Technically, the first time I met Johnny was at Dave and Busters for our friend Kaylie's birthday party in January 2022. I only remember one thing about him from that night: He gave me a hard time for being a Packers fan, and I naturally made fun of him for being a Browns fan. Little did we know this was a solid prediction of our future.

About six months later, we found ourselves crossing paths thanks to Kaylie once again, this time for her going away party on my birthday. This time around, we had more than just one quick interaction, so I actually met and got to know him a bit more. We were corn hole partners, and pretty good ones at that. Later that evening, as Kay was saying her goodbyes she mentioned to Johnny that he better have a girlfriend by the time she gets back. In that moment I remember thinking hmm... maybe? I mean he was funny and cute and a gentleman. But that thought didn't really materialize beyond a brief passing moment because my brain reminded me that I was in no place for a relationship. I was leaving for college that fall, so why would I want to start something now just to leave? Still, somehow Johnny ended up with my Snapchat that night, and then my phone number just a few days later.

Now, for the moment that has stuck with me since the beginning of our relationship. One of the most clear and evident 'God moments' I have ever had. On the day Kay left for the Navy, I was heading down to South Carolina for my family's vacation. When we got to our condo, I broke down and went to sit on our balcony. After crying alone for a while, I figured it would be better for me if I called someone to distract me. I first called my best friend at the time, but the call did not go through. I assumed she was at her camper with no service or something. I decided to call another friend of mine, but once again, the call did not go through. Neither call even rang once. I was going to take it as a sign to just be alone, until I remembered Johnny had mentioned to give him a call if I needed help with anything. I figured I would give him a shot and see if his call went through. Sure enough, the phone rang, and he answered. We talked for a few hours that night about anything you could think of. The conversation never died. I firmly believe God was the reason the other calls did not go through. I was meant to talk to Johnny.

We talked during the rest of the time I was at the beach, and I grew to like him more and more. He challenged me to a mini golf date for as soon as I got home. We went after church one day, and I kicked his butt (to this day I am the 3-0 reigning champ). That first date turned into a few more dates. The following weeks went by and I was giddy as ever. There aren't many things more exciting than the blossoming of a crush. On one date, we went to see a movie, and then went on a drive for a while afterwards. The entire ride I was eagerly waiting for him to hold my hand, but he never did. When he dropped me off that night, I thought that was it. He didn't actually like me and I had fooled myself. Sure enough though, as soon as he got home he sent me a long message about how much he actually did like me. I was insanely relieved, and was quick to let him know that I felt the same.

Then a few days later, on July 6, 2022, he asked me to be his girlfriend after a fun night of line dancing together. Of course I said yes, even though he pronounced my name wrong. Since then, we've lived through so many different stages of life together, but he has remained my biggest blessing through them all.

Fast forward through two and a half years of love and laughter, he proposed on November 9, 2024! AND he got my name right this time! It was the perfect proposal at our favorite hiking spot. He even included my sister by scheming with her to take the photos for us (shoutout to her for having a whole Pinterest board of engagement photo poses ready). I was so surprised and excited that I sort of blacked out and can't remember much of what was said. All I know for sure is I said yes, and now we're getting married!

All of that is to say, I cannot wait to begin our next chapter of life together. I couldn't imagine a better man to be my husband and life partner. After saying yes to him twice now, I am beyond excited to finally get to say "I do" too.

A&J

Wedding Day