We met at a mutual friend's graduation party in October of 2020. I noticed a cute girl wearing a short-sleeve denim button up with her dark hair in a ponytail. Being new to Dallas (read involuntary shut-in) I decided to try my luck and introduce myself. "Hey I like your shirt" I said trying to get her attention. "..." she said as she walked by me seemingly ignoring my presence. I was turning away contemplating monastic life when she doubled back and asked "Oh sorry were you talking to me? I'm a little deaf". After a night of smoking hand-rolled cigarettes (they're good for you Mom) and talking politics we were both coincidentally invited to join a book club where the whiskey of the night was as much of a focal point as the book. This turned into further talks after book club, rock climbing sessions where I found the downside to weightlifting, and eventually dinner dates. We started dating in February and it's been non-stop adventure ever since.
In the Fall of 2020 now-bridesmaid Lauren Bacak invited me to celebrate her graduation by attending a party; lo and behold I would meet my future betrothed that evening. It started when a hankering for some tobacco kicked in and I stepped out on the back patio. This is where a yellow haired, ruggedly-handsome man sits down next to me at the table. It was not long before I discovered we had a similar sense of humor and love for conversation. Too soon however, the evening ended and we went our separate ways. It was a watchful matchmaker that sensed this story was not yet over and it would be a few weeks later that we would just so happen to land in the same book club. Yada yadda yadda, now we're engaged! Yay!
Shortly after beginning our courtship, both of us sought to find a parish to attend together. After several weeks of seeking, we decided to try out a church in Irving that some of our close friends had spoke highly of. The reverence of the Mass as well as the overall culture of the Parish was at once welcoming and intimidating because of the fervor if its parishioners. Since then, Mater Dei has become our spiritual home, and an integral part of our relationship. We are excited to share the experience of the Mass with you. Following the Mass, we look forward to celebrating with you all at Road Runner Ranch! There will be great food, fun music, and even better company!