"The Bread Pudding Epiphany: Why I Finally Started This Blog"

Harley has been asking me to create a blog to share some of our adventures from a different point of view. It’s something I have been meaning to do but have not found the motivation. Unsure if I have enough to say or if it will bring value to what Brett and Harley do already. Also, I am not a writer, so how do I pull this off?

Well, here goes. I found the motivation. I found the time. I immediately started logging my thoughts after leaving CountryMen BBQ with a full belly and a fuller heart.

If you listen to the Only In Ok Show, you already know we have been here before as part of the Tournament of Champions, Best BBQ. Today, we came to present the long overdue “trophy” of sorts and received a very warm welcome. You know those people that are genuinely kind? I know, it’s rare, but I swear, this building is full of them.

Joe was excited to see Harley and a little disappointed Brett wasn’t there. Just a little though, can’t give Brett a big head. Harley and Joe chatted a bit and when Harley started to hand him the award, Joe stopped him and would not accept the trophy without his full team, family and staff. I’m fairly certain they are one in the same for CountryMen. Like I said, a building full of good people.

We also got some amazing food! Joe fixed us a tray or two of goodies that were as good as—if not better than—the last time we visited. I am a tad pickier than Harley, so I wanted to mention a few of the things I loved.

The sides are phenomenal. I’m usually not a fan of green beans, but I didn't let any of theirs go to waste; they were seasoned perfectly. I don’t know what they use, but believe me, you can’t go wrong with them. The Mexican Street corn, baked beans, and mac & cheese were also delicious! I actually filled up on sides before I even got to the meat.

As you can see the food didn't even make it long enough to get the camera ready.

I typically avoid the meat because I don’t like fat or bones—I know, there's something wrong with me! It’s not easy to admit, but at CountryMen, I was happily eating right off the ribs and a huge chicken leg. I’m not sure what part of the chicken it was, but wow, it was definitely a good part! It wasn't dry at all and was seasoned so well. I also dug into the sausage and bologna. Harley basically confiscated the dino rib and the brisket; he doesn’t share well when he’s eating the good stuff. When Joe brought out dessert, I wasn't initially excited. I said I was, but I was secretly thinking, "I am not going to eat this." I don’t handle new things very well; as you’ve probably heard Brett mention, I’m very "basic" and usually stick to chicken strips!

However, we love the people at CountryMen and everything else was so delicious that I sucked it up and tried something new. I never thought I would absolutely love bread pudding. Since I didn't grow up with it, the concept always sounded strange to me, so I avoided it—until now.

OMG, it was probably the best dessert I’ve had in years. It was literally so freaking good! While the other dessert was exceptional as well, the bread pudding absolutely stole the show. If you are looking for something to do with the family, road trip to Inola, Ok. This place is not just family friendly, it supports family. It brings a neighborhood BBQ vibe with indoor and outdoor seating. Inside, you have great music playing and air conditioning. Outside, let the kids run loose while you watch from a picnic table. They have a basketball hoop and grass like turf to run around on. There’s also a fire pit for those colder, cozier days. If you head that way here’s a few tips. Make sure they are open, check their Facebook. They update regularly. Arrive early, there will be a line, but it’s worth it! Oh! Be sure to order the bread pudding! Seriously, just do it.