Outdoors

Faith, Family, and the Great Outdoors

Published

5 years ago

November 9, 2020

Walking along the paths cut through her family’s land, Rebecca Stevens reflects on how lucky she was. Raised in a beautiful home with scenic land on a quite road in Overbrook, Okla., she grew up with an appreciation for all things outdoors. Hunting, fishing, and camping are just a few of the things the 21-year-old nursing student enjoys, and she has spent her life becoming a good steward of the land and its inhabitants.

Her faith in God is also of utmost importance. “Church is a particularly important aspect of our lives, and I was raised going to church every Sunday. The few times we missed was because of hunting,” she said with a laugh.

“It was a wonderful way to grow up,” she recalled. “My sister and I would come out and spend the days here in the woods playing. We had all this room to run and play and hide. I was pretty much raised hunting, fishing, and camping.”

At first glance, Rebecca doesn’t appear to be the outdoors’ type, if there is such a thing. Tall and lean, she looks more apt to be in the pages of a magazine than in a deer blind. Those assumptions are quickly belied by a deep knowledge, love, and appreciation for nature.

Getting Started

Rebecca comes by her love of wildlife honestly. Her father, Russell Stevens, has been a strategic consultation manager and a wildlife and range consultant in the producer relations program at the Noble Research Institute for more than 30 years. Her grandfather Larry Stevens, affectionately nicknamed Papa, built recurve bows for years. “Papa built recurves, and then my dad started building longbows,” Rebecca shared. “We will go to traditional archery tournaments around McAlester and Stratford and practice all year long to get ready for hunting season. My mom is an English teacher, but she enjoys it, too.”

Rebecca reminisces about the first time her father let her sit in a deer stand by herself; a morning that was memorable for a couple reasons. “I was eight or nine. It was awesome. He walked me to my stand and set me up there and made sure I was good. He walked across the property to sit in a different stand, so I wasn’t totally by myself. I felt pretty independent.” She laughed and added, “I just remember shooting a doe and losing a tooth the same morning.”

While Rebecca doesn’t build the bows herself, she still regularly finds herself partaking in the process. “It’s pretty neat to watch. Dad will bring the bows in the house and show us them throughout the process. He’ll show us different woods for limbs and risers and see what combinations look good to us, and it’s pretty fun,” she shared.

While many people enjoy hunting with a compound bow, Stevens enjoys the challenge of the longbow, which is basically, “Just a stick and string,” she said with a laugh. “When you’re pulling back that weight, you have to hold it the whole time, and you don’t have any sites.”

Rebecca has taken several deer with the longbow, but there are a few that stick out in her mind. Most memorable, perhaps, was her first deer taken with the longbow at age 15. She was on her grandmother Jeanette’s property, while her father was away on a hunt in McAlester. “It’s kind of hard to describe, but I can remember it happening and was over in just a couple minutes. It is so vivid in my mind,” she shared. “He came in kind of back behind me to my left and was only about 10 yards away. He only had three points on one side, and a spike on the other. He was kind of cutting across angling away from me. I remember placing the arrow right at the last rib, and angling it forward.”

After releasing the arrow, she knew she’d taken a good shot, but because of the deep brush she quickly lost sight of the buck. “I remember calling my dad, and he told me he just knew that my first deer I shot with a recurve was going to be when he was away. It was his last day there, though, so he told me to just wait and he’d come home to help me track it,” she said. “I went back to my grandma’s house and sat there and waited what seemed like forever. We were both really excited. After I shot him, I had to sit down because I was shaking so hard. I couldn’t believe it happened.”

Hunting is a big part of Rebecca’s life, but it is not just about sport. “Some of the best memories I have had with my dad have been in the outdoors. It’s always been a special time for us to bond,” she said. “Not just that, but hunters are the biggest conservation team in the United States, and so we can manage the deer, and wildlife in general, by hunting. It’s very important to control the population.”

In addition, the Stevens family gets to enjoy the bounty of food that comes from hunting. “We hardly waste an ounce of meat,” Rebecca shared. “We actually process all of our animals ourselves, and my dad has taught me a lot about how to do that. We use as much as we can.”

Choosing Nursing

With her passion for the outdoors, Rebecca had planned to find a career that would foster that love, even working several summers at the Noble Research Institute as a hand. “I just mowed, painted fence, hauled hay, and did anything to do with keeping the outside running,” she recalled.

Those plans changed her senior year, when Russell became very sick. “He was diagnosed with cancer, and I’ll never forget those nurses and how well they took care of my dad and my family and how they advocated for him. We also had a nurse in our family, Michelle, who I think help saved his life. My mom had been on the phone with her asking about what could possibly be wrong with him,” Rebecca explained. “Michelle was the one who got in touch with the oncologist at Mercy OKC, who was on vacation at the time, but went ahead and ordered blood work for dad and reviewed it while on vacation. Michelle told us tog et our bags packed because the city would be calling to tell us we needed to get up there quickly.”

“I figured I would really enjoy being in that profession and possibly saving lives. Those great nurses made a lasting impression on me,” she said.

The nursing program at East Central University is top-notch, and the end of school is in sight for Rebecca, who is set to graduate at the end of the spring semester in 2021. “When COVID-19 hit, we had to stop right after spring break, adjust, and do our school and clinicals online. They did the best they could to get experience for us, but this semester we’re pretty limited to the places that will allow students. Still, they are working to make sure we get our experience which will allow us to graduate on time,” she explained.

In addition to school, Rebecca works as a nurse’s aid at Mercy in Ardmore. “We don’t have as many aids right now because of COVID-19, so I stay pretty busy,” she said. “I haven’t decided on a specific direction I want to go with nursing, but I’m excited to be in a field with so many options.”

Getting Started

Choosing Nursing

“I figured I would really enjoy being in that profession and possibly saving lives. Those great nurses made a lasting impression on me,” she said.

Read more about Rebecca in the November 2020 issue of Oklahoma Farm & Ranch.

Outdoors

Venomous Snakes of Oklahoma: What You’re Most Likely to Encounter

Published

3 weeks ago

April 21, 2026

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Oklahoma is home to a wide range of wildlife, and snakes are a regular part of life for anyone who spends time outdoors. From ranchers and farmers to hunters, hikers, and rural landowners, most Oklahomans will eventually cross paths with a snake. While the majority of species found in the state are harmless, there are a handful that deserve extra respect.

Many people believe Oklahoma has only three venomous snake species. In reality, the state has seven venomous species, but they fall into three main groups that are helpful to understand: rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths. All of Oklahoma’s venomous snakes belong to the pit viper family, meaning they share similar physical traits and hunting behaviors.

Knowing what these snakes look like, where they live, and how they behave goes a long way toward reducing the risk of an unpleasant encounter.

Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are the most recognizable venomous snakes in Oklahoma, largely thanks to the rattle at the end of their tails. That rattle is designed as a warning system, alerting large animals — including people — that they are too close for comfort.

Oklahoma has several species of rattlesnakes, ranging from large, heavy-bodied snakes found in western parts of the state to smaller species that prefer grasslands and rocky areas. They are commonly encountered in open rangeland, rocky outcrops, brushy pastures, and along fence lines. Rattlesnakes are also known to seek shelter under equipment, boards, or debris, especially during extreme heat or cooler months.

Despite their reputation, rattlesnakes are not aggressive. They typically remain still and rely on camouflage until a threat gets too close. While the rattle is often used as a warning, it’s important to understand that a rattlesnake may not always rattle before striking. Some rattles are damaged or broken, and a snake that feels suddenly threatened may strike defensively without warning.

Rattlesnake venom is hemotoxic, meaning it damages tissue and affects blood clotting. Any bite should be treated as a medical emergency, even if symptoms initially seem mild.

Copperheads

Copperheads are among the most frequently encountered venomous snakes in Oklahoma, particularly in the eastern half of the state. They are masters of camouflage, blending easily into leaf litter, brush piles, wooded creek bottoms, and rocky terrain.

Most copperheads are relatively modest in size, typically measuring between one and three feet long. Their most recognizable feature is the pattern of darker bands along their bodies, often described as hourglass-shaped. This pattern helps them disappear into the forest floor, which is why copperheads are often stepped on accidentally.

Copperheads rely heavily on remaining still rather than fleeing, which increases the chance of a close encounter. Many bites occur when someone unknowingly steps near or directly on a snake that never attempted to move away.

Although copperhead venom is generally considered less potent than that of some rattlesnakes, bites are still serious and require immediate medical attention. Pain, swelling, and tissue damage are common, and prompt treatment can prevent complications.

Cottonmouths

Cottonmouths, also known as water moccasins, are Oklahoma’s primary semi-aquatic venomous snake. They are most often found near water sources such as slow-moving streams, ponds, swamps, and marshy areas, particularly in southeastern Oklahoma.

Cottonmouths are thick-bodied snakes that can grow several feet long. Their coloration is often dark, sometimes making them difficult to distinguish from nonvenomous water snakes. One defining behavior gives them their name: when threatened, a cottonmouth may open its mouth wide, displaying a bright white interior as a warning.

While cottonmouths are commonly associated with water, they do travel over land and may be encountered on trails, levees, or near livestock ponds. Like other pit vipers, they prefer to avoid confrontation and rely on defensive displays rather than aggression.

Cottonmouth venom is hemotoxic and can cause significant pain, swelling, and tissue damage. As with any venomous snakebite, immediate medical care is critical.

All of Oklahoma’s venomous snakes share several general characteristics. They have broad, triangular-shaped heads, heat-sensing pits between the eyes and nostrils, and vertical pupils. While these traits can help with identification, it’s safest to avoid attempting close inspection altogether.

Most snake bites happen when people try to kill, handle, or move snakes. Others occur when visibility is poor and a snake is accidentally surprised. Simple precautions can significantly reduce risk: watching where you step or reach, wearing boots in tall grass or rocky areas, and giving snakes plenty of space when they are spotted.

Venomous snakes play an important role in Oklahoma’s ecosystems by controlling rodent populations and maintaining balance among prey species. While it’s natural to feel uneasy around them, understanding their behavior helps replace fear with awareness.

Venomous snakes are a fact of life in rural Oklahoma, but encounters rarely end in injury when people remain alert and respectful. Recognizing that Oklahoma’s venomous snakes fall into three main groups — rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths — makes identification simpler and helps people make safer decisions outdoors.

With a little knowledge and caution, Oklahomans can continue to work the land, enjoy the outdoors, and coexist with these often-misunderstood animals that have been part of the landscape long before fences, barns, or back roads ever existed.

Outdoors

You Will Be Totally Tempted

Published

4 weeks ago

April 9, 2026

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With These New Cupheas

By Norman Winter | Horticulturist, Author and Speaker

There will be a lot of temptation for gardeners this year, so many new plants are showing up at the garden center. Being the astute gardener you are, you probably can guess I am yanking your chain a little as I introduce you to the Totally Tempted cuphea series.

If you are a hummingbird lover you already know some cupheas. The Totally Tempted cupheas come in 4 color or varieties, Richly Red, Watermelon Wine, Frosted Violets and Vivid Violet. They have the potential of reaching 16-inches tall with an 18-inch spread.eas

They are known botanically as Cuphea procumbens with a common name creeping waxweed. Don’t let that name cause any concern. They are native to Southern Mexico and perennial in zones 9 and warmer. They are rock solid, tough and worth every penny as annuals in containers, whether you choose to design a mix or go solo. Your beds will also sizzle with a new artistic touch.

These caught the eye of my good friend, Dr. Allen Owings while at the Young’s Plant Farm Annual Garden Tour in Auburn AL. Allen, formerly a Horticulture Professor at LSU AgCenter is now Horticulturist for Clegg’s Nursery and Bracy’s Nursery. So when he posted the photos on Facebook they caught my attention.

Kim Smith Owner of Smiths Country Gardens in Taylorsville Indiana also went to Facebook. With her trials. She said the violet purple, blush rimmed blooms make it easy to fall in love with Totally Tempted Frosted Violets. Her antique looking urn was filled to overflowing with just Frosted Violets.

She says they are self-cleaning with a continuous blooming habit. She says her zone 5 climate dictates growing as an annual. She recommends plenty of sunlight to keep it from stretching. She went on to say trimming off a little in late July or August can help promote new growth if needed. Kim, feeds weekly with water soluble fertilizer.

Neighbor Dave and his bride Cynthia created a stunning combination in a rectangular concrete planter. They used both Totally Tempted Richly Red and Watermelon Wine with Augusta Lavender heliotrope and Virtuoso Dayglo Yellow dahlia. It is easy for The Garden Guy to peek over the fence and admire.

Son James and the Eden Estate Management team used Totally Tempted Vivid Violet in a window box with Virtuoso Vibrant Violet dahlias. And Supertunia Mini Vista Yellow petunias for a dash of contrasting color.

The Garden Guy went with the Totally Tempted red selections. In the front flower bed at the entrance I used Sunshine Blue II caryopteris with the chartreuse colored foliage. In the backyard I used both Richly Red and Watermelon Wine with the new ColorBlaze Mini Me Chartreuse coleus. In all plantings the flash of red and chartreuse dazzled with color.

Both son James and I found that cutting back kept the plants with a bushier habit. Like Kim Smith recommended, sunlight and frequent fertilization is mandatory. You will find that the Totally Tempted cupheas like others will bring in an assortment of bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. If you will check out Proven Winners Totally Tempted cupheas online you will find recipes for each color, further leading to ……you guessed it, the temptation for the 2025 new plants coming your way. Follow me on Facebook @NormanWinterTheGardenGuy for more photos and garden inspiration.

Outdoors

Cup Plant

Published

7 months ago

October 9, 2025

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By Norman Winter | The Garden Guy

When it comes to the backyard wildlife habitat, the cup plant has it all. To me, it is the flag bearer perennial for bees, butterflies, and birds. It is a stalwart native in 34 states from Louisiana north to Canada crossing every border east. Alas however its size is quite imposing. It is big, bold and wonderful, and this is the time of the year it shines the most.

If you are getting interested but are not familiar with the cup plant, it is known botanically as Silphium perfoliatum and as I alluded above cold hardy from zones 3-9. It can grow tall, 4 to 10 feet, and colonize, so it is a plant for the back of the border. Here at the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens ours are around 7 feet.

Though it may be hard to imagine, they can dwarf a brown-eyed Susan, Rudbeckia triloba, or a Brazilan sage, Salvia guaranitica, both also considered large plants and terrific partners for the cup plant. Close by, we have the pagoda flower Clerodendrum paniculatum, Java glory bower, Clerodendrum speciosissimum, as well as Baby Lace, Hydrangea paniculata, all of which do their part to bring in hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.

You may be asking, why it’s called a cup plant. This is one of the magical attributes of the plant. As the plant grows, it develops large square stems that give the impression of piercing the center of the large leaves. It has two leaves without petioles that are attached to the stem, forming a perfect cup to collect rainwater. Small birds like finches take advantage of this natural reservoir of water. These same birds also feed on the seeds as they mature and get ready to disperse.

You’ll find the blooms to be covered in what may best be described as a pollinating frenzy. Every kind of bee, including honey bees by the hundreds, bumble bees, and wasps are there doing their thing. A quick glance on a recent morning visit showed eastern tiger swallowtails, long-tailed skippers, fiery skippers and yellow sulphur butterflies. It was like a Serengeti for pollinators. Though I didn’t see any, everyone reports hummingbirds on the plants as well.

The nature lover will find this to be one of the most thrilling plants to incorporate in the landscape. Get a chair, a pair of binoculars and a camera, and you are ready for a day of journaling. It will take some attitude adjustment for most gardeners before planting.

First, are you ready to incorporate such a tall, aster-family member into the back of the border? Second, can you accept a colonizing racehorse of a plant so to speak? Not only will you have rhizome spread but you will have reseeding. So, in other words, there will be some maintenance to confine to space allotted.

Native plant nurseries sell the plants, but they are also easy to start from seeds. Sow non-stratified seeds in the fall or stratified seeds in the spring. If you want to stratify, moisten coarse sand and seeds in a plastic bag and store in the refrigerator for three months.

Since this plant will be the backbone of your wildlife habitat or pollinator garden choose companions that are not only beautiful but will bring them in too. I’ve mentioned salvias and brown-eyed Susan’s, but Joe Pye weeds, milkweeds, and ironweeds native to your region would partner well.

Other favorites would be anise hyssops like Blue Fortune, Blue Boa, and Black Adder. They would give that complementary sizzle of opposite colors. Lastly, use the cup plant to create mystery in the garden by blocking a view and forming an area of transition.

The cup plant amazingly does it all for both wildlife and pollinators, all the while showing out with dazzling 3½-inch yellow blossoms. You have to agree that is pretty doggone special.