Why Oklahoma?

I often get asked about why my wife and I decided to establish roots here in Oklahoma rather than moving back "up north" where I'm from. The answer is both simple and complex. Complex, only because it's often difficult to put into words emotions and feelings.

First, my amazing wife Briana and I love it here. Sure, it sounds cliché, but it's where we met and fell in love. Describing that emotion, the impact of our meeting here where the red dirt dominates, is often tough to accomplish. She attended Southern Nazarene University, has family here, and it just gets in your blood.

Second, Oklahoma is a great place to raise a family.

Third, Oklahoma is on the move. We have acquired an NBA team, we have numerous colleges and universities in the state that receive national attention, the oil and natural gas industries are strong and contribute greatly to our communities, and we're seeing more and more people choosing to make Oklahoma their home.

Fourth, the people are incredible. Oklahoma has faced its share of tragedies over the years and the truth of the matter is that those very tragedies that rip at our hearts, draw us all closer together. Community in Oklahoma is more than just a catchy phrase, it is a reality.

Fifth, stable economy. Other states have been hit with back-breaking down-turns in the economy but Oklahoma is still thriving with a low unemployment rate and companies are still hiring in Oklahoma.

There are so many reasons why Briana and I have chosen to plant our roots here, it would bore you to tears were I to ramble on endlessly about them. Briana and I have chosen to live here - not by compulsion, but rather by passion. We love Oklahoma and the people of Oklahoma. While others have been born here, we are here because we love it - not because we "must" live here.

So, there are some of your answers.

David