"BINGO!!!" was the first word that Mark ever spoke Kimmie. As a member of the neighborhood Social Committee, Kimmie was the Bingo caller for the National Night to Unite in August of 2017. Kimmie was unimpressed with this tall, dark, and handsome man’s lack of enthusiasm for such an impressive win! (Knowing what Kimmie knows about him now, Mark was intentionally being reserved as he's never been so chill about winning anything since that day.) Much to Kimmie’s surprise, Mark stayed late, and talked with Kimmie as he helped tear down the party items. Mark was earning some points back, but Kimmie still thought nothing of it…. Mark had other plans.

A Facebook message arrived the next day and Mark wanted to go on a dinner date, but Kimmie wasn't too sure about that, so she offered a bike ride. Kimmie saw Mark's determination when he showed up at her house walking down an older bike down the road with 2 flat tires that he had to pump up with a ball pump. Mark was not going to let some flat tires stop him from going on a bike ride that night! A ride around Eden Prairie left us both more interested in finding out more about each other, as well as some good saddle seat for Mark. We eventually shared some meals, went mini golfing, and a concert and decided to make it official.

Fast forward to December 2, 2023....We've spent a lot of time on the lake in Minnesota and Iowa, sitting in the stands at Austin's basketball games, playing games and a lot of laughter and love, Mark decided that was the day he was going to make me the happiest woman on earth. After the UMD basketball game, the athletes, coaches, parents and both sets of our parents, were gathered for a surprise birthday for one of the other parents. As Kimmie was scooping up lasagna, she was summoned for a family photo. Mark then asked for one of just the two of us and with a very confused look on Kimmie’s face, he got down on one knee, said some really nice things Kimmie didn't quite remember, but most importantly, "I want to spend the rest of my life with you, will you marry me?" There are few things in life that can be a real surprise, and Mark pulled that one off flawlessly. It was a special time to be celebrating with Austin (and Cianna!), our parents and the Bulldog basketball family as we were filled with absolute joy to start planning for the rest of our lives together. We cannot wait to spend the rest of our lives together and look forward to celebrating this special day with all of you! Thank you, Jesus for this gift! To God be the glory.