Moving to Oklahoma I thought was going to be the death of my photography career.. I cried in my hotel room in Maui where I was celebrating my 30th birthday, when my husband called to let me know we got orders. We were expecting for months to have orders for Colorado, but that changed in a matter of an instant. Arriving to Lawton, Oklahoma in August was the beginning of a new season for me AND for the fields right down the street, where Cotton was beginning to bloom!! It was at that instant, that I knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be.
We have spent the past few months, raising chickens, shooting shot guns and traveling this state. Oklahomians are the nicest people I have ever met and have enjoyed meeting so many new people that I have since added to my little family circle.
Reaching out to local farmers has topped my list though. The hard work and dedication of these individuals is beyond inspiring. They have welcomed me onto their property and have even assisted in my shoots. This particular sheep farm is home to about 300 sheep, goats and cattle. When we arrived, we were able to hold a DAY old lamb and three day old TWINS! They just cuddled up in our arms, baa’d a little and enjoyed the warmth of our body.
I can understand why people stay here after their military retirement. It is slow paced, taking in life and being a part of something greater. I look forward to our future here, not sure where the Marine Corps will take us next, but I know it will be exactly where God intended.
Hailey Faria Blog 