Pontotoc County Family & Consumer Sciences

🌱📚Unearth a Story: The Sweet Potato Journey🍠

Last week at the Ada Public Library's Summer Reading Program, Unearth a Story, young learners became both explorers and chefs as they uncovered the story of the sweet potato from soil to supper.

Participants learned how sweet potatoes grow underground, where they come from, and how they make their way to our plates. Then the fun really began! Students "cooked" their own sweet potato by scooping, mashing, and customizing it with seasonings of their choice.

But the learning didn't stop there. After creating their own sweet potato recipe, students became storytellers by writing and illustrating the story of their sweet potato's journey.

Through hands-on cooking, literacy, and agriculture education, students discovered that every food has a story v ting to be unearthed.

A big thank you to the Ada Public Library for inviting us to be part of another wonderful summer of learning!

FCS Friday: Asking for help

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and we're spotlighting one of the most powerful coping skills out there: asking for help.

At some point, every single one of us will need to ask for help and get support. The real skill is noticing when — whether that's feeling constantly down, pulling away from people you love, or carrying something that feels too heavy to hold alone.

Reaching out isn't a weakness. It's one of the bravest things you can do, and it's a sign that you believe you deserve better- because you do.

Talk to a parent, coach, teacher, or another adult you trust. And know that 988 (call or text) is always there as a tool for crisis or support.

FCS Friday: Spring Clean Your Finances! Spring is the perfect time to refresh more than just your home--take a look at your finances too!💸🌷

A little financial "cleaning" now can lead to a stress-free future! 🌿

Today we proudly recognize just a few of the incredible groups and organizations the Extension Service serves alongside as advisors. Through meaningful partnerships, impactful programming, and dedicated volunteer support, these collaborations play a vital role in strengthening the connection between the university and our communities. Together, we are making a difference.

Did you know? Family & Consumer Sciences with OSU Extension helps people build real-life skills—from cooking healthy meals to managing money and supporting strong families.

We’re proud to help Oklahomans thrive at every stage of life by bringing research-based information home to you. 💛

Stay connected for tips, classes, and resources designed to support you and your family! 🏡

OHCE Week is next week! Stop by and see us during our Open House all week!

Oklahoma Home and Community Education celebrates legacy of learning, service Communities across Oklahoma will recognize the impact of Oklahoma Home and Community Education during OHCE Week, May 3–9, celebrating an organization that has strengthened families and communities for nearly a

Healthy doesn’t have to be expensive! These protein snacks cost less than 20 cents each & keep you strong & energized! 💪⚡️🧡


INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• ½ cup peanut butter or almond butter
• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
• ½ cup PROTEIN BOOSTER
(choose one:
» Dry milk powder
» Protein powder
» Finely chopped nuts
OPTIONAL ADD-INS (choose as desired):
Cinnamon, vanilla extract, mini chocolate chips, chia seeds, or flaxseed

DIRECTIONS
In a medium bowl, mix all ingredients until well combined.
If the mixture is too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or water until it holds together.
Roll into 1-inch balls (about 1 tablespoon each).
Makes about 20-24 balls!
Place in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to firm.

🌿🥗 Foodie Friday: Spring Salads Edition! 🥗🌿

We had the BEST time celebrating all things fresh, colorful, and delicious! 💛 From bright berries to crisp greens and homemade dressings, these spring salads were full of flavor and simple ideas you can take right home.

We talked about:
✨ Building a balanced salad
✨ Easy homemade dressings
✨ Adding fruits, veggies, and healthy fats for flavor + nutrition

And of course… we sampled everything! 😋

💬 Tell me—what’s your favorite thing to add to a spring salad?

Don’t wash your turkey! Rinsing meat or poultry spreads germs and increases the risk of cross-contamination.