Looks like I'm leaving OKC :- (

[adaniel]

Well folks, it looks to be official. Last Wednesday, I accepted a new position in Dallas, and will be relocating about 2 weeks from now. IMO I really believe this will be a great move for my career, as I feel it has stalled out in the past year or so. Plus my parents and sister still live in the area. With that in mind, this has been one of the hardest decisions of my life, and at one point I was fairly sure I was going to turn it down because I didn't want to leave.

In August 2004, I came to Norman as a bratty yet somewhat unsure college student who was thrusted into freshman life at OU. Nearly a decade later, I leave a confident adult. I can say that the state and the people of Oklahoma have made me who I am today, and for that I am eternally grateful. More importantly, I have been honored to be a part of a great place like OKC. IMO my biggest regret is that I only started becoming involved in things here in the community within the past year or 2. It has been so exciting especially as a young person to witness this city grow. No doubt DFW is a growing, dynamic place as well but it will be difficult to be as plugged in as I was here in OKC. But who knows? My career path could very well bring my back in 2-3 years. So it will hopefully not be a permanent goodbye.

I would love to hear how other expatriates fared when they first left OKC. Also, since I only have 2 weeks, I am trying to compile a quick to-do list of everything before I leave. I've already got a Thunder game, a visit to Eischen's, and (weather permitting) and afternoon visiting both the Memorial and Myriad Gardens. Anyone else have something to add?

[Pete]

I left 24 years ago (!) but obviously have stayed very connected to the community, and from a lot further away than you'll be moving.

And given the economy and job growth in OK, there is always a good chance your next great job opportunity may be back in OKC.


You touched on by far the hardest thing for me: I don't feel a connection to my community. And I've tried, believe me. I've been involved in lots of causes, donated thousands of hours of my time and still I don't feel invested here.

On the other hand, I've always felt like I could help OKC even though I don't live there. Not just this site... Been a tireless promoter and ambassador for the City; spreading the good news gospel to the point most people get tired of hearing it.

Also, moving away brings a whole new perspective and if/when you do move back, that will help you help the community all the more.


Truly sorry to learn you are leaving because we need more people with your type of interest and passion. But obviously, you can continue to make a difference in the community even if you don't live there.

[PennyQuilts]

Dallas is lucky to get you. Go have your adventure and know that you contributed to OKC in a very positive way. Bet you'll be back. Stay in touch, regardless. Oh, and congratulations!

[Pete]

By the way, even after 24 years I still think I'll move back to OKC at some point; at least on a part-time basis.

[Just the facts]

Dallas isn't really like leaving OKC. It is the 3rd largest city in Oklahoma (based on the number of Oklahomans living there) and OU plays at least 1 home game there every other year.

[bradh]

Best of luck to you, and please don't stop posting, always enjoyed your two cents on topics.

I would add taking in a rowing class or doing something you normally wouldn't do down on the river. Maybe just a kayak rental and go explore OKC from a different angle.

[Urbanized]

I left 24 years ago (!) but obviously have stayed very connected to the community, and from a lot further away than you'll be moving.

And given the economy and job growth in OK, there is always a good chance your next great job opportunity may be back in OKC.


You touched on by far the hardest thing for me: I don't feel a connection to my community. And I've tried, believe me. I've been involved in lots of causes, donated thousands of hours of my time and still I don't feel invested here.

On the other hand, I've always felt like I could help OKC even though I don't live there. Not just this site... Been a tireless promoter and ambassador for the City; spreading the good news gospel to the point most people get tired of hearing it.

Also, moving away brings a whole new perspective and if/when you do move back, that will help you help the community all the more.


Truly sorry to learn you are leaving because we need more people with your type of interest and passion. But obviously, you can continue to make a difference in the community even if you don't live there.

Just about says it all. Good luck, and don't be a stranger!

[Zuplar]

Dallas isn't really like leaving OKC. It is the 3rd largest city in Oklahoma (based on the number of Oklahomans living there) and OU plays at least 1 home game there every other year.

I tend to agree with this sentiment. There is a reason why people refer to North Texas as Baja Oklahoma.

[Mel]

Good luck! Sometimes you have to do what you gotta do to make better money. You will have family around you and a 4 hour trip is not that bad on the interstate. You will still be here because the internetz makes us all neighbors.

P.S. Please don't start rooting for the Mav's!

[Stew]

How exciting. Change of venue is always fun. Best of luck.

[adaniel]

Thank you all for the kind words. Also, good suggestion on the kayaking thing. I just hope its warm enough to do it.

Dallas isn't really like leaving OKC. It is the 3rd largest city in Oklahoma (based on the number of Oklahomans living there) and OU plays at least 1 home game there every other year.

Hilariously, my future boss is both a Putnam City and OSU graduate. So this is quite true.

[PennyQuilts]

Oklahoma is taking over the world.

[Bellaboo]

Good Luck and keep in touch with the board ! Have enjoyed your postings.

[TAlan CB]

Dallas isn't really like leaving OKC. It is the 3rd largest city in Oklahoma (based on the number of Oklahomans living there) and OU plays at least 1 home game there every other year.

Right you are! I lived there for several years and always had the comfort of knowing home was just a couple hours drive. It was funny, when I lived near White Rock Lake the locals use to joke that Oklahoma started just north of I-635, where most transplanted OKies choose to live. Live inside the belt-line, in or near the "Park Cities" . Great venues, good mass trans, lots of variety of choices on the 'Dallas' side of the metro.

[Pete]

^

I lived near White Rock Lake for a while myself, and really enjoyed that area.

Easy to get everywhere and great recreation.

[TAlan CB]

^

I lived near White Rock Lake for a while myself, and really enjoyed that area.

Easy to get everywhere and great recreation.

Exactly, and with the addition of the Dart station at Mockingbird Station across from SMU, improvements to the Dallas Arboretum on White Rock Lake, and mixed housing from the Gaston neighborhood to the Park Cities there are a ton of housing options. Not to mention eatZi's and Central Market.

[Spartan]

I left 24 years ago (!) but obviously have stayed very connected to the community, and from a lot further away than you'll be moving.

And given the economy and job growth in OK, there is always a good chance your next great job opportunity may be back in OKC.


You touched on by far the hardest thing for me: I don't feel a connection to my community. And I've tried, believe me. I've been involved in lots of causes, donated thousands of hours of my time and still I don't feel invested here.

On the other hand, I've always felt like I could help OKC even though I don't live there. Not just this site... Been a tireless promoter and ambassador for the City; spreading the good news gospel to the point most people get tired of hearing it.

Also, moving away brings a whole new perspective and if/when you do move back, that will help you help the community all the more.


Truly sorry to learn you are leaving because we need more people with your type of interest and passion. But obviously, you can continue to make a difference in the community even if you don't live there.

I've left Oklahoma and come back a few times. I'd probably make quite a boomerang story, but I also felt very disconnected from other places I've lived. Here in Cleveland I am working in community development and historic preservation and still don't feel like I'm a part of Cleveland. Friends and colleagues routinely ask me for updates on developments I'm involved in, and I still spend more time thinking about developments in OKC. It's just more ingrained in me and I think my value as a city planner will be a lot higher in OKC where I know the history of every street, building, etc. I don't have that knowledge in Cleveland beyond what I've picked up or overheard.

The one big positive I've learned from moving around is that your network will expand a lot faster and that will benefit you hugely. It's amazing who knows who. I also think it's amazing the transferable lessons you can take from place to place, and that doesn't just apply to cities, but also marketing, journalism, finance, or whatever anyone's career is.

I think OKC Talk is an especially cherished resource for us expats. Good luck adaniel, and I look forward to seeing how your perspective grows as you professionally grow through this move. Congrats on your exciting new job! Keep us posted on your corner of the world!

[soonerguru]

adaniel,

You will truly be missed! You've been one of the posters I've always put in the highest esteem. I'm sure you will still contribute here!

Best of luck to you on your career!

[CaptDave]

Best of luck to you. I hope you find a place in Dallas that makes you as happy as you were here. There are some good things going on in Dallas. But don't be a stranger.

[RadicalModerate]

Oklahoma City is The Center of The Known Universe, akin to Hotel California:
"You can check in, but you can never check out."

All the Best to You, Always and No Matter Where You May Be.
For Real (no joke, no snark)

(i would add a God Bless You or Amen, but that might be too "religious")

(ps: never believe in "luck" . . . good or otherwise)

[kevinpate]

1. Enjoy Dallas, even Oak Cliff has its charms.
2. Come back often.
3. Realize 2 makes 1 a tad tougher, but not impossible.

Best wishes.

[Laramie]

adaniel,

Wish you the best!

Having gone down that path and returned to my home in OKC; Dallas is dynamic, she has a lot to offer.

The jobs are abundant & available in the DFW area; however there are Oklahomans in that area that will make Dallas feel more like home (OKC).

We know you won't become a stranger.

"Oklahoma City looks oh-so pretty... ...as I get my kicks on Route 66." --Nat King Cole.

[Teo9969]

Whatever you do, resist the urge of thinking that leaving means you're any less of a citizen of our city. Life calls us to different places at different times. The Germans have a word – Heimat – that I think is applicable here.

[DallasCop2566]

When you get settled in the Dallas area, E-mail me if you have any questions about the area.

I retired from the Dallas Police Department and worked every area of Dallas.

You will find a big difference in the Dallas area, but I am sure you will adapt rapidly. Wider freeways, but many more vehicles and a massive amount of traffic slowdowns.

Good luck on your new job and home.

[progressiveboy]

Oklahoma is taking over the world.

Sadly, they have to leave the State and make their mark somewhere else! Dallas has been good to me! Can not complain!