Welcome to Our Love

BRENDAN It was Thursday, November 20, 2008. I remember the date because Thursdays were card night at the Checkerboard Lounge in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago, IL. It was a typical Thursday night for me because I am an avid bidwhist player, that was my routine. This night was different. There was a live band playing that night instead of the usual DJ that plays the steppers music. Singer after singer, the vibe was decent but one singer in particular distracted me from my card game. It was this girl with this long striped dress and long ponytail singing some song but all I could think about was getting to know her. When she finished singing, she sat at a table with 3 other women but I didn't care. I politely introduced myself, asked for her number, and gave mine. We've been inseparable ever since. LATRICE I had made it to the next round in this singing competition in Gary, IN. The next show was at some Lounge in Chicago. It was cold and snowy plus I didn't want to go by myself so I had my mom, cousin Shawna, and family friend Charlesetta join me for the ride. I just bought the perfect outfit for the stage too. I wore a silver, sparkly shirt with black stripes and my black leggings, hair in a long ponytail as well. Reasons from Earth, Wind, and Fire was my song of choice to sing and I nailed it. I went back to my seat confident in my performance as my mom, cousin and friend confirmed it, telling me I did a good job. A few minutes later, I heard a voice saying, "Hi. You sound really good. You did a good job." I told him thank you. As I was turning back around, he says, "My name is Brendan and I was wondering if I could call you sometime and maybe take you out?" To myself, "Hmmmm he seems nice. I like the way he approached me. I'll see what he's about." To Brendan, "Sure, my number is......" Of course the texts and calls started immediately. Our first date was at Dixie's Kitchen in Lansing, IL. I don't think we've ever went a day without hearing each other's voices since the day we met.