We met at work—Jack, the new college president; me, already in HR. He was tall, confident, and immediately reminded me of a Black Clark Gable. Something about him was different—quirky, bold, and those “come hither” green eyes didn’t hurt either. Jack saw me as smart and witty, someone who could go toe-to-toe with any line he threw my way. After our first date, he knew something was up. After our second, he was sure. He asked, “Would you like to go to lunch? I want to get to know you better.” Classic. So cliché! And yes, it worked. A few months later, I was sure after we took a trip to New York. Jack nearly missed the flight, just like he’d been late to our very first date. (Yes, I still gave him another chance.) But when he proposed on my birthday; dressed in a tux, cooking brunch, and kneeling with a ring, I said yes. Before the wedding, I told Jack: if you’re late, there won’t be a wedding. He was early. Really early. Waiting for me at the gazebo in St. Lucia. And he’s been on time ever since—not just physically, but emotionally. That moment marked a shift. He’s shown up, fully and faithfully, for 20 years. Our journey hasn’t been without challenges. We’ve weathered career pivots, years of long-distant relationship, and painful losses; parents, my siblings, and our beloved Paxton Pooterbear Casanova Daniels. Paxton wasn’t just our dog, he was family. Joy-bringer, comforter, sidekick. Losing him hurt. But through every loss, we leaned on God and on each other. We’ve also built joy: traveling the world, building homes across the country, celebrating birthdays like they’re holidays, and learning that honesty and laughter are daily choices. And we haven’t walked this road alone—our story has been lovingly witnessed by friends who’ve enriched our journey. From our dear couple friends in California, to Anita, our ride-or-die, to our friends in Wisconsin to Belle & Eileen who stood by Jack when others did not, you’ve accepted us for who we are, perfectly imperfect. To our children—you’ve strengthened our blended family through your love and respect. You've allowed us to share in your joys and honored the love we share. We hope our love leaves a legacy of resilience, unconditional love, and a hunger for making life count by walking with purpose and giving your time and talent to the communities you live in as we have. Two decades in, we’re not who we were and we’re so thankful for that. We’ve grown wiser, softer, stronger. We’ve learned that sometimes one of us is on assignment from God, and the other is called to adjust, support, and trust. And we’ve come to believe that our love was never just about companionship, it was always about purpose. We also hope our relationship models that it is built on faith and sustained by grace. We are each other’s home and safe place. We’ve come through the fire, not untouched, but unwavering. And we know: the real gift is not that we’ve survived, it’s that we still choose each other, day after day and as a result we are THRIVING! This vow renewal is a sacred acknowledgment that we’re still here. Still in love. Still growing. And still walking together into whatever God has next. Our Promises (Short & True): To keep showing up early and always. To tell the truth and give each other room to grow. To believe in one another’s dreams and callings. To laugh loudly, forgive quickly, and love without conditions. To walk wherever God sends us—together. Here’s to the next 20 years 🥂❤️