutmeg, salt, bourbon, molasses, vanilla and milk. Add slowly to the potato mixture. Set aside.\r\n\r\nSprinkle brown sugar in the bottom on the graham cracker crust. Variation: You could mix some roasted walnuts into the brown sugar during this step if you wanted to add a little more crunch and even more flavor to this puddling-like pie. And if you like living dangerously. Hint: If you\'re a regular reader of this blog, you do.  \r\n\r\nPour filling into crust. Put pie in the center of a rack placed in the center of the oven and bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges but still a little jiggly in the center. Cool the pie on a rack to room temperature.\r\n\r\nOnce pie is chilled, cover it and stick it in the fridge. Or, serve up a slice of that bad boy with some home-whipped cream and freshly ground nutmeg. Yum, yum.\r\n\r\nYum. ','Eating Local for the Holidays: A Tulsa-Grown Sweet Potato Pie','I\'d like for you all to have my sweet potato pie recipe. It\'s for those of you who like your sweet veggie pies to have a little kick (read: bourbon!). It\'s also for those of you who wish you had more chances to wear your \"roomy\" jeans because, gosh, they just look so neglected there, hanging in the shadows in the back of the closet. ','publish','open','open','','sweet-potato-pie-eat-local-for-holidays','','\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/09/found-along-charles-page-boulevard/','2010-11-21 19:31:44','2010-11-22 00:31:44','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=281',0,'post','',13),(3882,1,'2010-11-21 19:25:57','2010-11-22 00:25:57','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3909529964/\" title=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2575/3909529964_d78508e775.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nMaybe you didn\'t already know, but I have a thing about pie. (Don\'t believe me? See <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/08/once-upon-pie-merritts-celebrates-30.html\">here</a>, <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/08/more-on-pie.html\">here</a> and <a href=\"http://mylifeastoldbyfood.blogspot.com/2009/01/pie-and-measure-of-womanhood.html\">here</a>. That\'ll teach you to be incredulous.) \r\n\r\nOnce fall hits, it\'s not unusual for me to make at least one pie a week. I think this fall is going to be special, though, because the season hasn\'t even landed and I made two - count \'em - <i>two</i> pies last week.  \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3909699506/\" title=\"Patty Pan Pie by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2663/3909699506_2222d25071.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Patty Pan Pie\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nI made two pies not for the sake of eating them (though don\'t worry, they didn\'t exactly go to waste), but because I needed to practice for the 2009 Cherry Street Farmers Market pie contest. \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3908913831/\" title=\"2008 Pie Contest by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3520/3908913831_d021233356_o.jpg\" width=\"360\" height=\"480\" alt=\"2008 Pie Contest\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nI had my heart set on entering this year. I wanted to take part in the 2008 contest, but a six-month-old and training for last year\'s Tulsa Run rained on pie-baking my parade. \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3909689814/\" title=\"Pie Contest 2008 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2547/3909689814_2cc339dac1.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Pie Contest 2008\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nFast forward to last Tuesday night, the night before my pie was due at the Brookside Farmers Market bright and early at 8am. I\'d just eaten the last slice of <a href=\"http://bootstrapfarm.blogspot.com/2009/07/look-at-them-melons.html\">a patty pan squash pie, the recipe for which was written by my favorite farmer friend, Chelsea Coleman</a>, and I just couldn\'t get past the whole veggies-in-my-pie schtick. It seems so wrong, so weird, so, well, gross. \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3908917483/\" title=\"Patty Pan Pie by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2671/3908917483_76f0035224.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Patty Pan Pie\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nBut if you\'ve ever eaten a veggie pie of the sweet variety, you know that it\'s not wrong, it\'s not weird and it most definitely is not gross. \r\n\r\nSince the patty pan squash recipe wasn\'t exactly mine, and since I had <a href=\"http://bootstrapfarm.blogspot.com/2009/09/sweet-potatoes-are-everywhere.html\">a load of sweet potatoes from Chelsea and her husband Don\'s farm</a>, I thought, duh, make a sweet potato pie. Come up with a magical, life-changing recipe and take this pie contest home in a bunny sack. \r\n\r\nIt\'s the only way. \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3908748319/\" title=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2596/3908748319_b958d726fd.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nHowever - and however is the operative word here - it didn\'t go down as easily as I had imagined it would. At the risk of public humiliation and the deconstruction of my self-identification as a domestic goddess, I must confess that I suffered a pie crust fail.\r\n\r\nLordy. My ears, they\'re a burnin\'. How could I think I was above the power of pie weights? Because I\'m not. I am so, so not. \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3930654449/\" title=\"Pie Fail by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2486/3930654449_17aab863b7.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Pie Fail\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nSee? \r\n\r\nUgh. I\'m so embarrassed. \r\n\r\nSo, there went the pie contest. After struggling to write a sweet potato pie recipe that wouldn\'t taste like a pumpkin pie wannabe and using the cranky toddler that had been wrapped around my ankles whining the entire time I spent re-creating every pie baker\'s nightmare to mop the kitchen floor, I was not about to go through all the hoo-ha that making your basic, from-scratch pie crust requires a second time in one evening. \r\n\r\nSo, I went to bed. \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3931439972/\" title=\"More Pie Fail by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2587/3931439972_48268a252f.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"More Pie Fail\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nThe pie contest came and went, and I sulked. All I had to show for my efforts was a bag full of sweet potato pie filling in the fridge, a shriveled crust and a bruised ego. \r\n\r\nSo, the next morning, I mashed some of my kid\'s graham crackers with some sugar and melted butter, pressed it into a pie pan, squeezed my pie filling from its Ziploc bag into the pan, stuck the whole mess in the oven and called it a day. \r\n\r\nAnd you know what? It wasn\'t a bad pie. Not a bad pie at all.\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3909529964/\" title=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2575/3909529964_d78508e775.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3908748399/\" title=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2506/3908748399_13bc7a8565.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nI\'d like for you all to have my sweet potato pie recipe. \r\n\r\nIt\'s for those of you who like your sweet veggie pies to have a little kick (read: bourbon!). It\'s also for those of you who wish you had more chances to wear your \"roomy\" jeans because, gosh, they just look so neglected there, hanging in the shadows in the back of the closet. \r\n\r\nOf course, <a href=\"http://bootstrapfarm.blogspot.com/2009/09/sweet-potatoes-are-everywhere.html\">I recommend Bootstrap Farm sweet potatoes for this recipe</a>. They baked up nice and sweet, and they\'re a great size right now. They\'re pretty inexpensive, too - about $2 per pound. Catch them at <a href=\"http://www.cherrystreetfarmersmarket.com/\">the Cherry Street Farmers Market every Saturday morning, 7-11am</a>, from now until October, or at the Brookside Farmers Market, 8am-12pm. \r\n\r\nAnother thing: There\'s nothing quite like the warm fuzzies you get knowing you are nourishing your fat stores as well as your heart with locally, responsibly grown produce, especially when that produce was grown by a couple of really nice folks. It makes you want to send them Facebook messages (read: love notes) in the middle of the night about how you cooked their peppers with dinner that night or how kick-ass their cantaloupes are. \r\n\r\nWhat? You didn\'t know there was a fan culture in farming? Well, I\'m here to tell you there is. Oh, boy, is there. It might be all me, but still, it\'s there.\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3908748365/\" title=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2515/3908748365_4931fafc4c.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Cherry Street Farmers Market Pie Contest 2009\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<b>Tasha\'s Bootstrap Farm Sweet Potato Pie</b>\r\nServes 8-10\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://docs.google.com/View?id=dgnsd5g6_20zhr48xgb\">Click here for a printable version of this recipe</a>\r\n\r\nCRUST: 1 1/2 c. graham cracker crumbs (made from about 7.5 oz. graham crackers, finely ground in a processor)\r\n3 Tbsp. sugar\r\n7 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted\r\n\r\nFILLING:\r\n2 c. sweet potato, mashed, roasted and slightly cooled (from about 5 medium-sized spuds)\r\n2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened\r\n3 eggs\r\n2 egg yolks\r\n1 c. granulated sugar\r\n1/2 tsp. freshly ground nutmeg\r\n1/4 tsp. salt\r\n3 Tbsp. bourbon\r\n1 Tbsp. molasses\r\n1 tsp. vanilla extract\r\n2/3 c. whole milk\r\n1/4-1/2 c. packed dark brown sugar\r\n\r\nFirst, get the crust cookin\'. Turn the oven to 350 degrees. In a food processor with with a pastry cutter, blend crumbs, sugar and butter until the mixture starts to hold together. \r\n\r\nPress crust into a nine-inch pie plate, saving enough mixture to work up the sides. Pop the crust into the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it starts to firm and brown slightly. Set aside to cool.\r\n\r\nNow for the filling: Mash together potato and butter - don\'t worry about getting it as smooth as Antonio Banderas or anything. Lumps are OK. \r\n\r\nIn a separate bowl, whisk eggs, yolks, sugar, nutmeg, salt, bourbon, molasses, vanilla and milk. Add slowly to the potato mixture. Set aside.\r\n\r\nSprinkle brown sugar in the bottom on the graham cracker crust. Variation: You could mix some roasted walnuts into the brown sugar during this step if you wanted to add a little more crunch and even more flavor to this puddling-like pie. And if you like living dangerously. Hint: If you\'re a regular reader of this blog, you do.  \r\n\r\nPour filling into crust. Put pie in the center of a rack placed in the center of the oven and bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges but still a little jiggly in the center. Cool the pie on a rack to room temperature.\r\n\r\nOnce pie is chilled, cover it and stick it in the fridge. Or, serve up a slice of that bad boy with some home-whipped cream and freshly ground nutmeg. Yum, yum.\r\n\r\nYum. ','Eating Local for the Holidays: Sweet Potato Pie','I\'d like for you all to have my sweet potato pie recipe. It\'s for those of you who like your sweet veggie pies to have a little kick (read: bourbon!). It\'s also for those of you who wish you had more chances to wear your \"roomy\" jeans because, gosh, they just look so neglected there, hanging in the shadows in the back of the closet. ','inherit','open','open','','281-revision-2','','','2010-11-21 19:25:57','2010-11-22 00:25:57','',281,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/11/281-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(2097,1,'2010-09-14 16:19:11','2010-09-14 21:19:11','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2059\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/ignite-tulsa-3/4069018757_3c275c47d2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2059\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069018757_3c275c47d2.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIf you\'re the kind of person who turns to a blog to find out what\'s going on in Tulsa, then odds are you probably know all about <a href=\"http://ignitetulsa.org/\">Ignite Tulsa</a>, or you\'ve at least heard of it.\r\n\r\nIn case you haven\'t, though, here\'s the scoop: <strong>Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks</strong>.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->To me, it\'s like an evening of live blogging written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time. And the members of the audience are the ones that benefit, having the opportunity to soak up the varied (and sometimes quite strange) expertise of nearly 20 individuals in one evening.\r\n\r\nIt\'s also the best networking event in the city right now, but you know what? I hate the term \"networking event.\" So I won\'t say that. Let\'s just say that it\'s a huge party with a microphone, some bright lights and a camera in the middle, and that all the cool kids - including you, TDT readers - are invited.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2060\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/ignite-tulsa-3/4069738922_e1dc9c95fe-1/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2060\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069738922_e1dc9c95fe-1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"334\" height=\"500\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAt the center of the event are the speakers as they do their best to get through their five-minute talks without falling behind the automagic slide advancer, which does its thing every 15 seconds. At the top of the heap of talks is <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/jackfrank1\">local filmmaker Jack Frank</a> with his talk, <em>Stuff That\'s Gone: Lost Tulsa Icons</em>. I have it on good authority that he\'ll talk a great deal about <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/admiral-twin-drive-in-burns/\">the late Admiral Twin Drive-In</a>. The award-winning <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/talkradiojoe\">Joe Kelley of the KRMG Morning News</a> will lead the event as its emcee.\r\n\r\nTopics of other speakers\' talks range from genetic mutations to yo-yos to kicking ass to robots to the importance of small adventures. My talk will be about hacking into the best of what your city has to offer, whether it\'s Tulsa or not.\r\n\r\nBut it should be Tulsa. Because, well, read this blog.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2061\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/ignite-tulsa-3/4069721836_ec247f67b1/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2061\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069721836_ec247f67b1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWe also do arts and crafts with common office supplies at Ignite Tulsa.\r\n\r\nThat\'s how we roll. Arts and crafts and a total aversion to long, drawn-out, over-inflated Powerpoint presentations.\r\n\r\n<strong>General admission tickets are sold out at this point, but VIP tickets are still available.</strong>\r\n\r\nFr $14.97, VIP ticket holders get the following:\r\n\r\n<strong>Prime seating</strong>. You\'ll be able to see the whites of my eyes and whether or not <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/08/the-spa-tulsa/\">my pesky ninja chin hair</a> makes a surprise appearance during my talk from where you\'ll be sitting. And if I choke, you\'ll be the first to know that I\'m a sweaty nervous person. That\'s close, baby - real close.\r\n\r\n<strong>Extra beer tickets</strong>. Ignite attendees get two beer tickets, but you\'ll have more. Which automatically makes you cooler and mightier than everyone else there. You could carry a jewel-encrusted staff and subjugate your fellow Ignite attendees accordingly.\r\n\r\n<strong>Recognition at the event</strong>. Here\'s your chance at 15 minutes of fame. Actually, it might be more like 15 seconds, but still. It\'ll count.\r\n\r\n<strong>Good karma</strong>. All proceeds of VIP ticket sales benefit the Admiral Twin rebuilding effort.\r\n\r\nSo what are you waiting for? Grab your VIP tickets to Ignite 3. All of your wildest dreams will come true.\r\n\r\nExcept the one about the three-story Thundercats birthday cake topped with glitter and 150,000 slap bracelets. You know - the one that you\'ve wanted since you were five? That\'s never going to happen. Not on my watch. Because this is a <a href=\"http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/barbie-doll-cake/Detail.aspx\">Barbie dress cake</a> kind of universe, man. Barbie dress cakes for the win!\r\n\r\nIf you want to help in the rebuilding effort and score tickets to this sold out Ignite event at the same time, spend $14.97 - you know, roughly what you spent at the bar on two measly drinks and a tip Saturday night - and get a ticket to the top.\r\n\r\nOr, if you\'re lucky, <strong>you can win a pair of tickets, right here at TDT</strong>.\r\n\r\nHow? <strong>Head to the comments section of this post and tell me about your favorite birthday cake ever.</strong> Don\'t ask why, especially when it comes to birthday cake. It\'s just to just go with the flow when it comes to these kinds of matters.\r\n\r\nYou have until tomorrow (Wednesday, Sept. 15) at 11am to enter. I\'ll pick a winner Wednesday afternoon.\r\n\r\nGood luck! And starting thinking about what you could speak about at Ignite Tulsa 4. Submissions will be due before you can say \"I want a that-floozy-Midge-needs-to-keep-her-hands-off-of-Ken cake for my birthday.\"','Ignite Tulsa 3: Get a ring-side seat.','Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks. To me, it\'s like an evening of live blogging written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time. Wanna come?','inherit','open','open','','2044-revision-18','','','2010-09-14 16:19:11','2010-09-14 21:19:11','',2044,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/2044-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(2098,1,'2010-09-15 11:28:45','2010-09-15 16:28:45','<strong>UPDATE//</strong>Winner, winner, chicken dinner!\r\n\r\nCongrats, Stephanie - the lucky number was two this time, and you\'re the holder of the 2nd entry. <a href=\"mailto:tasha@tashadoestulsa.com\">E-mail me</a> ASAP to claim your prize.\r\n\r\nThanks to all for playing - see you at Ignite Tulsa 3!\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2059\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/ignite-tulsa-3/4069018757_3c275c47d2/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2059\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069018757_3c275c47d2.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIf you\'re the kind of person who turns to a blog to find out what\'s going on in Tulsa, then odds are you probably know all about <a href=\"http://ignitetulsa.org/\">Ignite Tulsa</a>, or you\'ve at least heard of it.\r\n\r\nIn case you haven\'t, though, here\'s the scoop: <strong>Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks</strong>.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->To me, it\'s like an evening of live blogging written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time. And the members of the audience are the ones that benefit, having the opportunity to soak up the varied (and sometimes quite strange) expertise of nearly 20 individuals in one evening.\r\n\r\nIt\'s also the best networking event in the city right now, but you know what? I hate the term \"networking event.\" So I won\'t say that. Let\'s just say that it\'s a huge party with a microphone, some bright lights and a camera in the middle, and that all the cool kids - including you, TDT readers - are invited.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2060\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/ignite-tulsa-3/4069738922_e1dc9c95fe-1/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2060\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069738922_e1dc9c95fe-1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"334\" height=\"500\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAt the center of the event are the speakers as they do their best to get through their five-minute talks without falling behind the automagic slide advancer, which does its thing every 15 seconds. At the top of the heap of talks is <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/jackfrank1\">local filmmaker Jack Frank</a> with his talk, <em>Stuff That\'s Gone: Lost Tulsa Icons</em>. I have it on good authority that he\'ll talk a great deal about <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/admiral-twin-drive-in-burns/\">the late Admiral Twin Drive-In</a>. The award-winning <a href=\"http://www.twitter.com/talkradiojoe\">Joe Kelley of the KRMG Morning News</a> will lead the event as its emcee.\r\n\r\nTopics of other speakers\' talks range from genetic mutations to yo-yos to kicking ass to robots to the importance of small adventures. My talk will be about hacking into the best of what your city has to offer, whether it\'s Tulsa or not.\r\n\r\nBut it should be Tulsa. Because, well, read this blog.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2061\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/ignite-tulsa-3/4069721836_ec247f67b1/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2061\" title=\"Ignite Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/4069721836_ec247f67b1.jpg\" alt=\"Ignite Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWe also do arts and crafts with common office supplies at Ignite Tulsa.\r\n\r\nThat\'s how we roll. Arts and crafts and a total aversion to long, drawn-out, over-inflated Powerpoint presentations.\r\n\r\n<strong>General admission tickets are sold out at this point, but VIP tickets are still available.</strong>\r\n\r\nFr $14.97, VIP ticket holders get the following:\r\n\r\n<strong>Prime seating</strong>. You\'ll be able to see the whites of my eyes and whether or not <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/08/the-spa-tulsa/\">my pesky ninja chin hair</a> makes a surprise appearance during my talk from where you\'ll be sitting. And if I choke, you\'ll be the first to know that I\'m a sweaty nervous person. That\'s close, baby - real close.\r\n\r\n<strong>Extra beer tickets</strong>. Ignite attendees get two beer tickets, but you\'ll have more. Which automatically makes you cooler and mightier than everyone else there. You could carry a jewel-encrusted staff and subjugate your fellow Ignite attendees accordingly.\r\n\r\n<strong>Recognition at the event</strong>. Here\'s your chance at 15 minutes of fame. Actually, it might be more like 15 seconds, but still. It\'ll count.\r\n\r\n<strong>Good karma</strong>. All proceeds of VIP ticket sales benefit the Admiral Twin rebuilding effort.\r\n\r\nSo what are you waiting for? Grab your VIP tickets to Ignite 3. All of your wildest dreams will come true.\r\n\r\nExcept the one about the three-story Thundercats birthday cake topped with glitter and 150,000 slap bracelets. You know - the one that you\'ve wanted since you were five? That\'s never going to happen. Not on my watch. Because this is a <a href=\"http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/barbie-doll-cake/Detail.aspx\">Barbie dress cake</a> kind of universe, man. Barbie dress cakes for the win!\r\n\r\nIf you want to help in the rebuilding effort and score tickets to this sold out Ignite event at the same time, spend $14.97 - you know, roughly what you spent at the bar on two measly drinks and a tip Saturday night - and get a ticket to the top.\r\n\r\nOr, if you\'re lucky, <strong>you can win a pair of tickets, right here at TDT</strong>.\r\n\r\nHow? <strong>Head to the comments section of this post and tell me about your favorite birthday cake ever.</strong> Don\'t ask why, especially when it comes to birthday cake. It\'s just to just go with the flow when it comes to these kinds of matters.\r\n\r\nYou have until tomorrow (Wednesday, Sept. 15) at 11am to enter. I\'ll pick a winner Wednesday afternoon.\r\n\r\nGood luck! And starting thinking about what you could speak about at Ignite Tulsa 4. Submissions will be due before you can say \"I want a that-floozy-Midge-needs-to-keep-her-hands-off-of-Ken cake for my birthday.\"','Ignite Tulsa 3: Get a ring-side seat.','Ignite Tulsa is a self-described open mic night for geeks. To me, it\'s like an evening of live blogging written by a bunch of different people who really get a thrill out of divulging their life- and career-hacking secrets to a group of strangers and friends alike, all in real-time. Wanna come?','inherit','open','open','','2044-revision-19','','','2010-09-15 11:28:45','2010-09-15 16:28:45','',2044,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/2044-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(2100,1,'2010-09-15 11:43:26','2010-09-15 16:43:26','','Tulsa State Fair 2009','','inherit','open','open','','dsc07230','','','2010-09-15 11:43:26','2010-09-15 16:43:26','',2099,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/DSC07230.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',1),(2101,1,'2010-09-15 11:45:35','2010-09-15 16:45:35','<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2100\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2100\"><img src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/DSC07230-500x666.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" width=\"500\" height=\"666\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-2100\" /></a>\n\nTwo of Tulsa’s top festivals come to town this month: Greek Holiday starts Sept. 16, and the Tulsa State Fair kicks off Sept. 30. Combined, they hosted about 841,000 last year.\n\nAt the top of the minds of those hundreds of thousands of festival-goers? Their stomachs.\n\nGet <em>your</em> stomach growling with the rest of this story on <a href=\"http://tulsabusiness.com/industry_article.asp?cID=i&aID=92929196.6866519.672139.6863023.3323095.896&aID2=51694\">the Food Page in the latest edition of Tulsa Business Journal</a>.','Fall Festival Food Big Business in Tulsa','Two of Tulsa’s top festivals come to town this month: Greek Holiday starts Sept. 16, and the Tulsa State Fair kicks off Sept. 30.','inherit','open','open','','2099-revision','','','2010-09-15 11:45:35','2010-09-15 16:45:35','',2099,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/2099-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(2102,1,'2010-09-15 11:45:52','2010-09-15 16:45:52','<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=2100\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2100\"><img src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/DSC07230-500x666.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" width=\"500\" height=\"666\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-2100\" /></a>\r\n\r\nTwo of Tulsa’s top festivals come to town this month: Greek Holiday starts Sept. 16, and the Tulsa State Fair kicks off Sept. 30. Combined, they hosted about 841,000 last year.\r\n\r\nAt the top of the minds of those hundreds of thousands of festival-goers? Their stomachs.\r\n\r\nGet <em>your</em> stomach growling with the rest of this story on <a href=\"http://tulsabusiness.com/industry_article.asp?cID=i&aID=92929196.6866519.672139.6863023.3323095.896&aID2=51694\">the Food Page in the latest edition of Tulsa Business Journal</a>.','Fall Festival Food Big Business in Tulsa','Two of Tulsa’s top festivals come to town this month: Greek Holiday starts Sept. 16, and the Tulsa State Fair kicks off Sept. 30.','inherit','open','open','','2099-revision-2','','','2010-09-15 11:45:52','2010-09-15 16:45:52','',2099,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/2099-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(2103,1,'2010-09-15 11:45:52','2010-09-15 16:45:52','<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/fall-festival-food-big-business-tulsa/dsc07230/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2100\"><img src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/DSC07230-500x666.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" width=\"500\" height=\"666\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-2100\" /></a>\r\n\r\nTwo of Tulsa’s top festivals come to town this month: Greek Holiday starts Sept. 16, and the Tulsa State Fair kicks off Sept. 30. Combined, they hosted about 841,000 last year.\r\n\r\nAt the top of the minds of those hundreds of thousands of festival-goers? Their stomachs.\r\n\r\nGet <em>your</em> stomach growling with the rest of this story on <a href=\"http://tulsabusiness.com/industry_article.asp?cID=i&aID=92929196.6866519.672139.6863023.3323095.896&aID2=51694\">the Food Page in the latest edition of Tulsa Business Journal</a>.','Fall Festival Food Big Business in Tulsa','Two of Tulsa’s top festivals come to town this month: Greek Holiday starts Sept. 16, and the Tulsa State Fair kicks off Sept. 30.','inherit','open','open','','2099-revision-3','','','2010-09-15 11:45:52','2010-09-15 16:45:52','',2099,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/2099-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(283,1,'2009-09-20 22:40:00','2009-09-20 22:40:00','<div><b>UPDATE//Congrats, Anna Marie!</b> The <a href=\"http://random.org/\">Random.org</a> gods have smiled and thrown hot, fresh pizza upon you. <a href=\"mailto: tashadoestulsa@gmail.com\">E-mail me to claim your prize</a>. Thanks to everyone for playing. Now someone please call TIA and tell them to move that comments box. For the love.</div><div><br /></div><div>Maybe it\'s because it\'s Sunday. Or, it could be due to the beautiful weather. Either way, I feel like giving you something, something fabulous - and yummy, of course.</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3834219306/\" title=\"T-Rex Pie at Joe Momma\'s Pizza Downtown by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3475/3834219306_d73a84491d.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"T-Rex Pie at Joe Momma\'s Pizza Downtown\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>What\'s a better Sunday dinner than a T-Rex pie from Joe Momma\'s? I implore you. </div><div><br /></div><div>Wonder if it\'d taste even better if it was free? With maybe a side of Momma\'s Bread to go with? Then you\'re going to need to win <b>a gift certificate from Joe Momma\'s Pizza</b> - $25 should cover it. </div><div><br /></div><div>To win, you\'ve gotta guess which random T-Town spot I\'ve been getting more acquainted with as of late. You have to be a little bit lucky, too, and be pleasing to the lords at Random.org.</div><div><br /></div><div>That kind of rhymed. I apologize. It\'ll never happen again. </div><div><br /></div><div>I\'m not about to inadvertently make rhymes and then leave to you guess the mystery location without any clues. I have clues right here. The first one: </div><div><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3938925290/\" title=\"Untitled by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2662/3938925290_4d51f99475.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Where this photo was taken isn\'t on properly on the property in question, but it is pretty much vital to its livability, as you can see.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Here\'s clue No. 2: </div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3938925796/\" title=\"Untitled by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; \"></span></a><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3938925796/\" title=\"Untitled by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3420/3938925796_6b4f2d4f4d.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"><br /><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Honestly, who puts a comments box outside of a men\'s restroom? Only in Tulsa, Oklahoma. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Last but not least, clue No. 3:</div></span></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3939078868/\" title=\"Untitled by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2457/3939078868_ce8aac9b1d.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">If you\'re like I was about six months ago, you would still have no idea where I\'m talking about. Let that be clue No. 4. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Off to the races! <b>You have until 10pm tonight to put the correct answer in the comments section of this post, and I\'ll let <a href=\"http://random.org/\">Random.org</a> pick the winner from the correct answers</b>. I can have the Momma\'s Bucks to the lucky guy or girl before dinner tomorrow night. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Good luck, and think of pizza.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">P.S. - Thanks to Joe Momma\'s for springing for this giveaway. You guys are the shiz.</div>','UPDATE: A CHOSEN ONE. A Giveaway. Just Because.','','publish','open','open','','giveaway-just-because','','','2009-09-20 22:40:00','2009-09-20 22:40:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=283',0,'post','',32),(284,1,'2009-09-21 15:15:00','2009-09-21 15:15:00','<a onblur=\"try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}\" href=\"http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/SrecZ-xUKPI/AAAAAAAABfo/ESNa6vIvkmw/s1600-h/DSC07075.jpg\"><img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;\" src=\"http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/SrecZ-xUKPI/AAAAAAAABfo/ESNa6vIvkmw/s400/DSC07075.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383943849705220338\" /></a><br />Last Wednesday I was treated to one of the most exciting, most sensuous, strangest experiences ever: A personal coffee cupping at <a href=\"http://www.topecacoffee.com/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=51&amp;Itemid=54\">Topeca Coffee, Tulsa\'s only seed-to-cup coffee company</a>. <div><br /></div><div>Check it out.<br /><div><br /><object width=\"660\" height=\"405\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/hczhoG2UG5s&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0&amp;color1=0x006699&amp;color2=0x54abd6&amp;border=1\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\"><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\"><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/hczhoG2UG5s&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0&amp;color1=0x006699&amp;color2=0x54abd6&amp;border=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" width=\"660\" height=\"405\"></embed></object></div></div><br /><br />Though I love Topeca for its coffee, its cafe and its indie-ness (yes, it\'s Monday and I\'m making up words), what I love most about it is its accessibility. It\'s great for me as a reporter, and it\'s especially cool when I go into the cafe as nothing more than a curious consumer, wanting to know how one bean can, just through differences processing and roasting, taste like mowed hay in one cup and chocolate and blueberries in another or why the barista has to bang steamed milk against the counter, like, a million times before he can pour quality latte art.<br /><br />Coffee, my friends, is fascinating. <div><br /></div><div>I spent the weekend before last in Napa Valley trotting from winery to winery, tasting everything my pocketbook could bear (not much but enough to be able to start <a href=\"http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29814702&amp;ref=sr_gallery_3&amp;&amp;ga_search_query=wine+trivet&amp;ga_search_type=handmade&amp;ga_page=&amp;order=date_desc&amp;includes[]=tags&amp;includes[]=title\">one of those cool wine trivets made from the corks</a> I stole from the half-dozen or so wineries where we tasted), and I didn\'t get nearly the personal attention at any of them that I enjoyed during the cupping at Topeca. </div><div><br /></div><div>Sure, folks in Napa were nice, but since we were there during the weekend during one of their busiest tourist seasons of the year, they \"didn\'t have time\" to teach us about tasting in the first place, let alone any in-depth information on how the wine was made or where exactly it came from.<br /><br />My cup and my rabid ADD were satisfied at Topeca, though. Thanks to the three Johns (there\'s the roaster, John Cunningham, the owner, John Gaberino, and the barista, John Schaeffer - crazy, no?) for my first-ever cupping. It rocked.<br /><br />Topeca doesn\'t want to be nice to me and me only, though I totally wouldn\'t put up a fight if that\'s what they really wanted, which it most definitely is not. </div><div><br /></div><div>John (Gaberino or, as he calls himself, Johnny 3) wants to give one lucky TDT reader <b>six months\' worth of free coffee</b>. </div><div><br /></div><div>That\'s one 12-ounce bag of the blend of your choice (<a href=\"http://store.topecacoffee.com/roastedcoffee1.html\">there are seven</a>; my husband and I are in the habit of drinking Ayutepeque, but I think I fell in love with Natural last week at the cupping) per month for six months, all fresh and small-batch roasted by all the people you can\'t help but like at Topeca Coffee.<div><br />If you can\'t wait to get all this roast-astic bean in your burr grinder, skip to the comments and <span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">tell me about the best cup of coffee you ever had</span>. </div><div><br /></div><div>I would pick my favorite story as the winner, but since I know one person will make me belly laugh and another will make me cry and another will make me salivate and fantasize and I just won\'t be able to pick my fave, I\'ll let Random.org do the dirty work.<br /><br />Turn in your story by tomorrow (Tuesday) morning at 10am and I\'ll have the winner picked by coffee time. Until then, happy slurping, y\'all.<br /><br />P.S. - Next time you\'re at Fifth and Cheyenne, duck in to Cafe Topeca for the Nutella Crepe. It will open your mind to all kinds of prepossessing possibilities. </div></div>','Cupping','','publish','open','open','','cupping','','','2009-09-21 15:15:00','2009-09-21 15:15:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=284',0,'post','',35),(285,1,'2009-09-22 18:50:00','2009-09-22 18:50:00','<a onblur=\"try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}\" href=\"http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/SrketggNpoI/AAAAAAAABfw/Lp3STZ7t0aY/s1600-h/DSC07081.jpg\"><img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;\" src=\"http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/SrketggNpoI/AAAAAAAABfw/Lp3STZ7t0aY/s400/DSC07081.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384368596666132098\" /></a>Before I announce <a href=\"http://www.blogger.com/tashadoestulsa.com/2009/09/cupping.html\">the winner of six months\' worth of free joe from Tulsa\'s own Topeca Coffee</a>, I want to post here a few of my favorite coffee stories readers posted here yesterday as part of the giveaway.<div><br /></div><div>As if <a href=\"http://www.kjrh.com/weather/default.aspx\">the weather in Tulsa today wasn\'t perfect cause for a cup of coffee already</a>, these stories will definitely make you crave a nice, tall cup of the brown stuff. Grab one before you jump in; I\'ll be sipping right along with you. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here\'s a coffee tale that made my eyes widen:</div><div><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3945477808/\" title=\"Topeca Contest 0909 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2536/3945477808_041e487d49_o.png\" width=\"820\" height=\"139\" alt=\"Topeca Contest 0909\" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Wait. What? Wow.</div><div><br /></div><div>Feel like having your heart stirred? Order up: </div><div><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3945477616/\" title=\"Topeca Contest 0909 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3498/3945477616_206f9d01af_o.png\" width=\"822\" height=\"154\" alt=\"Topeca Contest 0909\" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Have you taken the time to appreciate the small things in life today? Because maybe you should.</div><div><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3945478124/\" title=\"Topeca Contest 0909 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2513/3945478124_6490d5dee3_o.png\" width=\"822\" height=\"154\" alt=\"Topeca Contest 0909\" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Here\'s one that will have you longing for a slow, quiet morning with your grandparents:</div><div><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3944695017/\" title=\"Topeca Contest 0909 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2642/3944695017_f4aebac16a_o.png\" width=\"825\" height=\"137\" alt=\"Topeca Contest 0909\" /></a><br /><br /></div><div>Here\'s a longer one from by dear, precious friend Wendy, a first-generation Guatemalan American who has coffee practically coursing through her veins:</div><div><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3944694913/\" title=\"Topeca Contest 0909 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2551/3944694913_1aeaecc99a_o.png\" width=\"816\" height=\"233\" alt=\"Topeca Contest 0909\" /></a><br /><br /></div><div>This is the one I couldn\'t help but re-read...and re-read again (it\'s long but so, so worth it):</div><div><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3944694841/\" title=\"Topeca Contest 0909 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3442/3944694841_220e9c8b8f_o.png\" width=\"816\" height=\"666\" alt=\"Topeca Contest 0909\" /></a><br /><br /></div><div>Last but not least, a recipe from <a href=\"http://www.andsosheblogs.com/\">the object of my stalking tendencies, Carrisa at And So She Blogs</a>: </div><div><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3945477728/\" title=\"Topeca Contest 0909 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2615/3945477728_6ce66e95f7_o.png\" width=\"830\" height=\"296\" alt=\"Topeca Contest 0909\" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Yum, yum, Carrisa. Thanks for that.</div><div><br /></div><div>I really, really hope I never have to judge a writing contest. Obviously, I\'d be horrible at it. See why I wanted <a href=\"http://random.org/\">Random.org</a> to do my bidding? I love stories, period, even (especially?) the crazy ones about war paint and donkey heads.</div><div><br /></div><div>Of the 33 stories submitted in the comments of yesterday\'s post, 30 slid in under the deadline. So, I asked the lords of randomness to please and randomly generate for me an integer between 1 and 30. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3944694081/\" title=\"Topeca Contest 0909 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2506/3944694081_1fde997107_o.png\" width=\"163\" height=\"184\" alt=\"Topeca Contest 0909\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">The 17th person to submit a story was: </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><a href=\"http://crustygasguy.blogspot.com/\">Yogi!</a></b></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3945477554/\" title=\"Topeca Contest 0909 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3509/3945477554_4a6c3672dd_o.png\" width=\"811\" height=\"728\" alt=\"Topeca Contest 0909\" /></a></div></div><br /><br />Glad you think Topeca is awesome, Yogi, and it\'s extra awesome that you work just across the street from the cafe. That\'ll make collecting on this prize that much easier.<br /><br />Speaking of Yogi, he has <a href=\"http://crustygasguy.blogspot.com/\">this really great blog, Yogi\'s Den</a>. If you all enjoy reading TDT, you\'ll get a kick out of his stuff, too. He has a great eye for weird Tulsa stuff, and you\'ll get sucked into all the stories about SuperPizzaBoy. Good times.<div><br /></div><div>Thanks again to everyone for playing. Keep your eyes on this blog for news of when you, too, can get your own free coffee cupping experience at Cafe Topeca. It won\'t be long. </div>','Coffee Love','','publish','open','open','','coffee-love','','','2009-09-22 18:50:00','2009-09-22 18:50:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=285',0,'post','',0),(286,1,'2009-09-22 22:06:00','2009-09-22 22:06:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3946072448/\" title=\"Labor Day 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2627/3946072448_1580e81d1a.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Labor Day 2009\" /></a></div><br />For posterity, I\'d like to list the words my 19-month-old can say true enough to the Queen\'s English that bystanders don\'t assume he has Turrets:<br /><br />Go (his first word; who woulda guessed? Help me!). More. No. Doggie. Kitty. Please. Juice. Grape. Water. Mommy. Daddy. Meme. Gigi. OK. Plane. Moon. Book. Read. Hello. Bye-bye. Eat. Yes. Ball. Baby. Shoes. Shirt. Chocolate (no, really). Berry. Outside (SIDE? SIDE?). Stick. Rock. House. Bath. Box. Cheese. Cookie (COOKIE! COOKIE!). Phone. Up. Down. Truck. Gummies. Brush. Jeans. Cow. Pig. Peach. Banana. Cake. Milk. Pizza. Fries. Burger (hey, at least he has his priorities straight).<br /><br />And, finally, Sham. Whoever that is.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/?page=blogs/view&amp;BLID=6130\">Read the rest of this post on my mommy blog at TtownMoms.com.</a>','Posterity','','publish','open','open','','ttownmomscom-posterity','','','2009-09-22 22:06:00','2009-09-22 22:06:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=286',0,'post','',3),(287,1,'2009-09-23 13:45:00','2009-09-23 13:45:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://www.cfbeo.org/graphics/rteh.jpg\" alt=\"\" /></div>\r\nThursday night offers two opportunities to not just feed the hungry, but to also feed yourself.\r\n<div>First is an New England dinner with Chef Michael Fusco, one of the acknowledged greats of Tulsa\'s chefs and master creator of deliciosity at the Riverside Grille that bears his name. For $50 and a reservation in advance (<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/pages/Community-Food-Bank-of-Eastern-Oklahoma/92368229508?ref=ts\">get with the Food Bank on Facebook to claim your spot</a> - hurry, because they\'re going fast) you can learn some of Chef Fusco\'s culinary secrets while you enjoy a three-course dinner, including New England Clam Chowder, Waldorf Salad and Corned Beef and Indian Pudding, complete with wine for each course. The class/dinner will be at the demonstration in the Food Bank\'s Culinary Center, 1304 N. Kenosha, starting at 6pm.</div>\r\n<div>If this isn\'t your kind of event, remember the foodie in your life and <a href=\"http://www.cfbeo.org/recipe.html\">snag a gift certificate for this Recipe to End Hunger event or one in the future</a>.</div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://www.ctfoodbank.org/images/HungerActionMonth_Logo.jpg\" alt=\"\" /></div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div>The second event of the evening is the Classical Concert at Harwelden with the Food Bank. Starting at 7pm, feed your ears and feed the hungry at this live concert at one of Tulsa\'s most cherished historic mansions. Players are Karl M. Johnson (piano), Lon de Ada (flamenco guitarist), Joesf Glaude (harp guitar) and the Tulsa Friends of Chamber Music.</div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>Refreshments, including wine and cheese, will be on hand. <a href=\"http://www.cfbeo.org/calendar.html\">Get in to this swanky little party by donating 10 cans of food (or, you can bring a good, old-fashioned ten-spot)</a>.</div>\r\n<div>This concert is part of <a href=\"http://hungeractionmonth.org/\">Hunger Action Month, which will come to a close Sept. 30</a>. All proceeds benefit the Food Bank Oklahoma.</div>\r\n<div>While you\'re planning how you\'ll help to feed the hungry Thursday night, why not take it a step further and give up something small? <a href=\"http://hungeractionmonth.org/\">Check out the Give A Little calculator</a>. According to this little do-dad, you could give up a mere four tanning bed sessions and provide an overwhelming 90 meals for someone in need.</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Thursday: Finish Hunger Action Month Strong','','private','open','open','','finish-hunger-action-month-strong','','','2012-03-27 14:26:00','2012-03-27 20:26:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=287',0,'post','',1),(10901,1,'2011-04-13 22:35:31','2011-04-14 04:35:31','<strong>Pssst. Hey, you.</strong> <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2011/04/easter-egg-hunts-easter-bunny-tulsa-2011/\">Click here if you\'re looking for the 2011 round-up of Easter egg hunts and Easter bunny visits in the Tulsa area</a> - it\'s all been updated, right here at TDT.\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4473939925/\" title=\"DSC04199 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img alt=\"DSC04199\" height=\"375\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4042/4473939925_25b3e07a2c.jpg\" width=\"500\" /></a></div><br />Easter is gaining fast, Tulsa, and you know what that means. <br /><br />Yeah, it does mean that my dad will be performing his annual suit-and-tie showcase at his church this Sunday, but it also means that it\'s time to hunt Easter eggs.<br /><br /><a name=\'more\'></a>While there are scads of hunts going on in the Tulsa area, don\'t forget to get your photo taken with the Easter Bunny. He\'ll be at Promenade Mall at 41st and Yale until this Saturday, April 3. For EB\'s photo sitting schedule, <a href=\"http://www.tulsapromenade.com/go/Poolb.cfm?MallID=787&amp;FPURLID=2129970087\">click here</a>.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4474717736/\" title=\"DSC04219 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img alt=\"DSC04219\" height=\"500\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4474717736_23bc49d73b.jpg\" width=\"357\" /></a></div><br /><br /><b>Thursday, April 1</b><br /><br /><b>Easter Bunny Craft</b><br />When: 10-11am<br />Where: Hicks Park, 3443 S. Mingo Road<br />The Easter Bunny will be on hand to help kids make a holiday craft. Photos will be taken with the EB, too. Cost is $10. <br /><br /><b>Easter Egg Hunt</b><br />When: 6:30-7pm<br />Where: Lacy Park, 2134 N. Madison Place<br />Kids are invited to hunt for eggs filled with candy and toys. Bring a canned food item to be donated to a local food bank, and bring a container for your eggs, too. Keep an eye out for the special, prize-containing eggs. Ages 1-12 are welcome. Cost is free. <br /><br /><b>Easter Keg Hunt</b><br />When: Thursday-Sunday<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.mcnellies.com/\">McNellie\'s Public House</a>, 409 E. First Street<br />Order one of the 60 draft beers available at McNellies, drink the beer, keep the tab. If the beer you selected was from the Easter Keg, you\'ll pay just $1 for that pint. So, your best strategy here is to bring a bunch of friends down to First and Elgin and order an array of beers until you figure out which is the Easter Keg. Happy hunting!<br /><br /><br /><b>Friday, April 2</b><br /><br /><b>A Hoppy Easter at Bounce U</b><br />When: 10am, 3pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://bounceu.com/\">Bounce U</a>, 8922 S. Memorial Drive<br />Bring the whole family for a day of bouncing, with a new twist on the traditional egg hunt. Includes an Easter bag craft and snacks. Session 1 is for kids aged 5 and under and starts at 10am; Session 2 is for all ages and starts at 3pm. Cost is $9.95 per child. <br /><br /><b>The Choice: A Dramatic Musical for Easter</b><br />When: Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 10am<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.rhemabiblechurch.com/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=191:the-choice-easter-musical&amp;catid=49:newsevents&amp;Itemid=1\">Rhema Bible Church</a>, <br />“The Choice” is a musical production with full lighting, costumes, live animals, and a cast of 120. The 90-minute program includes a presentation of the Gospel. Admission is free. <br /><br /><b>Easter Keg Hunt</b><br />When: Thursday-Sunday<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.mcnellies.com/\">McNellie\'s Public House</a>, 409 E. First Street<br />Order one of the 60 draft beers available at McNellies, drink the beer, keep the tab. If the beer you selected was from the Easter Keg, you\'ll pay just $1 for that pint. So, your best strategy here is to bring a bunch of friends down to First and Elgin and order an array of beers until you figure out which is the Easter Keg. Happy hunting!<br /><br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4474717122/\" title=\"DSC04203 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img alt=\"DSC04203\" height=\"375\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4068/4474717122_7bcaecc8c0.jpg\" width=\"500\" /></a></div><br /><b>Saturday, April 3</b><br /><br /><b>Zoobilee at Tulsa Zoo</b><br />When: 8am-5pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.tulsazoo.org/\">Tulsa Zoo</a>, 5701 E. 36th Street North<br />Hey, Zoo Friends members. Bring your holiday basket and join the folks at Tulsa Zoo for the largest-ever “penguin egg” hunt with over 15,000 eggs. Other zoo-per activities include interactive docent stations, keeper chats, arts and crafts, costume characters, pictures with Peter Cottontail and a Jupiter Jump along with other inflatables. And don’t forget to enjoy FREE train ride and carousel rides. This event is exclusive to Zoo Friends Members. Advance tickets are $5 per person. Visit Tulsa Zoo on the web or purchase for $6 on-site. Call (918) 669-6608 for more details. If you would like to become a Zoo Friend Member, call the membership office at (918)-669-6603.<br /><br /><b>Doggone Easter Egg Hunt</b><br />When: 10-11am<br />Where: Owen Park, 560 N. Maybelle Street<br />Now your family pet can enjoy the holiday a dog\'s way. All dogs must be on a leash. Pre-register by calling (918) 596-1485. Ages 2 and older are welcome. Cost is $2. <br /><br /><b>Jenks Community Egg Hunt</b><br />When: 10am<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.jenkschamber.com/\">Hunter-Dwelley Stadium</a>, 205 E. B Street<br />Looking for thousands of pre-filled eggs and lots and lots of other hunters? South of Southtown is the place to be. <br /><br /><b>Easter Egg Hunt at Woolaroc</b><br />When: 11am<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.woolaroc.org/category.php?cat=1010\">Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Reserve</a>, 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Road in Bartlesville<br />Unleash the kids to search for over 10,000 eggs hidden around the main campus. Be sure to wave at the buffalo. Admission is $8 for adults; children 11 and younger get in free.<br /><br /><b>Doggie Egg Hunt</b><br />When: Registration at 1pm; Hunt is 2-4pm; Adoption party is 2:30-5:30pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.thecanebrake.com/\">The Canebrake</a>, 33241 E. 732nd Road in Wagoner<br />After the hunt, look for the adoption party and the special dogs-only after-hunt menu on the pooch-friendly patio at The Canebrake. Get free nail trimming and win prizes courtesy of Petco. One lucky dog will win a night in a King Suite with Sunday Brunch for two at this hunt, so make sure everyone\'s wearing their lucky collars. <br /><br /><b>Community Easter Egg Hunt</b><br />When: 10am<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.shbctulsa.org/events/coming-events.html\">Heller Park</a>, 55th and S. Wheeling Avenue<br />Enjoy egg-gathering times for preschool kids through grade 6, inflatable and carnival games, door prizes, refreshments and more.<br /><br /><b>The Incredible Egg Hunt</b><br />When: 10am<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=347901798405\">Red Fork Church of God West Campus</a>, 4900 W. 41st Street<br />Experience one of the largest egg hunts in west Tulsa and enjoy a day of friends, fun and festivities, all at the same time. Kids of all ages are welcome to participate in the hunt. <br /><br /><b>Easter Festival at Memorial Baptist Church</b><br />When: 11am-1pm<br />Where: Memorial Baptist Church, 2800 S. Yale Ave.<br />See all the photos of Easter egg hunts and inflatables on this post? Those were all taken at last year\'s Easter festival at Memorial Baptist, and this year\'s event promises to be just as Easter-tastic. Plus, if you go, you get to meet my dad, which would be cool.<br /><br /><b>Owasso Egg Drop</b><br />When: 11:30am (registration begins, inflatables open)-3pm<br />Where: Centennial Park in Owasso, 15301 E. 86th Street North<br /><a href=\"http://www.lifepointowasso.com/egg-drop\">The Owasso Egg Drop is ike an Easter Egg hunt, only way cooler</a>. In addition to tons of eggs on the field, we\'ll drop thousands of eggs from a helicopter. Your kids will have a blast collecting eggs, jumping on inflatables, and watching a magic show. More than 2,000 people attended this event last year, and more than 10,000 eggs were available for the finding. This year look for more than 20,000 eggs, prize eggs and giveaways included. There will be separate drops for each age group. <a href=\"http://www.lifepointowasso.com/schedule\">Click here for a complete event schedule</a>. <br /><br /><b>Easter Egg Hunt</b><br />When: 12-1:30pm<br />Where: Chamberlain Park, 4940 N. Frankfort Avenue<br />Kiddos hunt for eggs, candy and prizes. I hear the Easter Bunny will make an appearance, too. Ages 2-12 are welcome. Cost is free. <br /><br /><b>Easter Festival with Trinity United Methodist Church</b><br />When: 2-5pm<br />Where: Trinity United Methodist Church, 3737 S. Peoria Ave. <br />Looking for a way to party it up Easter-style on Brookside? Your order is up. <br /><br /><b>The Choice: A Dramatic Musical for Easter</b><br />When: Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 10am<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.rhemabiblechurch.com/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=191:the-choice-easter-musical&amp;catid=49:newsevents&amp;Itemid=1\">Rhema Bible Church</a>, <br />“The Choice” is a musical production with full lighting, costumes, live animals, and a cast of 120. The 90-minute program includes a presentation of the Gospel. Admission is free. <br /><br /><b>Easter Keg Hunt</b><br />When: Thursday-Sunday<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.mcnellies.com/\">McNellie\'s Public House</a>, 409 E. First Street<br />Order one of the 60 draft beers available at McNellies, drink the beer, keep the tab. If the beer you selected was from the Easter Keg, you\'ll pay just $1 for that pint. So, your best strategy here is to bring a bunch of friends down to First and Elgin and order an array of beers until you figure out which is the Easter Keg. Happy hunting!<br /><br /><br /><b>Sunday</b><br /><br /><b>Easter Egg Hunt</b><br />When: After 10:30am Mass<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.churchofsaintmary.com/\">Church of Saint Mary</a>, 1347 E. 49th Place<br />Bring one dozen treat-filled, plastic eggs per child participating in the hunt and go nuts. <br /><br /><b>The Choice: A Dramatic Musical for Easter</b><br />When: Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 10am<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.rhemabiblechurch.com/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=191:the-choice-easter-musical&amp;catid=49:newsevents&amp;Itemid=1\">Rhema Bible Church</a>, <br />“The Choice” is a musical production with full lighting, costumes, live animals, and a cast of 120. The 90-minute program includes a presentation of the Gospel. Admission is free. <br /><br /><b>Easter Brunch and Egg Hunt at Stone Bluff Winery</b><br />When: 11am<br />Where: Stone Bluff Winery, 24145 E. 191st St. South in Haskell<br />Join the folks at Stone Bluff Winery for hand-carved prime rib, made-to-order omelets and pancakes, a chocolate fountain and an assortment of other food choices. The egg hunt is slated to start at 2pm, and I hear the Easter bunny will make an appearance. Call Stone Bluff Winery for reservations, (918) 482-5655.<br /><br /><b>Easter Brunch and Egg Hunt at All Souls</b><br />When: 11am<br />Where: All Souls Unitarian Church, 2952 S. Peoria Ave. <br />Think you\'ve got what it takes to find more than 1,000 candy-filled eggs? And eat brunch in the same sitting? Get thee and thine Easter baskets to All Souls on Peoria. Adults tickets are $15, kids are $10. <a href=\"mailto:genny_w1@hotmail.com\">Reserve here</a>.<br /><br /><b>Kaleidoscope EGGstravaganza</b><br />When: 1pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.kaleidoscopecm.com/New_Events.html\">Kaleidoscope Children\'s Museum</a>, 6202 S. Sheridan Road<br />Put your detective skills to the test as you scour the museum for eggs, eggs, and more eggs. If you are a true Sherlock Holmes, you may be the first one to follow the clues leading to cash-filled eggs. Admission is $6 which includes pizza, and any age is welcome.<br /><br /><b>Safari\'s Annual Easter Egg Hunt</b><br />When: 2pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.safarissanctuary.org/\">Safari\'s Animal Sanctuary</a>, 26881 E. 58th Street in Broken Arrow<br />Looking for a free Easter egg hunt for the kids? Head to Broken Arrow for this wild hunt for candies and surprises. After, grab the fam and get a tour of Safari\'s at a discounted price.<br /><br /><b>Easter Keg Hunt</b><br />When: Thursday-Sunday<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.mcnellies.com/\">McNellie\'s Public House</a>, 409 E. First Street<br />Order one of the 60 draft beers available at McNellies, drink the beer, keep the tab. If the beer you selected was from the Easter Keg, you\'ll pay just $1 for that pint. So, your best strategy here is to bring a bunch of friends down to First and Elgin and order an array of beers until you figure out which is the Easter Keg. Happy hunting!<br /><br /><br />If you don\'t see your favorite hunt on this list, <a href=\"mailto:tasha@tashadoestulsa.com\">e-mail me the info</a> or leave it in the comments section on this post. <br /><br />For the rest of you, that means to check back with this list for updates. I\'ll be posting them all week long.','Easter Egg Hunts and Events in Tulsa, 2010 Edition','','inherit','open','open','','524-revision-2','','','2011-04-13 22:35:31','2011-04-14 04:35:31','',524,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2011/04/524-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(288,1,'2009-09-23 17:51:00','2009-09-23 17:51:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3320749692/\" title=\"Claud\'s Hamburgers by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3650/3320749692_8c3dcd9961.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Claud\'s Hamburgers\" /></a></div><br />If there\'s one thing we Okies are nutty about, it\'s lake-goin\' season. But now that that\'s over, we\'re donning our orange, crimson or hurricane blue from head to toe (sometimes to ill effect, especially when body paint is involved), only to better enjoy spectating in our other best-loved pastime.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A28113\">Read the rest of this story in Consumer Watchdog in this week\'s edition of Urban Tulsa Weekly</a>.','Spectator Sport','','publish','open','open','','spectator-sport','','','2009-09-23 17:51:00','2009-09-23 17:51:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=288',0,'post','',0),(289,1,'2009-09-24 01:41:00','2009-09-24 01:41:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://img.forministry.com/7/72/72B216EF-BE95-4434-8E186272B273B9AF/7E9D338A-8E57-4388-B1922CF658B95065.jpg\" /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"http://twitter.com/tashadoestulsa\">As I said on Twitter earlier today</a>, \"Greek Holiday. Starts tomorrow. So excited that. I can\'t. Type in complete. Sentences.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Sure, the food is a huge part of why the Annual Greek Holiday here in Tulsa holds a special (and, apparently, excitable) place in my heart. Everything from the Turkish coffee to the from-scratch gyros to the made-by-hand Greek dinners, not to mention the music and the dancing, is part of every native Tulsan\'s set of childhood memories.  </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">There I was, sitting on our patio the other night and thinking how strange it was that I was having a sudden and intense craving for baklava (and was, therefore, silently planning a midnight trip to the family planning isle of Walgreens), when in fact, thanks to the five-generations-old Tulsan blood slogging through my veins, it was practically genetic programming for me to feel the <i>need</i> for that Greek pastry as soon as the first winds of autumn blew through earlier this week. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">I\'ve been to many a Greek Holiday here in T-Town, but two stick out in my mind. First was the 2007 festival, the 47th annual. I was three and a half months pregnant, my belly was already bursting from my waistband, I was exhausted beyond what I thought exhausted could be and I felt nauseated about 25 1/2 hours a day. I somehow made it through three trips to the Porta Potty during the 45 minutes we were there without going projectile on some innocent bystander. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">The only other thing my husband and I had time for besides multiple trips to those deplorable excuses for restrooms was a cup of Turkish coffee and a couple of slices of super-crisp, delicately sweet, perfectly nutty baklava, which went perfectly with the dance a group of tike dancers were performing that night. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://holytrinity.ok.goarch.org/GreekHolidayFestival/\"><img src=\"http://img.forministry.com/7/72/72B216EF-BE95-4434-8E186272B273B9AF/26614861-6EDB-482E-BF7949834215AF58.jpg\" /></a></div></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">I didn\'t even care that once we were home the baklava made a theatrical reappearance practically as soon as we walked through the front door. The whole experience was miserable, awkward, sweaty and, in fewer words, perfect.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v135/106/24/17111915/n17111915_34121780_1289.jpg\" /></div></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Oy. Thar she blows.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Then there was the year I went with <a href=\"http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Archive?author=oid%3A14944\">this writer girl</a> I came across during one of my searches for Tulsa blogs. Okay, maybe that\'s not really how this story starts. I\'d admired this writer from afar for about two years before I finally worked up the courage to ask her out to coffee so I could ask her if she would pretty please be my friend because OMG, she was so cool!!1! </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">She accepted, we went to Greek Holiday with our babies, both of which still had that newborn smell, and the rest is history. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3949611434/\" title=\"Drillers 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2663/3949611434_67254bf93e.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" alt=\"Drillers 2009\" /></a></div></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Hm. It occurs to me that there exists no photo of Holly and me. Holly and my son, yes. Me and her son, yes. Holly and me, no. Not anywhere, not no how.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">This could be yet another bit of evidence for <a href=\"http://napkindad.blogspot.com/\">local artist Marty Coleman</a>\'s theory that Holly and I are actually the same person.  </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Oh, well. Whether or not Coleman is on to something, go to Greek Holiday this year and make your own memories. All the tools will be there - Greek souvlaki, kalamari, Greek salads galore, spanakopita (<a href=\"http://twitter.com/tashadoestulsa/status/4327077405\">SPANAKOPITA!</a>), homemade pastries (GALAKTOBOURIKO!) and dancers (more than 80 authentically costumed ones, to be exact) - and there will be plenty of time to do a bang-up job on the whole thing. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">The festival starts tomorrow (Thursday) just in time for lunch at 11 am and will go until 9pm. Greek Holiday will continue Friday and Saturday, 11am-10pm.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Don\'t forget to grab <a href=\"http://holytrinity.ok.goarch.org/\">a quick tour of Holy Trinity while you\'re at Greek Holiday this year</a>. If you\'ve never visited a Greek Orthodox church before, the structure, both inside and outside, will amaze you. Plus, the priests are cool. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">To find Greek Holiday, head toward downtown, hop on the BA Expressway and look for the giant blue and white tent. If you prefer not to navigate by landmarks alone (and you probably aren\'t willing to stop and ask for directions when you\'re lost, either), go to 1206 South Guthrie, just two blocks west of 11th and Denver. If you\'re westbound on the BA, it\'s easiest to take the Houston exit. Use courtesy when parking, since most of the parking that\'s available, especially on the weekend nights, is in the adjacent neighborhood.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Admission is $2, and that\'s just to get in after 4pm on each day of the festival; otherwise, it\'s free. Plus, festival goers only pay that admission price once. That means that same $2 you paid to get in the first evening gets you in to the festival again at any time. Score, right?</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">I thought so. See y\'all there. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\"font-size:small;\">Photo of the child dancers from </span><a href=\"http://holytrinity.ok.goarch.org/GreekHolidayFestival/\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\"font-size:small;\">the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church Web site</span></a><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\"font-size:small;\">.</span></div>','Greek Holiday Festival 2009','','publish','open','open','','greek-holiday-festival-2009','','','2009-09-24 01:41:00','2009-09-24 01:41:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=289',0,'post','',3),(290,1,'2009-09-24 13:40:00','2009-09-24 13:40:00','If you read <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/09/greek-holiday-festival-2009.html\">yesterday\'s post about the 49th annual Greek Holiday Festival blowing into town this weekend</a>, you\'d know there\'s rumor going around that <a href=\"http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Archive?author=oid%3A14944\">Urban Tulsa arts writer Holly Wall</a> and I are the same person. <div><br /></div><div>We\'re not sure if this is because no photos of us together have managed to surface, or if it\'s because we used the same hair color for awhile, have the same hair style, wear similar necklaces everyday, wear similar frames, are the same height, sat at the same desk at Tulsa Business Journal albeit at different times, are rarely at the same Tulsa events, birthed blonde, blue-eyed sons in early 2008 or if it\'s because we\'re both constantly seen around town with Lola\'s Wicked Chocolate Cake. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3837459927/\" title=\"Wicked Chocolate Cake: Lola\'s at the Bowery by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2441/3837459927_c2c2df8609.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Wicked Chocolate Cake: Lola\'s at the Bowery\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Mmm...cake.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, it\'s just not true. We\'re separate entities, Holly and I. I swear.</div><div><br /></div><div>Want proof? Feast thine eyes:</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3949916461/\" title=\"Mom\'s Night Out 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3486/3949916461_f06be3c059.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Mom\'s Night Out 2009\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Not only are there two very attractive ladies behind these <a href=\"http://www.marshallbrewing.com/\">post-Marshall grins</a> (mine is extreme and totally unpretty, meaning I\'m the one on the left), they are two totally non-conjoined people. Plus, this would have taken way too much time to Photoshop - at least, it would have taken more time than warranted by the situation.</div><div><br /></div><div>Myth busted.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks to <a href=\"http://www.andsosheblogs.com/\">Carrisa at And So She Blogs</a> for this critical evidence.</div>','Myth Busting','','publish','open','open','','myth-busting','','','2009-09-24 13:40:00','2009-09-24 13:40:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=290',0,'post','',6),(291,1,'2009-09-24 19:30:00','2009-09-24 19:30:00','Here\'s one more thing worthy of packing in to your Thursday night schedule. <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/09/cupping.html\">I\'ve been talking about Topeca Coffee a lot</a>, sure, but I don\'t do that unless I\'m in a deliciosity-induced state of ecstasy. And I am. <div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3950784519/\" title=\"Latte Art Throwdown by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2601/3950784519_8535ac21b5_o.jpg\" width=\"450\" height=\"582\" alt=\"Latte Art Throwdown\" /></a></div><br />If you enter and/or win the whole damn thing, I\'d love to see photos. Pin \'em to <a href=\"http://flickr.com/groups/tashadoestulsa\">the Tasha Does Tulsa group on Flickr</a>, if you please. Your fame and glory will be fully recognized in such an ardently coffee-loving forum.</div>','Latte Art Throwdown','','publish','open','open','','heres-one-more-thing-worthy-of-packing','','','2009-09-24 19:30:00','2009-09-24 19:30:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=291',0,'post','',0),(292,1,'2009-09-24 19:38:00','2009-09-24 19:38:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img style=\"width: 443px; height: 563px;\" src=\"http://www.groovelily.com/press/downloads/images/GLLeslieLyons02-150.jpg\" /><br /></div><br /><div>One of the many hip things going on in Tulsa tomorrow night (Friday) is <a href=\"http://www.tulsapac.com/calendar.asp?id=1027&amp;task=display\">this GrooveLily concert downtown at the Tulsa PAC</a>. <div><br /></div><div>Now, this isn\'t your typical PAC musical act. We\'re talking Broadway-inspired tunes performed in the styles of jazz, folk and rock. There will be magic. There will be the soothing away of those workweek worries. </div><div><br /></div><div>There will be electric violins. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5qOCck5wekY/Sruw4nar36I/AAAAAAAAANM/dRDJgYRiC4Q/s400/GrooveLilyColor150dpi.jpg\" /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>In the words of that beacon of American pop culture Paris Hilton, \"That\'s hott.\" It really, really is.</div><div><br /></div><div>I love what <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/09/myth-busting.html\">my Siamese twin Holly Wall</a> said about it <a href=\"http://tulsaartblog.blogspot.com/2009/09/get-your-groove-on-giveaway.html\">on her blog, the succinctly titled Tulsa Art Blog</a>:</div><div><br /><blockquote>I took the opportunity to peruse the band’s Web site and download some tunes, and I ended up spending all day listening to mp3s and watching their videos on YouTube...<br /><br />The really beautiful thing about GrooveLily’s music is that, though lovely melodies and rhythms, the band tells marvelous stories. A large portion of the band’s repertoire is its rock musicals, which turn age-old moral tales on their heads, giving them a new spin, to tell smart, humorous, creative stories.</blockquote></div><br /><br />If you find yourself unconvinced and not sufficiently motivated to get on <a href=\"http://www.tulsapac.com/index.asp\">the Tulsa PAC Web site and order your tickets for Friday\'s show</a> right freaking now, <a href=\"http://www.groovelily.com/new-start-here/listening-suggestions/\">have a listen. Prepare to be altered</a>. Or, altared. One of the great things about Tulsa is that it\'s okay to have a public religious experience here - no one seems to mind.<div><br /></div><div>If you\'d go but can\'t spare the cash, <a href=\"http://tulsaartblog.blogspot.com/2009/09/get-your-groove-on-giveaway.html\">try your luck to win a pair of tickets from Holly</a>. She\'s giving away five (FIVE!) pairs of tickets to the show, and all you have to do is tell her about your favorite fable or moral story. You have until 8 in the morning to get into the drawing, so you best hop to it and enter now. </div><div><br /></div><div>Good luck, everyone. See you at the show.</div></div>','GrooveLily. Plus, A Giveaway.','','publish','open','open','','groovelily-plus-giveaway','','','2009-09-24 19:38:00','2009-09-24 19:38:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=292',0,'post','',0),(294,1,'2009-09-26 03:00:00','2009-09-26 03:00:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/data/7/d/e/a/0/27196//efc88815e6676061dccf3209975ac7c7.jpg\" /></div><br />Whatever you\'re doing tomorrow with your kids, I bet it\'s not going to beat building a meatball tower at <a href=\"http://joemommas.com/\">Joe Momma\'s Downtown</a>.<br /><br />Save that tired stack of board games for some other time. This Saturday, you have some serious reading, pizza tossing and meatball eating to do. Get to Joe Momma\'s at Second and Elgin by 11:30 to grab a seat and catch the fun at this first-ever edition of Momma\'s Book Club.<br /><br />Crafting masterpieces from meatballs and pizza dough is fun, sure, but reading is one of the best and most important things you as a parent can do with your child. Study after study has shown that children who read regularly with their parents do better in school - not only can they do a bang-up job on a test, but they\'re often more creative, too. These kids tend to have less behavioral problems. They\'re known to share closer a bond with their parents. They\'re also better looking and take their middle-aged parents on more Caribbean Cruises after they earn their degrees from Ivy League universities at completely no cost to you.<br /><br /><a onblur=\"try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}\" href=\"http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/Sr2Mxow3_rI/AAAAAAAABgg/zIo4D5tNgxk/s1600-h/DSC05159.jpg\"><img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;\" src=\"http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/Sr2Mxow3_rI/AAAAAAAABgg/zIo4D5tNgxk/s400/DSC05159.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385615513788874418\" /><br /></a><div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">The contents of that last statement have not been approved by any authority whatsoever, but I\'d bet you a beer that everything there is true.</div><br />To supplement the current reading program you share with your kids, or to foster one that has fizzled or is just getting started, will be a reading of that book every cool kid wants on his bookshelf these days, \"Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs.\"<br /><br />In case you didn\'t know already, the book has been adapted for the silver screen. That\'s where <a href=\"http://www.selectcinemas.com/\">Riverwalk Movies</a> comes in. If Saturday is a lucky kind of day, you could win passes to see the movie edition of CWCM in Jenks. There will be other door prizes, too, including gift certificates to <a href=\"http://dwellingspaces.net/\">Dwelling Spaces</a> and Joe Momma\'s.<br /><br />Joe Momma\'s owner Blake Ewing (who, along with his beautiful wife, Julie, helped to bring into the world son No. 2 a few short weeks ago) has a knack for gathering the right people in the right places, and this event is no exception. Dwelling Spaces, along with <a href=\"http://booksmarttulsa.com/\">Booksmart Tulsa</a> and Riverwalk Movies, are helping to host the event.<br /><br />“I was raised to love books and reading. It’s important to me that Joe Momma’s has a part in encouraging other parents and children to read. We have a great relationship with Dwelling Spaces so we decided this would be a fun way to do something positive together,” he said.<br /><br />And how. This will be the first child-centered book event for Book Smart Tulsa (or, as I like to call it, Not Your Grandma\'s Garden Party Bookclub). BST will be providing parents with a list of children\'s recommended reading at the event, too, so be sure to get in on that.<br /><br />Plans for future Momma\'s Book Club events will be centered on other popular children’s books, including “Where the Wild Things Are,” and “A Christmas Carol.\" Each event will feature a special story time for the kiddos and book recommendations for parents. Like the September event, October and November’s Book Club get-togethers will coincide with the theatrical release of the movie version of the story.<br /><br />Did I mention that this event is free to attend? No kidding. Would I lie to you in front of the kids? Maybe. But in front of the pizza? Never. </div>','Momma\'s Book Club: Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs','','publish','open','open','','mommas-book-club-cloudy-with-chance-of','','','2009-09-26 03:00:00','2009-09-26 03:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=294',0,'post','',1),(295,1,'2009-09-27 15:40:00','2009-09-27 15:40:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3958218147/\" title=\"Me, Downtown by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2520/3958218147_359906463b.jpg\" width=\"333\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Me, Downtown\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">I started this blog two and a half years ago <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2007/04/you-too-can-do-tulsa.html\">with a post about ways to get to know T-Town</a>. It got a huge response for the blog at the time (9 comments!), and I think you\'ll agree that it\'s high time for another installment. </div><div><br /></div><div>The premise of the first post was to debunk the myth that there\'s nothing fun or exciting to do in Tulsa. First, Tulsa is not New York City. It\'s not Chicago, L.A., Austin or St. Louis. There\'s just not enough of a market in T-Town to support the up-that all-night lifestyle for which these cities are known. </div><div><br /></div><div>We might not stay up all night very often, but we Tulsans still know how to boogey. </div><div><br /></div><div>In Tulsa you get one of the best homegrown music scenes anywhere in the U.S. Some of the country\'s favorite artists and writers are based here, and our city hosts not just one, but two major, world-class art museums, not to mention the several community-sized ones. We Tulsans like our meat and potatoes, sure, but we still manage to offer one of the most exciting and diverse food scenes anywhere.</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3354758252/\" title=\"Boston Avenue, Looking South by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3592/3354758252_332e55c250.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Boston Avenue, Looking South\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Events ranging from upscale wine dinners to all-night cult film festivals to roller derby smash-ups claim T-Town as their home base. Plus, Tulsa is home to a slew of weird, offbeat, beautiful and downright awesome attractions and landmarks. </div><div><br /></div><div>To make a long story short, what you\'ve heard about Tulsa is true: It\'s a large city with that small town feel. Sure, everyone is going to know when your sister runs away with the pool guy, but later you can lose yourself in a crowd of Alan Jackson fans at the <a href=\"http://bokcenter.com/\">BOK Center</a>. You could even drown your sorrows with a pint or two of locally brewed beer at the same time.</div><div><br /></div><div>To further make my case, here is a list continued from that post in March 2007 of ways to get to know Tulsa, Oklahoma:</div><div><br /></div><b>Shop local.</b> If you love hole-in-the-wall restaurants, you\'ll love hole-in-the-wall boutiques.<div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3319902447/\" title=\"Dwelling Spaces by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3626/3319902447_c20d340479.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Dwelling Spaces\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Get started with <a href=\"http://dwellingspaces.net/\">Dwelling Spaces downtown</a>. Then head to Cherry Street, <a href=\"http://www.uticasquare.com/\">Utica Square</a> and <a href=\"http://brooksidetheplacetobe.com/\">Brookside</a>. Don\'t forget Southtown - there\'s plenty of indie shops to plunder on Main Street Broken Arrow, Jenks and Bixby. <div><br /><div><b>Get on the bike.</b> Tulsa wasn\'t <a href=\"http://www.bikeleague.org/media/press/bfc_bfs_press09.pdf\">named a bike friendly city by the League of American Bicyclists</a> for nothing. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3958323857/\" title=\"Lee\'s Bicycles by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2662/3958323857_bff91a1724.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Lee\'s Bicycles\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>For one, <a href=\"http://www.incog.org/transportation/trails/trailsmap.pdf\">check out our 180-mile trail system</a>. For two, <a href=\"http://www.tulsawheelmen.com/\">our bicycling community doesn\'t exactly feel the need to compensate for any shortcomings where size is concerned</a>. For three, Tulsa is home to more indie bike shops per capita than that other major Sooner city. So, not only will you join the extensive club of drivers who\'d rather sport bike racks than spoilers, but you\'ll also have the technical support needed when your bike is busted from traversing Tulsa\'s bike thoroughfares - Brookside, <a href=\"http://www.riverparks.org/\">Riverside</a>, Downtown and Avery Drive, just to name a few. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Take the bus.</b> Did you know you could <a href=\"http://tulsatransit.org/riding-the-bus/bike-bus/?search=bike%20and%20ride\">ride your bike and the bus at the same time</a>? </div><div><br /><object width=\"660\" height=\"405\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/76LDXO9BFA4&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0&amp;color1=0x006699&amp;color2=0x54abd6&amp;border=1\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\"><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\"><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/76LDXO9BFA4&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0&amp;color1=0x006699&amp;color2=0x54abd6&amp;border=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" width=\"660\" height=\"405\"></embed></object><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Well, you can (sorta). Ride to a stop on your bike and when the bus pulls up, load your bike to the front of the bus and hop on (the bus, not the bike - otherwise, you might be in for a windy ride). For as low as $0.65 per day, you can text in transit to your heart\'s content. Or, you could make new friends and see Tulsa from a whole new perspective. - your choice.</div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><b>Hop on Twitter. </b>Think what you will about what I\'m about to say, but I think it\'s time that it be known: My No. 1 source of news, both local and national, is Twitter. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3898663766/\" title=\"Me, Working by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2582/3898663766_05dab73788.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Me, Working\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Yikes, right? Feels a little funny to say, but it\'s true. Not only does any network news outlet worth its salt use Twitter to plug its most recent articles, but the smart phone owners on the ground where the news is actually happening do, too. Now I find out about what\'s happening in Tulsa without the middleman, sometimes long before it hits the news sites and often complete with photos and video. Don\'t believe me? <a href=\"http://twitter.com/tashadoestulsa/following\">Steal my followees</a>. I have about 1,800 T-Towners feeding me all that\'s moving and shaking in Tulsa, all the time. Go ahead, abscond with them. I\'m sure they won\'t mind. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Have a baby. </b>Before our son came along, my husband had been to the <a href=\"http://tulsazoo.org/\">Tulsa Zoo &amp; Living Museum</a> just one time, and that was to drop me off for volunteer duty. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3465778506/\" title=\"Golden Turtle at Tulsa Zoo by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3575/3465778506_2512f301e1.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Golden Turtle at Tulsa Zoo\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>He\'d been to just one show at the <a href=\"http://tulsapac.com/\">Tulsa Performing Arts Center</a>, and I couldn\'t remember the last time I\'d been to a park for reasons other than exercise or loitering a la high school days. Since our son burst onto the scene, we\'ve re-visited landmarks that had, for us, faded into the backdrop. If it weren\'t for that little blonde busybody, we wouldn\'t know the pure and simple joy that is a splash park. We wouldn\'t go to half as many shows at the <a href=\"http://tulsapac.com/\">Tulsa Performing Arts Center</a> or <a href=\"http://bokcenter.com/\">BOK Center</a>, either, but thanks to the likes of Elmo and <a href=\"http://www.myspace.com/wearethejellydots\">The Jellydots</a> and our son\'s love of dancing in the aisles, we see plenty of live entertainment in some of Tulsa premier venues. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Be a bargain hunter. </b>Ever since I started reading <a href=\"http://918couponqueenblog.com/\">Sarah Roe, the coupon master supreme who writes 918CouponQueenBlog.com</a>, I\'ve hit roads less traveled - even to a sushi bar inside a the Jenks <a href=\"http://reasors.com/\">Reasor\'s</a> location - to find the deals she posts on her site. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3959149508/\" title=\"Reasor\'s Sushi Bar by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2462/3959149508_cda6650732.jpg\" width=\"364\" height=\"485\" alt=\"Reasor\'s Sushi Bar\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>My coupon goggles thus activated, I started to notice coupons good at independent Tulsa businesses printed in <a href=\"http://urbantulsa.com/\">local publications</a> (and <a href=\"http://tulsakids.com/\">here</a> and <a href=\"http://okmag.com/\">here</a>), not to mention the local coupons that appear from time to time on Roe\'s site. It\'s easy to do the uniquely Tulsa stuff when good deals put you right in the arms of our homespun businesses. </div><div><br /></div><div>What are your secrets for livin\' it up in T-Town? </div><div><br /></div><div><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\"font-size:small;\">Photo of me acting like a weirdo downtown </span><a href=\"http://backstreetphoto.com/\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\"font-size:small;\">by Nicole Kelley of Backstreet Photo</span></a><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\"font-size:small;\">.</span></div><div><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\"font-size:small;\">Reasor\'s sushi bar photo by </span><a href=\"http://andsosheblogs.com/\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\"font-size:small;\">Carrisa at And So She Blogs</span></a><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\"font-size:small;\">.</span></div></div></div>','More Ways to Get to Know Your Town','','publish','open','open','','more-ways-to-get-to-know-your-town','','','2009-09-27 15:40:00','2009-09-27 15:40:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=295',0,'post','',6),(296,1,'2010-09-28 10:00:00','2010-09-28 15:00:00','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2199\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/pumpkin-patch-7-ways/dsc07432/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-2199\" title=\"Carmichael\'s Pumpkin Patch\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/DSC07432-500x375.jpg\" alt=\"Carmichael\'s Pumpkin Patch\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://dowhat.thislandpress.com/event_tags/halloween/\">Psst - hey, you!</strong> Looking for Halloween-themed things to do in Tulsa? Check out this interactive listing at Do What at ThisLandPress.com</a>.\r\n\r\nTulsa\'s pumpkin patches are open! Oh, squee!\r\n<!--more-->\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[adrotate group=\"2\" banner=\"8\"]</p>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2008/10/7-ways-to-not-find-real-pumpkin-patch.html\">Prowling for pumpkin patches is one of my very favorite things to do</a>, and it\'s a big reason why fall is my favorite time of year. \r\n\r\n<strong>Plus, pumpkin patches aren\'t just pumpkin patches anymore.</strong> They\'re entertainment powerhouses, chock full of activities for kids and adults alike, from pumpkin bowling to corn mazes to pony rides to carnivals. Long story short, things big, round and orange aren\'t all you\'ll see when you head out with the kids on your hunt for the best jack-o-lantern this year.\r\n\r\n<strong>Carmichael\'s Pumpkin Patch</strong>\r\nWhen: Daily in October; Monday-Saturday, 9am-7pm; Sunday, 10am-6pm\r\nWhere: 171st and Mingo in Bixby\r\nPhone: (918) 366-4728\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bixby-OK/Carmichaels-Pumpkin-Patch/142842227641?v=wall&amp;ref=share\">Carmichael\'s Pumpkin Patch</a>\r\nA real Tulsa family favorite, Carmichael\'s offers everything from pumpkins to Halloween decorations. Look alos for the petting zoo, pony rides and hay rides, oh my.\r\n\r\n<strong>First United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch</strong>\r\nWhen: Sept. 30-Oct. 31, Sunday-Friday, noon-dusk; Saturdays, 9am-dusk\r\nWhere: First United Methodist Church in Owasso, 13800 E. 106th Street North\r\nPhone: (918) 272-5731\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://www.fumcowasso.org/\">fumcowasso.org</a>\r\nThis mission of this pumpkin patch? To offer a safe and fun fall activity for families to enjoy year after year. And how: During the month of October, look for a car show, a pumpkin patch cafe featuring breakfast burritos, homemade chicken and noodles and pumpkin goodies; an outdoor classroom; a craft fair; a cake decorating contest; a safety fair; a fall carnival; a 5K, an authentic Indian taco lunch; and a trunk-or-treat and glow fest. You can even have your birthday party at this place if you want.\r\n\r\n<strong>Livesay Orchards Pumpkin Patch</strong>\r\nWhen: Weekends in October; Saturdays, 10am-5pm; Sundays, 1-4pm\r\nWhere: 39232 E. 231 St. South in Porter\r\nPhone: (918) 483-2102\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://livesayorchards.com/livesay_orchards_pumpkin_patch.htm\">Livesay Orchards Pumpkin Patch</a>\r\nTwo words: Pumpkin bowling. Catch this and more, including an assortment of pumpkins and fall decorations at this pumpkin patch in Porter. The Livesay Pumpkin Playland features a kids\' play area, a hay bale maze, a farm-related learning center and a mini pumpkin hunt. Admission is $3, which includes a hayride to the pumpkin patch. See? Porter isn\'t just for peaches.\r\n\r\n<strong>Pleasant Valley Farms</strong>\r\nWhen: Everyday, 9am-dark, Oct. 1-31\r\nWhere: 22350 W. 71st Street in Sand Springs\r\nPhone: (918) 248-5647\r\nPleasant Farms isn\'t just that place out west that sells Christmas trees. This fall, find tractor-pulled hay rides, a petting zoo and numerous varieties of pumpkin and winter squash at the farm southwest of that perennial, Oklahoma-centric attraction, DiscoveryLand.\r\n\r\n<strong>Pumpkin Town</strong>\r\nWhen: Daily from Sept. 25-Oct. 31; Mon-Thurs. 10am-7pm; Fri-Sat. 9am-8pm; Sun. 11am-7pm\r\nWhere: 9707 E. 81st Street\r\nPhone: (918) 307-8619\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://www.pumpkintownok.com/\">Pumpkin Town</a>\r\nHow do you like the sound of pony rides, daily hay rides and face painting? Not to mention the thousands of pumpkins, gourds and squashes, plus the plethora of Halloween décor available at the one, the only Pumpkin Town. <a href=\"http://www.pumpkintownok.com/\">Check the Web site for a listing of special events</a> each weekend in October.\r\n\r\n<strong>Pumpkin Town at The Castle at Muskogee</strong>\r\nWhen: Starting Oct. 1; Fridays and Saturdays and Sunday, Oct. 31, from 6-10pm\r\nWhere: The Castle at Muskogee, 3400 W. Fern Mountain Road\r\nPhone: (918) 687-3625\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://www.okcastle.com/Halloween.html\">okcastle.com/Halloween.html</a>\r\nThere\'s more going on at The Castle besides fireworks and Renaissance festivals. Get pumpkins of all sizes this Halloween, along with a carving station, pony rides, a child-sized hay bale maze, a hay ride, a bounce house, concessions and plenty of photo opps. If you\'re feeling like a scare, stick around for <a href=\"http://okcastle.com/Halloween.html\">The Castle\'s annual Halloween Festival</a>, which offers a little something for everyone.\r\n\r\n<strong>Shay\'s Landscaping, Nursery &amp; Pumpkin Patch</strong>\r\nWhen: Starting Oct. 1, Mon.-Fri., 4-7pm; Sat., 9am-dark\r\nWhere: 2700 Yorman Road in Bartlesville\r\nPhone: (918) 248-5647\r\nIf you\'re the type who\'d rather pick your pumpkin yourself rather than hoist one from a grocery store shelf, a trip to Bartlesville\'s Shay\'s pick-your-own Pumpkin Patch is in order. There\'s no shortage of fall activities to enjoy up US 75 – adult- and kid-sized mazes, tractor-pulled hayrides and pony rides are just a few of the diversions available at Shay\'s.\r\n\r\n<strong>Shepherd\'s Pumpkin Festival</strong>\r\nWhen: Oct. 7-Oct. 30, Thurs., Fri. and Sat.; 10am-6:30pm\r\nWhere: 16792 E. 450 Road in Claremore\r\nPhone: (918) 342-5911\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://www.shepherdscross.com/pumpkinfestival.html\">Shepherd\'s Pumpkin Festival</a>\r\nThe pumpkin patch at Shepherd\'s offers a petting zoo, autumn-inspired games, story times, a maze made of hay and a hands-on learning center, all free of charge. Hayrides are $4, and scarecrow making is $2 if you bring your own clothes to stuff. Pumpkins, gourds and all manner of fall décor are available at prices ranging 50 cents-$12.25.\r\n\r\nSeveral of these patches offer special deals for large groups looking for a tour. Be sure to call ahead so the folks in charge at the patches can accommodate you. A word of advice from someone who knows from experience: Always contact the patch you intend to visit before you go. As are all things in the ag world, hours are subject to change.\r\n\r\nI\'m sure I\'m not the only who who\'d love to learn more about the pumpkin patches hosted by Tulsa-area churches. If you belong to a church selling pumpkins this fall, leave pertinent info in the comments.\r\n\r\nIf you don\'t see your favorite local pumpkin patch on this list, <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/contact/\">let me know</a>.\r\n\r\nHappy pumpkin hunting, everyone!','Where to Find Pumpkin Patches in Tulsa','October gets started later this week, and you know what that means: Pumpkin patches! Oh, squee!','publish','open','open','','pumpkin-patches-in-tulsa','','','2011-10-20 02:00:32','2011-10-20 08:00:32','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=296',0,'post','',31),(9387,1,'2011-10-18 17:24:48','2011-10-18 23:24:48','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-2199\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/09/pumpkin-patch-7-ways/dsc07432/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-2199\" title=\"Carmichael\'s Pumpkin Patch\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/DSC07432-500x375.jpg\" alt=\"Carmichael\'s Pumpkin Patch\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" /></a>\r\n\r\nTulsa\'s pumpkin patches are open! Oh, squee!\r\n<!--more-->\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[adrotate group=\"2\" banner=\"8\"]</p>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2008/10/7-ways-to-not-find-real-pumpkin-patch.html\">Prowling for pumpkin patches is one of my very favorite things to do</a>, and it\'s a big reason why fall is my favorite time of year. \r\n\r\n<strong>Plus, pumpkin patches aren\'t just pumpkin patches anymore.</strong> They\'re entertainment powerhouses, chock full of activities for kids and adults alike, from pumpkin bowling to corn mazes to pony rides to carnivals. Long story short, things big, round and orange aren\'t all you\'ll see when you head out with the kids on your hunt for the best jack-o-lantern this year.\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://dowhat.thislandpress.com/event_tags/halloween/\">Looking for Halloween-themed things to do in Tulsa? Check out this interactive listing at Do What at ThisLandPress.com</a>.<strong>\r\n\r\n<strong>Carmichael\'s Pumpkin Patch</strong>\r\nWhen: Daily in October; Monday-Saturday, 9am-7pm; Sunday, 10am-6pm\r\nWhere: 171st and Mingo in Bixby\r\nPhone: (918) 366-4728\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bixby-OK/Carmichaels-Pumpkin-Patch/142842227641?v=wall&amp;ref=share\">Carmichael\'s Pumpkin Patch</a>\r\nA real Tulsa family favorite, Carmichael\'s offers everything from pumpkins to Halloween decorations. Look alos for the petting zoo, pony rides and hay rides, oh my.\r\n\r\n<strong>First United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch</strong>\r\nWhen: Sept. 30-Oct. 31, Sunday-Friday, noon-dusk; Saturdays, 9am-dusk\r\nWhere: First United Methodist Church in Owasso, 13800 E. 106th Street North\r\nPhone: (918) 272-5731\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://www.fumcowasso.org/\">fumcowasso.org</a>\r\nThis mission of this pumpkin patch? To offer a safe and fun fall activity for families to enjoy year after year. And how: During the month of October, look for a car show, a pumpkin patch cafe featuring breakfast burritos, homemade chicken and noodles and pumpkin goodies; an outdoor classroom; a craft fair; a cake decorating contest; a safety fair; a fall carnival; a 5K, an authentic Indian taco lunch; and a trunk-or-treat and glow fest. You can even have your birthday party at this place if you want.\r\n\r\n<strong>Livesay Orchards Pumpkin Patch</strong>\r\nWhen: Weekends in October; Saturdays, 10am-5pm; Sundays, 1-4pm\r\nWhere: 39232 E. 231 St. South in Porter\r\nPhone: (918) 483-2102\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://livesayorchards.com/livesay_orchards_pumpkin_patch.htm\">Livesay Orchards Pumpkin Patch</a>\r\nTwo words: Pumpkin bowling. Catch this and more, including an assortment of pumpkins and fall decorations at this pumpkin patch in Porter. The Livesay Pumpkin Playland features a kids\' play area, a hay bale maze, a farm-related learning center and a mini pumpkin hunt. Admission is $3, which includes a hayride to the pumpkin patch. See? Porter isn\'t just for peaches.\r\n\r\n<strong>Pleasant Valley Farms</strong>\r\nWhen: Everyday, 9am-dark, Oct. 1-31\r\nWhere: 22350 W. 71st Street in Sand Springs\r\nPhone: (918) 248-5647\r\nPleasant Farms isn\'t just that place out west that sells Christmas trees. This fall, find tractor-pulled hay rides, a petting zoo and numerous varieties of pumpkin and winter squash at the farm southwest of that perennial, Oklahoma-centric attraction, DiscoveryLand.\r\n\r\n<strong>Pumpkin Town</strong>\r\nWhen: Daily from Sept. 25-Oct. 31; Mon-Thurs. 10am-7pm; Fri-Sat. 9am-8pm; Sun. 11am-7pm\r\nWhere: 9707 E. 81st Street\r\nPhone: (918) 307-8619\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://www.pumpkintownok.com/\">Pumpkin Town</a>\r\nHow do you like the sound of pony rides, daily hay rides and face painting? Not to mention the thousands of pumpkins, gourds and squashes, plus the plethora of Halloween décor available at the one, the only Pumpkin Town. <a href=\"http://www.pumpkintownok.com/\">Check the Web site for a listing of special events</a> each weekend in October.\r\n\r\n<strong>Pumpkin Town at The Castle at Muskogee</strong>\r\nWhen: Starting Oct. 1; Fridays and Saturdays and Sunday, Oct. 31, from 6-10pm\r\nWhere: The Castle at Muskogee, 3400 W. Fern Mountain Road\r\nPhone: (918) 687-3625\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://www.okcastle.com/Halloween.html\">okcastle.com/Halloween.html</a>\r\nThere\'s more going on at The Castle besides fireworks and Renaissance festivals. Get pumpkins of all sizes this Halloween, along with a carving station, pony rides, a child-sized hay bale maze, a hay ride, a bounce house, concessions and plenty of photo opps. If you\'re feeling like a scare, stick around for <a href=\"http://okcastle.com/Halloween.html\">The Castle\'s annual Halloween Festival</a>, which offers a little something for everyone.\r\n\r\n<strong>Shay\'s Landscaping, Nursery &amp; Pumpkin Patch</strong>\r\nWhen: Starting Oct. 1, Mon.-Fri., 4-7pm; Sat., 9am-dark\r\nWhere: 2700 Yorman Road in Bartlesville\r\nPhone: (918) 248-5647\r\nIf you\'re the type who\'d rather pick your pumpkin yourself rather than hoist one from a grocery store shelf, a trip to Bartlesville\'s Shay\'s pick-your-own Pumpkin Patch is in order. There\'s no shortage of fall activities to enjoy up US 75 – adult- and kid-sized mazes, tractor-pulled hayrides and pony rides are just a few of the diversions available at Shay\'s.\r\n\r\n<strong>Shepherd\'s Pumpkin Festival</strong>\r\nWhen: Oct. 7-Oct. 30, Thurs., Fri. and Sat.; 10am-6:30pm\r\nWhere: 16792 E. 450 Road in Claremore\r\nPhone: (918) 342-5911\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://www.shepherdscross.com/pumpkinfestival.html\">Shepherd\'s Pumpkin Festival</a>\r\nThe pumpkin patch at Shepherd\'s offers a petting zoo, autumn-inspired games, story times, a maze made of hay and a hands-on learning center, all free of charge. Hayrides are $4, and scarecrow making is $2 if you bring your own clothes to stuff. Pumpkins, gourds and all manner of fall décor are available at prices ranging 50 cents-$12.25.\r\n\r\nSeveral of these patches offer special deals for large groups looking for a tour. Be sure to call ahead so the folks in charge at the patches can accommodate you. A word of advice from someone who knows from experience: Always contact the patch you intend to visit before you go. As are all things in the ag world, hours are subject to change.\r\n\r\nI\'m sure I\'m not the only who who\'d love to learn more about the pumpkin patches hosted by Tulsa-area churches. If you belong to a church selling pumpkins this fall, leave pertinent info in the comments.\r\n\r\nIf you don\'t see your favorite local pumpkin patch on this list, <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/contact/\">let me know</a>.\r\n\r\nHappy pumpkin hunting, everyone!','Where to Find Pumpkin Patches in Tulsa','October gets started later this week, and you know what that means: Pumpkin patches! Oh, squee!','inherit','open','open','','296-revision-13','','','2011-10-18 17:24:48','2011-10-18 23:24:48','',296,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2011/10/296-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(297,1,'2009-09-30 00:30:00','2009-09-30 00:30:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/ScouNWkNF4I/AAAAAAAAA0w/7em8WlKCbRU/s400/DSC04037-1.JPG\" /></div>\r\n\r\nI love how every time I pop in at <a href=\"http://www.bluejackalope.com/\">Blue Jackalope, a community grocery store in the shadow of the BOK Center at 306 S. Phoenix</a>, I learn about something refreshing and new that\'s going on in Tulsa.\r\n\r\nWe\'re about to gain another farmers\' market, for one. The Crosbie Heights Farmers\' Market will kick off Sunday starting at 1pm, right across from Blue Jackalope and the community garden bearing the same neighborhood name. Plenty of traditional fall produce will be on hand, and everyone is invited to swing by and check it out. \r\n\r\nI love the idea of a Sunday afternoon farmers\' market. Often I can\'t get my son and I together early enough to hit the Saturday or Wednesday Cherry Street Farmers Markets to get our shopping done before the days\' plans begin. The thought of being able to do my produce shopping at a farmers market in the light of a Sunday sunset makes me want to make pie.\r\n\r\nThose of you who have stumbled across this blog more than once or twice that pie, or even feelings or thoughts about pie, make me very happy indeed. The market will be open through October and is slated to reopen next April.\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/ScouB4Ny8jI/AAAAAAAAA0o/bpUm259fNxI/s400/DSC04036-1.JPG\" /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Item No. 2: <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=129805168594\">Here\'s a little somethin\'-somethin\' to put on your weekend calendar</a>. \r\n\r\nThe moon will be full the night of Oct. 4, and the folks at the Crosbie Heights Community Garden are throwing a party to celebrate. At about 2pm will start a farm potluck and music festival at the garden, and every walk of life - even dogs on leashes - are invited. Bring your favorite homemade dish, and be sure to check out the Kids\' Zone and the bicycle-powered blender, courtesy of Bike Soup, yet another 3rd-and-Phoenix community-oriented operation that aims to put bike building and repair in the hands of their owners. \r\n\r\nMusical guests include Travis Fite, Joe Mack, Jesse Aycock, Sapien and Scales of Motion. The first band is scheduled for 3pm. \r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/Scos4YQ4ghI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/rMZ-IQwjCI4/s400/DSC04029-1.JPG\" /></div>\r\n\r\nCool, huh? Now you can never say grocery stores aren\'t a cool place to hang out and learn about all the hip stuff happening in your city.','Found Along Charles Page Boulevard: Blue Jackalope Groceries & Coffee','I love how every time I pop in at Blue Jackalope, a community grocery store in the shadow of the BOK Center at 306 S. Phoenix, I learn about something refreshing and new that\'s going on in Tulsa.','publish','open','open','','blue-jackalope-groceries-coffee','','','2010-11-21 19:45:35','2010-11-22 00:45:35','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=297',0,'post','',2),(298,1,'2009-09-30 05:00:00','2009-09-30 05:00:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-weight: bold; \">EDIT 10.9 12:10pm//<span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-weight: normal;\">After some unsuccessful attempts to get in touch with the first winner I say to <a href=\"http://twitter.com/editorjoy\">Joy</a>, \"I command thee, take these tickets to Indie Emporium off my hands.\"</span></span></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 176px; height: 186px;\" src=\"http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/Ss-U9v3mKQI/AAAAAAAABhI/DZCF5cNRSA0/s400/Picture+7.png\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390691067528358146\" /><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\"><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-weight: normal; \">Just goes to show that it pays to do the extra entries. Have fun, Joy!</span></div><div><br /></div>EDIT 9.30 3:18pm//</span>A hint to help with the guessing contest below: The initials of the name of the indie jewelry company that crafted my favorite earrings could also stand for that little thing one would be well-advised to obtain should s/he not earn a high school diploma.<span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">//</span><br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://hphotos-snc1.fbcdn.net/hs225.snc1/7225_1212348396057_1449200023_30603319_7057265_n.jpg\" /></div><div><br /></div>Ever prided yourself on something you made with your own two hands? Maybe you\'re a seamstress, a wood worker, a jewelry maker or, heck, a coffee cup builder. At any rate, you\'ll relish what\'s on tap for the second weekend in October: <a href=\"http://www.indieemporium.com/\">the third annual Indie Emporium</a>. <div><br /></div><div>The entity that gets to claim the IE acronym that\'s actually as cool as it says it is will open Oct. 9 at the VFW Post No. 577, in the Pearl District at 1109 E. Sixth Street. The regional Mecca for lovers of hip, handmade goods will run through Oct. 10</div><div><br /></div><div>Indie Emporium got its start in 2007 with the idea that Tulsans deserve an opportunity to support Tulsa\'s economy, artists and crafters and to showcase independent handipeople. The family-friendly event will feature more than 40 vendors, 10 gallery artists a fashion show of handmade clothing, make-and-take projects, hourly craft demonstrations, a silent auction and, if you can believe it, tons more. Each IE patron will even get to screen print his or her own Indie Emporium tote bag. For free. </div><div><br /></div><div>No, really. And, the first 50 people to hit the event Friday night will snag an IE tote bag filled with samplings from vendors and artists featured at the 2009 Indie Emporium.</div><div><br /></div><div>Plus, a trip or two to Indie Emporium is a great way to do some serious damage to your holiday shopping list while at the same time supporting local, homegrown businesses. Who\'s to argue with that? Do your friends and family a favor and grab great deals on clothing, art, accessories and a smattering of one-of-a-kind miscellany - you know, things people actually want rather than the tired gift certificate to Wal-Mart - all made lovingly in the hands of actual people, not robots in some factory up the river.<br /><div><br /></div><div>To wrap up this third of Indie Emporium weekends will be a showing of Handmade Nation, the indie craft documentary, at Tulsa\'s own independent moviehouse, Circle Cinema. </div><div><br /><object width=\"425\" height=\"344\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/zH2HWPfwpOw&amp;color1=0xb1b1b1&amp;color2=0xcfcfcf&amp;hl=en&amp;feature=player_embedded&amp;fs=1\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\"><param name=\"allowScriptAccess\" value=\"always\"><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/zH2HWPfwpOw&amp;color1=0xb1b1b1&amp;color2=0xcfcfcf&amp;hl=en&amp;feature=player_embedded&amp;fs=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" width=\"425\" height=\"344\"></embed></object><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Cool, huh? </div><div><br /></div><div>The vendors at Indie Emporium don\'t want to just sell you a bunch of stuff, wave bye-bye and start planning how to get you to open you wallet for next year\'s show. These girls and boys look to give back to the community by collecting canned food and hosting a silent auction to benefit <a href=\"http://www.cfbeo.org/\">the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma</a>. Last year IE was able to provide more than 1,000 meals to those in need. Not bad, not bad.  </div><div><br /></div><div>To whom do you owe sacraments and love and thanks for this ground zero of crafty awesomeness? None other than <a href=\"http://www.weatherandnoise.net/shop.html\">Tulsa Craft Mafia member Christine Sharp-Crowe</a>, who wanted to provide Tulsans with an alternative to the sweat-shop products crowding malls and so-called craft fairs in the area. </div><div><br /></div><div>\"There is a handmade revolution sweeping the nation because young people are tired of the everyday, mass-produced consumerism, and I wanted to see Tulsa right in the middle of that revolution,\" she said. </div><div><br /></div><div>Advance tickets are available for $5 at <a href=\"http://www.idaredboutique.com/\">Ida Red</a> and <a href=\"http://dwellingspaces.net/\">Dwelling Spaces</a>, two of Tulsa\'s hottest indie boutiques, as well as on <a href=\"http://indieemporium.com/\">the Indie Emporium Web site</a>. They\'re $5 at the door if you show up toting canned food donations. Else, they\'re $8. </div><div><br /></div><div>Like kids under 12, you and a worthy buddy could get in to Indie Emporium 2009 free. All you have to do is <b>guess correctly the name of the Tulsa-based producer of handmade jewelry and IE09 vendor that crafted these lovely earrings</b> (<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3968471699/sizes/o/\">click the photo</a> for a better look): </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3968471699/sizes/o/\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3470/3968471699_7c0f1265bf.jpg\" width=\"333\" height=\"500\" alt=\"\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Think you know who\'s talented enough to craft these babies (which are, by the way, my most favorite earrings I\'ve ever owned, ever)? Make your best guess in the comments before 5pm on Thursday. I\'ll let Random.org choose the winner of a pair or tickets to Indie Emporium.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">The tickets come with <b>a hefty set of free raffle tickets the winner can use to try his or her chances at winning a Yudu screen printing machine and a supplies package</b>, valued at $1,00o. Woah. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Also part of the deal <b>is lunch and a cupcake from IE yummies vendors </b><a href=\"http://elotetulsa.com/\"><b>Elote Cafe &amp; Catering</b></a><b> and this kick-ass new catering company, </b><a href=\"http://antoinettebakingco.blogspot.com/\"><b>Antoinette\'s Bakery</b></a>. Oh, yum.  </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Want extra chances at this most stellar of prize packages? <b>After and only after you make your guess as to the maker of the earrings here on this post, you can win extra entries for each tweet or post on Facebook about Indie Emporium or this giveaway</b>. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">If you opt to increase you odds in these ways, <b>please let me know by returning to this post and pasting the URLs to your wise words in the comments</b>. Do this as often as you like, but I\'ll only award extra entries to those who have a) guessed correctly the maker of the earrings in the comments on this post and b) returned to the comments section on this post to point me to the places on the Web where you\'ve blabbed about this giveaway and/or IE09.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Get it? Got it? Good.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Off to the races with yas. I\'ll choose a winner before I post this weekend\'s edition of What To Do in Tulsa This Weekend.</div></div></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.backstreetphoto.com/\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3421/3969407908_973028c4a9_o.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"160\" alt=\"Backstreet Ad\" /></a></div>','Want Tix (and More) to Indie Emporium?','','publish','open','open','','want-tix-and-more-to-indie-emporium','','','2009-09-30 05:00:00','2009-09-30 05:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=298',0,'post','',30),(299,1,'2009-09-30 14:53:00','2009-09-30 14:53:00','Folks, I don\'t normally do this. My favorite thing to do to a press release is tear it apart, mutilate it in every possible way, put my own spin on it and post it in an attempt to represent it as original journalism. <div><br /></div><div>Ha! Because that\'s how it\'s done in the real world, people, <a href=\"http://www.batesline.com/archives/2009/09/osu-journalism-prof-to-bartlett.html\">for members of the \"legitimate media\" or otherwise</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>I kid, I kid. Besides, you\'re not here to read about \"journalism\" or \"local politics.\" You\'re here to find out what the heck I\'m talking about in the post title. </div><div><br /></div><div>Behold:</div><div><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3969309384/\" title=\"Tulsa Zoo Run by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2619/3969309384_9a6851c81a_o.png\" width=\"769\" height=\"530\" alt=\"Tulsa Zoo Run\" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>This part of the release - known technically as \"the part where PR people have to turn backflips in attempts to get the journalist to open the attached release\" - is even better:</div><div><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3969315016/\" title=\"Tulsa Zoo Run by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3428/3969315016_0a7f419f41_o.png\" width=\"945\" height=\"211\" alt=\"Tulsa Zoo Run\" /></a><br /><br /></div><div>I was a fan of the Zoo before, but I am now more than ever. If you don\'t have time to catch the turtle race this morning, <a href=\"https://www.signmeup.com/site/reg/register.aspx?fid=H82V4K7\">sign up for the Tulsa Zoo Run</a>. It\'s a good, wild time.</div>','Best Press Release Ever. Turtles Are Involved.','','publish','open','open','','best-press-release-ever-turtles-are','','','2009-09-30 14:53:00','2009-09-30 14:53:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=299',0,'post','',2),(300,1,'2009-10-01 13:00:00','2009-10-01 13:00:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://tulsawine.com/\"><img src=\"http://www.tulsawine.com/media/tulsa-deco.jpg\" /></a></div><br />The winner of the Oklahoma State Wine Championship will be the newest label in the Tulsa Deco line of wines from Tulsa’s urban winery, <a href=\"http://tulsawine.com\">Girouard Vines</a>.<br /><br />The labels are at the printer and prices are posted for the wine, dubbed Westhope. It’s slated for release Oct. 1, said Chris Girouard, president of Girouard Vines LLC.<br /><br />The acclaimed Westhope is the latest chapter in the story of Girouard Vines, nearly 45 years in the making. The venture that has culminated into what Girouard wanted to be Tulsa’s own wine started in 1965 when his father, George Girouard, a Tulsa native and petroleum engineer, began a quest to breed wild Oklahoma grapes with those of vinifera species. The result was four plants with genetic growing characteristics naturally adapted to this region, including a resistance to fungus and disease and a tolerance of Oklahoma heat, that produced a highly acidic grape, perfect for blending with the blue-bloods of the grape world.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.tulsabusiness.com/article.asp?aID=03654597.2930064.645970.1453151.8710428.283&amp;aID2=49681\">Read the rest of this story on the food page of this week\'s edition of Tulsa Business Journal</a>.','From Vine to Basement','','publish','open','open','','from-vine-to-basement','','','2009-10-01 13:00:00','2009-10-01 13:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=300',0,'post','',3),(301,1,'2009-10-01 17:30:00','2009-10-01 17:30:00','I\'d like to jump right in today with three signs you might need a makeover. <div><br /></div><div>Don\'t worry, this will be fun - fun like how jumping into a freezing cold pool fully clothed with your iPhone, full of irreplaceable photos, tucked away in your pocket is fun. Ready? Go: <div><br /></div><div>1. You show your husband and old picture of the two of you and his frank, uninhibited response is, \"Wow. You were hot.\"  </div><div>2. When you go to a new hairdresser after not having a hair cut for at least eight months (maybe longer - no one is quite sure), her first question is, \"So, you\'re a mom?\"</div><div>3. Urban Tulsa Weekly hosts a contest based on a most unflattering photo of you. The game? Guess the ID of the columnist in the photo. One of the early guesses: <a href=\"http://batesline.com/\">Michael Bates</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>No offense, Michael, but I was hoping we looked different enough that folks would be able to tell us apart. It\'s one thing to be accused of being one and the same with <a href=\"http://tulsaartblog.blogspot.com/\">UTW arts writer Holly Wall</a> (I\'ve actually been quite flattered by the recent claims that we\'re actually one person pretending to be two); it\'s entirely another to be confused for, well, this: </div><div><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3972235270/\" title=\"Michael Bates and Fam by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2499/3972235270_68dfeb95d1_o.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Michael Bates and Fam\" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Even though he does make pretty, pretty babies. But still - I\'m a lady, he\'s a dude. I have longish hair and I wear a skirt from time to time; Bates sports a beard and wears a derby hat at Oklahoma Centennial reenactments. </div><div><br /></div><div>And yet, there\'s confusion. </div><div><br /></div><div>How better to exploit my apparent androgynousness and contest-worthy lack of remarkableness than to fight Holly for a makeover, all for the sake of my favorite Tulsa charity? Check it: </div><div><br /></div><div><object width=\"660\" height=\"405\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/ICXJRAPPavo&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00&amp;border=1\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\"><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\"><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/ICXJRAPPavo&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00&amp;border=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" width=\"660\" height=\"405\"></embed></object></div><br />I\'ve already convinced you that I\'m the one in most need of some heavy-duty primping. All you have to do is head to <a href=\"http://apps.facebook.com/causes/204915\">Resonance Center for Women\'s home on Facebook</a>. Once you\'re there, vote for my sad and lonely and makeup-coveting mug by hitting the donate button once or twice or five times. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then, <a href=\"http://twitter.com/resonancetulsa\">get on Twitter and tweet @ResonanceTulsa</a> (or on Facebook and write on the wall at /ResonanceTulsa) that you voted for me. Because the girl who raises the most donations in her name by Oct. 15 gets a makeover. </div><div><br /></div><div>And I really, really need a makeover. Apparently. So be sure you <a href=\"http://twitter.com/resonancetulsa\">tweet @ResonanceTulsa that you donated in my name</a> or else I could lose to that too-gorgeous-to-be-up-to-any-damn-good Holly Wall.<br /><div><div><br /></div><div>If I win, I not only get recreated by the Ihloff Salon &amp; Day Spa Creative Team, the one and the same that\'s putting on <a href=\"http://www.ihloffspa.com/site/page.php?name=community\">the annual and always kick-ass Fall Collection</a>, but I\'ll also get to strut my buffed-up stuff on the catwalk at this year\'s show, Fables, Fantasy and Fairy Tales: Once Upon a Time.</div><div><br /><object width=\"500\" height=\"405\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/geW7zk7V9nA&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00&amp;border=1\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\"><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\"><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/geW7zk7V9nA&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00&amp;border=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" width=\"500\" height=\"405\"></embed></object><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Plus, this all comes right in time for my birthday. I officially embark on my late 20s starting Monday, and Fall Collection isn\'t until the 22nd, but still. They\'re happening in the same month. Let us not split hairs.  </div><div><br /></div><div>All proceeds of this brutal smackdown benefit <a href=\"http://resonancetulsa.org/\">Resonance Center for Women, Tulsa\'s premier non-profit support center whose mission is to help women and their families become self-sufficient</a>. All donations are tax-deductible.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tickets to this year\'s Fall Collection are available at both Ihloff locations (Utica Square and South Memorial) and at Dwelling Spaces. They\'re $15 in advance.</div><div><br /></div><div>Vote for me, friends. Because Michael Bates wants his identity back. </div></div></div>','A Battle Royale','','publish','open','open','','battle-royale','','','2009-10-01 17:30:00','2009-10-01 17:30:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=301',0,'post','',6),(303,1,'2009-10-04 03:06:00','2009-10-04 03:06:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3979087482/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2569/3979087482_c9a2d34c7d.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">I spent more than eight hours milling around at the fair today checking out exhibits, riding rides, listening to live bands, watching dogs do double back flips and, most of all, eating lots and lots of artery hardening, super-fried food that\'s probably illegal in 38 states. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">I mean, I saw a sign advertising fried dough at the fair today, for the love. That\'s carbs and maybe a little bit of butter and/or shortening, deep-fried in some type of inexpensive fat, probably peanut oil, all dusted with a bit of powdered sugar. Delish.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">How about you - have you made a trip to the Tulsa State Fair this year? What\'d you see? What\'d you do? <i>What\'d you eat, and how do you think it was made? </i></div>','Fair Fare and You','','publish','open','open','','fair','','','2009-10-04 03:06:00','2009-10-04 03:06:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=303',0,'post','',5),(305,1,'2009-10-04 21:21:00','2009-10-04 21:21:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://ttownmoms.com/data/7/d/e/a/0/27196//dsc07182cropped.jpg\" /></div><br />When it comes to all things motherhood, advice is a funny thing. Some advice we first-time moms couldn\'t have done without, even if we didn\'t want to hear it at the time. Other advice is like cheap fingernails on a blackboard, irritating to the point for the new mom where she needs to step into the hall closet, quietly close the door, stuff her face into the winter coats and have herself a little scream.<br /><br />Still other advice is absolutely lifesaving. You want to send the adviser flowers, candy and Chippendale dancers. If you were to ever win the lottery, you\'d buy this person a gross of steak dinners at the steakhouse of her choice. Plus, massages. Lots and lots of massages.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://ttownmoms.com/?page=blogs/view&amp;BLID=6229\">Read the rest of this story on my blog at Ttownmoms.com</a>.','On the Advice of a Good Friend','','publish','open','open','','on-advice-of-good-friend','','','2009-10-04 21:21:00','2009-10-04 21:21:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=305',0,'post','',2),(306,1,'2009-10-05 23:00:00','2009-10-05 23:00:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3981182998/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3438/3981182998_810cf31d4b.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Like I mentioned in <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/10/fair.html\">this post, I spent all day at the Tulsa State Fair last Saturday</a>. Guess how I spent 87.1666 percent of my time - I\'ll give you two guesses, but I bet you\'ll only need one. <div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980421121/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3513/3980421121_9a1bbb22df.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>That\'s right: Eating. Eating lots and lots of strange and wonderful and death-defying foodstuffs. </div><div><br /></div><div>Despite its cost and any recent scientific study on nutrition and its affect on the human body, I\'m pretty sure food is on most folks\' top-three list of things they love about the fair. I know that\'s how it is for me. </div><div><br /></div><div>That\'s why, when I try fair food that\'s outside my usual repertoire and it\'s disappointing, I want to spit and cuss and call people names. </div><div><br /></div><div>First, I just wasted the same money I could have spent on a full dinner at a decent restaurant on a something like a soggy funnel cake or a cup of burned nacho cheese. Second, I only have so much stomach capacity, and I just used a portion of it, however small, on something unworthy of such prime real estate. Third, the fair comes around once a year, and I can only eat so much food during the several days TSF is in town.</div><div><br /></div><div>To prevent said frustration in your world, consult the following fair food reviews before you set off for the fairgrounds. Let me tell you what to eat, what not to eat and what to order in excess so you can stow some in your purse or pocket for breakfast the next day. </div><div><br /></div><div>What\'s wrong? I eat breakfast out of my pocket all the time. And see how terrifically I\'ve turned out.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980421121/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3513/3980421121_9a1bbb22df.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Let\'s get started, shall we? </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Indian Taco</b></div></div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3981078372/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2528/3981078372_bd07aedd3e.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><b>What it is</b>: \"Indian-style\" fry bread topped with refried beans, pulled roast beef, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cheese and sour cream - essentially, a taco salad atop a slab of fried dough.</div><div><b>Where to get it</b>: The Indian Taco stand in QuikTrip Center, second level, on the southeast side (<a href=\"http://www.tulsastatefair.com/fair/exhibits/TSF%2009map.pdf\">download a PDF map of this year\'s fair</a>)</div><div><b>Price</b>: $7.50</div><div><b>Taste</b>: 5 (on a scale of 1-5)</div><div><b>Value for the money</b>: 5</div><div><b>Fair-time stomach real estate worthiness</b>: 2</div><div><b>Comments</b>: While the taste is killer, one can procure a decent Indian Taco from just about any festival that comes through this town. Save space for true fair food by splitting this deliciousness with a group of hungry friends.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Strawberry Newburg</b></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980324061/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2575/3980324061_93ba93c911.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What it is</b>: Puff pastry stacked with vanilla pudding, whipped cream and lots and sugary strawberries. And forks.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Where to find it</b>: The Strawberry Newburg stand in Quiktrip Center, second level, southwest side</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Price</b>: $6.00</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Taste</b>: 4 </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Value for the money</b>: 5</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Fair-time stomach real estate worthiness</b>: 5</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Comments</b>: A classic fair sweet. Who needs a boob job or a cleft chin if you can walk down the midway with one of these babies? You\'re sure to turn heads, no matter what your momma gave you. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Chocolate Covered Strawberries/Chocolate Covered Oreos</b></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980331965/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2611/3980331965_20277b99e3.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>What it is</b>: Fresh strawberries dipped in milk chocolate, drizzled with white chocolate; Crunchy Oreos dipped in milk chocolate, drizzled with white chocolate</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Where to find it</b>: Exchange Center, northeast side, Made in Oklahoma showcase</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Price</b>: Two for $3 for the strawberries, $1 apiece for the Oreos</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Taste</b>: 3</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Food for the money</b>: 2</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Fair-time stomach real estate worthiness</b>: 1</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Comments</b>: The chocolate-covered strawberries are tastier and more frequently available at <a href=\"http://www.kokoachocolatier.com/\">Steven Howard\'s KoKoa Chocolatier</a>. As for the chocolate-covered Oreo, I prefer the store-bought version to the ones I found at the fair. Ooo, burn!</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Chocolate-covered Bacon</b></div></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3981093034/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3432/3981093034_d2eb62fb01.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>What it is</b>: Bacon skewered onto a stick slathered in a milk chocolate-like substance.</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Where to get it</b>: N/A (TDT neglected to confirm procurement location)</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Price</b>: N/A (TDT neglected to confirm price)</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Taste</b>: 1</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Food for the money</b>: N/A (TDT neglected to confirm price - good thing I can\'t get fired from this job)</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Fair-time stomach real estate worthiness</b>: 1</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Comments</b>: Bacon-covered chocolate is nothing new in the gourmet food world. When done correctly, the flavor profile is not all that unlike the one we find in chocolate-covered pretzels or peanut M&amp;Ms. The key to the salty/sweet combo, though, is very crispy bacon and high-quality chocolate. Neither is found in this fair food fail. </div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Atlas IPA from Marshall Brewing Company</b></div></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3981096406/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2480/3981096406_69725eb58d.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>What it is</b>: \"Columbus, Amarillo, and Cascade hops are harmoniously blended together, bringing about floral and earthy tones which highlight this bold but delicious ale.\" Well said, Marshall Web site.</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Where to get it</b>: <a href=\"http://www.tulsastatefair.com/fair/entertaiment/beergarden.asp\">The beer garden</a>! Also, at the Boulevard beer vendor in QuikTrip Center, first level, southeast side.</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Price</b>: $8.50</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Taste</b>: 5</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Food for the money</b>: 5</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Fair-time stomach real estate worthiness</b>: 5</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Comments</b>: Because it\'s always time for $8.50 worth of a cold, tasty, hoppy, locally brewed IPA. </div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Fair Food Platter: Fried Macaroni and Cheese; Fried Manicotti; Fried Ravioli; and Fried Garlic Mashed Potatoes, served with marinara sauce and \"seasoned\" sour cream</b></div></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980413995/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3470/3980413995_7a00f10a34.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>What it is</b>: A bunch of Italian food dipped in batter and deep fried in peanut oil, with a couple of lumps of deep-fried garlic mashed potatoes nonsensically added to the side</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Taste</b>: 3</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Price</b>: $7 for two mac and cheese, two potato, two ravioli and one manicotti</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Food for the money</b>: 3</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Fair-time stomach real estate worthiness</b>: 5</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Comments</b>: How could you, at fair time, resist such a platter of artery-hardening consumables? While it\'s not the best fried fair food I\'ve ever had, I can at least boast that I ate it - all of it. Date me! </div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Turkey Leg</b></div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980414619/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; \"></span></a><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980414619/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2527/3980414619_c59d5f0bd2.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>What it is</b>: A big hunk-a-smoked turkey leg. </div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Where to find it</b>: The north side of the Esplanade. Follow the smoke. You can\'t miss it.</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-weight: normal; \"><b>Price</b>: $8</span></b></div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Taste</b>: 5</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Food for the money</b>: 5</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Fair-time stomach real estate worthiness</b>: 5</div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><b>Comments</b>: The pictured turkey legs were the best turkey legs I\'ve ever sunk my teeth into, ever. The skin was crispy, the meat was flavorful (and fully cooked! No, really!) and, as I was eating them, they made me feel like Bam Bam Flintstone. While turkey legs are a mainstream festival food and are certainly not relegated to the Tulsa State Fair alone, the legs from this particular vendor are more than worth your rentable stomach space. </div><div style=\"text-align: left; \"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left; \">What have you eaten so far at the fair this year? How would you score it? </div></div></div>','A Belly Full of Fair','','publish','open','open','','belly-full-of-fair','','','2009-10-05 23:00:00','2009-10-05 23:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=306',0,'post','',6),(307,1,'2009-10-06 19:30:00','2009-10-07 00:30:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3981097558/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3435/3981097558_23d152bbde.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Spaghetti-shaped ice cream. Kettle Korn on a stick. Deep-fried bananas. Australian fries. <div><br /></div><div><a href=\"http://www.tulsastatefair.com/fair/homepage.asp\">These are just a few of the zany, new foods to try at this year\'s Tulsa State Fair</a>. Don\'t try to accuse me of teasing you with lots of sticky, drippy words about the yummies - you could, after all, get your hands on some of it this very evening if you wanted. </div><div><br /></div><div>Want a bonus? <a href=\"http://www.tulsastatefair.com/fair/generalinfo/dailypromotions.asp\">It\'s two-for-one night: You and a buddy get in the gate for the price of one admission, and you ride midway rides two for the price of one</a>. If you\'re a Cox customer, you should have gotten a coupon in your last bill for $2 off one trip to the fair. Use it tonight, and that makes for a total of $10 off the price of two tickets through the gate. </div><div><br /></div><div>See? The fair doesn\'t have to be a budget buster. Not all the time.</div><div><br /></div><div>Of course, my favorite aspect of the fair is the food - everything from my annual cheese on a stick to <a href=\"http://www.tulsastatefair.com/fair/competitiveexhibits/oklahomasugarartshow.asp\">the famous Sugar Art Show, which this year boasts the theme, Of Sea and Shore</a>. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980334141/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2587/3980334141_6ee49bf897.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Mmm, sea creature cake. </div><div><br /></div><div>Wanna know what else is going on at the fair this year? Here are a few snippets:</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3981185248/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3425/3981185248_9ecdcb0a6b.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Hamburgers dressed like children. It\'s sick, really. Sick and wrong.</div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980422197/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2463/3980422197_60a4837cd0.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Turkey legs - a vast quantity of them. When you\'re at the fair, it seems every other person who walks by is gnawing on one of these babies. It\'s no surprise, then, that some folks start to suffer from...</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980419071/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2613/3980419071_11e802260c.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980419071/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"></a>Tryptophan-induced drowsiness.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3981094852/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2521/3981094852_f4df55ab7d.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Also, tryptophan-induced napping. Not that anyone would complain about such a thing. It\'s just a plain and simple fact of turkey leg consumption. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here\'s an example of something I get to practice each year at the fair: Agoraphobia suppression. </div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3981168436/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3452/3981168436_3a9674fb2d.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">You guys might not believe this, but actually, I\'m a pretty shy and cautious person. I\'m a hermit by nature. Going to the fair and throwing myself into the middle of a crowd helps. I like to call it the Band Aid approach. Try it: Apply a Band Aid to a tender area - the underside of your forearm, for example - and then rip it off, all the while smiling like an idiot. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">See? Not so bad, is it?</div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3981172804/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3496/3981172804_8cd2c943cb.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Something else happening each and every year at the Tulsa State Fair: Parents getting roped into riding kiddie rides that spin 7,200 degrees about a central point and then pretending that they are not nauseated or afraid of the scary, clown-like decor that surrounds them - or, rather, invades their very being. </div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3981099522/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2422/3981099522_710a1aa78d.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Anyone ever wonder how much trash is generated by the Tulsa State Fair? Me, too. If anything finds a way to figure this out, post it on your blog. Because you\'ll be famous for a day or so.</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980339321/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3465/3980339321_92d23f94c8.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Look! It\'s the annual, high-flying, homemade turkey leg balloon! This is one of my favorite fair attractions. I seek it out each year. It makes me giggle.</div><div><br /></div><div>Want a closer look? </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3981096792/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3511/3981096792_616507d5e2.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Perfect-o, right? The high-flying, handmade turkey leg balloon is glorious to my soul.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Now, check this out: </div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3981095434/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3452/3981095434_abfaeb2daf.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Can\'t we all identify with what this trailer has to say? I mean, that\'s exactly what I would have liked to have said when I was full of Boulevard beer all those times I had to elbow my way through those crowded bars in LA to reach the stage to perform my encore. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">I\'m so glad someone out there understands me.</div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980334853/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2610/3980334853_4a4c3a8b14.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Again, feeling very understood at this moment. Who doesn\'t love honey, and lots of it? </div><div><br /></div><div>Who doesn\'t love chocolate covered pickles, and lots of them? </div><div><br /></div><div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980332943/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3468/3980332943_5730a0c8de.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Didn\'t quite work the same way the second time I said it, did it? Oh, well. Better luck next time. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Here\'s the Made in Oklahoma exhibit. Thanks to new digs and some extra space, MIO seems to be larger and more sprawling this year. </div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980331471/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2422/3980331471_737e35c37c.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Something else going on at the fair this year: The threat and sometimes reality of undesirable fair weather.</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980330893/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2634/3980330893_c9ce4fc3da.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Bring a sweater, a jacket and an umbrella along to the fairgrounds with you this year, folks. Things could get drizzly. </div><div><br /></div><div>And who could forget that most visible aspect of the Tulsa State Fair: The rides. </div><div><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980327135/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2445/3980327135_d88fe1266c.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980328171/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2668/3980328171_67e13a22d5.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">One time, at summer camp, I rode one of those spinny rides with the swings, as pictured above. <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/10/what-to-do-in-tulsa-this-weekend.html\">As some of you already know, difficulty with spinny rides runs in the family</a>, so it wasn\'t long into the ride before I puked - that wasn\'t the unexpected part. What I didn\'t anticipate was that, by some weird and unforgiving law of physics, after the vomit exited my face, it sort of froze in the air such that nearly every kid on the ride with me that day got thwacked in the face by a floating cloud of my evicted and sundry stomach contents. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">After that it was, needless to say, time to go home. The end. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">The worst part? My parents made me go back again <i>the very next day</i>. And you wonder why I have agoraphobia. </div><div><br /></div>Another thing that can be found at the Tulsa State Fair: Happy people.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980324997/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2606/3980324997_1f5929a4db.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Also, sad people. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980343025/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3424/3980343025_432be14838.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Not to mention, angry people.</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3980417165/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2498/3980417165_0f17857f0e.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Don\'t mind them. Have fun at the fair this year anyway. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">P.S. - I\'m sorry I said vomit. If you need your space, I understand.</div></div>','Found at the Tulsa State Fair','','publish','open','open','','found-at-tulsa-state-fair','','','2010-08-15 22:15:28','2010-08-16 03:15:28','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=307',0,'post','',2),(308,1,'2009-10-07 02:50:00','2009-10-07 02:50:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3981172804/\" title=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3496/3981172804_8cd2c943cb.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tulsa State Fair 2009\" /></a></div><br />So, it\'s your little one\'s first time at the fair. Congratulations! Now it\'s time to find a kiddie ride and get the party started.<div><br />Before you haul out that 48-oz. hand sanitizer, the mittens, elbow pads and a helmet, consider these three proven steps to a successful first round on a certain and very famous kiddie ride, the old-fashioned carousel. </div><div><br /><b>Step 1</b>: Propose the idea of carousel ride No. 1 gently, but firmly.</div><div><br /><a href=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/?page=blogs/view&amp;BLID=6253\"></a><div><a href=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/?page=blogs/view&amp;BLID=6253\" style=\"text-decoration: none;\">Read the rest of this story on my blog at Ttownmoms.com</a>.</div></div>','The 1-2-3 Guide to Kiddie Rides','','publish','open','open','','1-2-3-guide-to-kiddie-rides','','','2009-10-07 02:50:00','2009-10-07 02:50:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=308',0,'post','',2),(309,1,'2009-10-07 03:13:00','2009-10-07 03:13:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://hphotos-snc1.fbcdn.net/hs225.snc1/7225_1212348396057_1449200023_30603319_7057265_n.jpg\" /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Sorry about the delay in the announcement of <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/09/want-tix-and-more-to-indie-emporium.html\">the Indie Emporium tickets contest</a>, y\'all. I\'m a sort of tease, in case you didn\'t notice. I\'ll tell you who won the tickets now.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Out of the 24 correct answers and valid entries posted on last week\'s post, the lucky number is...</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><img style=\"text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 169px; height: 187px; \" src=\"http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/SswIXDda_zI/AAAAAAAABgw/WT9PppjTPzk/s400/Picture+1.png\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389692046214364978\" /><div>Congrats, <a href=\"http://occuringdevelopment.blogspot.com/\">Milieu</a>! Your name was on the 16th comment, and you\'re going to Indie Emporium. <a href=\"mailto:%20tashadoestulsa@gmail.com\">E-mail me to claim your prize</a>, okay? Looking forward to hearing for you. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks to everyone for playing another one of my zany giveaway games, and I\'m looking forward to seeing each and every one of you at Indie Emporium 2009. Y\'all are the b-e-s-t. </div>','Indie Emporium Tickets Winner. Finally!','','publish','open','open','','indie-emporium-tickets-winner-finally','','','2009-10-07 03:13:00','2009-10-07 03:13:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=309',0,'post','',0),(310,1,'2009-10-07 20:30:00','2009-10-07 20:30:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3857176604/\" title=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2450/3857176604_041daf019e.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Have you heard about the giant party happening along the east bank of the Arkansas this weekend? <div><br /></div><div><a href=\"http://www.riverrush.net/default.asp\">It\'s the first annual RiverRush</a>, and from sunup to sundown, it\'s bringing a 5K run, an activity expo featuring a few of the many groups that meet at River Parks to work out and hang out, a fancy schmancy gala and what promises to be a helluva concert, courtesy of <a href=\"http://www.riverrush.net/artist.asp\">Grammy-Award winner Joss Stone</a>, to the heart of Tulsa. <div><br /></div><div>RiverRush celebrates the 35-year milestone of River Parks, which has grown and changed the looks of Tulsa\'s riverbanks tremendously over the course of more than three decades. One doesn\'t have to travel Riverside Drive for long to notice that the park is in the middle of of its most extensive renovation ever. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3857222484/\" title=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2591/3857222484_4986a50a62.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Tasha Does Tulsa Run Training 2009\" /></a></div><br /></div><div>Anyone who hasn\'t been to River Parks to check out the miles of new, spiffy dual trails, new lighting and furnishings and the oh-so-refreshing 41st Street Plaza is sorely missing out. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3579724212/\" title=\"41st Street Plaza at River Parks by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3315/3579724212_afb71520f9_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"41st Street Plaza at River Parks\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div>Make plans to grab an arm-load of friends and get to RiverRush this weekend. Anyone who takes part helps to fund a signage program at River Parks. After all, River Parks is a big place, and sometimes newcomers could use some help finding entrances, directions, park guidelines and event information.</div><div><br /></div><div>I mean, we don\'t want our visitors wandering aimlessly around our ground zero of the best outdoor recreation to be had in this town. That\'s just not what we all know and love as Tulsa hospitality.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Wait. I mentioned giving something away, didn\'t I? Something really, really good, I think I said. Do you remember that? Because I remember that. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here \'tis: Thanks to the folks behind the RiverRush festival, I have <b>four tickets to the RiverRush Joss Stone concert at the BOK Center</b><b> to give to two worthy and lucky readers here at TDT</b>.</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v141/180/124/5630135837/n5630135837_233764_2063.jpg\" /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>I know, right?</div><div><br /></div><div>The first reader to <b>guess how many estimated visits River Parks receives from area residents and newcomers each year</b> is an automatic winner. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you\'re not the first with the correct answer, don\'t worry. Keep entering, and I\'ll let <a href=\"http://random.org/\">Random.org</a> <b>pick a winner from all of the correct answers posted to this blog by Friday morning at 8am</b>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Want to better your chances for such choice tix (which are, by the way, valued at $75 apiece)? There\'s an app for that - a few, actually. <b>Hop on Facebook, Twitter - whatever suits your fancy - and post about RiverRush and/or this giveaway and receive not just one, but five (FIVE!) extra entries</b>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Feel free to do this as many times as you like, on one condition: Anytime you post on Facebook or Twitter, come back to this post and let me know about it. Otherwise, I have no way of being sure that I know about each of your many attempts to snag this prize. </div><div><br /></div><div>Fairness: It\'s my goal in this life. That, and cookies. Also, cake and pie. </div><div><br /></div><div>Good luck, everyone, and I\'ll see you at RiverRush.</div></div>','About This Saturday (Plus, A Giveaway. A Really, Really Good One.)','','publish','open','open','','about-this-saturday-plus-giveaway','','','2009-10-07 20:30:00','2009-10-07 20:30:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=310',0,'post','',30),(311,1,'2009-10-08 15:40:00','2009-10-08 15:40:00','What do <a href=\"http://dfest.com/\">Dfest founder Tom Green</a>, an instrument used in spine surgery and the <a href=\"http://www.tauw.org/tauw/Default.asp\">Tulsa Area United Way</a> have in common?<div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://www.tauw.org/images/tauw/R918.jpg\" /></div><div><br /></div><div>You guessed it. It\'s Rock the 918, a different kind of battle of the bands. Six local bands, three of which feature at least one healthcare professional and three at least one member of <a href=\"http://www.typros.org/index.asp\">Tulsa’s Young Professionals</a>, will compete for People\'s Choice and Judges\' Choice awards - not to mention a year\'s worth of bragging rights. </div><div><br /></div><div>Celebrity judges are Tom Green of Dfest, <a href=\"http://www.edgetulsa.com/morning/\">Chuck Stikl of Z104.5 The Edge</a> and <a href=\"http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Archive?author=oid%3A14848\">Gary Hizer of Urban Tulsa</a>. <a href=\"http://www.ktul.com/pageloader.html?js=ktul&amp;page=talent&amp;pagename=kristin_dickerson.html\">Kristin Dickerson from KTUL</a> will emcee the event with <a href=\"http://www.healthsciences.okstate.edu/index.cfm\">Dr. Richard Wansley from OSU Center for Health Sciences</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rock the 918 is a partnership of Tulsa Area United Way and Tulsa\'s Young Professionals, and proceeds benefit United Way\'s 2009 campaign and TYPros\' 2009 community partner, <a href=\"http://www.bbbsok.org/\">Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma</a> (a TAUW agency).</div><div><br />Who are the bands, you ask? I\'ll tell you right now:</div><div><br /></div><div><ul><li><b>A.M. 60 (rock ‘n’ roll)</b>: A.M. 60 was formed in 2007 as a cover band specializing in mid-sixties rock n roll music. The new line-up includes local musicians Rob \"Doc\" Platner, Jeff Jakober and Mike McEver.  </li><li><b>Black Water &amp; the Sons of the Gatekeeper (red dirt/bluegrass)</b></li><li><b>BleedCircuit (rock)</b>: Since 2009, BleedCircuit has been rocking out T-Town style. Their song \"She Devil\" was selected for the Z104.5 The Edge\'s Homegroan CD, too. Big time stuff. </li><li><b>Eric and the Adams (pop/rock)</b>: Don\'t miss this band\'s debut CD, which comes out in December. Lead Eric Hyman has opened for the likes of En Vogue, Deborah Gibson, Indie Arie, Duncan </li><li><b>Paul Benjaman Band (Indie)</b>: Paul Benjaman Band is comprised of four talented musicians. Guitarist/Vocalist Paul (an inductee of the Tulsa World Music Hall of Fame) represents the best elements of what Tulsa guitar is all about. Paul\'s great songs and masterful guitar playing are at the forefront of this band\'s sound. Supplying the beats on drums is Andrew Bones; a very gifted drummer whose technique and versatility have built him a special reputation in the region. Capable of doing just about anything, this guy knows how to keep any dance floor packed, sweaty, and gyrating. Playing the Fender Rhodes and singing harmonies is Khadija Goz. Khadija is a classically trained pianist and has been playing music since she was a small child. Her brilliance can be observed when she subtly syncs in with the bass and drums to create a deep funk and groove pocket or when she burns the house down with a mind-altering rhodes solo. Lastly , on electric bass, Bo Hallford provides some funk and soul. His slick bass lines offer a sturdy foundation to the other band members. He is a great bass player all-around. Bo is known for holding it down, way down.</li><li><b>Persuaders (classic rock)</b>: The Persuaders are an eclectic group of friends who have played together for the past three years. Darrell Wilson and Dr. Jim Rodgers named the band after an instrument called a persuader that\'s used in spine surgery. This year three of their members are doctors and they\'re ready to rock. Dr. Rodgers\' nickname is \"Doc Roc\" after all!</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div>The doors to Rock the 918 will open at <a href=\"http://cainsballroom.com/\">Cain\'s Ballroom</a> at 6:30 pm. The concert begins at 7.<br /><br />Fans can vote for their favorite band at the event for $2 per vote. Tickets to Rock the 918 are available for $8 at Ida Red (3346 S. Peoria) and Dwelling Spaces (119 S. Detroit). Tickets at the door are $10.</div><div><br />Louis &amp; Cluck, Tulsa-based artists of I Heart Tulsa shirt fame, designed the Rock the 918 logo. They will be selling their Rock the 918 shirts at the event with 10% of proceeds benefiting TAUW. The t-shirts are also available at Dwelling Spaces. Also, they\'re awesome. </div><div><br /></div><div>Cool event, right? Go out tonight and get music by six bands for $10 at most <i>and</i> exact your will upon the people of Tulsa for the low, low price of $2. This is practically a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. </div></div>','Rock the 918','','publish','open','open','','rock-918','','','2009-10-08 15:40:00','2009-10-08 15:40:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=311',0,'post','',1),(312,1,'2009-10-08 21:00:00','2009-10-08 21:00:00','Think the only way to get good, fresh lobster in a landlocked city in a landlocked state is to head to the coast, catch it and fly it in yourself? <div><br /></div><div>Well, you\'re wrong. Thank goodness. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3993211985/\" title=\"Lobsterpalooza 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2571/3993211985_7d6392c3e7_o.png\" width=\"732\" height=\"435\" alt=\"Lobsterpalooza 2009\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><a href=\"http://www.stduntulsa.org/\">St. Dunstan\'s Episcopal Church and Preschool</a> offers as much fresh-caught lobster as you can eat - we\'re talking lobsters that were basking in the ocean just the day before you chow down. Simply pre-order and get to 5635 E. 71st Street on Saturday, Oct. 24. It\'s $20 for a live Maine lobster, or for $20 for 1 1/4 pound of the cooked stuff. </div><div><br /></div><div>Idea! Put together an <a href=\"http://evite.com/\">Evite</a> and send it to your best and favorite friends and family, inviting them to your house the evening of the 24th. Then, put in your order to St. Dunstan\'s for a couple of lobsters or five. Come the second-to-last Saturday of this month, you\'ll have an instant party on your hands. </div><div><br /></div><div>Another idea: Join all the happy and smiling faces at St. Dunstan\'s for the parish potluck lobster boil. It\'s Oct. 24 at 6:30pm. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here\'s the kicker, folks. The deadline to order or sign up for the potluck is Oct. 19. That\'s only two Mondays away. It\'s best to <i>go ahead and order now</i> so that it\'s done, it\'s over, it\'s in the works. Simply call dear, sweet Angela at 918.492.7140, or <a href=\"mailto:angela@stduntulsa.org\">e-mail her</a>. Don\'t worry - she doesn\'t bite. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>Hard.</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://i.ehow.com/images/GlobalPhoto/Articles/2382901/lobster-main_Full.jpg\" /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Oh, yum. </div><div><br /></div><div>Proceeds of Lobsterpalooza benefit St. Dunstan\'s Preschool and children\'s ministries. After all, what better investment is there than our children? Lobster definitely ranks high, but kiddos, they are the most precious candidates for our expendable funds. They\'re not just our joy - they\'re our future. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>EDIT//</b>From a reader: </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jpdmm_npp4o/Ssvr6IJfUzI/AAAAAAAAHis/9YeyZfKC1rw/s1600/lobsterbaby1-1-tm.jpg\" /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">That\'s just about as perfect a representation of what Lobsterpalooza is all about as we\'re going to find, I\'m pretty sure. Thanks for that, <a href=\"http://twitter.com/jayspear\">@jayspear</a>.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-size: small;\"><i>Lobster baby photo from </i></span><a href=\"http://bblinks.blogspot.com/2009/10/possibly-funniest-baby-costume-ive-ever.html\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-size: small;\"><i>[bb-Blog]</i></span></a><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-size: small;\"><i>.</i></span></div></div></div>','Lobsterpalooza!','','publish','open','open','','lobsterpalooza','','','2009-10-08 21:00:00','2009-10-08 21:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=312',0,'post','',1),(314,1,'2009-10-09 20:15:00','2009-10-09 20:15:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v141/180/124/5630135837/n5630135837_233764_2063.jpg\" /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">The contest for the two pairs of tickets to Saturday night\'s RiverRush Joss Stone concert ended this morning, and now it\'s time to announce the winners.</div><div><br /></div><div>Starr Hardgrove (<a href=\"http://www.enchantedgrovefilms.com/\">that name sound familiar?</a>) was an automatic winner since he was the first to post the correct answer to the trivia question: <b>how many estimated visits does River Parks receive from area residents and newcomers each year?</b><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; color: rgb(13, 6, 0); line-height: 25px; \"> </span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; color: rgb(13, 6, 0); line-height: 25px; \"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Georgia, serif; line-height: normal; \">The answer? <b>A</b><b>n estimated 1 million visits. </b> Starr had the answer posted in three minutes flat, no joke. Congrats, Starr. I wouldn\'t want to go up against you in a giveaway anytime soon.</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>The winner of the second pair of tickets was chosen by Random.org from the folks who posted the correct answer to the trivia question on the contest post.</div><div><br /></div><img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 173px; height: 184px;\" src=\"http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/Ss90zLwIl3I/AAAAAAAABhA/ZbFXCyfEwfY/s400/Picture+6.png\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390655701662603122\" /><div>No. 12. No. 12? No. 12?</div><div><br /></div><div>Bueller. Bueller?</div><div><br /></div><div>Come on down, <a href=\"http://www.blogger.com/profile/06326321553586874782\">ba_joker</a>. You\'re going to see Joss Stone Saturday night. <a href=\"mailto:tashadoestulsa@gmail.com\">E-mail me</a> soon to claim your prize, pretty please.</div><div><br /></div><div>Still reading? Good. The odds are good that your tenacity will be rewarded. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you\'re not only still reading but can manage to be the third person to spot me at the RiverRush Activity Expo Saturday morning and mention this contest, you will a pair of tickets to the Joss concert later that night. </div><div><br /></div><div>The Activity Expo will be at 31st and Riverside, and it starts bright and early (and chilly) at 7:30am. If you\'d like an easy way to pinpoint when I\'ll be there and where I\'ll hang out, it\'d behoove you to <a href=\"http://twitter.com/tashadoestulsa\">follow me on Twitter</a>. Also, because I want to follow you back and learn about all the crazy things you get up to in T-Town. </div><div><br /></div><div>My Twitter followees are the best Twitter followees ever. Just in case you were wondering.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you\'re not sure what I look like, here are a few ideas: </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2535/3991779680_98d8ed2472.jpg\" /></div></div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2519/3991777468_a808623404.jpg\" /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2576/3991871312_b2f68a1ebb.jpg\" /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"http://havesporkwilltravel.blogspot.com/\">Thanks to my friend Amanda for these</a>. She sees me like no other.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">See you Saturday, you sexy beasts.</div></div>','Look Who\'s Rushing the River','','publish','open','open','','look-whos-rushing-river','','','2009-10-09 20:15:00','2009-10-09 20:15:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=314',0,'post','',3),(315,1,'2009-10-10 19:16:00','2009-10-10 19:16:00','<a onblur=\"try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}\" href=\"http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/StDeYrTrSYI/AAAAAAAABhQ/Ejw3-OdcbPU/s1600-h/DSC05996.jpg\"><img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;\" src=\"http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/StDeYrTrSYI/AAAAAAAABhQ/Ejw3-OdcbPU/s400/DSC05996.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391053269485963650\" /></a><br />I\'ve been a work-at-home mom for the past two years, and let me be the first to tell you: It ain\'t an easy gig.<br /><br />To all you moms who find out how I spend my days – juggling work and caring for a 19-month-old boy and a husband who works full time and attends night classes at Oklahoma State – and wax poetic about how much you\'d love to be able to work from home so you could spend more time with your kids, I say, walk a mile in my shoes. That way, when you are still talking about how much easier and serene my life seems than your work-outside-the-home-mom life, you\'ll be a mile away, and you\'ll have my shoes.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/?page=blogs/view&amp;BLID=6270\"></a><div><a href=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/?page=blogs/view&amp;BLID=6270\" style=\"text-decoration: none;\">Read the rest of this story on my blog at Ttownmoms.com</a>.</div>','How to Be a Work-at-Home Mom','','publish','open','open','','how-to-be-work-at-home-mom','','','2009-10-10 19:16:00','2009-10-10 19:16:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=315',0,'post','',2),(317,1,'2009-10-13 01:05:00','2009-10-13 01:05:00','<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/10/battle-royale.html\">Just to further convince you from my last post</a> that I am indeed the most needy candidate for <a href=\"http://www.ihloffspa.com/site/page.php?name=community\">a makeover at Ihloff Fall Collection</a> this year, here\'s my most recent portrait.<div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4006917422/\" title=\"Anatomy of a Blogger by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2611/4006917422_d54ab05643_b.jpg\" width=\"483\" height=\"1024\" alt=\"Anatomy of a Blogger\" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>This shot is like a diagram of the outward appearance of the average blogger. Check it out: </div><div><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4007002592/\" title=\"Anatomy of a Blogger by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2595/4007002592_fcae9a754e_o.jpg\" width=\"819\" height=\"1269\" alt=\"Anatomy of a Blogger\" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>My fellow bloggers out there will totally back me up on this. From the naughty coffee cup to the hair that hasn\'t seen a dollop of shampoo in four days, I am the freaking poster child for full-time blogging. </div><div><br /></div><div>Those of you out there who don\'t have your own blog, you\'re thinking about it now, right? </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4006917422/\" title=\"Anatomy of a Blogger by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2611/4006917422_d54ab05643_b.jpg\" width=\"483\" height=\"1024\" alt=\"Anatomy of a Blogger\" /></a></div></div><div>Right? </div><div><br /></div><div>The best way to stop this madness is to forsake just one beer tonight and <a href=\"http://apps.facebook.com/causes/204915/89817648?m=e56504ed\">donate that money to Resonance Center for Women</a>. Then, <a href=\"http://twitter.com/resonancetulsa\">let Resonance know who most deserves the makeover of a lifetime come Oct. 22</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Be part a movement. Remove this eyesore from your city and donate right now. Everyone will thank you and laud your name in the streets and with monuments and parades and probably on Twitter, amen.</div>','Anatomy of a Blogger','','publish','open','open','','anatomy-of-blogger','','','2009-10-13 01:05:00','2009-10-13 01:05:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=317',0,'post','',4),(318,1,'2009-10-13 22:28:00','2009-10-13 22:28:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4009895082/\" title=\"Abears by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2574/4009895082_96457e5dda_o.jpg\" alt=\"Abears\" height=\"600\" width=\"467\" /></a></div><br /><br />Abears, the little workday diner peeking out from under the green awning on Greenwood Avenue, is one of those eat spots with a reputation that precedes it. The 750-SF diner has been open since May 2007, but suddenly we heard about Abears everywhere we went.<br /><br />We followed our ears to the site of the late, great Black Wall Street, a <a href=\"http://www.tulsabusiness.com/\">Tulsa Business Journal</a> editor and I — two women proud and unafraid of ordering three entrees, two sides and dessert between them in order to get this restaurant review thing done right. We didn’t get through our first bites before we understood the reason for all the hubbub.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://tulsabusiness.com/article.asp?aID=75887604.1384851.646737.8127362.20721503.209&amp;aID2=49740\">Read the rest of this review of the incredible food at Abears on Greenwood on the food page in Tulsa Business Journal</a>.','Power Lunch: Abears on Greenwood','','publish','open','open','','power-lunch-abears-on-greenwood','','','2009-10-13 22:28:00','2009-10-13 22:28:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=318',0,'post','',20),(319,1,'2009-10-14 20:00:00','2009-10-15 01:00:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4012382768/\" title=\"Pumpkin Town by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2431/4012382768_f5e2f0e6ef.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Pumpkin Town\" /></a></div><br />There\'s so much going on in Tulsa this Halloween that I\'ve made three - <i>three!</i> - lists of activities and events so that you\'ll have the easiest and happiest time possible putting together your spooktacular itinerary for this year.<br /><br />First up is all the stuff the kids won\'t want to miss. From free, community events to paid ways to get your scare on, here\'s the list among lists of ways to make the children happy this Halloween season, starting this very weekend.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4012388974/\" title=\"Pumpkin Town by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2608/4012388974_4cc73471f8.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Pumpkin Town\" /></a></div><br />Want to check out more ways to make the kids hoot and cackle this Halloween? <a href=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/\">Trot over to tTownmoms.com</a>, where the mommies and daddies there are talking about everything from the scariest homemade costumes to how to make pumpkin cupcake cakes. tTownmoms.com will help you make this Halloween something to remember - and we don\'t mean by accidentally running over and crushing the fall display you made by the mailbox last night on the way to work the next morning.<div><br /></div><div>Not that anyone ever does such things.<br /><br /><br /><b>Out and About</b><br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4011626007/\" title=\"Sand Springs Soap Box Derby Race 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2505/4011626007_c07ff7cea9.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Sand Springs Soap Box Derby Race 2009\" /></a></div><br /><b>Pumpkin Patches Galore</b><br />When: Now-Halloween<br />Where: All over Tulsa<br /><a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/09/pumpkin-patches-in-tulsa.html\">Click here for a mega-list of the pumpkin patches in the Tulsa area</a>.<br /><div><br /><b>Tulsa Corn Maize</b><br />When: Now-Nov. 8; Wed-Fri, 5-10pm; Sat, 10am-10pm; Sun, 12-6pm; Closed Mondays; Fall Break Oct. 15-16, 10am-10pm; Haunted Maize open at dark Fri-Sat., Fall Break and Halloween<br />Where: 32506 E. 61st Street in Broken Arrow<br />There\'s more to do at the Tulsa Corn Maize than just get lost. Let me count the ways: a paintball shooting range; campfires; a haunted maze; a cow train; hay rides; rubber ducky races; and a corn box (<a href=\"http://tulsamaize.com/photos/Tulsa%20Corn%20Maize%20037.jpg\">you have to see it to believe it</a>). Admission is $6 per youth aged 4-12, free for kids 3 and under and $8 for adults. </div><div><br /><b>Haunted Castle Halloween Festival</b><br />When: Oct. 16, 17, 23, 24, 29, 30 and Halloween; Hours 6-10pm<br />Where: The Castle at Muskogee, 3400 Fern Mountain Road<br />Fun for kids and the young at heart alike, The Castle delivers nine spooktacular events, ranging from not-so-scary to really-really-scary, across a 60-acre Halloween-themed park. From the sinister, fog-shrounded forest to the carnival atmosphere of Halloween Land, everyone is sure to find performances and activities they\'ll never forget. Check out the ticket combos, which are printable from your desktop and range $15-$25, <a href=\"http://www.okcastle.com/halloween-2008.html\">on The Castle Web site</a>. </div><div><br /><strike><b>Costumes</b></strike><br />When: Oct. 22-24, 8pm; also, 2pm on Oct. 24<br />Where: Linnaeus Garden Barn, southeast corner of Woodward Park<br />Rather celebrate the sweetly spooky side of Halloween than the ghastly and the goulish? Costumes, a Halloween musical by local actors and musicians, might just be the thing for you. The audience is encouraged to come in costume, and the walkway-lit garden will be open for exploration during intermission. Tickets are $10, which is donated to Tulsa Garden Center. Make reservations by calling 746-5125. <a href=\"http://tulsapeople.com/\">Thanks to Tulsa People for publicizing this song-worthy event</a>.<br /><br /><b>Camp Cute &amp; Spooky</b><br />When: Oct. 24, 28, 29 and 30, 7-9pm<br />Where: Discoveryland!<br />Kids 10 and under can hit the trail to west Tulsa <a href=\"http://discoverylandusa.com/halloween.shtml\">for an evening of great Halloween fun at Discoveryland!\'s entertainment complex</a>. Catch everything from a trick-or-treat trail through a lighted enchanted forest to a haystack jump to the \"Monster Mash\" dance stage. Admission is $6 (or $5 for the crafty among you who head to Quiktrip or Incredible Pizza for those $1 off coupons) and includes all activities. Don\'t forget to don those costumes.<br /><br /><strike><b>Owasso Harvest Festival</b></strike><br />When: Oct. 24, 11am-9pm<br />Where: Centennial Park in Owasso, 15301 E. 86th Street North (park at Owasso High School and ride the shuttle to the festival)<br />This festival, held in conjunction with the Oklahoma State Chili Cook-Off, packs an entire day of activities for the entire family. Look for hay rides, a costume contest, a scarecrow contest, pumpkin carving, face painting, balloon art, a car show and, of course, chili tasting. It\'s all free and open to the public.</div><div><br /><b>HallowZOOeen</b><br />When: Oct. 27-Halloween, 6:30-8:30pm<br />Where: Tulsa Zoo &amp; Living Museum<br />Get wild this Halloween and <a href=\"http://tulsazoo.org/\">bring your boys and \"ghouls\" to trick-or-treat at the wildest neighborhood in town</a>. A spooky, but not too scary, Halloween adventure is planned at this 20th annual HallowZOOeen. Get treats at Goblin Stops, play games and see zoo mascots as you roam the trick-or-treat trail. General admission is $7 (or $6 for members), and kids under 2 and not trick-or-treating will be admitted free. Don\'t forget to bring that extra pillowcase.<br /><br /><b>Hallowmarine</b><br />When: Oct. 27-31, 10am-6pm (last paid admission is one hour prior to closing)<br />Where: Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks<br />Great ready for Halloween on the high seas - <a href=\"http://okaquarium.org/\">the Oklahoma Aquarium is spooky (and salty!)</a> with carnival games, a trick-or-treat trail, haunted feed shows and plenty of pirates handing out tricks and treats. Admission is $7 per youth, $10 per adult.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\"color:#FF0000;\">New!</span> Mummy and Son Halloween Dance</b></div><div>When: Friday, 6pm</div><div>Where: Bixby Community Center, 211 N. Cabaniss Ave. </div><div>At this second of annual Mummy &amp; Son Halloween dances there will be dance competitions along with costume contest for those who dare to dress up. Plenty of refreshments will be on hand, the DJ Connection will provide the tunes. Cost is $5 per person. </div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Tulsa Run</b><br />When: Halloween<br />Where: Downtown Tulsa<br />Kids and adults alike can dress up and run in <a href=\"http://tulsarun.com/\">Tulsa\'s favorite way to burn a few hundred calories, the annual Tulsa Run</a>. Register by Saturday, Oct. 24, to pay the regular $35 to race the 5K or 15K, or $15 for the 2K fun run. It all gets started bright and early (and chilly!) Halloween morning, with a finish line festival, including candy bars for the kids and warm coffee and cold beer for grown-ups, waiting at the end. <a href=\"http://tulsarun.com/\">Check the Tulsa Run Web site for more details and to register</a>.</div></div><div><br /><b>BooHaHa</b><br />When: Halloween<br />Where: Brookside<br />Starting at 8am, Tulsa\'s favorite strip will be transformed into a Halloween treat for the 19th year in a row. The Kids\' Zone opens at 11am, and trick-or-treating gets into gear at noon. The pet costume contest will commence in the Food Pyramid parking lot at noon, followed by the children\'s costume contest. Stick around for the annual BooHaHa Parade at 3pm, from 33rd-49th Streets. It\'s all free and open to the public.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\"color:#FF0000;\">NEW!</span> Fun &amp; Games on Main</b></div><div>When: Halloween, 6pm</div><div>Where: The Farmers\' Market, 418 S. Main Street in Broken Arrow</div><div>There\'s nothing like coming home from a night of trick-or-treating to a toilet papered house and smashed pumpkins. Heighten crime awareness this Halloween and still have a good time on Main Street in Broken Arrow. Look for the special Katy engine from Union Pacific Railroad, a magic show, performances by the BA Hip Hop Cops and free food from Reasor\'s and Blue Bell Ice Cream. Plus, the Green Country Roller Girls will be handing out candy. Killer!<br /><b><br /></b></div><div><b><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\"color:#FF0000;\">New!</span> Halloween Night at the Winery</b></div><div><b><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-weight: normal;\">When: Halloween, 4pm</span></b></div><div><b><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-weight: normal;\">Where: Stone Bluff Cellars</span></b></div><div><b><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-weight: normal;\">Bring your little ones to a scenic Oklahoma winery for some Halloween fun. Snag some cupcakes and cider for the kids and a more bitter brew for yourself. Don\'t forget to get your photo taken with the Wine Gnome - very spooky indeed.<br /></span></b><br /><br /><b>At the Libraries</b><br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3828084764/\" title=\"Hardesty Regional Library by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2437/3828084764_686cae2021_o.jpg\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" alt=\"Hardesty Regional Library\" /></a></div><br /><strike><b>HalloWEEK Stories and Magic with Storyteller Michael Corley</b></strike><br />When: Oct. 22<br />Where: <a href=\"http://tulsalibrary.org/\">Suburban Acres Library, 10=10:45am; Nathan Hale Library, 4-4:45pm; Brookside Library, 6:30-7:15pm</a><br />Oklahoma\'s only storytelling magician will take you on an spooky trail of ghost stories, from legendary monsters like the Weindgo to pirates from beyond the grave. Always spooky but never too scary, Corley will be in full costume, performing magical effects with lots of audience participation. For ages 5-12. Sponsored by the Tulsa Library Trust.<br /><br /><strike><b>Get Zombified!</b></strike><br />When: Friday, Oct. 23, 4:30-5:30pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://tulsalibrary.org/\">Martin Regional Library</a><br />Learn survival strategies with local zombie expert Chris Askers as he leads a discussion on zombie history and biology and shows how to produce realistic-looking injuries. For teens. Preregistration is required. Call 669-6340 to register.<br /><br /><strike><b>Scary-N-Sperry!</b></strike><br />When: Monday, Oct. 26, 5:30-7pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://tulsalibrary.org/\">Judy Z. Kishner Library</a><br />Enjoy a fun-filled family evening featuring hot dogs, games, face painting, buried treasure and candy. Wear a costume!<br /><br /><strike><b>Preschool Story Time: Halloween Fun</b></strike><br />When: Tuesday, Oct. 27, 11-11:30am<br />Where: <a href=\"http://tulsalibrary.org/\">Martin Regional Library</a><br />Enjoy shivery songs, jack-o-lantern stories and creepy finger plays to get in the spirit. Wear a costume! For ages 3-5.<br /><br /><strike><b>Storytelling 101: Scary Stories and Ghost Tales</b></strike><br />When: Tuesday, Oct. 27, 4:45-6pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://tulsalibrary.org/\">Helmerich Library</a><br />Explore jump tales and urban legends in celebration of Halloween. Snacks will be provided by the Friends of the Helmerich Library. For ages 10-13.<br /><br /><strike><b>Pumpkin Decorating </b></strike><br />When: Wednesday, Oct. 28, 4:30-6pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://tulsalibrary.org/\">Nathan Hale Library</a><br />Creative pumpkin decorating. For all ages. Class size is limited, so call NHL to register.<br /><br /><br /><b>At the Parks</b><br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4011636243/\" title=\"Pumpkin Town by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2435/4011636243_23daa69f39.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Pumpkin Town\" /></a></div><br /><strike><b>Kiddie Park Spook-A-Rama</b></strike><br />When: Oct. 16-17, 6-10pm<br />Where: Kiddie Park in Bartlesville (<a href=\"http://www.kiddiepark.net/findus.htm\">click here for directions</a>)<br />If you haven\'t loaded up the kids in the van and trucked them to Bartlesville for an afternoon at the Kiddie Park in Bartlesville, you\'re all sorely missing out. <a href=\"http://www.kiddiepark.net/spookarama09.htm\">Head there the weekend of the 16th</a> to put your carving skills to the test in the Great Pumpkin Contest, held both nights of the festival for kids 12 and under. Then, hit the costume parade, and don\'t forget to squeeze in some trick-or-treating for candy and prizes. Check out the Fall Fun Fest Saturday from 4-6pm, too - it\'s 20 booths of spooky fun.<br /><br /><strike><b>Pumpkin Painting</b></strike><br />When: Oct. 26, 4-5pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://tulsaparks.com/\">McClure Park</a><br />Come to McClure and use their supplies to decorate your pumpkin for Halloween. Make sure to bring your own pumpkin! And don\'t forget to pre-register. Ages 3-14. Class price is $6.<br /><br /><strike><b>Halloween Carnival Spooktacular</b></strike><br />When and Where: <a href=\"http://tulsaparks.com/\">Oct. 27 at Reed Park, 6-7:30pm; Oct. 29 at McClure Park, 6-7:30pm</a><br />Join other ghosts and goblins for our spooky, kooky carnival. Play fun games in a safe, indoor environment. Be sure to get in on the free costume contest, too. each game will cost 1 ticket, or 25 cents. Ages 2-11 are welcome, and everyone is admitted free.<br /><br /><strike><b>Pumpkin Bash</b></strike><br />When: Oct. 29, 4:30-5:30pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/OwenParkCC?ref=search&amp;sid=1148295116.3892576565..1\">Owen Park</a><br />Toss your pumpkin and watch it explode and win prizes for the biggest mess. Woot! There\'s no fee, but do pre-register. Pumpkins will be provided. Ages 5-11 are welcome, and everyone gets in free.<br /><br /><strike><b>Flashlight Candy Scramble</b></strike><br />When: Oct. 29, 7:30-8pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://tulsaparks.com/\">Lacy Park &amp; Community Center</a><br />Kids will have fun hunting for wrapped candy in the dark. Don\'t forget a flashlight and a container for all those goodies. Please bring a canned good donation. Oh, and did I mention prizes? They\'ll be there. Ages 1-12 are welcome, and everyone gets in free.<br /><br /><strike><b>Halloween Spook Hunt for Candy</b></strike><br />When: Oct. 29, 8:25-8:30pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=83026994699&amp;ref=search&amp;sid=1148295116.1089796832..1\">Hicks Park</a><br />Join other kids for a candy hunt in the dark. The hunt won\'t last long so be prepared with flashlight in hand and arrive no later than 8:10pm. Ages 8-11 are welcome, and everyone gets in free.<br /><br /><b>Pumpkin Party &amp; Parade</b><br />When: Oct. 30, 10am-10:45am<br />Where: <a href=\"http://tulsaparks.com/\">Whiteside Community Center</a><br />Head to Whiteside for a parade, play games and enjoy a few snacks with friends. For ages 2-5 years. All participants must be pre-enrolled, so call Whiteside soon. Admission is $6.<br /><br /><b>Halloween Carnival</b><br />When: Oct. 30, 6-7:30pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://tulsaparks.com/\">Whiteside Community Center</a><br />Join the ghosts and goblins at Whiteside for a fun, safe Halloween experience. Admission is $5 for kids aged 2-8, which includes unlimited game play. Adults are admitted free.<br /><br /><b>Annual \"Pumpkin\" Hunt</b><br />When: Halloween, 5:30pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://www.brokenarrowok.gov/\">Central Park in Broken Arrow, 1500 S. Main Street</a><br />Guess how many \"pumpkins\" (read: plastic eggs with Halloween goodies inside) will be hidden in Central Park this year, just for kids ages 1-7 to hunt? 4,000, that\'s how many. It\'s all free and open to the public, and the kiddos are encouraged to come in costume. Stick around for the Main Street Merchants Night Out Against Crime, which packs free activities, food, safety and crime prevention information all into one fun-filled evening.<br /><br /><b>Halloween Carnival</b><br />When: Halloween, 6-8pm<br />Where: <a href=\"http://tulsaparks.com/\">Chamberlain Park</a><br />Join the Chamberlain Park Staff and community volunteers for a sook-tacular time. Little ghosts and gouls can participate in carnival games, get candy and have fun. Ages 1-12 are welcome, and everyone gets in free. </div><strike><strike></strike></strike></div><strike><strike></strike></strike>','Halloween in Tulsa: For the Kids','','private','open','open','','halloween-in-tulsa-for-kids','','','2010-09-27 10:37:39','2010-09-27 15:37:39','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=319',0,'post','',4),(320,1,'2009-10-15 15:22:00','2009-10-15 15:22:00','<img src=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/data/7/d/e/a/0/27196//img_8821.jpg\" /><br /><br />It happened one dark, stormy night.<br /><br />We put our toddling boy, already sound asleep, into his new toddler bed. We turned out the lamp, kissed the boy on the forehead and gently closed the door. It was off to bed with us. The thunder was rolling and the rain was pouring, and it was perfect weather for turning in early.<br /><br />We slept especially deeply that dark, stormy night. Too many late nights spent on homework and projects at work had taken their toll. Being draped in Grandma\'s quilt, which we\'re pretty sure has magical, sleep-inducing powers, only made our slumber more delicious.<br /><br />Suddenly, a terrible wail rang out in the night.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/?page=blogs/view&amp;BLID=6311\">Read the rest of this silly, scary story at tTownmoms.com</a>.<br /><br /><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-size: small;\"><i>Photo by </i></span><a href=\"http://www.tulsapeople.com/index.php?option=com_wpmu&amp;blog_id=3&amp;Itemid=149\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-size: small;\"><i>Tulsa People arts writer Ashley Heider</i></span></a><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-size: small;\"><i>.</i></span>','Scary Story','','publish','open','open','','scary-story','','','2009-10-15 15:22:00','2009-10-15 15:22:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=320',0,'post','',2),(4845,1,'2010-12-28 17:24:48','2010-12-28 22:24:48','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-4844\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=4844\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4844\" title=\"Duncan Christopher Movie\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/duncanchristopher.jpg\" alt=\"Duncan Christopher Movie\" width=\"417\" height=\"604\" /></a>\n\nCalling all Tulsa bloggers! I have a little somethin-somethin for you to put into your calendars.\n\n<!--more-->\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[adrotate banner=\"8\"]</p>\n<strong>Tulsa Blogger Meetup, Movie Night Edition</strong>\nWhen: Wednesday, Jan. 5, 7pm\nWhere: <a href=\"http://www.circlecinema.com/\">Circle Cinema</a>, 12 S. Lewis Ave.\n\nFor our first meetup of 2011 we\'ll cuddle up in <a href=\"http://www.circlecinema.com/\">Tulsa\'s own independent movie house</a> and watch <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/05/rock-n-roll-dreams-of-duncan/\">an independent movie that was made right here in T-Town</a>.\n\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"496\" height=\"304\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/u0fuhyx-uyU?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"496\" height=\"304\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/u0fuhyx-uyU?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\n\nYes! We get a private screening of <a href=\"http://www.duncanchristopherthemovie.com/\">The Rock \'n\' Roll Dreams of Duncan Christopher</a>! All to our freaking selves! For free!\n\nOh, and another thing? Duncan Christopher star Jack Roberts will talk to us a bit about the movie, and the team over at the Tulsa-based public relations firm <a href=\"http://engineroompr.com/\">The Engine Room Creative Communications</a> will tell us about the grassroots social media and PR campaign they\'re building to take this movie to college campuses across the nation.\n\nAnd there may or may not be an appearance from a certain famous character from the movie:\n\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"425\" height=\"344\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/GKc3p5Fmkkw?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"425\" height=\"344\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/GKc3p5Fmkkw?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\n\nYeah. Word\'s on the street. I also hear there will be Duncan swag a-plenty.\n\nLike I mentioned above, <strong>admission to this event is free</strong>, but I probably won\'t let you in unless you have <strong>a donation, however small, of nonperishable food to contribute to the <a href=\"http://www.cfbeo.org/\">Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma</a></strong>. I\'ll have a karaoke superstar to bounce you if you try to sneak in, so if I were you, I wouldn\'t chance it.\n\nAnother thing? Only the first 45 folks to show up at this event get a seat. So get there strong, get there early, because these blogger meetups have been running at a, uh, somewhat larger capacity than just 45 heads.\n\nSee y\'all there!','Tulsa Blogger Meetup, Movie Night Edition','Calling all Tulsa bloggers! I have a little somethin-somethin for you to put into your calendars.','inherit','open','open','','4839-revision-3','','','2010-12-28 17:24:48','2010-12-28 22:24:48','',4839,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/12/4839-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(4016,1,'2010-12-03 04:45:00','2010-12-03 09:45:00','<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/12/tasha-does-tulsa-gift-guide-2010/blu_grey_gradient_gallery/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-3917\"><img src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/blu_grey_gradient_gallery-500x500.jpg\" alt=\"TDT Gift Guide 2010\" title=\"TDT Gift Guide 2010\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3917\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<em>Update: Some of these gifts may no longer be available.</em>\r\n\r\n\"Great,\" you\'re saying under your breath. \"Another *insert expletive here* holiday gift guide - I need another one of these like I need a hole in my head.\" \r\n\r\nYeah, I know. The gift guides, they\'re everywhere, especially if you receive mail and have access to the Internet. And hopefully, here in the year 2010, most of us fall into at least one of those two categories. \r\n\r\nBut no where else you\'ll find a gift guide as beefy, as star-studded, as Tulsa-centric as this. \r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[adrotate banner=\"8\"]</p>\r\n\r\nIt\'s been so tough not to leak any details of this year\'s gift guide. As you\'re about to find out, they are oh-so-juicy. I\'ve somehow managed to keep it all under wraps. \r\n\r\nThat is, until right now, at this moment.\r\n\r\nFirst I want to tell you about the <strong>celebrity-curated portions of the 2010 TDT Gift Guide</strong>. I\'ve invited a select few Tulsa people of note and coolness to share with us their picks for the top local gifts this holiday season. A few of these folks have already turned in their lists and let me tell you, you\'re gonna need to get your awesome goggles and your billfolds ready. \r\n\r\n<strong>You\'ll be hearing from me this year, too</strong>. I\'ll have my picks of top Tulsa gifts in categories like best for guys, the tastiest treats for the locavore on your list and presents for your loved ones that also give back to the community. \r\n\r\nThat <strong>you\'ll have a few chances to win some of the gifts featured here on the 2010 TDT Gift Guide</strong> is an added bonus that I think we can all appreciate. Because who doesn\'t love getting free stuff in exchange for shopping local? It\'s a pretty great deal, if you ask me. \r\n\r\nBut wait! There\'s more. \r\n\r\nA reason I hear pretty often from folks who grimace when I start in on <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/11/this-holiday-season-shop-tulsa/\">my whole shop local rant</a> is that compared to shopping online, shopping local is inconvenient. It involves driving a car, walking around a store and, most uncomfortable, wearing pants. Online shopping requires none of these things. \r\n\r\nAnd I think anyone in his/her right mind could admit that being able to shop for anything one could imagine while wearing nothing but the suit the man upstairs sent with us into this world is pretty rad. \r\n\r\n<strong>But what if you could both shop local <em>and</em> never leave your house?</strong> Then you could have what you love about shopping online and shopping local all at the same time, without any of the bullcrap that decreases the awesomeness of either experience. \r\n\r\nThanks to a new partnership between <a href=\"http://www.youbuywefly918.com/\">You Buy We Fly 918</a> and <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/\">TashaDoesTulsa.com</a>, you can. <strong>And you can save 10 percent doing it.</strong>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/12/tasha-does-tulsa-gift-guide-2010/ybwf-green/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-4223\"><img src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/YBWF-green-500x282.jpg\" alt=\"You Buy We Fly\" title=\"You Buy We Fly\" width=\"500\" height=\"282\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-4223\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAll you have to have to do to get the 10 percent discount with the folks at You Buy We Fly is get an idea of what it is you want from a Tulsa-based vendor, the YBWF phone number and the code that\'s available no where else but here at TDT. \r\n\r\n<strong>The You Buy We Fly number:</strong> (918) 906-0063\r\n<strong>The code</strong>: LOVERS SHOP LOCAL\r\n\r\nThat\'s it! Now you can look like a shop local hero without lifting a finger - all of your local-tastic gifts will be delivered right to your door. Everyone\'s going to want to be more like you. You might want to start looking for an agent, actually. \r\n\r\nStay tuned for the first installments of the TDT Gift Guide 2010, one from me and one from one of our guest celebrity curators. \r\n\r\nIn the meantime, feel free to check out last year\'s gift guide. The items mentioned there are still available and would look just as good clad in gift wrap this year as they did in 2009. \r\n\r\n<strong>TDT Gift Guide 2009</strong>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/11/dwelling-spaces-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\">Dwelling Spaces</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/11/art-of-manliness-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\">The Art of Manliness</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/11/sage-culinary-studio-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\">Sage Culinary Studio</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/11/fresh-blend-handmade-boutique-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\">Fresh Blend Handmade Boutique</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/11/abc-in-tulsa-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\">ABC in Tulsa</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/philbrook-gift-shop-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\">Philbrook Gift Shop</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/tulsa-snow-globe-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\">Tulsa Snow Globe</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/breast-impressions-calendar-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\">Breast Impressions Calendar</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/best-tulsa-memberships-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\">Best Tulsa Memberships</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/tulsa-tshirt-tdt-holiday-gift-guide/\">The Tulsa T-Shirt</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/tulsa-ballet-the-nutcracker-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\">Tulsa Ballet\'s The Nutcracker</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/gardners-used-books-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\">Gardner\'s Used Books & Comics</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/original-man-candle-gadget-company-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\">The Original Man Candle</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/holiday-gift-guide-cigar-box/\">The Cigar Box</a>\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/last-minute-local-holiday-gift-ideas/\">Last-Minute Local Holiday Gift Ideas</a>\r\n\r\nHave fun shopping, y\'all - more in a bit! ','The Tasha Does Tulsa Gift Guide 2010','No where else you\'ll find a gift guide as beefy, as star-studded, as Tulsa-centric as this. ','publish','open','open','','tasha-does-tulsa-gift-guide-2010','','http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/11/this-holiday-season-shop-tulsa/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/11/abc-in-tulsa-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/tulsa-ballet-the-nutcracker-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/11/dwelling-spaces-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/tulsa-snow-globe-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/holiday-gift-guide-cigar-box/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/11/art-of-manliness-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/tulsa-tshirt-tdt-holiday-gift-guide/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/11/sage-culinary-studio-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/original-man-candle-gadget-company-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/11/fresh-blend-handmade-boutique-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/philbrook-gift-shop-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/breast-impressions-calendar-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/gardners-used-books-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/best-tulsa-memberships-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/best-tulsa-memberships-tdt-holiday-gift-guide-2009/\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/12/last-minute-local-holiday-gift-ideas/','2013-12-17 08:34:29','2013-12-17 14:34:29','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=4016',0,'post','',6),(5108,1,'2011-01-08 15:55:50','2011-01-08 20:55:50','<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"50010012 by mirandajfair, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/49478415@N08/4961062498/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/4961062498_228fde06b0.jpg\" alt=\"50010012\" width=\"493\" height=\"500\" /></a></p>\r\nSometimes on the weekends I like to putt around in <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/groups/tashadoestulsa/pool/with/2301949241/\">the TDT Flickr photo pool</a>, where dozens of local photographers have contributed hundreds of their photos.\r\n\r\nI love the diversity I always find there. From images of reflections in the windows of ornate downtown buildings to horses barreling through a pasture, this group of photos does a pretty great job of describing the kind of place Tulsa is - both tame and wild, urban and rural, sophisticated and simple. Unique from any other city in the world.\r\n\r\nHere\'s the latest group of my favorite shots.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[adrotate banner=\"8\"]</p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"daaaannncee. by amusedd, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/amusedd/4318197002/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4052/4318197002_208c22f32d.jpg\" alt=\"daaaannncee.\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" /></a></p>\r\nBy <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/people/amusedd/\">amusedd</a>, at <a href=\"http://www.cainsballroom.com/\">Bob\'s (Cain\'s Ballroom side stage)</a>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Cold by Michael J. Champlin, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/mjchamplin/5320938748/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5010/5320938748_66c4bc7b1b.jpg\" alt=\"Cold\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" /></a></p>\r\nShot in the Osage Hills by <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/mjchamplin/\">Michael Champlin</a> (and <a href=\"http://mjchamplin.com/\">the designer behind this here website</a>)\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Dodging the gravel trucks by lefturn99, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/lefturn99/5314811450/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5241/5314811450_72f88058d9.jpg\" alt=\"Dodging the gravel trucks\" width=\"333\" height=\"500\" /></a></p>\r\nBy <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/lefturn99/\">lefturn99</a>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Jim\'s Coney Island by zeropsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/zeropsa/5028148542/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/5028148542_71b180528e.jpg\" alt=\"Jim\'s Coney Island\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" /></a></p>\r\nBy <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/zeropsa/\">zeropsa</a>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"50010012 by mirandajfair, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/49478415@N08/4961062498/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/4961062498_228fde06b0.jpg\" alt=\"50010012\" width=\"493\" height=\"500\" /></a></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"33000006 by mirandajfair, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/49478415@N08/4799899494/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4096/4799899494_625731306c.jpg\" alt=\"33000006\" width=\"493\" height=\"500\" /></a></p>\r\nBy <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/49478415@N08/\">mirandajfair</a>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Goodbye My Sun.. by alanoftulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/glasco/5251164353/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5007/5251164353_120ee1e8d8.jpg\" alt=\"Goodbye My Sun..\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" /></a></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa - Clouds moving in... by alanoftulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/glasco/5041304351/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/5041304351_b1ba7f4def.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa - Clouds moving in...\" width=\"500\" height=\"284\" /></a></p>\r\nBy <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/glasco/\">alanoftulsa</a>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Loading Docks by Wade From Oklahoma, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/wadefromoklahoma/2770895742/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3055/2770895742_e5abed7b65.jpg\" alt=\"Loading Docks\" width=\"500\" height=\"316\" /></a></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Happiness by Wade From Oklahoma, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/wadefromoklahoma/4528825173/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4054/4528825173_bfc8ca141f.jpg\" alt=\"Happiness\" width=\"500\" height=\"445\" /></a></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Taking Meal Orders by Wade From Oklahoma, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/wadefromoklahoma/4347909880/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4027/4347909880_66bea1af7d.jpg\" alt=\"Taking Meal Orders\" width=\"500\" height=\"447\" /></a></p>\r\nBy <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/wadefromoklahoma/\">Wade From Oklahoma</a>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Best friends by scubasteve03, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/stephenselph/5220546931/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4144/5220546931_830ec50aaa.jpg\" alt=\"Best friends\" width=\"500\" height=\"338\" /></a></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Wish I had extension tubes! by scubasteve03, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/stephenselph/5198632841/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5198632841_63a68428dc.jpg\" alt=\"Wish I had extension tubes!\" width=\"500\" height=\"366\" /></a></p>\r\nBy <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/stephenselph/\">scubasteve03</a>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"sunset trio [78] by okbeatnik, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/brandle/4873519276/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4141/4873519276_f5399f26fe.jpg\" alt=\"sunset trio [78]\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></a></p>\r\nBy <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/brandle/\">okbeatnik</a>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Art Deco meets Modern by Bill Oswald - Slowly catching up ..., on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/bill_oswald/5081255853/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4043/5081255853_53715d08dd.jpg\" alt=\"Art Deco meets Modern\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" /></a></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Attention to Detail by Bill Oswald - Slowly catching up ..., on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/bill_oswald/4738949266/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4738949266_9d876e03b1.jpg\" alt=\"Attention to Detail\" width=\"500\" height=\"400\" /></a></p>\r\nBy <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/bill_oswald/\">Bill Oswald</a> - the bottom image shot at <a href=\"http://www.tulsaviolin.com/\">Tulsa Violin Shop</a>, downtown\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"2010 TSF Mounted Cowboy Shootout by photokarazy, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/photokarazy/5097427889/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/5097427889_fa0f543592.jpg\" alt=\"2010 TSF Mounted Cowboy Shootout\" width=\"500\" height=\"400\" /></a></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"2010 TSF Arabian Native Costume by photokarazy, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/photokarazy/5097423509/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/5097423509_b5bbdab888.jpg\" alt=\"2010 TSF Arabian Native Costume\" width=\"500\" height=\"400\" /></a></p>\r\nBy <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/photokarazy/\">photokarazy</a>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Downtown T-Town by Kellyology, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/kellyology/4717295797/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4053/4717295797_2c21ed0e4b.jpg\" alt=\"Downtown T-Town\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" /></a></p>\r\nBy <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/kellyology/\">kellyology</a> (also <a href=\"http://www.kellyology.net/\">a local blogger</a>)\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Mid-Continent Tower Lobby (HDR) by vladxp, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vladxp/5070022276/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4154/5070022276_d448006927.jpg\" alt=\"Mid-Continent Tower Lobby (HDR)\" width=\"333\" height=\"500\" /></a></p>\r\nBy <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vladxp/\">vladxp</a>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Landmark by amandarosev, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/16440756@N04/4753893334/\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4095/4753893334_357afb85bc.jpg\" alt=\"Landmark\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" /></a></p>\r\nBy <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/16440756@N04/\">amandarosev</a> (also <a href=\"http://havesporkwilltravel.blogspot.com/\">a local blogger</a>)\r\n\r\nAre you a local shutterbug? If you\'re on Flickr, take a minute to find <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/groups/tashadoestulsa/\">the TDT Flickr group and join up</a>.\r\n\r\nWho knows - <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/04/tasha-does-tulsa-photo-show-tulsa-historical-society-2010/\">your photo might be part of a show someday</a>.','The latest from the TDT Flickr pool [PHOTOS]','Sometimes on the weekends I like to putt around in the TDT Flickr group, where dozens of local photographers have contributed hundreds of their photos, and check out what\'s been added to the stack. ','publish','open','open','','tasha-does-tulsa-on-flickr','','\nhttp://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/04/tasha-does-tulsa-photo-show-tulsa-historical-society-2010/','2011-01-08 15:58:50','2011-01-08 20:58:50','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=5108',0,'post','',7),(5021,1,'2011-01-05 17:32:34','2011-01-05 23:32:34','<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2011/01/joe-mommas-saturday-book-club-tulsa-kids/dsc08700/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-5022\"><img src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/DSC08700-500x375.jpg\" alt=\"Joe Momma&#039;s Saturday Morning Book Club\" title=\"Joe Momma&#039;s Saturday Morning Book Club\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-5022\" /></a>\r\n\r\nMany of you parents out there couldn\'t wait for the kids to return to school after that long, annual Winter Break. But after that first week back, it\'s easy to start missin\' on those little bits of crazy.\r\n\r\nIf you\'re looking for a low-risk, high-return way to reconnect this weekend, get out your calendars, <a href=\"http://www.tulsakids.com/?q=tulsa-kids-day-out-saturday-morning-book-club\">head over to my blog on TulsaKids.com</a> and allow me to make a suggestion. \r\n\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[adrotate banner=\"8\"]</p>','Tulsa Kids Day Out: Joe Momma\'s Saturday Book Club','Many of you parents out there couldn\'t wait for the kids to return to school after that long, annual Winter Break. But after that first week back, it\'s easy to start missin\' on those little bits of crazy.','private','open','open','','joe-mommas-saturday-book-club-tulsa-kids','','','2011-07-10 11:38:15','2011-07-10 17:38:15','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=5021',0,'post','',0),(5022,1,'2011-01-05 17:28:37','2011-01-05 22:28:37','','Joe Momma\'s Saturday Morning Book Club Downtown Tulsa','','inherit','open','open','','dsc08700','','','2011-01-05 17:28:37','2011-01-05 22:28:37','',5021,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/DSC08700.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(5023,1,'2011-01-05 17:32:05','2011-01-05 22:32:05','<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=5022\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-5022\"><img src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/DSC08700-500x375.jpg\" alt=\"Joe Momma&#039;s Saturday Morning Book Club\" title=\"Joe Momma&#039;s Saturday Morning Book Club\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-5022\" /></a>\n\nMany of you parents out there couldn\'t wait for the kids to return to school after that long, annual Winter Break. But after that first week back, it\'s easy to start missin\' on those little bits of crazy.\n\nIf you\'re looking for a low-risk, high-return way to reconnect this weekend, get out your calendars, <a href=\"http://www.tulsakids.com/?q=tulsa-kids-day-out-saturday-morning-book-club\">head over to my blog on TulsaKids.com</a> and allow me to make a suggestion. \n\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[adrotate banner=\"8\"]</p>','Tulsa Kids Day Out: Joe Momma\'s Saturday Book Club','Many of you parents out there couldn\'t wait for the kids to return to school after that long, annual Winter Break. But after that first week back, it\'s easy to start missin\' on those little bits of crazy.','inherit','open','open','','5021-revision','','','2011-01-05 17:32:05','2011-01-05 22:32:05','',5021,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2011/01/5021-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(5024,1,'2011-01-05 17:32:34','2011-01-05 22:32:34','<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?attachment_id=5022\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-5022\"><img src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/DSC08700-500x375.jpg\" alt=\"Joe Momma&#039;s Saturday Morning Book Club\" title=\"Joe Momma&#039;s Saturday Morning Book Club\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-5022\" /></a>\r\n\r\nMany of you parents out there couldn\'t wait for the kids to return to school after that long, annual Winter Break. But after that first week back, it\'s easy to start missin\' on those little bits of crazy.\r\n\r\nIf you\'re looking for a low-risk, high-return way to reconnect this weekend, get out your calendars, <a href=\"http://www.tulsakids.com/?q=tulsa-kids-day-out-saturday-morning-book-club\">head over to my blog on TulsaKids.com</a> and allow me to make a suggestion. \r\n\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[adrotate banner=\"8\"]</p>','Tulsa Kids Day Out: Joe Momma\'s Saturday Book Club','Many of you parents out there couldn\'t wait for the kids to return to school after that long, annual Winter Break. But after that first week back, it\'s easy to start missin\' on those little bits of crazy.','inherit','open','open','','5021-revision-2','','','2011-01-05 17:32:34','2011-01-05 22:32:34','',5021,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2011/01/5021-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(324,1,'2010-10-18 14:30:00','2010-10-18 19:30:00','<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3077\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/tulsa-oktoberfest/dsc07659/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3077\" title=\"Tulsa OktoberFest\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/DSC07659-500x375.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa OktoberFest\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.tulsaoktoberfest.org/\">OktoberFest Tulsa is upon us</a>. It starts this Thursday at 5pm and runs through 6pm on Sunday, providing Tulsans with a weekend of fun, games, music, food and one other very important thing.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[adrotate group=\"2\" banner=\"8\"]</p>\r\nBeer. What I\'m alluding to is lots and lots and lots of delicious, refreshing beer.\r\n\r\nSo, that\'s at least one thing you know to do once you get to RiverWest Festival Park this weekend for Tulsa\'s famous OktoberFest.\r\n\r\nAs for how to get down with the rest of this festival, the one that makes the souls of the beer lovers of this town sing, here\'s a list of the top 10 ways to make the most of one of Tulsa\'s largest outdoor festivals, named by <em>USA Today</em> as one of 10 great places to toast OktoberFest in this wide, wide world.\r\n\r\n<strong>1. Pick a designated driver.</strong> As if this actually needed to be said in a post about Tulsa\'s largest beer festival, but I like to play it safe and so should you. Not only is a DUI case a pain in the butt to deal with should you get caught breaking the law, but it\'s also a great way to take a chance on ruining the lives of some fellow community members. Causing the death of someone\'s family member, a parent or even a child - now that\'s what I call a buzzkill. So, as teacher says, have a good time, but don\'t drink and drive.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3078\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/tulsa-oktoberfest/dsc07658/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3078\" title=\"Tulsa OktoberFest\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/DSC07658-500x375.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa OktoberFest\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<strong>2. Take the kids to Das Jugendzelt (the kids\' tent).</strong> Musicians, storytellers and artists will be on tap to entertain the kiddos while they take part in lots of free arts and crafts projects. <a href=\"http://www.tulsaoktoberfest.org/happenings.php\">Click here for the schedule of musicians in the kids\' tent at this year\'s OktoberFest</a>.\r\n\r\n<strong>3. Race a weiner dog.</strong> Or, maybe you\'re game is bier barrel racing. Whatever OktoberFest sport suits your fancy, <a href=\"http://www.tulsaoktoberfest.org/happenings.php\">you can get your fill at this year\'s festival right here in Tulsa</a>. Now you can tell your momma that all that time you spent honing your beer pong skills won\'t go to waste. Bier Barrel Race spectators should tune in Saturday at 1pm, and weiner dog fans should be ready to go at 1pm Sunday. The other games take place throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3079\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/tulsa-oktoberfest/dsc07660/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3079\" title=\"Tulsa OktoberFest\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/DSC07660.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa OktoberFest\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<strong>4. Learn the Polka.</strong> OktoberFest offers a wide variety of entertainment and music, ranging from local bands and performers to authentic German musicians. There\'s fun to be had and music to be heard in just about every tent at the festival and, thanks perhaps to the copious amounts of beer, everyone - and I mean <em>everyone</em> - dances. On my list of acts to see are Brandon Clark Band, the Polka Meisters, the Jambalaya Jass Band and the Gypsy Fire Belly Dancers. See? <a href=\"http://www.tulsaoktoberfest.org/happenings.php\">There\'s a little something for everyone</a>.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3084\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/tulsa-oktoberfest/dsc07697/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3084\" title=\"OktoberFest Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/DSC07697.jpg\" alt=\"OktoberFest Tulsa\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<strong>5. Ride the rides, take a chance. </strong>The best deal on OktoberFest rides happens Friday, Oct. 22, thanks to the EZ Ride Pass. For $15, festival goers looking for a thrill can enjoy an unlimited ride pass that works all over OktoberFest Tulsa. Speaking of hot deals, if you plan to head to OktoberFest on Thursday, be sure to hit the either the <a href=\"http://www.geekrescue.com/index.php\">Geek Rescue</a>, <a href=\"http://www.ktul.com/\">KTUL News Channel 8</a> or <a href=\"http://921thebeat.com/main.html\">92.1 The Beat</a> websites to pick up vouchers that will get you into the festival free of admission.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3080\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/tulsa-oktoberfest/dsc07707/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3080\" title=\"Tulsa OktoberFest\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/DSC07707.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa OktoberFest\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<strong>6. Visit Das Sports Cafe.</strong> I guess The Sports Cafe doesn\'t translate well to the German, but what goes on inside sure translates well to fun. Not only is this the best place to catch the weekend football games thanks to the big screen TVs, but it\'s also the home to a new aspect of the festival: Taps spewing local brew. Be sure to grab plenty of the Oktoberfest-style beer from Marshall Brewing Company, and say hi to the folks in Tulsa from Krebs at Choc Beer Company, too.\r\n\r\n<img src=\"http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs025.snc1/3116_1005921204428_1716858818_6590_104614_n.jpg\" alt=\"\" />\r\n\r\n<strong>7. Do the chicken dance with the Biermeister.</strong> Lovingly known as the main tent among long-time OktoberFest Tulsa goers, Das Bier Garten is that place where everyone from Junior, Jr. to Great-Grandpa can flap their wings and do the chicken dance with the Biermeister (pictured above) on top of a picnic table. The required high-energy music will be provided by bands from Germany while you learn to polka and, if you don\'t already know it, that signature dance of OktoberFest Tulsa inspired by the yard bird we all know and love.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3081\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/tulsa-oktoberfest/dsc07686/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3081\" title=\"Tulsa OktoberFest\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/DSC07686-500x375.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa OktoberFest\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<strong>8. Eat Kartoffelpuffer and Bavarian pretzels.</strong> While you\'re at it, eat some knackwurst and bratwurst from <a href=\"http://www.siegis.com/\">Siegi\'s Sausage Factory</a> with some sauerkraut, along with as much Bavarian-style cheesecake as your can muster. At the second-ever year of OktoberFest Tulsa in 1980, the 100,000 patrons consumed 3,500 pounds - that\'s a ton and a half - of this OktoberFest food stuff. Sissies! Surely the patrons of this year\'s festival can beat that. The nosh is available throughout the festival grounds, but you can\'t turn around in Das Ess Zelt und Garten without refilling your plate with everything from Siegi\'s Sausage to strudel to schnitzel to Ludger\'s cheesecake. <a href=\"http://www.tulsaoktoberfest.org/concessions.php\">Click here for a full list of what\'s cookin\' at this year\'s OktoberFest</a>, complete with pricing. While you might put away more food than you have since the Tulsa State Fair, you won\'t have to eat much to understand why <em><a href=\"http://bonappetit.com/\">Bon Appetit</a></em> voted back in 2005 that OktoberFest Tulsa is the place to get the best Bavarian food.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3082\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/tulsa-oktoberfest/dsc07709/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3082\" title=\"OktoberFest Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/DSC07709-500x375.jpg\" alt=\"OktoberFest Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<strong>9. Shop \'til you drop.</strong> While the big-box chain stores are already buttering you up for Christmas shopping, you\'ll be able to boost the local economy by taking home some of the many arts and crafts available for purchase at OktoberFest Tulsa. Don\'t forget the commemorative beer stein and an OktoberFest Tulsa t-shirt. As my friend <a href=\"http://sindyintulsa.blogspot.com/\">Sindy in Tulsa</a> would so lovingly say in her sexy German accent (which is real, by the way - Sindy came to Tulsa straight from the home of lederhosen), \"Tasha, that is so Bavarian.\"\r\n\r\n<strong>10. Get in free.</strong> There are at least four ways to get through the gate at OktoberFest Tulsa this year without paying a dime. Thanks to the dudes at Geek Rescue, admission is free to anyone who presents <a href=\"http://www.tulsaoktoberfest.org/coupon.php\">this OktoberFest coupon on Thursday night</a>. Second, you could pick up the new Wunderbar Pass, which comes with free admission to the festival as well as a 1-liter collector\'s Spaten stein, free round-trip shuttle rides each day of the festival and one free pint of beer each day of the festival (they\'re $30, but knowing how much I\'ve spent on these things at the OktoberFests of the past, I officially declare this to be a hot deal). Third, senior citizens are admitted free on Friday from 11am-4pm. Last but not least, anyone who hasn\'t yet celebrated his or her 13th birthday gets in free all weekend long. That doesn\'t mean that if you didn\'t celebrate your 13th birthday because no one liked you and couldn\'t be bothered with planning you a party that you get in free, though. Sorry about that on both counts.\r\n\r\n<a rel=\"attachment wp-att-3083\" href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2010/10/tulsa-oktoberfest/dsc07678/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-3083\" title=\"OktoberFest Tulsa\" src=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/DSC07678-500x375.jpg\" alt=\"OktoberFest Tulsa\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAs if you need more convincing to head to the west bank of the Arkansas this weekend, OktoberFest Tulsa benefits <a href=\"http://www.riverparks.org/\">RiverParks</a>, one of Tulsa\'s most treasured locales and a top tourism attraction for the city, which has benefited from more than $1 million in improvements and enhancements thanks to the festival.\r\n\r\nAdmission to OktoberFest Tulsa this year is $6, and remember, kids age 12 and under get in free. For details on parking, the location of shuttle stops and any other detail not listed here, check out the <a href=\"http://www.tulsaoktoberfest.org/festival.php\">OktoberFest Tulsa Web site</a>.\r\n\r\nCheers!\r\n\r\n<strong>OktoberFest Tulsa</strong>\r\nWhere: River West Festival Park, 2100 S. Jackson Ave.\r\nWhen: Oct. 21 (gates open at 5pm) - Oct. 24\r\nWeb: <a href=\"http://www.tulsaoktoberfest.org/index.php\">TulsaOktoberFest.org</a>','Top 10 Things to Do at OktoberFest Tulsa','OktoberFest Tulsa is upon us. It starts this Thursday at 5pm and runs through 6pm on Sunday, providing Tulsans with a weekend of fun, games, music, food and one other very important thing.','publish','open','open','','tulsa-oktoberfest','','','2010-10-18 14:52:45','2010-10-18 19:52:45','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=324',0,'post','',7),(325,1,'2009-10-21 17:40:00','2009-10-21 22:40:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4032597044/\" title=\"Pumpkin Town by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3530/4032597044_3c6ddea354.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Pumpkin Town\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Looking for a way to celebrate all that is All Hallows\' Eve on the cheap in Tulsa this year?<div><br /></div><div>Yeah. Aren\'t we all. </div><div><br /></div><div>Good thing there\'s lots to do in Tulsa this Halloween that won\'t cost you a dime. Plus, <a href=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/data/assets/boards/ttownmoms/index.php\">Ttownmoms.com has a forum full of ideas for everything from inexpensive costumes for the kids to how to spookify your house on a budget</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Make your agenda from the events listed below and you\'ll be ready to save your fright-induced nail biting for the big day, rather than use it up on the way to the bank. </div><div><br /><br /><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Out and About</span><br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4012388974/\" title=\"Pumpkin Town by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2608/4012388974_4cc73471f8.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Pumpkin Town\" /></a></div><br /><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Pumpkin Patches Galore</span><br />When: Now-Halloween<br />Where: All over Tulsa<br />Even if the pumpkins aren\'t free, most of the activities available at Tulsa\'s pumpkin patches are, so check \'em out.<a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/09/pumpkin-patches-in-tulsa.html\">Click here for a mega-list of the pumpkin patches in the Tulsa area</a>.<br /><br /><strike><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Owasso Harvest Festival</span></strike><br />When: Oct. 24, 11am-9pm<br />Where: Centennial Park in Owasso, 15301 E. 86th Street North (park at Owasso High School and ride the shuttle to the festival)<br />This festival, held in conjunction with the Oklahoma State Chili Cook-Off, <a href=\"http://www.cityofowasso.com/parks_dept/HARVEST_POSTER.pdf\">packs an entire day of activities for the entire family</a>. Look for hay rides, a costume contest, a scarecrow contest, pumpkin carving, face painting, balloon art, a car show and, of course, chili tasting. Mmm. It\'s all free and open to the public.<br /><br /><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">BooHaHa</span><br />When: Halloween<br />Where: Brookside<br />Starting at 8am, <a href=\"http://www.360tulsa.com/Communities/BrooksideBusinessAssociation.html\">Tulsa\'s favorite strip will be transformed into a Halloween treat</a>. The Kids\' Zone opens at 11am, and trick-or-treating gets into gear at noon. The pet costume contest will commence in the Food Pyramid parking lot at noon, followed by the children\'s costume contest. Stick around for the annual BooHaHa Parade at 3pm, from 33rd-49th Streets. It\'s all free and open to the public.<br /><br /></div><div><b><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\"color:#FF0000;\">New!</span> Free Thriller Dance Class</b></div><div>When: Halloween, noon-3pm</div><div>Where: Ida Red Boutique on Brookside, 3346 S. Peoria Ave.</div><div>You know you\'ve always wanted to learn it - it\'s the Thriller Dance, the moves that the late Michael Jackson made famous. This Halloween, you have the chance to learn it for free. Find your way to Ida Red on Brookside for the class (starting at 2pm), along with a special Halloween set by local band The Red Alert (starting at noon) and a costume contest (starting at 3pm).</div><div><br /><br /><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">At the Libraries</span><br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3828084764/\" title=\"Hardesty Regional Library by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2437/3828084764_4de0e16c30.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Hardesty Regional Library\" /></a></div><br /><strike><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Halloweek Stories and Magic with Storyteller Michael Corley</span></strike><br />When: Oct. 22<br />Where: Suburban Acres Library, 10=10:45am; Nathan Hale Library, 4-4:45pm; Brookside Library, 6:30-7:15pm<br />Oklahoma\'s only storytelling magician will take you on an spooky trail of ghost stories, from legendary monsters like the Weindgo to pirates from beyond the grave. Always spooky but never too scary, Corley will be in full costume, performing magical effects with lots of audience participation. For ages 5-12. Sponsored by the Tulsa Library Trust.<br /><br /><strike><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Get Zombified!</span></strike><br />When: Friday, Oct. 23, 4:30-5:30pm<br />Where: Martin Regional Library<br />Learn survival strategies with local zombie expert Chris Askers as he leads a discussion on zombie history and biology and shows how to produce realistic-looking injuries. For teens. Preregistration is required. Call 669-6340 to register.<br /><br /><strike><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Scary-N-Sperry!</span></strike><br />When: Monday, Oct. 26, 5:30-7pm<br />Where: Judy Z. Kishner Library<br />Enjoy a fun-filled family evening featuring hot dogs, games, face painting, buried treasure and candy. Wear a costume!<br /><br /><strike><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Preschool Story Time: Halloween Fun</span></strike><br />When: Tuesday, Oct. 27, 11-11:30am<br />Where: Martin Regional Library<br />Enjoy shivery songs, jack-o-lantern stories and creepy finger plays to get in the spirit. Wear a costume! For ages 3-5.<br /><br /><strike><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Storytelling 101: Scary Stories and Ghost Tales</span></strike><br />When: Tuesday, Oct. 27, 4:45-6pm<br />Where: Helmerich Library<br />Explore jump tales and urban legends in celebration of Halloween. Snacks will be provided by the Friends of the Helmerich Library. For ages 10-13.<br /><br /><strike><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Pumpkin Decorating</span></strike><br />When: Wednesday, Oct. 28, 4:30-6pm<br />Where: Nathan Hale Library<br />Creative pumpkin decorating. For all ages. Class size is limited, so call NHL to register.<br /><br /><br /><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">At the Parks</span><br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4011636243/\" title=\"Pumpkin Town by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2435/4011636243_23daa69f39.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Pumpkin Town\" /></a></div><br /><strike><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Halloween Carnival Spooktacular</span></strike><br />When and Where: Oct. 27 at Reed Park, 6-7:30pm; Oct. 29 at McClure Park, 6-7:30pm<br />Join other ghosts and goblins for our spooky, kooky carnival. Play fun games in a safe, indoor environment. Be sure to get in on the free costume contest, too. each game will cost 1 ticket, or 25 cents. Ages 2-11 are welcome, and everyone is admitted free.<br /><br /><strike><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Pumpkin Bash</span></strike><br />When: Oct. 29, 4:30-5:30pm<br />Where: Owen Park<br />Toss your pumpkin and watch it explode and win prizes for the biggest mess. Woot! There\'s no fee, but do pre-register. Pumpkins will be provided. Ages 5-11 are welcome, and everyone gets in free.<br /><br /><strike><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Flashlight Candy Scramble</span></strike><br />When: Oct. 29, 7:30-8pm<br />Where: Lacy Park &amp; Community Center<br />Kids will have fun hunting for wrapped candy in the dark. Don\'t forget a flashlight and a container for all those goodies. Please bring a canned good donation. Oh, and did I mention prizes? They\'ll be there. Ages 1-12 are welcome, and everyone gets in free.<br /><br /><strike><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Halloween Spook Hunt for Candy</span></strike><br />When: Oct. 29, 8:25-8:30pm<br />Where: Hicks Park<br />Join other kids for a candy hunt in the dark. The hunt won\'t last long so be prepared with flashlight in hand and arfive no later than 8:10pm. Ages 8-11 are welcome, and everyone gets in free.<br /><br /><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Annual \"Pumpkin\" Hunt</span><br />When: Halloween, 5:30pm<br />Where: Central Park in Broken Arrow, 1500 S. Main Street<br />Guess how many \"pumpkins\" (read: plastic eggs with Halloween goodies inside) will be hidden in Central Park this year, just for kids ages 1-7 to hunt? 4,000, that\'s how many. It\'s all free and open to the public, and the kiddos are encouraged to come in costume. Stick around for the Main Street Merchants Night Out Against Crime, which packs free activities, food, safety and crime prevention information all into one fun-filled evening.<br /><br /><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Halloween Carnival</span><br />When: Halloween, 6-8pm<br />Where: Chamberlain Park<br />Join the Chamberlain Park Staff and community volunteers for a sook-tacular time. Little ghosts and gouls can participate in carnival games, get candy and have fun. Ages 1-12 are welcome, and everyone gets in free.<br /><br /><br /><b>For the Adults</b><br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs247.snc1/9418_166873428477_617813477_3683062_7347888_n.jpg\" /></div><br /><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Brady Fall Arts Festival</span><br />When: Halloween, 10am-6pm<br />Where: Brady Outdoor Stage, 300 N. Main<br />Think you can handle 50 local artists? How about enough food and music to make you scream? It\'s all at Brady Fall Arts Festival all day on All Hallows\' Eve. Presented by Local Art Matters.<br /><br /><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Grown-Up Trick or Treat</span><br />When: Halloween, 6-8pm<br />Where: Brady Outdoor Stage, 300 N. Main<br />If you think your costume has what it takes to get the treats and leave the tricks, hit up the Brady Merchants Association at the Grown-Up Trick or Treat this Halloween. The fun kicks off just at sundown.<br /><br /><span style=\"font-weight:bold;\">Spider Ball</span><br />When: Halloween, 8pm<br />Where: Enso\'s and IDL Ballroom, downton at First and Detroit<br />If you can monster mash with the best of \'em, <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=139848172458&amp;ref=ts\">get ready to boogie at the first annual Spider Ball</a>, a dance party so big it\'ll take two clubs to contain it. At Enso\'s will be Steve Cluck doing his deejay thing, and IDL will feature a live performance by PDA and hot spins by DJ Synthcon. The event is free, but you must be 21 or older to attend, and you have to come in costume - that, or black and white clothing only. A full liquor bar will be ready to rock so, as the Facebook event page for this event says, \"bring your sexy.\" </div><div><br /></div><div>What are you doing to stretch your budget this Halloween? Share with us in the comments. </div>','Halloween in Tulsa: For Everyone, For Free','','private','open','open','','halloween-in-tulsa-for-everyone-for','','','2010-09-27 10:37:25','2010-09-27 15:37:25','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=325',0,'post','',1),(326,1,'2009-10-21 21:19:00','2009-10-21 21:19:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/data/7/d/e/a/0/27196//picture_1.png.jpg\" /></div><br />Tired of the same ol\' Moms\' Night Out plans? Here\'s an idea to change things up a bit: Call your girlfriends grab a few tickets to <a href=\"http://www.ihloffspa.com/site/page.php?name=community\">Ihloff Fall Collection</a>.<br /><br />\"What the heck is that?\" you\'re wondering. I know - I wondered that myself the first time I learned about the event a few years ago. It all starts with a New York-quality fashion show - think Sex and the City, only right in your backyard.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/?page=blogs/view&amp;BLID=6359\">Read the rest of this story on my blog at Ttownmoms.com</a>.','Fables, Fantasy &amp; Fairy Tales','','publish','open','open','','fables-fantasy-fairy-tales','','','2009-10-21 21:19:00','2009-10-21 21:19:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=326',0,'post','',0),(328,1,'2009-10-24 14:00:00','2009-10-24 14:00:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3958993058/\" title=\"The Mayo Hotel by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2441/3958993058_ce438a71aa.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"The Mayo Hotel\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Sometimes I get a wild hair and decide it\'d be a good idea to post a random question on <a href=\"http://twitter.com/tashadoestulsa\">Twitter</a> and <a href=\"http://facebook.com/tashadoestulsa\">Facebook</a> for everyone to ponder, poke fun at, print and flush down the toilet or maybe, if I\'m lucky, consider answering. <div><br /></div><div>Thursday I posed, \"Fill in the blank: Tulsa is home to ________.\" An innocent enough question, I thought. I bet I\'d get five responses, give or take a response. Or five.</div><div><br /></div><div>I certainly didn\'t think that question would open the floodgates of public opinion. Within an hour or so I had 30 responses on Facebook and 23 more on Twitter. Those are solid numbers \'round here, especially considering I wasn\'t even giving anything away. </div><div><br /></div><div>I loved the range of attitudes about life in Tulsa reflected in what people had to say about this city as a home, whether to family or great food or the worst roads to ever criss-cross the American prairie. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here are some of my favorites: </div><div><ul><li>QuikTrip. And the Cain\'s. </li><li>A generous community, willing to give their time AND money to those less fortunate.</li><li>The best quality of life for young professionals anywhere in the country. </li><li>More art, theater and music than you can get to.</li><li>All who return from far-flung locales, having completed their spirit quest, ready to bring their hard-won knowledge and experience back into the fold.</li></ul></div><div>Boomerangers. Tulsa\'s full of \'em. Folks just can\'t stay away. </div><div><br /></div><div>I love how blogging and other forms of social media are interactive, which means readers have the opportunity to have their voices heard in a way traditional media has a hard time delivering. Some folks said Tulsa is home to: </div><div><br /></div><div><ul><li>Corrupt politicians.</li><li>Gaybashers, unfortunately. <a href=\"http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?subjectid=11&amp;articleid=20091020_11_A9_Whatsh689202&amp;archive=yes\">That is what comes to mind lately</a>.</li><li><a href=\"http://www.wnba.com/tulsa/\">A WNBA team</a> that is doomed to fail.</li><li>Potholes the size of my car.</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div>I love how the quirkiness of this city comes out in responses to questions like these. Tulsa is home to: </div><div><br /></div><div><ul><li>A plethora of churches. </li><li>No more than two degrees of separation.</li><li>26 comments and nobody mentions the Center of the Universe? <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/10/what-to-do-in-tulsa-this-weekend_22.html\">The Center of the Universe!</a></li><li>The strange alongside the commonplace.</li><li>The cutest bulldog ever, Bella.</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div>Bella! I love it. </div><div><br /></div><div>Get the full list of responses <a href=\"http://twitter.com/#search?q=%40tashadoestulsa\">on Twitter</a> and <a href=\"http://facebook.com/tashadoestulsa\">Facebook</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Now it\'s your turn. How would you fill in the blank?</div>','Fill in the Blank','','publish','open','open','','fill-in-blank','','','2009-10-24 14:00:00','2009-10-24 14:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=328',0,'post','',4),(330,1,'2009-10-26 21:00:00','2009-10-26 21:00:00','Look what landed on my doorstep last week.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4047772976/\" title=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2449/4047772976_a1ae439af9_o.jpg\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" alt=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks\" /></a></div><br />Why, hello there.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4047773134/\" title=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2514/4047773134_d0b45b59b9_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks\" /></a></div><br />Eek! *assuming squee pose* Could it be?<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4047031045/\" title=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2474/4047031045_5a44257be6_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks\" /></a></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4047031201/\" title=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2607/4047031201_214d751db7_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks\" /></a></div><br />It is! It\'s finally here! My very own copy of <a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-Woman-Cooks-Recipes-Accidental/dp/0061658197\">The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Recipes from an Accidental Country Girl</a>!<br /><br />Whew. I\'m gonna be sore in the morning after all that exclamating.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4047031201/\" title=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2607/4047031201_214d751db7_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks\" /></a></div><br />The arrival of this book, penned and expertly illustrated by none other than <a href=\"http://thepioneerwoman.com/\">Ree Drummond, Oklahoma\'s own Pioneer Woman</a>, heralds and even more exciting happening.<br /><br />Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman herself, the same Pioneer Woman about whom I was just speaking, is coming to the big city. That is, OUR big city. <div><br /></div><div>And, guess when. TOMORROW NIGHT. As in, about 27 hours from right now.<br /><br />It\'s okay. You can squee. Squee, and the world squees with you; squee not, and you squee later, all alone in your room, and you look like a real dorkus.<br /><br />The folks at <a href=\"http://www.blogger.com/tulsahistory.org/\">Tulsa Historical Society</a> and <a href=\"http://www.booksmarttulsa.com/\">BookSmart Tulsa</a> are in a tizzy preparing for Tuesday night\'s visit, which promises to be one of the most exciting and sensational and tear-soaked book release parties this town has ever seen. It all gets kicked off at 7pm at THS at 2445 S. Peoria Ave.<br /><br />Anyone who reads <a href=\"http://thepioneerwoman.com/\">Confessions of a Pioneer Woman</a> – and if you don\'t, then for heaven\'s sake, you should – has long been anticipating her forthcoming cookbook, based on the section of her blog, <a href=\"http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/\">The Pioneer Woman Cooks!</a><br /><br />In case you\'ve been a very naughty and misbehaved Web geek and haven\'t been reading Confessions, allow me give you the rundown: Long ago (i.e., sometime in the nineties), Bartlesville native Ree Drummond, a.k.a. The Pioneer Woman, fled where she was working in Los Angeles and made a pit stop in Oklahoma while she enrolled in law school up north. She unexpectedly met a fourth-generation cattle rancher, a.k.a. Marlboro Man, a.k.a. member of the prominent Osage County Drummond family that has been ranching in northeastern Oklahoma long and hard enough to be known as one of the wealthiest landowners in the entire country, and the two fall in love. Before Ree knows it, she\'s married, living on the Drummond ranch and is headed toward motherhood.<br /><br />And they all lived happily ever after. Okay? Okay.<br /><br />The first time I visited the cooking section of this hugely popular blog was in 2007, not long after Ree had traded in her blogging training wheels and was headed skyward on the whirlwind incline toward 14 million page views per month, the size of her current readership. I\'d logged on at the advice of <a href=\"http://www.havesporkwilltravel.blogspot.com/\">Have Spork, Will Travel</a> blogger, Amanda, my official recipe-trading buddy and harbinger of all things hip. I resisted at first, but as with all seemingly hairbrained Amanda suggestions, I eventually came around.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2007/09/cooking_with_my_punk-ass_little_sister_penne_a_la_betsy/\">The first Pioneer Woman recipe I ever made was Penne a la Betsy</a>. Back then, I had no idea who this Betsy person was, or why someone would name a pasta recipe after her. All I knew was that the dish involved tomato cream sauce – something I\'d always wanted to learn to make – and lots and lots of basil. Oh, and shrimp. I love shrimp on a regular day, but when I was perusing this recipe I was about six months pregnant, and shrimp sounded, let\'s say, positively wed-able.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4047790354/\" title=\"Penne a la Betsy by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2578/4047790354_81ed76c440.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Penne a la Betsy\" /></a></div><br />Ree wasn\'t kidding when she wrote that her years spent on a ranch cooking to please the steak-and-potatoes-loving Marlboro Man created recipes that could earn a girl a wedding proposal. My husband and I had just celebrated our three-year anniversary when I made Penne a la Betsy for dinner, and he was about ready to haul me back to Eureka Springs for an impromptu vow renewal ceremony.<br /><br />That he was ready to haul me anywhere, especially that many miles east, is really saying something. I wasn\'t one of those cute, spindly little pregnant girls.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4047790510/\" title=\"Tasha, Pregs by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2499/4047790510_eab60c333e_o.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"800\" alt=\"Tasha, Pregs\" /></a></div><br />No, sir, no, I was not. While I was pregnant was the first time in my life I kept bacon and red meat in the fridge, and thanks in large part to Ree\'s fat-is-tasty ethos, I knew how to use it.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4047031359/\" title=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2770/4047031359_a1a4605e5a_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks\" /></a></div><br />The recipes in the cookbook are divided into five sections – Starters, In the Morning, Dinner (Translation: Lunch, along with instructions for a complete Sunday Dinner), Supper (Translation: Dinner, along with how to put together a Cowgirl Dinner Party) and Sweets. Each recipe is, of course, beautifully photographed in that distinctively Pioneer Woman way – at every step and start and aside and possible hangup and, at last, the end.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4047783406/\" title=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2634/4047783406_92e5ac54bb_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks\" /></a></div><br />Guess what is the first thing everyone says when I talk to them about The Pioneer Woman Cooks? Things like, “I love how she shows each step of the process with a photo!\" and \"All those photos let me know I\'m on the right track.” I second those motions.<br /><br />Something else I like about Ree\'s philosophy on food: Her recipes are the most approachable and accessible I\'ve seen anywhere, save this three-page-long pancake cookbook I had when I was three. Want to know how to dice an onion? Through baby steps and scads of photos, Ree can teach you. Always wanted to know how to make delicious pulled pork? With humor and humbleness, Ree can teach you.<br /><br />I think women my age (a.k.a. Gen Y, a.k.a. Babies Raised on the Food Network) get intimated in the kitchen from time to time. We\'ve been known to run businesses, marathons and busy households, but when it comes to cooking a meal, it\'s the basics we\'re lacking.<br /><br />Thanks to an aforementioned food media empire, we all know how to make <a href=\"http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/retro-metro-fancy-tuna-casserole-recipe/index.html\">Retro Metro Fancy Tuna Casserole</a> (go ahead, click it – I couldn\'t make that up) and <a href=\"http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/parmigiano-and-herb-chicken-breast-tenders-recipe/index.html\">Parmigiano and Herb Chicken Breast Tenders</a> and <a href=\"http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/jeffrey-saad/smoked-paprika-open-face-lasagna-recipe/index.html\">Paprika Open Face Lasagna</a>. Ha! Kids\' stuff, that. But, when it comes to a non-Crock Pot version of the <a href=\"http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2008/01/2008_the_year_of_the_pot_roast/\">Perfect Pot Roast</a> or <a href=\"http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2009/09/grilled-ribeye-steak-with-onion-blue-cheese-sauce/\">Ribeye Steaks</a> or <a href=\"http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2008/04/basic-breakfast-potatoes/\">Basic Breakfast Potatoes</a> or <a href=\"http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2007/06/brisket_baby/\">Braised Brisket</a> or, heck, even Buttermilk Biscuits (an all-new Pioneer Woman recipe in The Pioneer Woman Cooks cookbook), we don\'t know a whisk from a gravy separator.<br /><br />Ree\'s new cookbook is a line thrown out to those of us drowning in a sea of lists of complex, hard-to-find ingredients, missing steps, over-simplified instructions and general snooty food jibber-jabber.<br /><br />Power to the people! Or something.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4047773760/\" title=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2475/4047773760_5ce8ebb029_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><a href=\"http://www.thepioneerwoman.com/cooking\">Thanks to the little recipe collection at The Pioneer Woman Cooks!</a> and, now, in full color and beauty and gloss in my very own kitchen, I know tons more about how to whip up a good, Oklahoma-style meal.<br /><br />The best news? Thanks to all I\'ve learned by looking over Ree\'s shoulder for the past two years, my grandmother will now eat dinner at my house. Before she\'d politely decline and order in. At least now I can serve her something that won\'t have her smiling politely when she comes to see us.<br /><br />Drummond\'s 256-page, hardcover cookbook includes snippets of her hilariously self-deprecating commentary on ranch life, along with those wonderful recipes I\'ve been going on about.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4047041375/\" title=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2698/4047041375_4ba7653b51_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"The Pioneer Woman Cooks\" /></a></div><br />Starting tomorrow night, it\'ll sell for $27.50. A.k.a. the price of a modest dinner out, a.k.a. the price of a small tank of gas in Oklahoma last summer, a.k.a. the price of a mega-pack of the good diapers.<br /><br /></div><div>Ah, the things I\'ve come to know in the past two years. </div><div><br />Another reason the book release party at Tulsa Historical Society is so special is because we\'re the first of Ree\'s 18-stop, 14-state book tour. Not the second stop, not the stop before she heads home to the ranch in Pawhuska – no. We\'re the very first stop, y\'all. Cool, huh?<br /><br />See you there, ladies and gents. Be like me and get to the party fashionably early. That is, unless you enjoy standing during book readings and missing out on choice giveaways and food samples. </div>','The Pioneer Woman Comes to the Big City (Tulsa!)','','publish','open','open','','pioneer-woman-comes-to-big-city-tulsa','','','2009-10-26 21:00:00','2009-10-26 21:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=330',0,'post','',13),(331,1,'2009-10-27 19:36:00','2009-10-27 19:36:00','<a onblur=\"try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}\" href=\"http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/SudL_PbSE1I/AAAAAAAABhk/TuiemUSVqO4/s1600-h/mime-attachment.gif\"><img style=\"display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 259px;\" src=\"http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tZVufRlMtzM/SudL_PbSE1I/AAAAAAAABhk/TuiemUSVqO4/s400/mime-attachment.gif\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397366228271633234\" /></a><div><br /></div><div>The Tulsa Press Club Foundation’s headlining fundraiser has a lot more to flaunt this year than just a change of venue.</div><br />Read more about this thirsty event and get the scoop on Tulsa\'s newest pedal-powered lunch delivery business in <a href=\"http://tulsabusiness.com/industry_article.asp?cID=i&amp;aID=78975372.3996546.647907.4667279.7327321.970&amp;aID2=49830\">the food page in this week\'s edition of Tulsa Business Journal</a>.','So Many Drafts','','publish','open','open','','so-many-drafts','','','2009-10-27 19:36:00','2009-10-27 19:36:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=331',0,'post','',0),(332,1,'2009-10-28 18:00:00','2009-10-28 18:00:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Memorial Park Cemetery by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4053437978/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2564/4053437978_5bf495b13d_o.jpg\" alt=\"Memorial Park Cemetery\" width=\"512\" height=\"340\" /></a></div>\r\nToday I unwittingly spent the morning at my favorite place to soak up the autumn season - Memorial Park Cemetery, in southeast Tulsa at the corner of 51st and Memorial.\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><!--more-->[adrotate group=\"2\" banner=\"8\"]</p>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Memorial Park Cemetery by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4053437528/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2779/4053437528_cc30325d4f_o.jpg\" alt=\"Memorial Park Cemetery\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" /></a></div>\r\nI don\'t routinely spend my morning hours wandering around historic cemeteries snapping photos. It\'s just that, today, I drove by Memorial Park and was floored by the color bursting forth from the place. I just had to pull in and set off through these gorgeous trees on foot.\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Memorial Park Cemetery by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4053435886/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2621/4053435886_745892ddc8_o.jpg\" alt=\"Memorial Park Cemetery\" width=\"512\" height=\"340\" /></a></div>\r\nWow. Can you blame me?\r\n\r\nThen, as I was leaving, my car died.\r\n\r\nIn a cemetery. The week of Halloween.\r\n\r\nOh, the irony.\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Memorial Park Cemetery by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4053436782/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2682/4053436782_7fd4540b47_o.jpg\" alt=\"Memorial Park Cemetery\" width=\"512\" height=\"340\" /></a></div>\r\nI thought that while I was waiting around to find out what the heck is wrong with my ride, I\'d share these photos of what is, in my opinion, one of the best places for a short drive, stroll, meander, weather balloon ride or whatever else strikes your fancy when you\'re craving some serious fall foliage.\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Memorial Park Cemetery by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4052698351/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2647/4052698351_69cbbc63a6_o.jpg\" alt=\"Memorial Park Cemetery\" width=\"512\" height=\"340\" /></a></div>\r\nPlus, Memorial Park Cemetery is a pretty rich place when it comes to Tulsa history. This cemetery, which sprawls over 260 acres that were well outside the city in the year of its founding in 1927, is now the site of some 54,000 graves. Some of the city\'s oldest names - Helmerich, Marshall, Mayo and Mabee, just to name a few - are found there, immortalized in stately mausoleums, statues and monuments. Plus, <a href=\"http://books.google.com/books?id=Z7oiGWzpuDsC&amp;pg=PA143&amp;lpg=PA143&amp;dq=memorial+park+cemetery+tulsa&amp;source=bl&amp;ots=379wGGxpjf&amp;sig=SeCg1JHExhmyR-mxe8d0d6KLMbQ&amp;hl=en&amp;ei=K4PoSpUrkYox7rylrQg&amp;sa=X&amp;oi=book_result&amp;ct=result&amp;resnum=4&amp;ved=0CBUQ6AEwAzgK#v=onepage&amp;q=memorial%20park%20cemetery%20tulsa&amp;f=false\">Memorial Park is the resting place of the larger-than-life Bob Wills, as well as comedian Sam Kinison</a>.\r\n\r\nAnd you thought 51st and Memorial was a cultural dead zone. Ha! Pun totally (and shamefully) intended.\r\n\r\nWhere in the area do your falltime drives take you?','Memorial Park Cemetery: My Favorite Fall Place','I don\'t routinely spend my morning hours wandering around historic cemeteries snapping photos. It\'s just that, today, I drove by Memorial Park and was floored by the color bursting forth from the place.','publish','open','open','','memorial-park-cemetery','','','2010-09-21 07:56:59','2010-09-21 12:56:59','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=332',0,'post','',6),(333,1,'2009-10-29 19:13:00','2009-10-29 19:13:00','As I was saying, who needs guttering when, on days like this drizzly one we\'re having in Tulsa today, we can do this:<br /><br /><object width=\"660\" height=\"405\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iNt2gN1Num0&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00&amp;border=1\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\"><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\"><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iNt2gN1Num0&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00&amp;border=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" width=\"660\" height=\"405\"></embed></object><br /><br />Come on. You know you want to. It\'s not too cold, it\'s not too muddy and, hey, it\'s almost Friday.  Find a way to run around in the rain like a kid gone berserk today.','Who Needs Guttering','','publish','open','open','','who-needs-guttering','','','2009-10-29 19:13:00','2009-10-29 19:13:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=333',0,'post','',4),(335,1,'2009-10-31 17:34:00','2009-10-31 17:34:00','Days like today are perfect for three things. Football is one of them. Eating home-cooked chili is another. Trick-or-treating is yet another.\r\n\r\nThe third, of course, is running.\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4060797655/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2465/4060797655_959134d2ed_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nThe starting gun sounded bright and early on this Halloween morning to kick off <a href=\"http://tulsarun.com/\">Tulsa Run 2009, the annual celebration of health and fitness in downtown and Midtown Tulsa</a>. It\'s the oldest and largest run in the state, and after 31 years, it\'s better than ever.\r\n\r\nThe reason I found myself behind the starting line at Tulsa Run for the third year in a row (actually, I had to miss a year, thanks to being heavily pregnant in 2007) was that I love the energy that\'s created by the thousands of people raring to run through the streets of my favorite part of this city. Running through a sea of humanity is an experience like no other. If you\'ve never done it, it sounds unremarkable. To those who have, though, it\'s even more exciting than <a href=\"http://marshallbrewing.com/\">the free Marshall beer waiting behind the finish line</a>.\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4061547722/\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3484/4061547722_808b9f07e6_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nWell, almost more exciting than the free Marshall beer behind the finish line.\r\n\r\nHere\'s an idea. How about I stop rambling and show y\'all some photos from this year\'s Tulsa Run? I promise they\'re better than Uncle Remus\'s vacation slides.\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4061540572/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2624/4061540572_260bed1f0a_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4060797197/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2605/4060797197_4146ef283a_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4060797749/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2793/4060797749_2509057159_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4061542754/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2430/4061542754_296d0c68aa_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"384\" height=\"512\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4061542996/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2502/4061542996_862e2024fc_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4061543462/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2762/4061543462_63c5f77204_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4061544130/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2657/4061544130_f1f71df17b_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4061546268/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2446/4061546268_2459c5c0a7_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"384\" height=\"512\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4060801979/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2576/4060801979_4b44e09266_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"384\" height=\"512\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4061546636/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2500/4061546636_9533751f6d_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4060802545/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2640/4060802545_403bbb8566_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4060803183/\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3524/4060803183_6afc0ee381_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"Tulsa Run 2009 by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4060803379/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2484/4060803379_dba201065c_o.jpg\" alt=\"Tulsa Run 2009\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nCongrats to all you Tulsa Runners out there. You ran a stupendous race this morning. Now, go eat something to harden your arteries and reward yourselves for a job well done.\r\n\r\nAll the free candy you snagged at the finish line this morning would be a good start.','Tulsa Run 2009: In Photos','The start gun sounded bright and early on this Halloween morning to kick off Tulsa Run 2009, the annual celebration of health and fitness in downtown and Midtown Tulsa. It\'s the oldest and largest run in the state, and after 31 years, it\'s better than ever.','publish','open','open','','tulsa-run-2009-in-photos','','','2010-10-14 13:02:26','2010-10-14 18:02:26','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=335',0,'post','',2),(2993,1,'2010-10-14 15:41:15','2010-10-14 20:41:15','','Pumpkin Town','','inherit','open','open','','dsc_1600','','','2010-10-14 15:41:15','2010-10-14 20:41:15','',2992,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/DSC_1600.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(336,1,'2009-11-01 02:10:00','2009-11-01 07:10:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4062805896/\" title=\"My First Trick-or-Treat by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3524/4062805896_473afd882f_o.jpg\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" alt=\"My First Trick-or-Treat\" /></a></div><br />Tonight, my husband, my pumpkin-clad son and I set out to score some candy in our first-ever trick-or-treating trip as a family.<br /><br />We thought we\'d hit a house or two and have to trudge home to the howling and screaming of our stranger-shy two-year-old. But no. Quite the contrary, actually.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.ttownmoms.com/?page=blogs/view&amp;BLID=6471\">Read the rest of this spooky post on my blog at Ttownmoms.com</a>.','Our First Trick-Or-Treat','','private','open','open','','our-first-trick-or-treat','','','2010-09-27 10:37:15','2010-09-27 15:37:15','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=336',0,'post','',2),(338,1,'2009-11-03 20:40:00','2009-11-03 20:40:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4073201296/\" title=\"KRMG Mayoral Smashup by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2690/4073201296_6ab73dfdfc_o.jpg\" alt=\"KRMG Mayoral Smashup\" height=\"800\" width=\"534\" /></a><br /></div><br />When I think of the word \"debate,\" I tend to think of it in the context of my own life. Take, for example, the time I wanted to re-paint every square inch of the entire inside of the house into which I moved when I married my husband, who had bought the house several years prior. I decided I wanted to do this about a month after the wedding.<br /><br />Okay, that makes me sound like a you-kn0w-what. But, look, the walls were white, and high-gloss at that. The ceilings were white. The molding was white. The flooring in the kitchen and entry ways was white. Even the carpet was, you guessed it, white.<br /><br />This conversation was inevitable.<br /><div><br /></div><div><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">Me</span>: Honey, about the walls. They\'re just so, you know, <span style=\"font-style: italic;\">white</span>. And colorless. And glaring. I feel like we live in a mental institution. </div><div><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">Aaron</span>: Meh. I think they\'re fine. </div><div><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">Me</span>: Um, honey. No, really. Let\'s paint.</div><div><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">Aaron</span>: No way. I know where this is going. You\'re going to kill the resale value of this house with your zany color choices. Ecru? Suede? Buttercup? Sweetheart. No one would want to buy a house with walls these colors unless they were artists or something. (visible shuddering at the word \"artists\") </div><div><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">Me</span>: Darling, those are the most neutral colors on the face of the planet. </div><div><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">Aaron</span>: Plus, it\'ll cost a million dollars.</div><div><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">Me</span>: No, it won\'t. I\'m painting.</div><div><br /></div><div>In case you didn\'t notice, my husband is the conservative one in this relationship. He wouldn\'t spend a penny if it didn\'t mean going hungry and homeless, he sometimes quotes Sean Hannity (now I\'m the one shuddering) at the dinner table and the first word out of his mouth at the suggestion of my liberal, hair-brained ideas is \"heck.\" The second word? \"No.\"<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>He couldn\'t stay home all day, every day, so the walls up and magically painted themselves. This was my story through many a debate about what exactly had happened to the walls to turn them not ecru and buttercup but instead blood red and seafoam green until one day nearly five years later, just before our anniversary, he said coolly, \"You know, honey, you did a really good job with picking paint colors in here. Looks good.\" </div><div><br /></div><div>See what a good debate can produce? Healthful disagreement. Creative problem solving. Mischievous wall-painting elves. Agreement to move forward. At least, if nothing else, there will be a smashup worthy face-off - maybe not a five-year-long one, but still, something to get the blood pumping. </div><div><br /></div><div>Exchange riveting domestic debates such as these for something more substantive, at least for tonight. Head to <a href=\"http://www.jeweltulsa.com/\">Jewel on Brookside</a> to meet <a href=\"http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A28335\">the top three Mayoral candidates</a> and then to watch the candidates duke it out in a not-your-typical-debate debate known as the <a href=\"http://leadershiptulsa.org/index.cfm?pageID=3&amp;AID=401\">KRMG Mayoral Smashup</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>What I mean by that is, don\'t show up expecting a made-for-TV event. It\'ll be more fun, interactive and spontaneous than the timed, question-answer-response format to which you were woefully subjected in freshman debate class.<br /><br />It\'ll also be more fun than newlywed arguments about paint colors.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Hosts of the event are <a href=\"http://krmg.com/features/staff_potter.html\">KRMG News Director Dan Potter</a> and <a href=\"http://krmg.com/inside/staff_joe_kelley.html\">KRMG Morning News Host Joe Kelley</a>. KRMG will broadcast the debate live on AM 740 and FM 102.3, News Talk KRMG, free of commercial interruption. </div><div><br /></div><div>Don\'t show up without your mobile device. You\'ll be encouraged to submit questions for the candidates online, as well as by text and Twitter, and you won\'t want to be the only one without tired thumbs at the end of the night. </div><div><br /></div><div>The pre-event mixer, stocked with food samples and a cash bar, starts at 5pm. The program will begin at 6:45, with the debate heating up at 7pm. </div><div><br /></div><div>We hear time and time again how important it is to vote. That\'s all fine and good, but here\'s the deal: Incumbent on each voter is to know his or her stuff when it comes to the candidates for an office as important as mayor. Attending a debate like the KRMG Mayoral Smashup is a fun way to get informed. It will also be easy to learn where to find further information before the time comes to make a decision on election day, Nov. 10. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks to <a href=\"http://krmg.com/\">KRMG</a>, <a href=\"http://typros.org/\">TYPros</a>, <a href=\"http://urbantulsa.com/\">Urban Tulsa Weekly</a> and <a href=\"http://leadershiptulsa.org/\">Leadership Tulsa</a> for hosting this event.<br /><br />Photos from <a href=\"http://markfortulsa.com\">MarkforTulsa.com</a>, <a href=\"http://tomadelson.com\">TomAdelson.com</a> and <a href=\"http://deweybartlett.com\">DeweyBartlett.com</a>.<br /></div>','Are You Ready to Rumble?','','publish','open','open','','are-you-ready-to-rumble','','','2009-11-03 20:40:00','2009-11-03 20:40:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=338',0,'post','',2),(339,1,'2009-11-03 23:00:00','2009-11-03 23:00:00','<a onblur=\"try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}\" href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Driller\"><img style=\"margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 600px;\" src=\"http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f9/GoldenDriller.jpg/450px-GoldenDriller.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><br />It\'s voting season in Tulsa, everyone. While you beef up your reserves of mayoral candidate trivia (show them off <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/11/are-you-ready-to-rumble.html\">tonight, Nov. 3, at Jewel on Brookside at the KRMG Mayoral Smashup</a>), exercise your voting prowess by logging on to <a href=\"http://thetulseys.com/\">The Tulsey Awards</a>.<br /><br />The Tulseys, like the People\'s Choice Awards of <a href=\"http://www.tulsaspiritaward.com/\">Mayor Kathy Taylor\'s Entrepreneurial Spirit Award</a>, recognizes Tulsa pioneers and innovators. They come in ten varieties: Civic, Emerging, Entertainment, Franchise, Green, Interactive, Legend, Restaurateur, Serial and Young. Each entrepreneur <a href=\"http://vote.thetulseys.com\">on this ballot</a> is also eligible for the Entrepreneur of the Year award.<br /><br />Unlike the mayoral election, voters get more than one shot at deciding the winners of the second annual Tulsey Awards. I\'ll be the first to say it: Thank goodness. With as many as 14 nominees in a category, each of them bringing some serious oomph to the local economy, it\'s nice to know that as long as I wait 24 hours between votes, I can weigh in for my hand full of favorites. It makes for less nail biting and fidgeting and nervous arm pit sweat for all of us, which is a good thing.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://vote.thetulseys.com/\">I was humbled to find myself among the nominees this year</a>. I\'m up against some seriously talented individuals in the Interactive category, each of whom more than deserves to take home the prize: <a href=\"http://www.imobilizemedia.com/\">Jeff Rhoton of iMobilize media</a>, <a href=\"http://www.phillips360.com/\">Ryan Phillips of Phillips360</a>, <a href=\"http://ping.fm/\">Sean McCullough of Ping.fm</a> and <a href=\"http://www.academicfreedomacademy.com/\">Susan Reidel of Academic Freedom Academy Online Homeschool</a>. While I\'m not sure that I belong in a room full of tech heads this rad, I\'m glad to have the opportunity to hang with them, even if it\'s only on a form in cyberspace.<br /><br />I mean, how cool is it to be the uncool kid in the AV Club? Oh, I am <span style=\"font-style: italic;\">so</span> that geek. I stand ready to receive the wedgie of a lifetime.<br /><br />Winners will be announced Oscar-style on Nov. 19, when Mayor Kathy Taylor and the winner of the 2009 Entrepreneurial Spirit Award (which, by the way, comes with a prize of $30,000) will join candidates at <a href=\"http://cainsballroom.com\">the historic Cain\'s Ballroom</a> to celebrate the start-up spirit in our community. The event will be the culmination of Global Entrepreneurship week. It starts at 7pm, is open to the public and is free to attend.<br /><br />Plus, Tulsey award winners get this really cool hand-cast bronze Golden Driller Statuette. Cool, right? If I win one I\'ll move my knitting basket so that it will hang out right next to where I sleep at night.<br /><br />Yeah, I have a knitting basket. Because I am also <span style=\"font-style: italic;\">that</span> geek.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://vote.thetulseys.com/\">Go vote. Tomorrow, vote again</a>. Repeat until Nov. 10, election day in more ways than one here in T-Town.','The Tulseys: Yet Another Fun Voting Opportunity','','publish','open','open','','tulseys-yet-another-fun-voting','','','2009-11-03 23:00:00','2009-11-03 23:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=339',0,'post','',1),(340,1,'2009-11-04 19:43:00','2009-11-04 19:43:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3319904075/\" title=\"Elote Cafe &amp; Catering by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3575/3319904075_58f2823ca6.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Elote Cafe &amp; Catering\" /></a></div><br /><a href=\"http://elotetulsa.com\">Elote Cafe &amp; Catering</a>, in the heart of downtown Tulsa at Fifth Street and Boston Avenue, is known for its fresh, innovative approach to Mexican cuisine. Elote Chef Libby Auld, who prides herself on the healthful, tasty choices available on the Elote menu, is known as one of the most avid patrons of local farmers’ markets and an honest purveyor of truly locally produced ingredients. She also manages to feed her own family from her trademark bag of foodie tricks: healthful, accessible food made from locally produced ingredients using sustainable practices. Her kids, five-year-old Luka and three-year-old Layla, and her husband and business partner, Jeramy, have no complaints...<br /><br /><a href=\"palacetulsa.com/\">Chef James Shrader at Palace Cafe</a> , the cozy, upbeat sidewalk eatery on Tulsa’s historic Cherry Street at Peoria, cooks up a mean seasonal menu, and it’s a favorite among Tulsans who strive to eat fresh, locally grown food. Even the dining room is distinctly Tulsa, thanks to the steady rotation of work by local artists that lines the walls. When he isn’t driving lunch, dinner or brunch service at Palace, he’s husband to his wife and business partner, Brooke, and dad to his two sons, Michael, 20, and Max, 18. His skills in the kitchen are just as in-demand at home as they are at his restaurant...<br /><br />Read the rest of this story in <a href=\"http://tulsakids.com/?q=moms/get-cooking/two-tulsa-chefs-talk-cooking-and-kids\">the November 2009 edition of Tulsa Kids</a>.','Two Tulsa Chefs Talk Cooking and Kids','','publish','open','open','','two-tulsa-chefs-talk-cooking-and-kids','','','2009-11-04 19:43:00','2009-11-04 19:43:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=340',0,'post','',1),(341,1,'2009-11-04 20:00:00','2009-11-04 20:00:00','Picture this: An unfamiliar place, grungy with urban decay. A room crowded with people, crushes of thirsty reporters and PR people lurking in every corner. The clanging of bar glasses and more brew than you could shake a stick at. <div><br /></div><div>Also, a sea of beer-themed t-shirts. Hey, don\'t threaten me with a good time.<div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://www.tulsapressclub.org/f/fckeditor/Image/First_Draft.jpg\" /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">There\'s still time to get your tickets to the fifth edition of <a href=\"http://tulsabusiness.com/industry_article.asp?cID=i&amp;aID=74033015.929481.647907.9858912.93142702.348&amp;aID2=49830\">one heckuva beer tasting event</a>, going on right here in Tulsa this Friday (Nov. 6) night, not at the traditional First Draft location, but instead at <a href=\"http://myspace.com/bluedomediner\">Blue Dome Diner on Second Street</a>. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Come for the beer, stay for the food, the wine (yes, wine - homemade, even), the people and the celebrity-judged t-shirt contest. All proceeds benefit the <a href=\"http://www.tulsapressclub.com/about/foundation.cfm\">Tulsa Press Club Foundation</a>, which grants scholarships to journalism students, the poor souls. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">It\'s okay, though, you bright, eager, young journalism students. As long as beer is still part of working in journalism, it\'s okay. If the folks at Tulsa Press Club have anything to say about it, the beer ain\'t goin\' no where. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Get your tickets at Tulsa Press Club, 415 S. Boston, or call 583.7787 to save your spot. As always, drink responsibly. Also as always, have fun and make merry. </div></div></div>','We\'ll Keep Drinking Until We Get It Right','','publish','open','open','','well-keep-drinking-until-we-get-it','','','2009-11-04 20:00:00','2009-11-04 20:00:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=341',0,'post','',1),(343,1,'2009-11-08 00:58:00','2009-11-08 00:58:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4084627232/\" title=\"White Owl Pub by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2641/4084627232_98a9faf020_o.jpg\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" alt=\"White Owl Pub\" /></a></div><br />If you haven\'t heard of the discount gift certificates site <a href=\"http://restaurant.com/\">Restaurant.com</a>, then you\'re probably not like me (thank your lucky stars), spending more time than you care to admit obsessively clicking around on coupon sites on the World Wide Web. Sites like <a href=\"http://couponmom.com/\">CouponMom.com</a> have been practically shouting about the site from the rooftops, touting half-price or less for restaurant gift certificates.<br /><br />These aren\'t shady, smelly, tuck-tail-and-run restaurants we\'re talking about here. Instead, Restaurant.com offers gift certificates honored at some of the swankiest restaurants in T-town.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://ttownmoms.com/data/assets/boards/ttownmoms/showthread.php?p=2720#post2720\">As I wrote on the tTownmoms.com forum earlier today</a>, I\'ve used gift certificates I purchased on Restaurant.com several times, each to positive effect.<br /><br />However, I don\'t think they should be viewed as free money for dining out, and I don\'t think they\'ll make such great gifts this holiday season. Instead, they should be viewed as a really beefy coupons, good for a sizable chunk off the bill at the end of the night.<br /><br />I know, I\'m such a party pooper. But, let me show you why.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://ttownmoms.com/?page=blogs/view&amp;BLID=6536\">Come watch me muddle through some coupon math on my blog at Ttownmoms.com</a>.','Dining in Tulsa with Restaurant.com','','publish','open','open','','dining-in-tulsa-with-restaurantcom','','','2009-11-08 00:58:00','2009-11-08 00:58:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=343',0,'post','',2),(345,1,'2009-11-10 06:01:00','2009-11-10 06:01:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4073201296/\" title=\"KRMG Mayoral Smashup by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2690/4073201296_6ab73dfdfc_o.jpg\" width=\"534\" height=\"800\" alt=\"KRMG Mayoral Smashup\" /></a></div><br /><div>Not-so-newsflash: Today is an election day in Tulsa. The first order of business is <a href=\"http://www.fileden.com/files/2009/10/23/2617118/LWV%20Tulsa%2009%20General%20Election%20Voters%20Guide%20tabloid%285%29.pdf\">to review the issues</a>. Then, get out there and vote. </div><div><br /></div><div>Don\'t know where to go, or how to get a ride there in the first place? Contact <a href=\"http://lwvtulsa.org/\">the lovely men and ladies at League of Women Voters of Metropolitan Tulsa</a> for help. They\'ll answer phones  starting at 7am to help voters locate precincts, polling places and rides. Numbers to try are (918) 747-7933, (918) 231-3340 and (918) 850-2048.</div><div><br /></div>There\'s a lot more to do tonight <a href=\"http://www.fileden.com/files/2009/10/23/2617118/LWV%20Tulsa%2009%20General%20Election%20Voters%20Guide%20tabloid%285%29.pdf\">after you cast your vote for mayor, city auditor, the three city charter amendments and, if you\'re in one of the districts with a seat up for grabs, city councilor</a> than return home and sit in your armchair to offer an early analysis on the election results. <div><br /></div><div>Instead, you can do your armchair analyzing at one of the several candidate watch parties, held in some of the most happening locales in town. </div><div><br /></div><div>There\'s no better way to watch an election than from the same room as one of the contenders for office. It\'s exciting or it\'s heartbreaking - either way, it\'s far from boring. Plus, it\'s a great way to meet your neighbors, make new friends and find other like-minded people in the community. </div><div><br /></div><div>Who knows, maybe at one of these parties you and a group of do-gooders could come up with your own way to make Tulsa a better place, no matter who gets to sit in the big chair in The Cube.  </div><div><br /></div><div>I\'ll continue to update this post as I hear about the individual parties, so check back every now and again. See you all out and about.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><br /></div><div><b>Watch Parties for the Mayoral Candidates</b><div><br /></div><div><b><a href=\"http://www.adelsonformayor.com/\">Tom Adelson Watch Party</a></b></div><div>Where: Crystal Ballroom at Mayo Hotel, 115 W. Fifth Street</div><div>When: 7pm</div><div><br /></div><div><b><a href=\"http://www.deweybartlett.com/\">Dewey Bartlett Watch Party</a></b></div><div>Where: Stokely Event Center, 10111 E. 45th Place</div><div>When: 7pm</div><div><br /></div><div><b><a href=\"http://markfortulsa.com/\">Mark Perkins Watch Party</a></b></div><div>Where: Leon\'s on the Restless Ribbon, 3301 S. Peoria Ave.</div><div>When: 7pm</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Watch Parties for City Council Candidates</b></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-weight: normal; \"><div><b><a href=\"http://www.friendsforpatrick.net/\">David Patrick for District 3 Watch Party</a></b></div><div>Where: Rose Bowl Event Center, 7419 E. 11th Street</div><div>When: 7pm</div><div><br /></div><div><b><a href=\"http://www.roscoeturner.com/\">Roscoe Turner for District 3 Watch Party</a></b></div><div>Where: La Quinta Inn, 23 N. 67th E. Ave. (near I-244, east of Sheridan)</div><div>When: 7pm</div><div><br /></div></span></b></div><div><b><a href=\"http://www.mariabarnes4tulsa.com/\">Maria Barnes for District 4 Watch Party</a></b></div><div>Where: Casa Laredo, 403 S. Cheyenne Ave. </div><div>When: 7pm</div><div><br /></div><div><b><a href=\"http://www.reelectdennisktroyer.com/\">Dennis Troyer for District 6 Watch Party</a></b></div><div>Where: Green Country Event Center, 12000 E. 31st Street</div><div>When: 7pm</div><div><br /></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Watch Parties for City Auditor Candidates</b></div><div><br /></div><div><b><a href=\"http://www.prestondoerflinger.com/\">Preston Doerflinger Watch Party</a></b></div><div>Where: Caz\'s Chowhouse, 18 E. Brady St.</div><div>When: Approx. 6:30pm</div></div></div>','Vote! And Where to Watch for Election Results','','publish','open','open','','vote-and-where-to-watch-for-election','','','2009-11-10 06:01:00','2009-11-10 06:01:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=345',0,'post','',1),(346,1,'2009-11-10 12:10:00','2009-11-10 12:10:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/3319413871/\" title=\"Downtown Tulsa by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img style=\"width: 576px; height: 373px;\" src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3662/3319413871_bd71ceaa85_o.jpg\" alt=\"Downtown Tulsa\" /></a></div><br /><div>Go on, take a whiff. Ah - election day. I\'d know that smell anywhere. <div><br /></div><div>Up for grabs today is the top executive office over at City Hall, a.k.a. The Cube, as well as six city council seats and the office of city auditor. Plus, voters will consider three city charter amendments. </div><div><br /></div><div>Gird your loins because wow, that\'s a lot of voting, people. </div><div><br /></div><div>I\'m writing this at about half past six in the morning, which means the polls open in half an hour. If you\'re still looking for a way to get to your polling place, or if you have no clue as to where your polling place is to begin with, call <a href=\"http://lwvtulsa.org/\">the Tulsa chapter of the League of Women Voters</a> or their partner today, <a href=\"http://www.adctulsa.org/\">Coalition for the American Dream</a>. The numbers are (918) 747-7933, (918) 231-3340 or (918) 850-2048. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href=\"http://www.fileden.com/files/2009/10/23/2617118/LWV%20Tulsa%2009%20General%20Election%20Voters%20Guide%20tabloid%285%29.pdf\">Do your final bit of homework</a> and make your calls before 6pm, people, because the polls close at 7. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href=\"http://krmg.com/\">Be sure to tune in to KRMG AM 740 or FM 102.3 for live election coverage, thanks to Dan Potter</a> and <a href=\"http://batesline.com/\">political blogger extraordinaire, Michael Bates</a>. They expect to have results from key precincts early in the evening, so don\'t delay. Twitter, too, should be a fun and interactive way to keep up with election results this evening. Follow <a href=\"http://twitter.com/krmgtulsa\">KRMG</a> and <a href=\"http://twitter.com/batesline\">Michael Bates</a> to start, then go from there. </div><div><br /></div><br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><iframe marginheight=\"0\" marginwidth=\"0\" src=\"http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;msa=0&amp;msid=105378962711484041717.000478035121d2a0b53a4&amp;ll=36.137875,-95.913391&amp;spn=0.194087,0.291824&amp;z=11&amp;output=embed\" scrolling=\"no\" frameborder=\"0\" height=\"350\" width=\"425\"></iframe></div><small><div style=\"text-align: center;\">View <a href=\"http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;msa=0&amp;msid=105378962711484041717.000478035121d2a0b53a4&amp;ll=36.137875,-95.913391&amp;spn=0.194087,0.291824&amp;z=11&amp;source=embed\" style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 255); text-align: left;\">Vote! And Where To Watch For Election Results</a> in a larger map</div></small><div><br /></div><div>After the polls are closed, don\'t be caught dead at home. <a href=\"http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2009/11/vote-and-where-to-watch-for-election.html\">There are simply too many good election watch parties rockin\' in Tulsa tonight</a>, ranging from the fancy schmancy Adelson shindig in the Crystal Ballroom at the newly re-opened and historic Mayo Hotel to the Perkins party at the big-screen capital of Brookside, Leon\'s on the Restless Ribbon. </div><div><br /></div><div>Check out the map above to get directions from wherever you are to your watch party of choice. Or, plan an itinerary to crash all three. That\'s what interactive maps are supposed to be for, after all - efficient party crashing. </div><div><br /></div><div>The most important thing in all of this, of course, is that each of us votes. <a href=\"http://www.fileden.com/files/2009/10/23/2617118/LWV%20Tulsa%2009%20General%20Election%20Voters%20Guide%20tabloid%285%29.pdf\">Give the issues one last review</a> and head to the polls today. You not only get to participate in the democratic process, but you also get that kitschy \"I voted\" sticker, which makes any suffering you did while standing in line totally worth it. </div><div><br /></div><div>Happy voting, Tulsans.</div></div>','Smells Like Election Day','','publish','open','open','','smells-like-election-day','','','2009-11-10 12:10:00','2009-11-10 12:10:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=346',0,'post','',0),(348,1,'2009-11-11 19:13:00','2009-11-11 19:13:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.yokozunatulsa.com/\"><img src=\"http://yokozunatulsa.com/images/img-main.jpg\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" /></a> </div><br />After months of boarded windows and suspicious construction noise at the corner of Second Street and Detroit Avenue, the latest restaurant concept from the mind behind <a href=\"http://www.mcnellies.com/\">James E. McNellie’s Public House</a>, <a href=\"http://www.elguaposcantina.net/\">El Guapo’s Cantina</a> and <a href=\"http://www.dillydelitulsa.com/\">Dilly Deli</a> has emerged and has been serving downtowners since late last month.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.yokozunatulsa.com/\">Yokozuna</a>, named after the sumo wrestler who has achieved the sport’s highest rank and occupying the space formerly home to Tsunami Sushi, is Elliot Nelson’s fourth restaurant in five years and a two-block radius.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://tulsabusiness.com/industry_article.asp?cID=i&amp;aID=79540675.011558.649337.5365351.67575102.648&amp;aID2=49940\">Read the rest of this story on the Food Page on this week\'s edition of Tulsa Business Journal</a>.','Downtown Restaurateur Expands His Empire','','publish','open','open','','downtown-restaurateur-expands-his','','','2009-11-11 19:13:00','2009-11-11 19:13:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=348',0,'post','',5),(349,1,'2009-11-12 11:45:00','2009-11-12 11:45:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4097332195/\" title=\"My Favorites by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2705/4097332195_fb31062ba4_o.png\" width=\"489\" height=\"489\" alt=\"My Favorites\" /></a></div><br />Once I finally figured out <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/\">the social media platform to which photo geeks so lovingly refer as Flickr</a> enough to be able to use it without causing anyone any life-threatening injuries, I thought it\'d be cool to make <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/groups/tashadoestulsa/\">a Tasha Does Tulsa Flickr group</a>, a place for T-Towners to pile photos they shot while shuffling around town.<br /><br />I went about it all nonchalantly, thinking a user or two would join the group and add their takes on the quintessential Tulsa photo, <a href=\"http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&amp;client=safari&amp;rls=en&amp;um=1&amp;sa=1&amp;q=tulsa%2C+OK+skyline&amp;aq=f&amp;oq=&amp;aqi=&amp;start=0\">the skyline shot</a>.<br /><br />We do have a pretty nice skyline, it\'s true. But much more became of this Flickr group than the old hat. That it has more than five dozen members, plenty of whom are professional photographers, and 600 photos helps to diversify things a little. <div><br /></div><div>Besides sticking the group button in the sidebar here at TashaDoesTulsa.com, I\'ve been enjoying the photos added to this group from behind closed doors, more or less. It\'s not that I\'m selfish or that I didn\'t learn to share in kindergarten (really, I didn\'t - I had to learn that life lesson later, much later). What matters is that now, folks, I\'m sharing. </div><div><br /></div><div>Feast thine eyes:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/wadefromoklahoma/4035305097/\" title=\"Fallen by Wade From Oklahoma, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2655/4035305097_c629b86cc6.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"430\" alt=\"Fallen\" /></a></div><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/wadefromoklahoma/\">By Wade from Oklahoma</a>. The color - oh, the color. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/robertdx/4060468831/\" title=\"University of Tulsa Homecoming bonfire 2009 by robertdx, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2779/4060468831_11e21f89b5.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" alt=\"University of Tulsa Homecoming bonfire 2009\" /></a></div><br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/robertdx/\">By robertdx</a>. Now you know what you\'ve been missing when you decide to stay home from <a href=\"http://www.utulsa.edu/alumni/homecoming/\">the homecoming festivities at the University of Tulsa</a>.<br /><br />If you can tell where this next photo was taken, odds are you are a born-and-raised Tulsan.</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/brandle/4006555163/\" title=\"YO! by okbeatnik, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2484/4006555163_cc32deebcc.jpg\" width=\"334\" height=\"500\" alt=\"YO!\" /></a></div><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/brandle/\">By okbeatnik</a>, who is also doing a great job tackling <a href=\"http://77counties.blogspot.com/\">the photo project, 77 Counties</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you guessed that this is the neon sign at the Mayo Garage downtown, just a skip and a jump from the newly renovated <a href=\"http://www.themayohotel.com/\">Mayo Hotel</a>, then you guessed right. Now, go have yourself a cookie.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyone seen the Mayo Hotel sign ablaze in the night sky? My friends who live downtown (of whom I am intensely jealous) say it can be seen for miles around. </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/nathanricketts/3638867032/\" title=\"Random 147 by art house film, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3353/3638867032_89abbf2755.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Random 147\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/nathanricketts/\">By art house film</a>. I used to walk down this street every week day. Photos like these make me want to rent an office downtown. Or, at least, eat lunch there everyday.</div><br />Working downtown is the best.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/lefturn99/3916969566/\" title=\"Motel on 11th in Tulsa on Route 66 by lefturn99, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2561/3916969566_99b61891cb.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" alt=\"Motel on 11th in Tulsa on Route 66\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/lefturn99/\">By leftturn99</a>.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/munsonshots/3806267573/\" title=\"Untitled by ~munson~, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2622/3806267573_c9d1eb9e4d.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" alt=\"\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/munsonshots/\">By ~munson~</a>, an IRL friend who has the prettiest hair I\'ve ever seen, IRL and otherwise. Think Minnie Driver, but curlier and shinier and bouncier. You\'ll have to ask her directly for a chance to see it.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/luckyspicturessuck/3784418119/\" title=\"Untitled by bouldinshots, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2628/3784418119_534c632864.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" alt=\"\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/luckyspicturessuck/\">By bouldinshots</a>.<br /><br /></div><div>Guess where this shot was snapped: </div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/13534932@N07/3739964070/\" title=\"The Dugout by Shannon Hall, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3227/3739964070_d7e8d84b51.jpg\" width=\"333\" height=\"500\" alt=\"The Dugout\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/13534932@N07/\">By Shannon Hall</a>. No, really, guess. I want to see if you can figure it out.</div><div><br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/mrjonespix/2628338667/\" title=\"The Badwich from Elmer\'s BBQ by cooknken, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3120/2628338667_91ec35de4d.jpg\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" alt=\"The Badwich from Elmer\'s BBQ\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><a href=\"http://flickr.com/cooknken\">By cooknken</a>.<br /><br />What? Did you really think I could make it through a Tulsa photos post without including a shot of a gloriously sloppy sandwich from <a href=\"http://www.elmersbbq.net/\">a legendary local BBQ joint</a>? Surely you didn\'t think that. You\'re rational humans.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyone in the mood to go to the drive-in?<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/wadefromoklahoma/3601823230/\" title=\"Back Fence by Wade From Oklahoma, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3365/3601823230_b90f6e6de6.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"Back Fence\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div>By <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/wadefromoklahoma/\">Wade from Oklahoma</a>.<br /><br />Look! It\'s <a href=\"http://philbrook.org/\">the gardens at Philbrook</a> - in miniature.</div><div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/brettmorrison/3493810325/\" title=\"Philbrook Gardens Tiltshift by BrettMorrison, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3328/3493810325_f13e15a128.jpg\" width=\"463\" height=\"500\" alt=\"Philbrook Gardens Tiltshift\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/brettmorrison/\">By BrettMorrison</a>. Last night I innocently showed this photo to my husband, an underground Minolta patriot, which earned me a fifteen minute \"discussion\" on tiltshift photography.<br /><br />An interesting person, my husband. I learn the most unexpected things from him in the most unexpected ways. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you to everyone who continues to add photos to the TDT group on Flickr. Thanks to you, I didn\'t get any laundry done last night, and the dishes from dinner are still in the sink, but my mind is now a more colorful place. My personal concept of how Tulsa looks has been altered.<br /><br /></div><div><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/favorites/\">See the rest of my picks of the crop</a>, and feel free to add a few of your own photos. Because if you don\'t, I might just have to leave the couch. No one wants that. That is, if no one is me. </div>','Tulsa Photos Galore','','publish','open','open','','tulsa-photos-galore','','','2009-11-12 11:45:00','2009-11-12 11:45:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=349',0,'post','',3),(351,1,'2009-11-16 19:45:00','2009-11-16 19:45:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4109129311/\" title=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2786/4109129311_f1c52ecc6e_o.jpg\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" alt=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">This weekend my little family took advantage of <a href=\"http://www.philbrook.org/education/classes/classschedule.cfm?id=417\">Second Saturday at Philbook Museum of Art</a>, the day when admission is free and the museum is overflowing with activities for families and children. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">It was our son\'s second time to Philbrook and, as you can tell in the photo above, he didn\'t quite know what to make of it all - at least, not at first. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">First he wanted loose in a room full of African artifacts that just happened to be at his eye level and within his reach. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Yeah, right - like that was gonna happen. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Then he wanted to converse with the large dog statues on the third floor landing of the grand staircase in, of course, his \"outside voice.\" After that, he wanted to know what was up with this art piece:</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4109118585/\" title=\"Philbrook Museum by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; \"></span></a><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4109118585/\" title=\"Philbrook Museum by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2550/4109118585_5d938e5358_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"Philbrook Museum\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><br /></span></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">The piece in the corner audibly whines and frets and worries. More than anything, our child, ever the compassionate and sympathetic pisces that he is, wanted to console it: \"Okay? <span style=\"font-style:italic;\">Okay?</span> OKAY??\"</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">How does one explain art to a 20-month-old? Especially when he won\'t sit still long enough to let his parents look at a piece of it for longer than 30 seconds, let alone learn what it\'s all about? Someone tell me. I\'m all ears.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Then, kiddo wanted to go outside.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"   style=\"  white-space: pre-wrap; font-family:\'Lucida Grande\';font-size:11px;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4109893230/\" title=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2801/4109893230_10405a0312_o.jpg\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" alt=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens\" /></a></span></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Then the real fun began. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">This innocent grin comes from the child who, on his first trip to Philbrook Museum, casually jumped in the pond in the south garden as if he\'d done it every day of his life. Having gotten that out of the way our first time around, what could possibly go wrong? </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"   style=\"  white-space: pre-wrap; font-family:\'Lucida Grande\';font-size:11px;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4109128417/\" title=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2788/4109128417_165ed55197_o.jpg\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" alt=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens\" /></a></span></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Yes, that dip in the fountain late last summer put luck on our side.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"   style=\"font-family:\'Lucida Grande\', serif;font-size:100%;\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\" white-space: pre-wrap;font-size:11px;\"><span class=\"Apple-style-span\"  style=\" ;font-family:\'Lucida Grande\';\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4109127791/\" title=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2771/4109127791_c481694724_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens\" /></a></span></span></span></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br />Look! It\'s <a href=\"http://images.google.com/images?client=safari&amp;rls=en&amp;q=philbrook%20museum&amp;oe=UTF-8&amp;um=1&amp;ie=UTF-8&amp;sa=N&amp;hl=en&amp;tab=wi\">the quintessential Philbrook shot</a>. It was like taking my own photo of the Alamo or the Grand Canyon or...</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">A hippo made of old car bumpers?<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4109887166/\" title=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2767/4109887166_f8664d113e_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens\" /></a><br /><br />Sure! Why not? Anything goes on Second Saturday at Philbrook.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4109885370/\" title=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2651/4109885370_f0430b7953_o.jpg\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" alt=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens\" /></a></div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4109884404/\" title=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2677/4109884404_4e12167046_o.jpg\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" alt=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens\" /></a></div><br />All this beauty around all the kid wants to do is play with garden pebbles. Oy.<br /><br />Oh, well. It\'s better than a fascination with water resulting in my having to carry a dripping toddler from the south pond to the north parking lot because I didn\'t bring a diaper bag packed with a change of clothes because never in my wildest dreams did I think my child would find his way into an investigation of a foot-deep garden pond.<br /><br />Never in my wildest.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4109889872/\" title=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2487/4109889872_ba5c61f15d_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens\" /></a></div><br />Ah. Some real, belly-jiggling, leaf-flying fun is taking place here.<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4109124893/\" title=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2757/4109124893_2eb5de25e0_o.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens\" /></a></div><br /><object width=\"640\" height=\"385\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/7t_mdjmtssA&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\"><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\"><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/7t_mdjmtssA&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" width=\"640\" height=\"385\"></embed></object><br /><br />Did you hear him say, \"Okay?\" in there? At about 0:16? That\'s what he was asking at volume level 10 the woeful piece of art inside the museum - the crowded, echoey museum.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Everyone thought it was cute. That curly blond hair is always good for a free pass. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Believe it or not, we did more than do our best to destroy the manicured gardens on our trip to Philbrook. To see more, <a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/tashadoestulsa\">visit my photostream of Flickr</a>. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">While we didn\'t partake in any of the organized Second Saturday activities, I was impressed with the range of goings on. We saw families touring the museum, kids engrossed in scavenger hunts and making their own works of art in the education center, and even a short film was playing in the conference room. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Plus, for kids older than three (shucks for us - for now, at least) is the My Museum program. Every child who signs up is outfitted with a carry-away case stocked with some starter art supplies. For every Second Saturday the child finds his or her way to Philbrook, he or she is issued another goody for the art case. This week it was colored pencils. Next week, who knows? It could be some yummy glue. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4109885780/\" title=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2644/4109885780_f6562ca342_o.jpg\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" alt=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Which explains why we were gently persuaded by the museum volunteers to wait another year to sign up for the My Museum program. They\'re infinitely wise, those museum volunteers. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Second Saturday is now at the top of my list of things to recommend to moms and dads who come to me asking what they can do to get their kids out on the town without taking them to the mall or to the park for the 564th time. It\'s a mutually beneficial way to enjoy the museum, to allow the kids to interact with some great works of art, other kids and to express their own creativity and to give Mom and Dad what I would guess is a sorely needed dose of high culture. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Plus, you can\'t beat free admission.</div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4109123533/\" title=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2542/4109123533_1d88af9e82_o.jpg\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" alt=\"Philbrook Museum Gardens\" /></a></div><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Mark you calendars now for <a href=\"http://www.philbrook.org/education/classes/classschedule.cfm?id=417\">the next Second Saturday, Dec. 12</a>. Until then, tide yourselves over with <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/PhilbrookMuseum?ref=ts\">Facebook Fan Free Day</a>, <a href=\"http://www.philbrook.org/education/classes/classschedule.cfm?id=503\">the design challenge, scholar talk and generally good time that is this week\'s edition of Third Thursday</a> and <a href=\"http://www.philbrook.org/education/classes/classschedule.cfm?id=496\">a chance to meet illustrator Lane Smith</a>. Plus, this weekend is the launch of <a href=\"http://www.philbrook.org/support/events/2009_festival_of_trees.cfm\">the 25th annual Festival of Trees</a>. </div><div style=\"text-align: left;\"><br /></div><div style=\"text-align: left;\">Now, tell me: What do you love best about this 1920s oil boom relic-cum-world-class art museum? </div></div></div>','A Boy, a Saturday and Philbrook Museum','','publish','open','open','','boy-saturday-and-philbrook-museum','','','2009-11-16 19:45:00','2009-11-16 19:45:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=351',0,'post','',4),(353,1,'2009-11-17 02:00:00','2009-11-17 08:00:00','<object width=\"640\" height=\"505\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/aucB9d2ZlS0&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\"><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\"><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/aucB9d2ZlS0&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" width=\"640\" height=\"505\"></embed></object><br /><br /><div><a href=\"http://krmg.com/blogs/the_krmg_morning_news_blog/2009/11/krmgs-stories-of-light-for-the.html\">All of you KRMG listeners out there already know that bright and early tomorrow morning is the kick off of the fourth Annual Stories of Light broadcast</a>, which benefits <a href=\"http://www.oklahoma.wish.org/\">the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Oklahoma</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>As <a href=\"http://twitter.com/talkradiojoe\">the host of the KRMG Morning News and MAWFO Chairman Joe Kelley</a> has been advising listeners for the past couple of weeks, be sure to stow an extra box of tissues in the car for the rest of the week. If you\'re a crier like me, you\'ll need something with which to mop up the mascara mess before you lock up the car for the morning and head to the office. </div><div><br /></div><div>Before you tune in tomorrow, give <a href=\"http://krmg.com/blogs/the_krmg_morning_news_blog/2009/11/krmgs-stories-of-light-for-the.html\">this open letter from Joe a quick read</a>, reprinted below. Then, be sure to listen to KRMG Morning News tomorrow, Wednesday and Thursday for the Stories of Light. Or, drop by LaFortune Park at 51st and Yale to see Joe in person. </div><div><br /></div><div>I think you\'ll find that you have more than wads of snotty Kleenex to hand him when you get there. </div><div><br /></div><div>-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div><div><br /></div>My Friends,<br /><br />Six weeks ago, I accepted the call to become Chairman of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Oklahoma. As a two-time childhood cancer survivor, the mission of the Make-A-Wish Foundation is very personal to me.<br /><br />With three small, beautiful children in my home, I am very sensitive to the painful reality that all our children are potentially one doctor\'s appointment away from having their worlds turned upside down in a dizzying array of hospital visits, needle-sticks and surgeries.<br /><br />During a family\'s darkest hour, the Make-A-Wish Foundation provides a shining beacon of light; a chance to escape the bonds of sickness, if even for just a moment.<br /><br />Yet, these are extraordinary times.<br /><br />Kids don\'t understand the economics of a recession. Their cancers don\'t share our sense of bad timing. While some charities can scale back their non-essential services, MAWFO has no non-essential services. We don\'t have multiple functions and departments. We only do one thing: We grant wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses.<br /><br />The average Wish costs $7000 and at this moment, there are 94 Oklahoma children waiting to have their Wishes granted. Many of these children don\'t have the luxury of patience.<br /><br />Please take a moment of your time right now and help make Wishes come true with a donation to Oklahoma\'s Make-A-Wish Foundation.<br /><br />Please call 5 friends and ask them to do the same. Forward this email. Pass a hat at your office. Call a generous friend or relative. Clean out coins from your car and home. Take a tax deduction. Call 918-492-WISH.<br /><br />Donate online right now at: <a href=\"http://bit.ly/OSdWW\">http://bit.ly/OSdWW</a><br /><br />Or, come see me in person November 17th, 18th, or 19th at LaFortune Park in Tulsa as KRMG hosts our 4th Annual Stories of Light broadcast to benefit Make-A-Wish. All money raised goes to Oklahoma children suffering from life-threatening illnesses.<br /><br />To put my money where my \'ask\' is, I\'m personally committing $1,000 to the Stories of Light campaign this year (which is only $83/month or less than $3/day).<br /><br />Thank you very kindly for your generosity,<br /><br />Joe Kelley','Stories of Light','','private','open','open','','stories-of-light','','','2011-04-15 06:04:44','2011-04-15 12:04:44','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=353',0,'post','',2),(354,1,'2009-11-17 19:30:00','2009-11-17 19:30:00','<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4112492926/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2613/4112492926_ed3142ed72_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nHaving lived in Tulsa for more than a quarter century, I\'ve had my share of meals that by most accounts would fall into the Mexican genre of food.\r\n\r\nSet down in front of me on technicolor Fiestaware has been everything from a cheese-doused, deep-fried chimichanga filled with Rotel and composite chicken to handmade tamales I had to order either in Spanish or by number from one of those back-lit menu boards we know from snack bars at high school basketball games.\r\n\r\nI know I just painted the opposite ends of the spectrum of what could feasibly be called Mexican food in the lower Midwest. But, here\'s the deal: I\'m not one of those food writers who leads a concurrent life as a food snob. Sure, I like fine food and dishes that resonate with authenticity. But, I also like bagged tortilla chips and several brands of canned enchilada sauce. I\'d eat the dishes I described in the preceding paragraph with equal satisfaction. And vigor. And by dirtying the same number of napkins.\r\n\r\nA secret: All the great food writers are messy eaters. Don\'t let anyone ever tell you otherwise. This is one of the easier ways to aspire to greatness in our lives.\r\n\r\nSince my opinion on the importance of authenticity of cuisine is neither here nor there, I\'m also not one of those food writers who is hellbent on globetrotting to discover how different foods are \"supposed to be prepared.\" I\'ve never been to Mexico, but I have shopped in grocery stores that, for a certain red-headed, SPF-60 addict, required an English-Spanish dictionary.\r\n\r\nAll of that said (yes, I\'m about to get to the actual food part of this post), I love to get my nosh on at El Rio Verde.\r\n\r\n<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4111727895/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2635/4111727895_277a34a815_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAt 38 N. Trenton, just off Admiral and Utica, its safe to say the location is right for authentic Mexican food. The decor is spot on, too.\r\n\r\n<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4112493202/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2766/4112493202_0280d2d418_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4112493844/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2540/4112493844_d8540fa375_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWhile conservative talk radio personality Neal Boortz isn\'t exactly my top pick for best-ever radio show host, I love what I heard him say once about Mexican food restaurants. He likes \'em bright, he likes \'em gaudy and he likes \'em pretty darn near offensive to the eye. The more cacophonous and contrived the decor, he says, the better the food.\r\n\r\nI couldn\'t agree more.\r\n\r\n<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4111728539/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2583/4111728539_04dae0a629_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThis, ladies and gents, is the fabled El Rio Verde wet burrito. It\'s one of the first things folks hear about when they come into town and ask where to get some good food - food that is distinctly Tulsa. \r\n\r\nWhat it is: A steering-wheel-sized flour tortilla packed with pulled beef (or pork or chicken), refried beans, fresh pico de gallo, rainbows, ponies and baby giggles. It\'s smothered in a rich enchilada sauce and topped with a few hands full of queso blanco. Sour cream and fresh guac are stacked on top almost humorously, like eyes.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4111728405/\" title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2550/4111728405_21bb79b8cc.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAnyone still feeling snooty about authentic Mexican food? I know a lot of folks say that once cheese and refried beans come into the mix, a dish ceases to be authentic Mexican food. To those people I say, fine. \r\n\r\nAll the more for me.\r\n\r\nFor all of this my debit card was charged a mere $6, a bargain for a platter-sized lunch, and I was allowed to continue to sit at my table to chatter with my friend and dining buddy, and our basket of housemade tortilla chips and salsa were refilled regularly. We didn\'t even hear a tisk-tisk. My buddy and I, we were in real-girl heaven.\r\n\r\nGirls, don\'t let anyone tell you it\'s not ladylike to eat the entire thing. I did, and no one looked at me sideways. \r\n\r\nGuys, if you can\'t eat a whole wet burrito, you\'d better have the cash for a tip to make up for it. You can\'t slack on the machismo in a place like El Rio Verde and expect to get away with it.\r\n\r\n<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4112492926/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2613/4112492926_ed3142ed72_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nHave you made your way to El Rio Verde? What do you order there? I hear the breakfast is good enough to send a person right back to bed.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/58/630524/restaurant/TU-Kendall-Whittier/El-Rio-Verde-Tulsa\"><img style=\"border: none; height: 146px; width: 200px;\" src=\"http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/630524/biglink.gif\" alt=\"El Rio Verde on Urbanspoon\" /></a>','El Rio Verde: The Wet Burrito','This, ladies and gents, is the fabled El Rio Verde wet burrito. It\'s one of the first things folks hear about when they come into town and ask where to get some good food - food that is distinctly Tulsa. ','publish','open','open','','el-rio-verde-wet-burrito','','','2011-02-09 22:33:03','2011-02-10 03:33:03','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=354',0,'post','',22),(5788,1,'2011-02-09 22:29:01','2011-02-10 03:29:01','<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4112492926/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2613/4112492926_ed3142ed72_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nHaving lived in Tulsa for more than a quarter century, I\'ve had my share of meals that by most accounts would fall into the Mexican genre of food.\r\n\r\nSet down in front of me on technicolor Fiestaware has been everything from a cheese-doused, deep-fried chimichanga filled with Rotel and composite chicken to handmade tamales I had to order either in Spanish or by number from one of those back-lit menu boards we know from snack bars at high school basketball games.\r\n\r\nI know I just painted the opposite ends of the spectrum of what could feasibly be called Mexican food in the lower Midwest. But, here\'s the deal: I\'m not one of those food writers who leads a concurrent life as a food snob. Sure, I like fine food and dishes that resonate with authenticity. But, I also like bagged tortilla chips and several brands of canned enchilada sauce. I\'d eat the dishes I described in the preceding paragraph with equal satisfaction. And vigor. And by dirtying the same number of napkins.\r\n\r\nA secret: All the great food writers are messy eaters. Don\'t let anyone ever tell you otherwise. This is one of the easier ways to aspire to greatness in our lives.\r\n\r\nSince my opinion on the importance of authenticity of cuisine is neither here nor there, I\'m also not one of those food writers who is hellbent on globetrotting to discover how different foods are \"supposed to be prepared.\" I\'ve never been to Mexico, but I have shopped in grocery stores that, for a certain red-headed, SPF-60 addict, required an English-Spanish dictionary.\r\n\r\nAll of that said (yes, I\'m about to get to the actual food part of this post), I love to get my nosh on at El Rio Verde.\r\n\r\n<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4111727895/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2635/4111727895_277a34a815_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAt 38 N. Trenton, just off Admiral and Utica, its safe to say the location is right for authentic Mexican food. The decor is spot on, too.\r\n\r\n<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4112493202/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2766/4112493202_0280d2d418_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4112493844/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2540/4112493844_d8540fa375_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWhile conservative talk radio personality Neal Boortz isn\'t exactly my top pick for best-ever radio show host, I love what I heard him say once about Mexican food restaurants. He likes \'em bright, he likes \'em gaudy and he likes \'em pretty darn near offensive to the eye. The more cacophonous and contrived the decor, he says, the better the food.\r\n\r\nI couldn\'t agree more.\r\n\r\n<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4111728539/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2583/4111728539_04dae0a629_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThis, ladies and gents, is the fabled El Rio Verde wet burrito. It\'s one of the first things folks hear about when they come into town and ask where to get some good food - food that distinctly Tulsa. \r\n\r\nWhat it is: A steering-wheel-sized flour tortilla packed with pulled beef (or pork or chicken), refried beans, fresh pico de gallo, rainbows, ponies and baby giggles. It\'s smothered in a rich enchilada sauce and topped with a few hands full of queso blanco. Sour cream and fresh guac are stacked on top almost humorously, like eyes.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4111728405/\" title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2550/4111728405_21bb79b8cc.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAnyone still feeling snooty about authentic Mexican food? I know a lot of folks say that once cheese and refried beans come into the mix, a dish ceases to be authentic Mexican food. To those people I say, fine. \r\n\r\nAll the more for me.\r\n\r\nFor all of this my debit card was charged a mere $6, a bargain for a platter-sized lunch, and I was allowed to continue to sit at my table to chatter with my friend and dining buddy, and our basket of housemade tortilla chips and salsa were refilled regularly. We didn\'t even hear a tisk-tisk. My buddy and I, we were in real-girl heaven.\r\n\r\nGirls, don\'t let anyone tell you it\'s not ladylike to eat the entire thing. I did, and no one looked at me sideways. \r\n\r\nGuys, if you can\'t eat a whole wet burrito, you\'d better have the cash for a tip to make up for it. You can\'t slack on the machismo in a place like El Rio Verde and expect to get away with it.\r\n\r\n<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4112492926/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2613/4112492926_ed3142ed72_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nHave you made your way to El Rio Verde? What do you order there? I hear the breakfast is good enough to send a person right back to bed.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/58/630524/restaurant/TU-Kendall-Whittier/El-Rio-Verde-Tulsa\"><img style=\"border: none; height: 146px; width: 200px;\" src=\"http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/630524/biglink.gif\" alt=\"El Rio Verde on Urbanspoon\" /></a>','El Rio Verde: The Wet Burrito','This, ladies and gents, is the fabled El Rio Verde wet burrito. It\'s one of the first things folks hear about when they come into town and ask where to get some good food - food that distinctly Tulsa. ','inherit','open','open','','354-revision-4','','','2011-02-09 22:29:01','2011-02-10 03:29:01','',354,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2011/02/354-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(5786,1,'2011-02-09 22:23:04','2011-02-10 03:23:04','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4112492926/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2613/4112492926_ed3142ed72_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a></div>\r\n\r\nHaving lived in Tulsa for more than a quarter century, I\'ve had my share of meals that by most accounts would fall into the Mexican genre of food.\r\n\r\nSet down in front of me on technicolor Fiestaware has been everything from a cheese-doused, deep-fried chimichanga filled with Rotel and composite chicken to handmade tamales I had to order either in Spanish or by number from one of those back-lit menu boards we know from snack bars at high school basketball games.\r\n\r\nI know I just painted the opposite ends of the spectrum of what could feasibly be called Mexican food in the lower Midwest. But, here\'s the deal: I\'m not one of those food writers who leads a concurrent life as a food snob. Sure, I like fine food and dishes that resonate with authenticity. But, I also like bagged tortilla chips and several brands of canned enchilada sauce. I\'d eat the dishes I described in the preceding paragraph with equal satisfaction. And vigor. And by dirtying the same number of napkins.\r\n\r\nA secret: All the great food writers are messy eaters. Don\'t let anyone ever tell you otherwise. This is one of the easier ways to aspire to greatness in our lives.\r\n\r\nSince my opinion on the importance of authenticity of cuisine is neither here nor there, I\'m also not one of those food writers who is hellbent on globetrotting to discover how different foods are \"supposed to be prepared.\" I\'ve never been to Mexico, but I have shopped in grocery stores that, for a certain red-headed, SPF-60 addict, required an English-Spanish dictionary.\r\n\r\nAll of that said (yes, I\'m about to get to the actual food part of this post), I love to get my nosh on at El Rio Verde.\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4111727895/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2635/4111727895_277a34a815_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAt 38 N. Trenton, just off Admiral and Utica, its safe to say the location is right for authentic Mexican food. The decor is spot on, too.\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4112493202/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2766/4112493202_0280d2d418_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4112493844/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2540/4112493844_d8540fa375_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWhile conservative talk radio personality Neal Boortz isn\'t exactly my top pick for best-ever radio show host, I love what I heard him say once about Mexican food restaurants. He likes \'em bright, he likes \'em gaudy and he likes \'em pretty darn near offensive to the eye. The more cacophonous and contrived the decor, he says, the better the food.\r\n\r\nI couldn\'t agree more.\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4111728539/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2583/4111728539_04dae0a629_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThis, ladies and gents, is the fabled El Rio Verde wet burrito. It\'s one of the first things folks hear about when they come into town and ask where to get some good food - food that distinctly Tulsa. \r\n\r\nWhat it is: A steering-wheel-sized flour tortilla packed with pulled beef (or pork or chicken), refried beans, fresh pico de gallo, rainbows, ponies and baby giggles. It\'s smothered in a rich enchilada sauce and topped with a few hands full of queso blanco. Sour cream and fresh guac are stacked on top almost humorously, like eyes.\r\n\r\n<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4111728405/\"><span style=\"-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;\"> </span></a><a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4111728405/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2550/4111728405_e728ddb8d1_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nAnyone still feeling snooty about authentic Mexican food? I know a lot of folks say that once cheese and refried beans come into the mix, a dish ceases to be authentic Mexican food. To those people I say, fine. \r\n\r\nAll the more for me.\r\n\r\nFor all of this my debit card was charged a mere $6, a bargain for a platter-sized lunch, and I was allowed to continue to sit at my table to chatter with my friend and dining buddy, and our basket of housemade tortilla chips and salsa were refilled regularly. We didn\'t even hear a tisk-tisk. My buddy and I, we were in real-girl heaven.\r\n\r\nGirls, don\'t let anyone tell you it\'s not ladylike to eat the entire thing. I did, and no one looked at me sideways. \r\n\r\nGuys, if you can\'t eat a whole wet burrito, you\'d better have the cash for a tip to make up for it. You can\'t slack on the machismo in a place like El Rio Verde and expect to get away with it.\r\n\r\n<a title=\"El Rio Verde by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\" href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4112492926/\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2613/4112492926_ed3142ed72_o.jpg\" alt=\"El Rio Verde\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" /></a>\r\n\r\nHave you made your way to El Rio Verde? What do you order there? I hear the breakfast is good enough to send a person right back to bed.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/58/630524/restaurant/TU-Kendall-Whittier/El-Rio-Verde-Tulsa\"><img style=\"border: none; height: 146px; width: 200px;\" src=\"http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/630524/biglink.gif\" alt=\"El Rio Verde on Urbanspoon\" /></a>','El Rio Verde: The Wet Burrito','This, ladies and gents, is the fabled El Rio Verde wet burrito. It\'s one of the first things folks hear about when they come into town and ask where to get some good food - food that distinctly Tulsa. ','inherit','open','open','','354-revision-2','','','2011-02-09 22:23:04','2011-02-10 03:23:04','',354,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/2011/02/354-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(355,1,'2009-11-18 17:51:00','2009-11-18 17:51:00','If you work or live in downtown Tulsa, odds are that you have seen this man:<br /><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4115542190/\" title=\"Chris the Guitar Guy by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2752/4115542190_118b171b34_o.jpg\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" alt=\"Chris the Guitar Guy\" /></a></div><br />It seems sometimes that it can\'t be too cold or windy or rainy for the Guitar Man, reportedly named Chris, to break out his guitar and belt out some 1970s rock classics.<br /><br />I don\'t work downtown anymore and I with much remorse and gnashing of teeth have come to terms with the fact that I don\'t live downtown, either. So, when I do go downtown, I like to find Chris and toss him a word or two of encouragement. Also, I videotape him. It\'s my little way of hoarding the good times.<br /><br />In case he\'s not out today, here\'s your fix of the best darned Ted Nugent cover ever, by none other than Chris the Guitar Man.<br /><br /><object width=\"640\" height=\"385\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/PO0NWieDccY&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\"><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\"><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/PO0NWieDccY&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" width=\"640\" height=\"385\"></embed></object>','The Guitar Man','','publish','open','open','','guitar-man','','','2009-11-18 17:51:00','2009-11-18 17:51:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=355',0,'post','',4),(356,1,'2009-11-19 16:15:00','2009-11-19 16:15:00','<div>I\'ll be doing something a little out of the ordinary tonight. </div><div><br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4007002592/\" title=\"Anatomy of a Blogger by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2595/4007002592_fcae9a754e_o.jpg\" width=\"819\" height=\"1269\" alt=\"Anatomy of a Blogger\" /></a><br /><br /></div><div>Instead of donning my stretchy pants and lounging at some coffeehouse somewhere or leisurely sipping wine at a cafe or working feverishly on the weekend rundown (which is the <i>real</i> way I usually spend my Thursday nights, but not this time - it\'s already done! It goes live later tonight, so keep your eyes open), I\'ll be ticking off the merits of spandex and nylon as I attempt to shimmy into a little black cocktail dress. </div><div><br /></div><div>Why would I do such a thing? Because tonight I\'ll be <a href=\"http://thetulseys.com/\">at Cain\'s Ballroom presenting a Tulsey award to who the people of Tulsa believe to be the top Civic entrepreneur in this here town</a>, right alongside <a href=\"http://www.uplatetv.com/\">the pretty face known as Ben Sumner</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Ben and I are nominated for Tulsey awards, too, along with a few dozen other T-Towners who spend their days making stuff up and then, sometimes wild-eyed and sometimes on little-to-no sleep, act on their crazy ideas.  </div><div><br /></div><div>This second annual Tulsey Awards ceremony, presided over by Mayor Kathy Taylor, is part of <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/unleashingideas?ref=search&amp;sid=1148295116.3480316980..1\">Tulsa\'s celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week</a>. Taking place two days after <a href=\"http://www.tulsaspiritaward.com/\">Mayor Taylor\'s Entrepreneurial Spirit Award</a>, the crown jewel of this week of events to both facilitate and show off local businesspeople, the Tulsey Awards are to the People\'s Choice Awards as the Spirit Award is to months\' worth of preparation, presentation, general gnashing of teeth and $30,000 of cold, hard cash in prize/seed money. </div><div><br /></div><div>True to the spectacle that people\'s choice awards tend to be, the Tulseys will resemble the format of the Academy Awards, except with less cleavage. I think. Actually, I\'m not sure. This is my first time out, and I don\'t really know what to expect. There could be boobs everywhere a person looks tonight, for all I know. </div><div><br /></div><div>See for yourselves (and help me by using your mind powers to will me to not fall off my heels) by showing up at <a href=\"http://cainsballroom.com/\">Cain\'s Ballroom tonight, 423 N. Main Street</a>, at 7pm. Everyone gets in free, and I bet there will be plenty of Chex Mix available. </div><div><br /></div><div>In case awards ceremonies aren\'t your thing, there are a ton of other things to do tonight. Check it out:</div><br /><div style=\"text-align: center;\"><img src=\"http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs023.snc3/11065_1246191748258_1033347794_30785951_7466685_n.jpg\" /></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Joe Momma\'s Birthday Party</b></div><div>When: All day until close tonight</div><div>Where: Joe Momma\'s Downtown, 112 S. Elgin Ave. </div><div>We\'ve all heard that old adage that 90-something percent of new restaurants fail within a year. That old one-liner doesn\'t apply to ultra-hip, super-yummy Tulsa pizza parlors in downtown Tulsa, apparently. Help owner Blake Ewing and the Joe Momma\'s gang celebrate 365 days in business by stopping by the shop at 112 S. Elgin Ave. for a free piece of birthday cake and the chance to win prizes and enter giveaways. Hang around until 9pm to catch a free edition of that game that Joe Momma\'s is helping to make a Tulsa institution, live trivia. Then, order a late-nite pie and relax to the tunes of Ben Kilgore at 10pm. </div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Philbrook Museum: Facebook Fan Free Day and Third Thursday</b></div><div>When: 10:30am-8pm</div><div>Where: Philbrook Museum, 2727 S. Rockford Ave.</div><div>Not only is admission free for all of Philbrook\'s nearly 7,500 fans today, but it\'s also Third Thursday. The program this time? Design Decoded, a look into the world of industrial design through the works of Charles and Ray Eames, Isamu Noguchi, Yves Behar and others part of the Kravis collection now at Philbrook. First thing this evening, starting at 5:30pm, take the design challenge and use the materials provided by the folks at Philbrook to create your own mini-chair. Then, hear curator David Hanks\' insight into the influence of design in our lives. At the end of the evening, prizes will be awarded for the best chair. Not that you need me to tell you, but be sure to pick up a drink at the cash bar. A glass of wine or two will help when you and your beautiful face are asked to pose for the next series of Philbrook ads - a photographer will be on site shooting for the next campaign.<br /></div><div><br /><b>Oklahoma Ink</b></div><div><b><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-weight: normal;\">When: 6-8pm</span></b></div><div><b><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-weight: normal;\">Where: Harwelden Mansion, 2210 S. Main Street<br /></span></b>Guarantee your holiday gift is original and won\'t someday double as firewood - give signed copies of books by Oklahoma authors. The 5th annual Oklahoma Ink is the book fair that raises funds for the Tulsa Press Club scholarship fund, do you can do your Christmas shopping at the same time you support future journalists. Oklahoma authors attending this year have written books ranging from mysteries and histories to tales of business success and politics. <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=164327333497&amp;index=1\">Find a complete list of authors on the Oklahoma Ink Facebook page</a>.<br /></div><div><br /></div></div><b>Jenks Lights On</b><div>When: 6pm</div><div>Where: Downtown Antique District of Jenks, OK</div><div>The Jenks shopkeepers have decorated their windows with the theme of “A Christmas Night of Lights.” Grab your friends, family, and neighbors and hit Main Street Jenks as Travis Meyer, Chief Meteorologist with KOTV Channel 6, will lead the countdown to Lights On live at 6pm. Don\'t forget to hop on a carriage ride, and be sure to catch entertainment provided by Jenks High School’s vocal performance group, The Trojanaires.</div><div><div><b><br /><object width=\"640\" height=\"385\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/hczhoG2UG5s&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\"><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\"><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/hczhoG2UG5s&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x234900&amp;color2=0x4e9e00\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" width=\"640\" height=\"385\"></embed></object><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-weight: bold; \">Latte Art Throw Down</span></div><div>When: Sign up at 6pm, competition at 7pm</div><div>Where: Topeca Coffee, </div><div>Think you can pour a mean milk foam heart? Get your shot at some prize money and bragging rights for a mere $5 entry. And, in case you didn\'t know, latte art is an exciting spectator sport. If you\'re going to be sitting down with a cup of coffee this evening anyway, why not get in on the ruckus at Topeca?</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Make a Wish Party With a Purpose</b></div><div>When: 7-9pm</div><div>Where: Clubhouse Bar &amp; Grill, 105th and Memorial in the SpiritBank Event Center</div><div>Grab your big, gold hoop earrings from the eighties and all those tulip rings you collected in the nineties and point the car toward Bixby, friends, because it\'s time to turn that tired jewelry into the stuff of dreams. Tulsa Gold &amp; Silver will be on site to make the gold-to-cash conversion so that you can pass your greenbacks to Make a Wish Foundation of Oklahoma. <a href=\"http://havesporkwilltravel.blogspot.com/\">Especially if you want to support kids who might survive their illnesses to become immensely talented food photographers and bloggers by granting their wishes for such things as a trip to Disney World</a>, it\'s a great place to give. </div></div>','Tonight, Tonight','','publish','open','open','','tonight-tonight','','','2009-11-19 16:15:00','2009-11-19 16:15:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=356',0,'post','',4),(359,1,'2009-11-24 02:56:00','2009-11-24 02:56:00','<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/tashadoestulsa/4129264641/\" title=\"Turkey at Downing Family Farm by Tasha Does Tulsa, on Flickr\"><img src=\"http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2599/4129264641_2d855b3396_o.jpg\" width=\"472\" height=\"480\" alt=\"Turkey at Downing Family Farm\" /></a></div><div><br /></div>The fable of the grasshopper and the ant is an allegory for how hard work during good times can prepare a person for the struggles that lie ahead. That rings true for lovers of Tulsa-grown food as it did for their agrarian grandparents before them.<br /><br />If no one raised his own meat, dairy and eggs and no one preserved summer’s bounty to supplement a cellar full of winter squashes, everyone would be headed to the grocery store for apples grown in Fiji and meat raised by factory foremen rather than local farmers.<br /><br />As <a href=\"http://cherrystreetfarmersmarket.com\">Cherry Street Farmers Market</a>, the largest farmers market in the Tulsa area, came to a close this summer, though, one man had an idea.<br /><br />“My customers would ask, ‘What am I going to do without your eggs?’ and, ‘I don’t want to have to go a grocery store for my chicken,’” said <a href=\"http://www.downingfamilyfarm.com/\">Wes Downing of Downing Family Farm</a>, 90 miles northeast of Tulsa in Grove.<br /><br />After some thought and a little hustling for partnerships, Tulsa Clean Food Market was born.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://tulsabusiness.com/industry_article.asp?cID=i&amp;aID=317041902.2786478.650793.2352656.4605661.936&amp;aID2=50052\">Learn more about the Tulsa Clean Food Market on the Food page of this week\'s edition of Tulsa Business Journal</a>.<br /><br /><div class=\"zemanta-pixie\" style=\"margin-top:10px;height:15px\"><a class=\"zemanta-pixie-a\" href=\"http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/8f959dcf-cfc4-4c82-a01c-d584ecbfbf91/\" title=\"Reblog this post [with Zemanta]\"><img class=\"zemanta-pixie-img\" src=\"http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=8f959dcf-cfc4-4c82-a01c-d584ecbfbf91\" alt=\"Reblog this post [with Zemanta]\" style=\"border:none;float:right\" /></a><span class=\"zem-script more-related pretty-attribution\"><script type=\"text/javascript\" src=\"http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js\" defer=\"defer\"></script></span></div>','Food Cooperative Sprouts in the Off Season','','publish','open','open','','food-cooperative-sprouts-in-off-season','','','2009-11-24 02:56:00','2009-11-24 02:56:00','',0,'http://www.tashadoestulsa.com/?p=359',0,'post','',4),