Tulsa, OK February 2026

THE LOVE LOCAL ISSUE

Your home is more than an asset; it's a powerful tool for supporting your next aspiration. Unlock its hidden potential with a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC).

This flexible financing solution is designed to fund major projects and expenses, such as home renovations or other large-scale plans. Qualifying homeowners can access HELOC funds faster and often at a lower interest rate compared to other loan options. When your vision requires funding, Arvest is ready to help. Contact us today to begin.

• One- & Two-Time Closing Options

• Up to 95% Loan-to-Value1

• Interest-Only Payments During Construction2

• Flexible Construction Terms

• Up to 55% Debt-to-Income Ratio

• Easy-to-Use Online Portal

The Conwell Team

Transparency · Certainty · Communication Call or Text: 918-921-5272

Love Where You Live

As February rolls around, I always find myself in a familiar tug-of-war. On one hand, I want to resist the pull of another commercialized holiday; on the other, I can’t help but savor the sweetness it brings—an invitation to pause and celebrate love in all its forms. Whether that looks like a Valentine’s Day date out or a cozy night in, a handwritten note or a simple, heartfelt word, each of us marks the season differently. What matters most is the reminder to show up for the people, places, and passions that mean the most to us.

That idea of showing up is the heartbeat of this month’s issue. February is about connection—romantic, platonic, personal, and communal—and this edition is dedicated to celebrating all the reasons we love where we live and the people who make it special.

We spotlight Katie Harris, whose intentional support of local food, arts, nonprofits, and gatherings reflects the powerful impact of investing in Tulsa and staying deeply connected to the community. Our Galentine’s Guide offers fun, local ways for women to celebrate friendship, from creative classes and cocktail nights around town to cozy, intentional brunches at home. You’ll also meet Dr. Amy Hurlburt, who found renewed purpose by stepping off the traditional medical “hamster wheel” to empower women at every stage of life through holistic care at Empower with Integrity. Read through our piece covering Amber Marie and reflect on the joys of this past holiday season as you hear about how her family and connections in the Tulsa community inspired her during her once-in-a-lifetime experience decorating the White House this past Christmas season.

To sweeten the season , Registered Dietitian Diane Johnson shares how to enjoy chocolate mindfully—highlighting the benefits of dark chocolate alongside a comforting peppermint hot cocoa recipe. And for the four-legged loves in our lives, we take you inside Woodland West Pet Resort, a Tulsa institution built on decades of family legacy, exceptional care, and deep community roots.

This month, we invite you to celebrate love of friends, family, self, and community in ways that feel genuine to you. Because when we choose to show up, Tulsa truly shines.

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Macye Reynolds | macye.reynolds@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Brock Reynolds | brock.reynolds@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT DIRECTOR

Christie Engles

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Kacey Gilpin | kaceygilpinphotography@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sydney Sullivan, Christie Engles

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Heather Broomhall, Lily Siemens

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: The Mahjong Social Club hosts a wide range of gatherings, from beginner lessons and open play to competitive leagues, customized celebrations, travel retreats, and corporate fundraiser events. They bring people together through the shared joy of Mahjong and meaningful social connection. Photography provided by Kacey Gilpin.

Tulsa Body Sculpting

business monthly

ROUNDUP OF

Tulsa Body Sculpting & Collective Wellness: Rebrand and New Services

Tulsa Body Sculpting & Collective Wellness has ushered in an exciting new era under fresh ownership, with a complete rebrand and expanded offerings that go far beyond traditional sculpting. Their spa-like sanctuary now blends advanced body contouring, red light therapy and infrared sauna services with a vibrant wellness collective featuring massage, acupuncture, skincare and more, all designed to help Tulsa look, feel and live their best! Visit TulsaBodySculpting.com today.

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Choose Confidence, Balance, and YOU at Balance Med Spa

Gift yourself wellness, laser, and aesthetic services designed to help you feel your best. Enjoy $150 off your initial hormone management consult and labs, save 25% on a three-month weight loss management program, receive 30% off laser treatments or packages, plus $200 off one syringe of lip filler and 64 units of tox for $499 ($7.80 per unit). Because the best kind of love shows up in the mirror. Visit bhcok.com to learn more!

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Brown Bag Featuring Dr. Milton Fernández Peña, Nuance Music Studio

At Tulsa Performing Arts Center’s Brown Bag It lunchtime concert series, enjoy a free, family-friendly performance by Dr. Milton Fernández Peña, acclaimed Dominicanborn concert pianist and director of Nuance Music Studio in Tulsa. With a doctorate in piano performance and a career spanning international stages, he blends classical and Latin American repertoire with expressive depth. This informal midday event invites music lovers to bring lunch and experience world-class artistry close to home.

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Every woman’s wellness journey is different - and that’s why we offer customized care designed to support her goals, her body and her life.

This February, give more than a gift. Give her the power to choose her wellness. And you’ll be giving her the gift that lasts.

Hormone Optimization

Weight Loss & Metabolic Health

Aesthetic & Skin Rejuvenation

IV Therapy & Energy Support

Intimate & Women’s Wellness

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Day Spa

Tulsa Body Sculpting & Collective Wellness TulsaBodySculpting.com | 918.398.0198

The Path To Wellness TulsaPath.com | 918.494.0082

Emily McClure - Tulsa Esthetician EmilyMcClure1.GlossGenius.com | 918.932.2467

Poppi’s Spa+Lounge TulsaPoppi.com | 918.932.8181

Balance Med Spa Bhcok.com | 918.994.1402

Florist

Toni's Flowers & Gifts TonisFlowersGifts.com | 918.742.9027

Gas Petal Flower Truck GasPetal.com | 918.356.9377

Anthousai Florals AnthousaiFlorals.com

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Tulsa Blossom Shoppe TulsaBlossom.com | 918.663.3030

Ever Something EverSomething.com | 918.361.4859

Art Gallery

M A Doran Gallery MaDoranGallery.com | 918.748.8700

Exhibit Art Gallery

ExhibitArtGallery.com | 918.740.1054

Living Arts of Tulsa LivingArts.org | 918.585.1234

Lovetts Gallery LovettsGallery.com | 918.664.4732

Philbrook Museum of Art Philbrook.org | 918.749.7941

Wine Bar

Sidecar Barley & Wine Bar SDCRbar.com | 918.209.5697

Vintage Wine Bar WineBarTulsa.com | 918.764.9255

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar FlemingsSteakHouse.com | 918.712.7500

Water’s Edge Winery Wewba.com | 918.286.0086

Pecan Creek Winery PecanCreekWinery.com | 918.683.1087

Bakery

Country Bird Bakery CountryBirdBakery.com

Common Tart CommonTart.com | 918.764.8298

Ludger's Bavarian Cakery LudgersBavarianCakery.com | 918.622.2537

Antoinette Bakery & Cafe AntoinetteBakingCo.com | 539.777.1674

Little J's Baking Co. LittleJsBakeShoppeCoffee.toast.site | 918.995.7979

Sip, Savor, and Thrive

As a Registered Dietitian, Diane Johnson is passionate about providing nutrition support and services to individuals looking to enhance their personal health and well-being. Diane offers nutrition services to teach you how to eat to achieve a healthy weight and lifelong relationship with food. Additionally, Diane is a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, helping individuals overcome over-, under-, emotional, and restrictive eating. Diane offers 1-on-1 nutrition assessments to better understand your nutrition related goals and follow up consultations to track progress, adjust plans, and provide ongoing support. In addition to providing personalized meal plans, Diane offers quick and healthy recipes, grocery store lists, and

accountability through MyFitnessPal to help make nutritious eating relaxing and fun! Connect with Diane by emailing DianeaRobison@gmail.com and follow her on instagram @FuelYourFeet.

BENEFITS OF DARK CHOCOLATE

What makes dark chocolate so special? Interestingly enough, it contains a compound called PEA or phenylethylamine, a chemical in the brain responsible for boosting mood and feelings of passion. Dark chocolate is also made with a higher percentage of cocoa, which means it has less sugar and contains anti-inflammatory polyphenols and flavonoids. These compounds can improve heart health and brain function, including memory and focus. Look for dark chocolate made with 70%+ cocoa.

HOT COCOA RECIPE

Peppermint Hot Cocoa with Marshmallow Cold Foam

Ingredients

• Peppermint Hot Cocoa:

• 1.5 cups favorite type of milk

• 2 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2-3 oz. chopped dark chocolate bar, at least 70% cocoa

• 2 tsp. maple syrup

• 2 drops peppermint extract

• ½ tsp. cinnamon

• Dash of sea salt

• Marshmallow Cold Foam:

• 2 tbsp. heavy cream

• 2 tbsp favorite type of milk

• 1 tbsp. marshmallow crème

Directions

1. Heat milk in a saucepan on medium to low.

2. Once milk begins to warm up, add cocoa powder. Stir to combine.

3. Add dark chocolate, maple syrup, peppermint extract, cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir until chocolate melts. Cover and keep on low heat.

4. Combine 2 tbsp. heavy cream, 2 tbsp. milk of choice, and 1 tbsp. marshmallow crème in a blender. Blend for 30 seconds or until foamy.

5. Pour hot cocoa into a mug, top with marshmallow cold foam, and enjoy!

Preventing,

Gut

Brain

Multi-Cancer

Psychological

Acupuncture

Specialized

Listening Carefully to your Story

Incorporating Evidence Based, Integrative and Functional Medicine Approaches

Reaching optimal health by focusing on holistic care

Taking Time to Help Set and Achieve Individual Health Goals

Living Local

When Katie Harris talks about Tulsa, it’s clear she doesn’t just live here, she participates in the heartbeat of the city. Her love for local business begins with food. KEO’s Tom Kha soup is a staple she swears by, and when it comes to sandwiches, she doesn’t hesitate to recommend the Coolio from Trenchers or the Nashville Hot chicken sandwich from Chicken and the Wolf. For a date night or an evening out, she gravitates toward memorable places like Red Rock Canyon Grill, Boston Title and Abstract (where she suggests sitting at the bar), and Baron’s on First Street. Beyond food, Katie also supports other locally owned favorites like Kai downtown for Vietnamese cuisine, Vanity Nail Salon, Phase One for fitness, and shopping destinations such as J. Cole and Amber Marie, showing that Tulsa’s best gems are often the ones built by neighbors.

For Katie, supporting Tulsa goes far beyond where you eat and shop. She believes in strengthening the city through intentional choices: volunteering at places like Irongate, donating to nonprofits such as Family and Children Services, and pouring resources into historically meaningful areas like Black Wall Street and the Greenwood District. She also emphasizes the importance of supporting local sports teams like FC Tulsa and the Drillers, whose players are world-class athletes. In her eyes, being part of Tulsa means investing time, attention, and resources back into the community that sustains us.

Katie recognizes that building connections in Tulsa requires effort, especially for young women navigating a new city. She understands how easy it is to feel isolated, but her advice is to step outside of your comfort zone and show up where people gather—whether that’s a Tulsa girl walk, a philanthropy group, or something as simple as a sunset happy hour at the Gathering Place. She points out that the Sunset Social event happens every third Thursday of the month, and it’s just one of many ways Tulsa creates opportunities for the community. “Tulsa has an incredible community of talented, inspiring people; you just have to know where to go to find them,” she says.

Another place where Tulsa’s identity shines is in its arts scene, which Katie calls “unbelievable.” She urges people to experience it firsthand, whether through the Tulsa Ballet, the symphony, First Friday events, or Broadway shows presented by Bway Tulsa. She acknowledges that when people feel stretched financially, art can seem like a luxury, but believes that’s exactly when it matters most. Investing in creativity, beauty, and storytelling helps keep a city inspired and alive.

When asked how she keeps up with everything happening locally, Katie credits social media. She recommends following organizations like Experience Tulsa, Tulsa Remote, FC Tulsa, the Drillers, Tulsa PAC, and Tulsa Ballet to stay informed.

Katie paints a picture of a city rich with character, talent, and connection—one that thrives when its people participate. From a bowl of Tom Yum soup to a ticket at the ballet, every choice to support local adds to the community’s growth. Tulsa isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place to engage, uplift, and discover. And all it asks, as Katie reminds us, is that we show up.

“Tulsa has an incredible community of talented, inspiring people; you just have to know where to go to find them.”

WOODLAND WEST PET RESORT

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY SULLIVAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER BROOMHALL

FROM A FAMILY’S LOVE FOR ANIMALS TO OKLAHOMA’S LARGEST ALL-INCLUSIVE PET RESORT, WOODLAND WEST BLENDS CARE, COMMUNITY, AND COMFORT FOR EVERY FURRY FRIEND.

There are places in Tulsa that feel quietly iconic, not because they seek attention, but because they have been built with care, consistency, and heart over decades. Woodland West Pet Resort is one of those places. Set on 80 acres just off Highway 75 and Jenks Road, it has grown into one of the largest pet resorts in the country, yet it still carries the warmth and familiarity of a family operation that knows its community well.

The roots of Woodland West trace back to 1966, when Kent Clark’s father returned to the Tulsa area from Arizona and opened Woodland Animal Hospital. What began as a small veterinary clinic later grew into a network of seven animal hospitals in the Tulsa area and 72 locations nationwide. Animals were always at the center of family life. Kent’s twin sister followed in their father’s footsteps to become a veterinarian, while their mother built an extraordinary career as a professional dog handler then later an international dog show judge, earning top honors at the Westminster Dog show and traveling the world with her dogs. In 1989, the first version of Woodland West took shape simply as a place for her to house show dogs, a practical solution that would quietly grow into something far more meaningful.

Kent assumed a leadership role earlier than expected. When his father required bilateral knee replacements, Kent returned home from school to help run the business, finishing his degree at Oklahoma State University while managing daily operations. That pivotal period shaped his leadership style and long-term vision, rooted in stewardship and respect for the family legacy. While his father went on to build and sell 72 animal hospitals nationwide between 1994 and 2004, Woodland West remained anchored in Tulsa, growing intentionally while preserving its personal, community-first character.

Today, Woodland West is the largest all-inclusive pet resort in Oklahoma, recognized year after year as Tulsa Best Pet Resort and named Tulsa Regional Chamber’s Family Owned Business of the Year. A major turning point came in 2022 with the opening of a 16,000 square foot expansion that doubled the resort’s capacity. Even with that growth, the experience remains carefully curated. Dogs are temperament tested, play is structured and supervised, and energy levels are thoughtfully balanced across three outdoor parks and an indoor arena, all supported by attentive staff to ensure every dog feels safe and engaged.

Safety, trust, and communication is the foundation of the experience. Woodland West is open and staffed seven days a week, 365 days a year, with electronic monitoring and security systems throughout the property. Live feed cameras in many luxury suites and daycare yards allow pet parents to check in at any time, while a team of more than 80 staff members ensures individualized care. Transparency is a priority here, even when it means overcommunicating, because peace of mind is part of the promise.

Beyond the resort itself, Woodland West is deeply connected to the Tulsa community. Kent has served as chair of the Jenks Chamber of Commerce Board and continues his involvement as a board member, while also serving on the Tulsa Regional Chamber Board of Advisors. The resort actively supports rescue organizations and animal-focused events like Wooftstock and 12 Strays of Christmas, reinforcing a commitment to giving back that mirrors the care shown within its gates.

Looking ahead, Woodland West shows no signs of slowing down. Exciting plans are in motion for a senior pet care center, ensuring dogs receive the same attentive care at every stage of life. New luxury suites are also on the horizon, complete with 24/7 cameras, themed rooms, and twin-size beds that make boarding feel like a home away from home. From Puppy Pre K classes for 11-week-old pups to boot camps and private training sessions, every program is designed with love and purpose. At its heart, Woodland West remains exactly what it has always been: a place where dogs are celebrated by name, families feel truly seen, and Tulsa’s devotion to its pets shines through in every detail.

“ABOVE EVERYTHING ELSE, SAFETY COMES FIRST FOR US. FROM THERE, IT’S ABOUT BEING RELIABLE AND EARNING THE TRUST OF EVERY PET PARENT WHO WALKS THROUGH OUR DOORS.” - KENT CLARK

COMMEMORATING Community & Country

A Tulsa Family’s White House Moment

ARTICLE BY CHRISTIE ENGLES

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Since its founding in 2004, Amber Marie + Company has become a trusted name throughout Tulsa. For more than two decades, Amber Marie and her mother have infused homes, storefronts, and gathering spaces with a signature style rooted in warmth, intention, and a deep love for their community. So when Amber was selected as one of just 145 decorators—chosen from more than 12,000 applicants nationwide—to help decorate the White House for Christmas, the moment felt full circle for her and her team.

“This opportunity really belongs to Tulsa as much as it does to me,” Amber says. “Our community is the reason Amber Marie + Company has been able to grow, thrive, and be trusted with something as personal as decorating someone’s home.”

Each year, the White House invites decorators from across the country to apply for the honor of volunteering during its annual Christmas transformation. Applicants submit examples of their work, accompanied by a personal narrative explaining why the opportunity holds significance for them.

“This opportunity really belongs to Tulsa as much as it does to me,” Amber says. “Our community is the reason Amber Marie + Company has been able to grow, thrive, and be trusted with something as personal as decorating someone’s home.”

For Amber, that story is rooted in family. Her lineage reflects a legacy of service to both country and community. Her grandfather immigrated to the United States from Czechoslovakia, built a local business, and became known for decorating windows throughout the community. Her father and uncle continued that tradition of service, with her father serving in Vietnam. These multigenerational ties fostered a lasting connection for Amber and her family to Tulsa and to the American people.

“It felt like a way I could serve my country using the gifts I’ve been given,” Amber says. “Decorating is how I know how to contribute.”

After applying in the summer, Amber learned in October that she had been selected. She completed background checks, finalized travel arrangements, and prepared for an intense week of early mornings and long nights.

Just before sunrise on the first day, Amber and the other volunteers boarded buses to an off-site facility to prepare décor. When the time came, they transported thousands of decorations to the White House. Boxes labeled “Blue Room,” “Red Room,” and “Grand Foyer” were carried up the iconic front steps—each one another piece of a beloved national tradition taking shape.

Amber was assigned to the Blue Room, home to the official Gold Star Tree honoring families who have lost loved ones in military service. Representing every U.S. state and territory, it is among the most iconic installations in the White House.

“You don’t think about who the other volunteers will be until you’re there,” Amber says. Her team included participants from Alaska, Florida, Missouri, the Caribbean, and Oklahoma, several of whom were members of Gold Star families. As the group took in the significance of the tree, the experience became deeply moving.

“There were tears. There were hugs,” she recalls. “That tree meant something deeply personal to all of us working on it.”

Inside the White House, every detail was handled with care. Volunteers worked alongside designers and under the watchful eyes of historians, archivists, and the Secret Service to ensure that nothing, from furniture to floors, was disturbed.

“It really drives home that this isn’t just a building,” Amber says. “It’s the People’s House.”

This year’s Christmas theme, “Home Is Where the Heart Is,” resonated deeply with Amber. Since 2004, she and her mother have built Amber Marie + Company around the belief that the home is central to family life and the broader community. A home is where memories are made and people come together— it should feel welcoming, meaningful, and full of life.

Reflecting on the experience, Amber says it has only deepened her appreciation for Tulsa.

“This city shows up for its small businesses,” she says. “That support is part of how opportunities like this become possible.”

ARTICLE BY CHRISTIE ENGLES

A Galentine’s Guide for The Ladies

EXPERIENCES, NIGHTS OUT, AND WAYS TO CELEBRATE FRIENDSHIP TOGETHER.

Gnomie with My Homie Valentine’s Paint & Sip

Hosted at Paloma’s Plants, this playful paint-and-sip takes place Friday, February 13th, 2026 from 6:30–8:30pm. Tickets are $45 per person and include supplies and instruction.

Wick & Flame Candle Bar

This year, Wick & Flame Candle Bar and The Gas Petal are teaming up for a special candle-and-flower arrangement event! Hosted at Wick & Flame, it promises a fun and memorable experience for any group of gals. Join the event for $100.

One of Tulsa’s best girls’ night out spots. Ideal for Galentine plans centered around shared plates, cocktails, and unhurried conversations. Pricing varies by menu selection.

Hosting a Galentine Brunch

Sometimes the best Galentine celebration happens at home. Hosting a Galentine Brunch allows friends to gather intentionally over charcuterie boards, champagne, and conversation. Provide a photo backdrop, a playlist for the girls, and let the celebration begin!

Cocktail Class: Galentines

Hosted at The Vault, this interactive cocktail class is scheduled for Thursday, February 12th, 2026 at 6:30 PM. Tickets are approximately $40–$50 per person and include guided instruction and cocktails.

Tulsa is more than a city – it’s a lifestyle. As a Realtor, American Dream TV host, and community leader, I offer more than real estate. From exclusive city tours for incoming physicians with Saint Francis Health System to leadership roles within Women’s Council of Realtors and Center Sphere, a national networking organization, my clients gain access to unmatched resources and connections – both in Tulsa and beyond. Whether buying, selling, or investing, I deliver an elevated Tulsa experience.

(918) 607-0406 | @LydiaSellsOK LydiaSellsOK@gmail.com

G H

P O M O D O R O

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY BAILEY

Enjoy this simple, flavorful food for the soul. ‘Po modoro’ means  tomato in Italian, and that’s what this dish is - a fresh tomato sauce with basil, garlic, onion, and olive oil.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 Tbsp salt

• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

• 1/4 cup onion, finely diced

• 4 garlic cloves, finely diced or minced

• 1 lb fresh tomatoes, halved or chopped (I use garden cherry tomatoes if in season or Roma tomatoes are a good choice)

• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

• 3 basil sprigs, divided

• 1 lb. spaghetti

• 1 cup Parmesan, finely grated, divided

• 1 Tbsp butter

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat medium-size Dutch Oven or large skillet over medium heat then add extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt. Once hot, add chopped onion then saute until tender, 2-3 minutes. Add fresh garlic and saute until golden but not brown, another 30 seconds.

2. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan with a pinch of sugar then simmer on medium-low for 20-25 minutes. Stir and press the tomatoes against the bottom and sides of the pan to make saucier. If sauce begins to pop too much, turn down even further. (If sauce starts to thicken too much add pasta water as needed.)

3. Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to boil for the pasta and season generously with salt.

4. When sauce is almost ready, add fresh basil leaves torn into small pieces, plus butter, remaining salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Add more salt to taste if needed.

5. Cook the pasta until it’s just shy of al dente then transfer it to the sauce pot with tongs to finish cooking directly in the sauce. Add splashes of pasta water if needed to cook pasta all the way and to keep it saucy.

6. Toss pasta and sauce with 1/2 Parmesan cheese. Serve in pasta bowls and sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Garnish with fresh basil.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KACEY GILPIN

EMPOWER With INTEGRITY

Dr. Amy Hurlburt on Purpose, Menopause, and Reimagining Women’s Wellness

“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” — Maya Angelou

That philosophy has quietly guided Amy Hurlburt throughout her life. Dr. Amy Hulburt is a physician, board-certified in both Obstetrics and Gynecology and Internal Medicine, and owner of Empower with Integrity, a women’s wellness practice here in Tulsa. She credits her formative years—spent without the internet, social media, or cell phones—for shaping the idealistic outlook she cherishes today. With time to dream and create, and parents who instilled in her the belief that she could be and do anything, Dr. Amy Hurlburt embraced life with a deep sense of possibility. Fast-forward more than forty years, and Dr. Amy Hurlburt is now a physician, though her path to this point was far from linear. Along the way, she traveled, explored, learned, and dreamed. She married a wonderful man, raised two amazing children, completed medical school, and underwent more than one residency. Though she had achieved professional success, Dr. Hurlburt found herself grappling with a sense of disconnection and unfulfillment.

Despite her accomplishments, Dr. Hurlburt began to crave something more—deeper fulfillment and a sense of purpose beyond the daily demands of medicine. The endless layers of electronic medical records, reimbursement challenges, and insurance hurdles weighed heavily, and long hours at work began to encroach on precious family time. She kept “fighting the good

fight,” but felt trapped on a hamster wheel, longing for a path that aligned more closely with her passions and values.

And then came Covid-19, and later menopause or what women know as the experience of going through a second “puberty,” complete with mood swings, mysterious hot flashes, and the occasional “Why is my body doing this?!” moment. “I would have appreciated a manual on this transition,” Amy reflects. And that is when she noticed that women often lacked guidance and reassurance, unaware that they were not alone in this wild, confusing, and sometimes hilarious journey.

It was in this stage of life that Amy rediscovered her purpose: to empower women at all stages. She recognized that women, long accustomed to caring for others, often neglect themselves. Through her work, Dr. Amy Hurlburt aims to help women take control of their health and wellness, an endeavor that reinvigorates her own energy and excitement for life.

Dr. Amy Hurlburt is double-boarded in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Internal Medicine, giving her a unique perspective to address a woman’s overall health. At Empower with Integrity, she focuses on enhancing women’s wellness through personalized prevention, treatment, and aesthetic care. Her mission is to foster confidence, promote holistic well-being, and ensure every patient feels empowered and valued. Guided by integrity, Dr. Amy Hurlburt provides services that honor each woman’s unique journey to health, wellness, and beauty.

“I want to empower women at all stages of their lives.”

ARTICLE BY CHERYL PARTON

BY JANIE JONES

DIY VALENTINES

Simple Projects to Celebrate at Home

The first Valentines were handmade in the 18th century, long before printing presses and mass-produced options. Today, handmade signifies the ultimate in personal mots d’amour.  Enjoy these sweet projects as a couple, a family, or with friends.

1. Arts

Create heart ornaments to hang on a Valentine’s Day tree. The ornaments can be used as clue cards for a Valentine's Day scavenger hunt. Participants find their picture on the tree and hunt for a hidden treasure.

2.Sweets

A home-based holiday is made complete with a dessert table. Whether made from scratch or store bought, a collection of decorated confections is as beautiful as the treats are delectable to eat.

3.Sentiments

Poetry is a most personal way to express your heart. No need to be intimidated by haiku, a short form of Japanese poetry. While there are several variations of the form, a traditional place to begin is with a seasonal word that divides 17 syllables into three lines of five/ seven/five. Simple and sweet.

ARTS SWEETS SENTIMENTS

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 2ND - 8TH

70th Annual Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show

SageNet Center at Expo Square, Tulsa

Get geared up for outdoor adventure at the Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show, featuring 2026 model boats, RVs, campers, and outdoor accessories all under one roof. Whether you’re shopping for your next fishing boat, pontoon, ski boat, or motorhome, this week-long show lets you explore the latest gear, meet exhibitors, and find great show pricing.

FEBRUARY 4TH

Brown Bag It: Dr. Milton Fernández Peña

Tulsa Performing Arts Center, Westby Pavilion | 12:10 PM

Enjoy a free, family-friendly lunchtime concert as acclaimed Dominican pianist Dr. Milton Fernández Peña performs a rich blend of classical and Latin American repertoire. Part of the Brown Bag It series, this informal music experience invites you to bring your lunch and relax while hearing world-class piano artistry.

FEBRUARY 12TH

Valentine’s Dinner at The Meat & Cheese Show

The Meat & Cheese Show, 1306 E 11th St, Tulsa | 7:00 PM

Celebrate Valentine’s Day early with a multi-course chef’s tasting menu in the cozy dining room at The Meat & Cheese Show, a beloved Tulsa specialty food shop and dining experience known for curated ingredients and creative cuisine. Limited seatings mean an intimate evening of thoughtful dishes with optional wine pairings available by advance request.

FEBRUARY 13TH

Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special

Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center | 8:45 PM

Celebrate Valentine’s Week with a romantic candlelit concert featuring live music in an intimate setting. The event offers an atmospheric experience perfect for couples or anyone who enjoys soft lighting and beautiful music. Attendees can enjoy an evening of classical and contemporary favorites performed by talented musicians.

FEBRUARY 20TH – 22ND

Vintage Tulsa Show

Exchange Center at Expo Square, Tulsa

The Vintage Tulsa Show brings Oklahoma’s largest antiques and vintage marketplace to Tulsa with more than 55,000 square feet of collectibles, décor, jewelry, art, and retro treasures from over 150 dealers. Whether you are hunting rare finds or nostalgic pieces, this three-day event offers treasure-hunting excitement and the charm of discovering unique items for home or collection.

FEBRUARY 21ST - 22ND

41st Annual Tulsa Women’s Expo

Central Park Hall at Expo Square, Tulsa

The 41st Annual Tulsa Women’s Expo is a dynamic two-day event celebrating women through shopping, inspiration, and connection. Featuring hundreds of exhibitors, fashion shows, wellness experts, chef demonstrations, and giveaways, it’s a one-stop destination for beauty, lifestyle, home, health, and local businesses—all under one roof.

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THE BALANCE PHILOSOPHY

We believe that optimal health is the foundation of confidence and longevity. Our approach is built on three fundamental pillars: Medical Excellence, Personalized Care, & Holistic Wellness. We’re committed to helping you achieve your beauty and wellness goals, and your journey to optimal health begins with understanding, continues with transformation, and results in a more confident, balanced you.

Discover a New Standard of Care That Merges Modern Medicine with the Art and Science of Aging Well

Experience the Balance Difference for Yourself

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