We both went to a college conference called Campus Outreach New Years Conference of 2016. The two of us had committed to spending our entire summer down in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee in sharing our faith and helping other young Christians grow in their faith. In Milwaukee, WI we first met at the conference discussing our summers and playing different games. As time went on, we spent the entire summer in Tennessee together being on the same leadership team and growing our friendship. We developed a genuine friendship and a close bond by the end of the summer. It was easy to talk to each other and time together always felt so comfortable and natural.

The first time that I met LaKaylee I thought that she was a very beautiful woman with a very unique name. The first time we hung out was at the New Years Conference, and she was playing a game of mafia that I ruined for her by whispering to her in the middle of the game and exposed her character. She was furious with me and I thought I had blown it for sure, yet I hoped that I hadn't because I was just attracted to her presence for some reason. We would go on a Spring Break trip together and eventually SMP where we would develop a very strong friendship. I was always interested in her, but I always thought our personalities would not mesh, so I never thought of her as more than a friend. One December night we would meet up at a Starbucks and at the end of that time, she would rebuke me and tell me I either needed to ask her on a date or I needed to back off. I chose to back off at that time. We talked off an on for the next six months, and when I was placed down south for work, I asked that spit fire of a woman to hang out, which led to some dates, and eventually to a rock. I was attracted to the attitude that wouldn't take any crap, wouldn't stand for sin in the life of people she loves and would point it out, the genuine heart for people, the desire to influence people as a nurse, and her overflowing love for Jesus.

When I first saw Alecsander, he was sitting in a chair quietly observing everyone around him. Of course, I remember thinking this guy is super handsome and had no idea who he was. As the conference went on, I realized how wrong my first impression was and that Alec was indeed not quiet, or at least not in the game we were playing. I knew I would be spending the summer with him and I was excited to get to know him more. Being on the same leadership team, I was able to spend a lot of time with Alec learning about his character and heart for the Lord. We spent a lot of time laughing and making memories worth repeating together. I was so surprised by how great of friends we became by the end of the summer. After our summer in Tennessee, we kept in touch for the most part! Alec had always held an "I'm interested in you" kind of spot in my heart. I kept telling myself nothing would ever come of it and just enjoyed the sweet friendship I had. I honestly didn't think we would see each other again. In the summer of 2018, Alec began to work in my area through his job, and we spent some time together that way. As Alec and I began dating, he completely amazed me with his character and the capacity of love he has for his family and others. He is a joy to be around and is the best listener I know. Also, the MOST ATTRACTIVE man around. He has shown me Christ in his humility, grace, compassionate heart, and patience. Alec is a man that has shown me no matter what I bring to the table he is all in and ready to graciously come alongside me. Alec has won my heart in every way possible and continually does so. I am so blessed to become his wife and do the journey of life together pursuing Christ and growing His kingdom.