It all began in 2015, when Derek and Lauren’s paths crossed, setting the stage for a love story that has blossomed over time. From the very beginning, we knew there was something special between us. For many years, our relationship was filled with joy, laughter, and the kind of connection that only comes from two people who are truly meant to be together. Like any great love story, we faced our own set of challenges along the way. There were moments of uncertainty and hard times, but through it all, our love has only grown stronger. As it says in 1 Corinthians 13:7, “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” And that’s exactly what we’ve done—together. In 2018, we were blessed with the arrival of our beautiful son, Remington, who has brought so much joy and purpose into our lives. Our little family has been the center of everything we do, and we are grateful every day for the life we’ve built together. In 2024, we made another big milestone—buying our first home! It’s a place filled with love, laughter, and even a few cows to keep us company. This new chapter is just the beginning of so many wonderful memories that we will cherish for years to come. That same year, during a family Christmas trip to Crested Butte, CO, Derek proposed to Lauren in a way that took her breath away. Surrounded by snow-covered mountains and the warmth of family, it was the perfect moment to start the next chapter of our love story. Our story has grown into something even more beautiful through the life we've built with our children. Gracie, our oldest, is out on her own and about to become a mom herself, making us grandparents for the very first time — a milestone that fills us with so much joy. Amory keeps us busy and proud as we cheer her on under the Friday night lights and on the pageant stage. Van brings his own kind of light into our lives, and Remi keeps us on our toes with Saturday morning football games. Whether we're gathered together or spread out, time with our family is what we treasure most — especially the quiet, slow Sunday mornings spent sipping coffee on the front porch. As we look ahead to forever, we are beyond excited to finally become husband and wife. Our journey has been filled with love, growth, and so many blessings, and we cannot wait to spend the rest of our lives together, side by side.