Patterson and I began talking around Christmas time of 2022. On one of our first dates, Patterson took me shag dancing (the official dance of South Carolina). I admired his creativity with our dates and persistence to drive up to Rock Hill from Florence each weekend. It didn't take long to notice how great Patterson was. He was kind, considerate, humble, and easy to laugh with. On my birthday in April, Patterson told me he loved me with an engraved necklace. I took a few seconds to take in the moment and replied "I love you too." Patterson stopped sweating after I *finally* said it back. ;) Patterson proposed at my family's cabin in Virginia, my favorite place surrounded by my favorite people. Patterson and I know The Lord brought us together and we look forward to celebrating with each of you!