Who am I? Let me introduce myself

Welcome to my blog Steemians! I am looking forward to beginning my journey on the steemit platform. It is refreshing to know that there are platforms such as this that we can share openly and freely without concern.

Sit back and get yourself a glass of wine while I introduce myself. I'll recommend one of my favorites, Laya. Hence, the name atalaya which is the winery it comes from in Almansa, Spain. Mmmm! :)

My name is Cori. I was born and raised in Utah and am currently living in California. My family growing up consisted of my mom, three brothers and one sister. Having three brothers taught me to be tough and hold my own ground.

In college I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to pursue as far as a major. I had many interests and that made it hard to make a decision, but I eventually chose a degree in elementary education. I spent roughly 19 years in the profession. I learned many things during those years and had great success, however, I knew I wouldn’t stay in it forever. I was not passionate about it and never had been.

It took me a while to realize what I was passionate about, but looking back it was right in front of me all along. There are two things I am passionate about which are photography and naturopathy or naturopathic medicine. In this blog I will be focusing primarily on photography.

I have always loved taking pictures. From as far back as I can remember I’ve had a camera in my hand. At every family function or outing with friends you could be sure I would capture the moment. I remember my first camera was a simple disposable one. I couldn’t wait to start snapping pictures. Ever since then, any time I picked up a camera the feeling has been the same. The only thing that has changed has been the camera itself.

After so many years as a teacher I felt I had become complacent. Everything started to become repetitive. I had good intentions of pursuing photography in my free time so I could make a transition away from teaching. However, I know myself. If I didn’t make changes everything would remain the same as it had and I would never pursue photography.

It was not easy to take the leap and leave my career behind. I was established, had a home and a stable income. I knew that I was taking a huge risk by walking into the unknown, but I couldn't keep doing something I wasn't passionate about. This became all to clear to me when my grandfather passed away and then a year later I lost my grandmother and sister. The passing of these important people in my life reminded me that life is too short not to take the risk.

And so the adventure began. I sold my home, quit my job and moved to California. I wish I could say that everything has gone smoothly since and I became a professional photographer, but we all know that isn’t how life works. Despite any setbacks or challenges I continue to find my way in the photography world.

I can say that because I took the leap and left my comfort zone, my mind has been opened to a much bigger world with so many possibilities and I wouldn’t change that.

That is a little about me. I am hoping that by sharing my photographs and stories behind them I will add value to the platform as well as inspire others. So join me as I show you the world through photographs.

Cheers my Steemian friends!