Our story began in the most modern way—on Hinge—at a time when both of us were just about ready to give up on dating apps. It was early March 2024, and after a few days of messaging back and forth, we both quietly knew: if this didn’t turn into something real, we were done. So, I asked Alex out—not to a bar like every other guy—but to go bowling. I thought I was being clever… until we showed up on a Friday night and found out the wait was four hours.

Just when I thought I might have blown it, Alex looked at me and said, “Why don’t we go to The Battery?”—home of the Atlanta Braves. At that moment, my heart lit up right then—I knew she was into baseball, and I knew she was different. We ended up spending hours talking that night. Even with loud music in the background, all I could hear was her voice. And when she reached for my hand as we were leaving, I just knew—this was something special.

My first impression of Alex? She was genuine, kind, and had the most beautiful eyes I’d ever seen. Her first impression of me? She was wondering why I was wearing a shirt that was two sizes too big—but luckily for me, she saw past it.

From that night on, everything came naturally. We made unforgettable memories, especially at Braves games. Rain or shine, win or lose, Alex always made time to meet me at the stadium. One of my favorite memories was after a game, when we ended up dancing at a nearby bar. The music faded, time slowed down, and all I could see was her. That’s when I told her I loved her for the first time.

As our relationship grew, Alex met my kids, Jaylene and Anthony. Watching how she cared for them only confirmed what I already knew, I wanted to build a life with her. We traveled, met each other’s families, and eventually moved in together (though, honestly, we were already inseparable). My mom even told me she’d never seen me smile the way I do when I’m with Alex—and she was right.

On Christmas Day 2024, surrounded by our loved ones, I got down on one knee and asked Alex to be my wife. She said “YESSS,” with the biggest smile and happy tears in her eyes. Was it a surprise? I like to think she was about 85% surprised—I wasn’t exactly subtle about asking what kind of ring she liked. But the moment was perfect: simple, full of love, and shared with family.

Being in the Marines, Alex always knew that moving would be part of our journey together. And without hesitation, she was all in. Now, as our time in Georgia comes to a close and we prepare for our next chapter in North Carolina, I can truly say she’s been my biggest supporter. Her love, her strength, and her belief in me never waver. And as we step into marriage and this new season of life, I’ll always support her, honor her, and put her first—just as she’s always done for me.