It all started in a gym. We both regularly climbed at the local gym (the same gym we still regularly attend), but at the time we rarely ever crossed paths. The first words uttered by Jenna to James were “Sorry if I left my shoes in your way!” Smooth. James replied with a silly quip, and ways were parted. It wasn’t until mutual friends convinced James to attend the ritualistic post climbing dinner that the relationship really began to blossom. At the first post climbing dinner they shared, Jenna was explaining her love for rocks and geology to James. To emphasize her passion, she quickly sang out a few parodied lines from The Little Mermaid singing, "Look at these rocks, aren't they neat? Wouldn't you say my collection's complete?" She continued the parody for a few more lines before belting out the obvious conclusion "... I want more!" James laughed along with her at this line. He was simultaneously stunned and enamored. We laughed and teased each other the rest of the evening, and though nothing was clear at the time, something real had just begun!

Jenna was drawn to James’ wit and humor, quickly finding herself in stitches with every meeting. James was drawn to Jenna's quirky wit, contagious smile, and genuine nature. As feelings began to grow, and become obvious to the surrounding circle of friends, James was egged on to admit his feelings to Jenna, as she could be "dense… really dense", when it came to such matters. The rest is history.

From backpacking part of the Appalachian trail, to climbing in California, Kentucky, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma Wyoming, and the home turf of Texas, to comfy weekends at home playing video games and cooking new recipes, our relationship grew into a deep love that one could only ever dream of finding.

Six months prior to our three year dating anniversary, James snuck out to buy the ring. Jenna, oblivious to this, told James during dinner one evening that he could "just propose with an aluminum foil ring" and she would say yes. But James wanted to wait for the perfect moment. Tolerating the endless prodding and pushing by friends and family (and Jenna) alike. The moment finally came on our 3rd anniversary dinner. James sat Jenna down and offered to give Jenna her anniversary present. Closing her eyes, he gently placed a small box in her hands. When she opened her eyes, she could hardly believe what she was seeing. In her hands was a cerulean blue Tiffany ring box. In that moment, James said “Our past anniversaries have been to celebrate our past, but this one will be to celebrate our future.” He opened the box to reveal… an aluminum foil ring. Overwhelmed, Jenna abruptly asked James “So are you going to ask me to marry you?!” To which the question was popped, and she said yes. To an aluminum foil ring. Of course James had the actual ring in his pocket, how else would he have gotten the ring box?

Our friends and family mean so much to us, and we are so excited to share this special day with everyone. We look forward to seeing you all in April when we tie the knot!