Our relationship began on UL's beautiful campus through countless hours of conversation. There were times that we endlessly talked about anything and everything, just so that we would not have to leave each other's company. Eventually, after quite some time James finally worked up enough courage to ask Megan on a date, and she accepted!

Where did we go? The answer is quite simple if you know us. (Dinner!) This is where we came to know that we were truly meant for each other. The conversation never dulled, and it felt like we knew each other for years. In fact, it created a moment that both of us will remember for the rest of our lives. For some reason, we started talking about our favorite animals, and of course, penguins (James’ favorite bird) worked their way into the conversation. Megan replied with three words, “They’re pretty cool.” (I hope that you see the irony in this statement). James looked at Megan and, after a long pause, started laughing, because who doesn’t love a good dad joke? When James looked back at Megan, it was obvious that she didn’t catch her own joke. The look on her face was puzzling and curious. After explaining the joke that she made, Megan’s face turned bright red, and after another long pause, she began laughing until she was blue in the face. (The restaurant workers must still think we are crazy for how loud and hard we laughed at that one simple phrase.) We understand that many of you may not see or feel the complete humor of how one simple phrase swept both of us off our feet. But that is where our story starts, and needless to say, we are eternally happy to admit that both of us are thankful for those little tuxedo birds.

From there, we were hooked. We started making more time for each other, started attending social events, bringing each other around friends and family, and sharing in each other’s passions. Soon enough, James started teaching Megan about sports, cooking, and woodworking. Meanwhile, Megan taught James about plants, photography, and the arts. (and cleaning, can’t forget that one). We started attending UL football games (a tradition that they still hold to today), cooking together, and creating works of art. Megan showed James how to care for all of her little plant babies, and James showed Megan how to properly cook a gravy and “tease” Tigger (also known as Kitten Cakes). All of the above and so much more created everlasting memories that we hold very dear to our hearts.

After nearly a year and half of humorous and loving memories, James finally made a decision (this is rare, both of us know that). He sought out a ring maker and asked for an engagement ring. Six months after he purchased the ring (thanks to a global pandemic), James brought Megan to one of her favorite places, Rip Van Winkle Gardens. There he planned a “last-minute” photo session with a photographer who was “just trying to build her portfolio.” We had a wonderful time touring the gardens. After nearly an hour of posing for pictures, there was only time for a few more pictures under the live oaks that overlook Lake Peigneur. It was here that James got down on one knee and asked for Megan’s hand in marriage. Of course, she said yes!

Since that magical day, we've entered a wonderful season of life that is filled with much excitement and spontaneity. We have cared for one another and supported each other through many aspects of life (graduating college, starting our careers, and starting our first home). These have been incredible times, but we believe the best is yet to come. We see a lifetime of memories to be made. We see a bright and beautiful future, full of love and passion. This is only the beginning of our adventure, and we could not be happier that we have the opportunity to celebrate it with you.