Monday, August 11, 2014...The first day of freshman year which meant new classes, new teachers, and new classmates. Lexie was one of the new kids on the block (transferring schools) and shared a second period Civics class with me. Even though we had known of each other, this was our first chance to interact with each other. It took all of one day for me to realize that the new blonde hair, blue eyed girl was something special. Throughout the first half of the school year, we began to grow our friendship, as well as start to develop a connection. Some would say I may or may not had to crawl myself out of the friend zone, but we will leave that argument up to another time. Wednesday, February 4, 2015... We were "studying" after school. The weather was cold, but I was sweating like it was 100 degrees because I was trying to muster up the courage to ask Lexie to be my girlfriend. After several deep breathes, I shakily mumbled "Lexie, will you be my girlfriend?" in which she eagerly responded, "Yes! What took you so long!?" Little did we know, that this simple question would lead to a lifetime of love. Nine years, 3 months, and 28 days later on Sunday, June 2, 2024... I prepared to ask Lexie another question. After church that morning, we brought Goose, our new puppy, to go play in the Woodard's pasture. As we approached the end of the puppy play date, it started to rain, and I began to panic. As they started back towards the truck, Lexie heard her name being called from behind and before she knew it , I was down on one knee. I was at a loss of words, stared into those beautiful blue eyes, gathered my emotions, and shakily asked this time "Lexie, will you marry me?" in which she joyfully replied with a sobbing "Yes!" Four years of high school, four years of college, and 9 extensive hunting seasons later - we have always been by each other's side. Lexie and I could not be more excited for our future the good Lord has planned for us. We are thrilled for this next chapter of life and cannot wait to celebrate our love with friends and family on May 3, 2025.