Hayden and I met in high school through a mutual friend. Our group of friends would go to Shelby Farms and hangout around the small pond. I always remember thinking of Hayden as such a kind guy and couldn't help but have a crush on him towards the end of my senior (his junior) year of high school. After graduation, I left for college at Carson Newman University, and the year after he left for school at Mississippi State University. Neither of us kept in touch over the past 6 years since last seeing each other. In the spring of 2018, my little sister, Molly, and Hayden's little brother, Heath, began plotting to get Hayden and I at the same events and titled their endeavor "Operation Mayden." Heath and Molly graduated last May (YAY!) and at graduation Hayden and I quickly reconnected. Hayden took his sweet time, but he eventually asked me out on a date. As the story goes, after our first date he told his mom that he was going to marry me. That's one thing I have always loved about Hayden- he is a man of his word. 3 months of learning to date long distance, grace, forgiveness, and laughter together passed. I have never known a man like Hayden Quick- my mom was quick to point out that Hayden's actions were the difference in a boy and a man. I am so grateful that Hayden and I both had our faith rooted in Jesus as I can clearly see how God has used our relationship to further our personal relationships with Him. I have known from the beginning that this relationship was blessed! The day Hayden proposed was not ideal as I thought he was second guessing our relationship and I felt like everyone was avoiding me. I was surprised (AND ELATED) when Hayden asked me to be his wife!!These past 8 months of engagement have been long. I cannot wait to marry my best friend. Hayden and I will live in Starkville as he finishes up his masters degree. We are both so grateful to our families, friends, and mentors who played such crucial roles in our relationship. WE LOVE YOU ALL!