During the fall semester at Worcester State in 2019, in the outdated halls of our university campus, I first met Marcus. This tall, handsome, and half asleep sweat pant wearing guy caught my eye immediately. Although he claims my sweet flirtation was 'aggressive', here we are six years later sharing a health insurance policy and last name. After courageously giving him my phone number, constant texting, walks to class together, and a few lunch and study dates, that little butterfly in my stomach never flew away. Within two months, Marcus asked me to be his girlfriend and our story as one had officially begun. Over the years our favorite dates have been yearly hiking trips to New Hampshire, seemingly weekly ice cream runs to Uhlman's, camping in Old Orchard Beach, cruises (xo: the buffet and drink package), and movie nights with sweet treat charcuterie boards. After five and a half years, it was time for Marcus to upgrade his subscription package to fiancé status. Atop the White Mountain range and with so many tears in my eyes I could barely see, what other answer could I give than "absolutely" ?! However this driven man was on a mission and within seven weeks, we were married in a private ceremony. Our hearts have always been centered around our family and friends, so we are overjoyed to share our first year wedding anniversary alongside our loved ones. Throughout travel across the country and international waters to new jobs, a new place to call home, and the countless curveballs life throws our way, we have learned to grow together through the growing pains. Our journey has been full of highs and lows, laughter and uncertainty, sleepless nights to ones we wish would never end. We are far from perfect, but through God's grace and the continued choosing of each other we vow to walk this path hand in hand. This is us. The two kids still trying to figure out what they want to be when they grow up. But with each other, we have it all. The Blanchards.

I am overwhelmed with gratitude to be surrounded by so much elation, encouragement, and support for our marriage. This journey has already been one full of growth, perseverance, and love. To my selfless parents - I love you more than words could ever express. Thank you for showing me the true definition of unconditional love, forgiveness, and steadfast support. You have built my life around the firm foundation of faithfulness, courage, compassion, and a great family recipe or two. To my extraordinary family and friends - Thank you. Through the good, bad, and everything in between you have stood beside me weathering out every storm, and what a privilege to cherish each rainbow together. To my handsome husband - I love you to the liquor store and back, believe me you'll hear more than enough from me later. I owe who I am today to all of you. I can't wait to celebrate with each one of you. Cheers to our forever!

I want to say thank you to all of our friends and family who have supported both Sam and I along our journey through life. All of you have made us feel incredibly loved and encouraged to take this next step in our lives together. To both of my siblings Derek and Caitlyn - Thank you for making Sam feel welcomed into the family. We have created great memories filled with laughter and joy, with many more to come. To my parents - Thank you for giving me nothing but the best. You have both sacrificed so much to make sure I always had the best chance of success in life. I would also like to thank you for treating Sam like she is one of your own, making her feel welcomed, and supporting the both of us. Thank you for showing Sam the same love you have shown me all of my life. I love you both. And to my incredible wife - I am overjoyed to be continuing this journey of marriage with you. I am excited to create new memories, reach new milestones, and continue to live out our dreams as one. I love you more than you know.