Our love story began in the middle of Main Street at the annual summer festival's beer garden. On that fateful summer night, two strangers fell in love over words about poetry, history, politics, music, and a very strong mutual liking of biscuits and gravy.

Stuart tells the story of how we met beautifully through a poem that he wrote for me after one year of dating.

"In the curved street a vibrant garden rose.

Among the thorns a sun-drenched blossom peaked through the rows.

Unescorted and reluctant to be vased,

Thirst bloomed for a tender hand

Despite the seeds of hesitation and angst.

A gardener's hand much appreciated,

Unabridged and more than inviting

The sun, moon, and stars all aligned.

The summer faded to fall and seasons reunited

a full revolution in this fates cycle.

Year after year the garden opens and closes,

But one in a million, what are the chances.

Tomorrow will stem an even greater story,

But on that adventure...I'll tell you later."

Pictures