My journey with John began in 2017 with our first date at Russ's, where we shared a basket of fried mushrooms. It wasn't just the mushrooms that left a lasting impression; it was the laughter and the sense of connection we felt from the moment we met. We both had been through our own ups and downs, and our parallel journeys gave us an immediate understanding of each other.

A year later, we decided it was time to introduce our families. Nervous but hopeful, we organized a casual barbecue, and to our delight, both families hit it off right away. The kids played together, parents exchanged stories, and it felt like pieces of two puzzles finally fitting together. From game nights filled with friendly competition to shared dinners where everyone contributed a dish, we naturally grew into one big, happy family. It was a seamless blend, filled with inside jokes, shared responsibilities, and countless moments of joy.

Our relationship progressed in an effortless, organic way. I recall the moment I realized I loved John. We were at a cozy condo in Beaver Creek, sitting by the fire after a day of skiing. John had this way of smiling that made me feel like everything in the world was right. It was in that quiet, intimate moment that I knew I loved him. John's smile, to me, was like the sun rising and setting, bringing warmth and light into my life.

John, too, found something incredibly special in me. Whether we were camping under the stars, sitting by a crackling fire, or embarking on spontaneous adventures, everything felt natural and right. There was no need for grand productions or elaborate plans; just being together was enough. We both knew early on that we never wanted to take each other for granted. My declaration of love wasn't just words; it set us on a shared path, side by side.

Our shared faith played a significant role in cementing our bond. Attending church together made us realize the importance of marriage and solidified our commitment to each other. Every day felt like a honeymoon, filled with love, joy, and new adventures. I often felt blessed to be John's sidekick, sharing in the excitement of life.

One particularly memorable night was at the Sheridan Rodeo. We were parked at a friend's house in our RV, lovingly nicknamed the "bread runner." As rain pattered on the roof, we sat outside, savoring the earthy scent of nearby horses and sipping scotch. In that serene moment, surrounded by nature and the quiet companionship we cherished, I felt an overwhelming sense of home.

Our first trip together was to Cabo in 2019, an adventure that started with excitement and took an unexpected turn when we were roofied at a local restaurant. Despite the scare, we navigated the ordeal together, strengthening our bond and proving that we could face anything as a team.

In 2019, the boy's graduated and John was there for this big milestone. He showed up and celebrated with the the boys and me. Which if you are a parent, know it's a bittersweet moment. John being there really showed me that he was there for me and my boys.

In 2020, as the world grappled with chaos, John and I found solace in each other. We turned off the news, hunkered down, and focused on our family. That year was filled with simple pleasures and profound connections, a stark contrast to the turmoil outside.

2021 brought more milestones. Anna's got married to Brian and I got to be apart of that process and the wedding. It was an honor and really solidified my place in the family.

John also became an integral part of the boys' lives, earning their respect and admiration. We shared unforgettable moments, like motorcycle rides and side-by-side adventures in the Black Hills, filled with laughter and inside jokes.

2022 was a year of travel and excitement. From Cabo to fishing on the San Juan River, every trip was an adventure. I admired John's zest for life and his ability to turn every moment into a memorable experience. Our Alaska trip was a highlight, with thrilling class 5 rapids and my triumphant catch of a 150-pound halibut.

In 2023, we expanded our horizons further, exploring Minnesota, Germany, and France. John delighted in showing me the world, and I couldn't imagine sharing these experiences with anyone else.

Then, in 2024, on a serene Sunday after church, John proposed. It was the perfect culmination of our journey together, filled with love, understanding, and the promise of many more adventures to come.

Travel

Travel coming soon!