“Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, she walks into mine.” ¬– Casablanca “A guy walks into a bar…” That’s how it all began. It was winter in Greenville, SC, about 10 years ago. Not to give away their age or anything, but let’s just say people their age don’t tend to venture out at night in the cold, but would rather stay warm and comfy at home. This night was different. By the time the evening had come to a close, Kip had Michelle’s phone number. And Kip was a smart man. Certainly not a novice to this scene. “Better not let this one get away,” he said to himself. In the parking lot outside the bar that night, he called her. Michelle was flattered and said herself, “Huh, this guy had no idea what he’s getting into!” Then there was the first date that almost never was. (Michelle almost cancelled. Kip can thank Betsy for her NOT canceling). The first time he picked her up, he was a true gentleman. Flowers in hand and car door opened. Despite the first few dates being a little rocky (renting guy movies – okay, okay, Kip is a “Trekkie” aka Star Trek fanatic). Their tastes couldn’t be farther apart. In spite of their awkward work schedules and the fact that Michelle had TEENAGERS, they recognized they each shared a void that was different but clearly complimentary. This illuminated a path that merged their lives together forever. Michelle was a struggling single mother of two typical teenage boys. Kip’s life lacked relevance and purpose. These two paths found a complimentary unity. Even though there were plenty of obstacles, hardship, and tears, they continued on. They quickly realized they both had to evolve in order to continue. This was a love worth fighting for. Both made conscious decisions to stay the course. Believe in one another and themselves. Believe there was a future and their relationship was greater than the sum of their parts. Therefore, the two have decided to become ONE.