LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- For many of us, we are living a scene from the movie Groundhog Day. Phil, played by Bill Murray, was a weatherman from a small town who found himself reliving the same day over and over again. Just like in the movie, our days revolve around spending energy, thoughts, actions, or preparations centered-on COVID-19.
It can be extremely exhausting, frustrating, and scary, making us feel powerless.
Over the last few months, there has been a global paradigm shift in the world we know. Initially, information trickled like a leaky 10-year old faucet, and it was manageable. As the situation evolved and became dire, the once bothersome leak transformed into full-blown water cannon, blasting all of humanity.
Life Before COVID-19
Let's close our eyes, take a mental pause, and not let the virus overshadow our lives. Everyone is aware of the seriousness of the situation and cannot predict what the future holds, but it's essential to emphasize life before COVID-19.
Fourteen military spouses from Laughlin Air Force Base and local communities served as a constant reminder of the resilient behavior needed. Right before the pandemic situation picked-up, a group of multitalented spouses embarked on a journey to not only bring like-minded individuals together, but to create a historical event that highlighted their unique skillsets.
Go Big or Go Home
Texas Safari Styled Shoot took place on March 1, 2020, at the JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, in Sonora, Texas. The resort has 13,000 acres of picturesque views of oak trees and wild green grasses as far as the eyes can see. The resort housed
various wildlife commonly found in the safari environment. In other words, the backdrop is reminiscent of a Jumanji movie scene.
At first glance, one might think the most significant win was having the photoshoot at arguably one of the swankiest resorts in Texas; however, that was not the case. All talent, design, execution, imagery, and concept were completed internally by military spouses.
“I came up with the idea in December 2019 and shared it on different social media sites hoping other military spouses in the area would be interested”, said Karen Adams, Event Coordinator. “As a small business owner who works from home it can be difficult to connect with others or have an outlet for creative talents.”
They created a creative platform to express themselves using their talent and business acumen while cementing lasting friendships for future endeavors. The group's work was featured in the San Antonio Wedding Magazine online, Casa De La Cultura Center and various prominent newspapers.
Six Degrees of Separation
"This event exemplified the amazing talents that mil spouses today embrace. It was truly amazing to be surrounded by so many talented spouses that, up until then, didn't know one another,” said Erin Beene, Marketing and Public Relations. “We all came together, with unique talents and created something truly beautiful."
More importantly, their experiences created a family, as opposed to a group.
“The event gave spouses the chance to connect and encourage one another on their journeys afterward,” said Adams.
Focus on What We Can
Fast-Forward to our current situation, morale and normalcy may be questioned, but not resolve. "At this time, it is even more important to continue with life as best we can and focus on what we can do instead of what we can't," said Beene.
In life rain the will come, but we must remember to not forget our umbrellas.