It was the first kickball game of the season, and we had some new team members – I remember walking up to the bleachers to say hi to everyone and looking over to see a 6’5” guy wearing a Braves hat and a yellow “Irmo Equestrian” t-shirt. It wasn’t the good-looking guy that caught my immediate attention, it was the picture of the horse because, you know, horse girl. As we were heading to our field I casually walked over and asked if he rode horses for which he immediately responded with, “No, I hate them” and kept walking. Rarely in my life have I been rendered speechless, but this was without a doubt one of my most speechless moments ever. It was the second game of the season, and I was feeling confident - Andrew and I were playing outfield together (he likes to tell the story a little differently) but the ball was kicked straight at me…I was facing that ball head on, determined and ready for it to land in my hands. Just as I was reaching out to grab it, Andrew effortlessly reached over my head and snagged it out of thin air…he claims he was helping me so I wouldn’t drop it… He later explained that this was one of his “playing hard to get tactics” to pique my interest. It wasn’t uncommon for our team to get dinner and drinks after the games. Andrew and I often ended up together and gradually the horse hater and I started to become friends. When we finally decided to exchange numbers, I was so excited but nervous. I remember texting him that night when I got home and waited impatiently for a response that never came…come to find out I typed in the wrong number. Eventually we made contact and scheduled a movie night. On my way over to Andrew’s house I was in a hit and run car accident which slightly delayed watching Willy Wonka and my first viewing of Jurassic Park. Little did I know I would be watching the classic with a special narration by the one and only Andrew Keese, followed up with props and dancing. Never in my life had I laughed as much as I did that night. As we were saying our goodbyes, he awkwardly side hugged me and said, “good luck with your car” and immediately ran back inside so fast I barely knew what was happening. This now marked the second time I was rendered speechless by this man. I left thinking well this is the last time I will ever hear from him. Needless to say, that was three years ago and since that night we have spent just about every day together. That 6’5” good looking, Braves hat wearing, horse hating man is the best thing that has ever happened to me, and I can’t imagine my life without him. He still renders me speechless at times but has shown me unwavering love, support and appreciation. I am so honored to get to spend the rest of my life with him and look forward to all the adventures we will share.

Lace 'em up, knock a few back, score some runs. There wasn't any inclination we would fall in love that night, but fate is an unstoppable force. You might know the story of AL dropping a pop fly, you might know that I ran in on the next pop up to catch it over her head. You might even know that I told equine AL I hate horses. But one thing you do know for certain is love transcends time and space. Our love for each other is undeniable and resolute. We are so excited to celebrate our marriage and future with each of you, thank you for being a part of our special day.