A Charming Tulsa Weekend: Reconnecting with Family and Southern Hospitality

There’s something uniquely refreshing about a quick weekend escape, especially when it involves family, friends, and the warm embrace of Southern hospitality. Mr. B and I recently returned from just such a getaway to Tulsa, Oklahoma. Phew, what a delightful whirlwind it was! Our last visit to this vibrant Southern city was about two years ago, a memorable trip celebrating Scott’s law school graduation. Needless to say, a return visit was long overdue, and this time, our journey held an even more special purpose: meeting the newest addition to the family.

Friday: A Warm Welcome and a Precious Introduction

The anticipation for our Tulsa trip had been building for weeks. As our plane touched down on Friday evening, a wave of excitement washed over us. Scott, ever the gracious host, was there to greet us at the airport with his usual warm smile. The drive from the airport to their house felt surprisingly quick, as we were buzzing with eagerness to finally meet the star of the weekend: baby Gabriella. We had seen countless photos, of course, but nothing truly prepares you for the joy of holding a new little life in your arms.

From the moment we laid eyes on her, it’s safe to say Mr. B and I were completely smitten. Gabriella was everything we had imagined and more. Her beautiful, soft skin, those impossibly long, tiny fingers that instinctively grasped at ours, and a pair of chubby cheeks that simply made us melt into a chorus of “Ahhhhhh.” Her delicate features and the gentle cooing sounds she made instantly captured our hearts. It was a truly precious moment, the kind that anchors you to the present and reminds you of life’s simplest, most profound joys.

After our heartwarming meet and greet with baby Gabriella, we quickly transitioned into the evening’s plans. We headed over to the home of their wonderful family friends, the Lipes, for a casual and delightful dinner. There’s an undeniable comfort in sharing a meal with loved ones, and a perfectly grilled hamburger, accompanied by a refreshing glass of bubbly, tastes exponentially better when surrounded by familiar faces and heartfelt laughter. It was the perfect start to our Tulsa weekend, a gentle easing into the rhythm of cherished company and delightful conversation.

Saturday: Adventures, Garden Delights, and Birthday Celebrations

Saturday morning dawned bright and clear, promising a day of diverse activities. The boys, Scott and Mr. B, were quick to rise, fueled by the prospect of a day filled with “man things” – specifically, clay shooting. They headed out early, eager for the challenge and camaraderie that such an activity brings, leaving us girls to enjoy a more relaxed pace.

Relaxation and Culinary Inspiration

Jessica and I decided to take the complete opposite approach, embracing a leisurely morning around the house. Their home, nestled in the heart of Tulsa, boasts an absolutely amazing garden. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I was instantly captivated. It was a verdant oasis overflowing with vibrant, fresh tomatoes, fiery jalapenos, and crisp cucumbers. The sight and aroma of such bountiful produce made my inner gardener (and chef!) a little bit jealous. The vivid colors and the promise of garden-fresh flavors were truly inspiring. Regrettably, I was so engrossed in admiring the abundance and perhaps wiping a bit of drool from my chin that I completely forgot to snap a picture. Rest assured, the memory of that flourishing garden is etched in my mind.

Our afternoon unfolded in a similarly delightful fashion. Jessica and I spent hours giggling, sharing stories, and embarking on a culinary adventure, making a fresh garden salad using some of that incredible produce. Of course, a significant portion of our time was joyfully dedicated to playing with Gabriella. This primarily involved a delightful session of “playing dress-up,” complete with an array of adorable bows. Because, as any parent or doting aunt/uncle knows, you can truly never have too many bows when styling a precious baby!

Evening Festivities: Poolside Fun and Birthday Cheers

Once the men returned, invigorated from their outdoor adventures, the evening’s festivities began. We quickly changed into our swimsuits and made our way back over to the Lipes’ house, which had become our social hub for the weekend. Their beautiful backyard, a true testament to Southern living, was the perfect setting for an evening of pool action, barbecuing, and a dual birthday celebration. The Lipes’ home is simply wonderful for lounging; their outdoor space offers plenty of fun things to do, including a charming put-put course, ensuring entertainment for all ages.

Evan, our culinary hero of the evening, was kind enough to grill up some truly delicious pork tenderloins. The aroma wafted through the air, mixing with the scent of chlorine and summer blossoms – a quintessential backyard barbecue experience. I must admit, the picture of those perfectly cooked tenderloins was actually taken by him because yours truly here completely wussed out when it came to standing near the smoky grill. I know, I know. It’s a confession, but clearly, smoke and I are not destined to be friends. My apologies to my lungs and hair, but my taste buds certainly appreciated Evan’s dedication!

After indulging in the savory delights of dinner, we moved on to the sweet highlight: celebrating Chuck and Ella Rose’s birthdays! The centerpiece was a magnificent four-tier German Chocolate cake, a masterpiece that Andrea seemingly “threw together in her sleep.” Okay, perhaps not literally in her sleep, but the woman possesses baking talents that are nothing short of extraordinary. Each layer was perfectly moist, with rich chocolate and a decadent coconut-pecan frosting that left everyone asking for more. The joyous singing of “Happy Birthday” filled the air, a warm culmination of another wonderful day in Tulsa.

Sunday: A Leisurely Brunch and Bittersweet Goodbyes

Our final day in Tulsa, Sunday, was dedicated to pure, unadulterated relaxation. We collectively decided that not a single inch would be moved unnecessarily. Jessica, Gabriella, Mr. B, and I happily spent the entire morning and early afternoon in our pajamas, embracing the slow pace and sheer comfort of being together. The highlight of our lazy Sunday was the creation of a truly magnificent Sunday brunch, fit for a king – or, in this case, a very satisfied quartet of family and friends.

Our brunch spread was a feast for the eyes and the palate. Golden, fluffy pancakes dripping with rich maple syrup, perfectly crisp bacon sizzling on the side, a vibrant platter of fresh, seasonal fruit, and a generous serving of light, airy scrambled eggs accompanied by buttery toast. And, of course, no Sunday brunch is complete without an abundance of freshly brewed coffee to fuel the lingering conversations and laughter. It was the perfect culmination of a weekend spent reconnecting and creating new, cherished memories. The easygoing atmosphere, the delicious food, and the joy of simply existing in each other’s company made for an unforgettable morning.

As the afternoon approached, the inevitable thought of our flight home began to loom. Mr. B and I seriously debated the possibility of missing our flight and permanently moving in after such a wonderful weekend. Scott and Jessica were truly fantastic hosts, embodying the very best of Southern hospitality. Their generosity, warmth, and the effortless way they made us feel at home were remarkable. And Gabriella, well, she is nothing short of amazing – a beautiful, precious addition who brought so much extra joy to our visit.

Our Tulsa weekend getaway was everything we hoped for and more: a perfect blend of relaxation, delicious food, and invaluable time spent with loved ones. It was a reminder of the importance of these connections and the joy of seeing family thrive. Until next time, Tulsa, we’ll carry these warm memories with us.

P.S. Happy Birthday, Kelly! We truly missed you and the boys this weekend and wished you could have joined our Tulsa adventure!