The beginning of January 2019, I walked into Lifeway Christian Bookstore, seeking a devotional for the new year. As I was browsing the shelves, the sweetest guy walked up to me, asking me if I needed any help. Being the natural introvert that I am, I declined his offer and kept browsing. But he was persistent and would not take no for an answer! He kept lingering, ready to assist me in any way possible. I finally relented and allowed him to help me, best decision ever! After a brief but meaningful conversation, I selected my book and he offered to assist me with checking out. Before I completed my purchase, he quietly asked me for my phone number, which was totally against policy! I wrote my number down and walked out of the door, not realizing God had just answered all of my prayers!

It took FOREVER for Clayton to finally plan our first date! He is certainly one to take his time and not rush anything. He asked me to go to the movies with him one evening affer work to watch “The Kid Who Would Be King”. I was a nervous wreck when I pulled into the parking lot, but he grabbed my hand as we walked in the door and I knew that I never wanted him to let it go. After the movie, we drove around Shreveport, talking and spending time together and I found myself falling head over heels for him! At the end of the night, as I drove away, I knew I had found the man I was going to marry. 2 days later, he asked me to be his girlfriend!

2020 brought us so many chaotic moments, full of uncertainty and stress. Our family decided to take some time and escape to Broken Bow, Oklahoma for 4th of July weekend. We rented a cabin, made a menu, and began packing our bags. Little did I know, Clayton had a few plans of his own. On July 3rd, while eating dinner, my lovely sister “accidentally” spilt a drink all over myself and Clayton, prompting us to go and change clothes. Knowing I was spending the weekend kayaking and swimming I only packed athletic clothing, so I just slipped on a simple skirt and shirt. Clayton on the other hand, came out dressed to the nines. We leave the cabin and head down into Beaver’s Bend state park and come upon this gorgeous, picteresque location. We walk out, exploring the area and decide to take pictures of each family. The last to take pictures was Clayton and I. In the quickest moment, while cleaning my glasses, Clayton slipped to one knee and asked me to spend forever with him! And just like that, forever has begun for us!