I was a senior in high school, determined to leave Texas, move to California, and never look back. I was single and ready to explore the world. Then I met Rachel and she screwed up, what I thought at the time was a master plan. I still went to California for school but I also spent most nights my freshman year calling my high-school girlfriend who was over a thousand miles away. At the end of my freshman year I decided I needed to chase her all the way back to Texas like the love-struck teenager I was. Fortunately, that turned out to be the best decision I have ever made. Because I was able to watch my future wife grow up beside me. In high school we played kickball, went to each other’s sports games, and were each other’s prom dates. She got to ride in my parents white minivan and I got to hold on for dear life in her dad’s red Camaro. In college we studied together in the campus library during the week and stuffed ourselves with margaritas and tacos on the weekends. I look back and feel so grateful to have been able to create all those memories with her. I did get to follow part of my plan though, because we have been able to explore the world and create even more memories…together. It’s incredible to think that the 16 year-old I celebrated month-a-versarries with in high school would end up being the amazing woman who I’ve built a life and home with. I guess what I’m trying to say is, I am very excited and lucky to finally get married to Rachel after 11 and 1/2 years.