We've known of each other almost our whole lives especially growing up on the West Side of Rockford. There was always someone you seen or heard of or could never forget. We grew up in the same neighborhood and we both attended the same grade school, Church Elementary. My younger brother was friends with my future wife and her close female cousin. All three of them attended the Martin House together back in the day, so I would see her around. Nothing took place between us back then. I guess she wasn't interested in me because I had hair as long as hers Lol and I never stepped to her but I wanted to. Fast forward years went by and our lives continued in different directions, but I never forgot her face. Now we've approached the year 00. My mom calls me and say "Markee I met a beautiful young lady by the name of Niki, I told her all about you, I mentioned you were a good man and that you're looking for a good woman." "I asked for her number and she gave it to me."  "You better call her." "I said Ma don't be tryin to hook me up, Lol!" Long story short, It was one of the best decisions I've made and I gave her a call. Niki and I ended up conversing while driving to Freeport, IL. By the time the ride was over there was no doubt in my mind, she was going to be my beginning and my end. I knew at that point my prayers were answered and I was spending the rest of my life with her.  As time went on, I eventually say the words. "We're Getting Married!" Without any hesitation, Lol Niki says "Okay!" The Rest is History... 25 Years & We Still Do... Mr & Mrs Markee & Niki Wainwright!   6/1/00