Remember when we got married?

Amanda and CJ met in high school, in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. They had a few classes together, but didn't really connect until after college, when CJ lived across the country in North Carolina. Stationed at Fort Bragg as an officer, he is required to attend formal events and needed a date for his military ball in January of 2016. Because of the ball, Amanda flew out to Fayetteville for the first time, but certainly not the last, and so it began.

After spending the day playing tourists in Denver, CO, they went out for a beautiful dinner with CJ's family. CJ's brother Ryan offered them a ride in his pedicab to look at all of the Christmas lights around downtown Denver! They were in front of Union Station with a ton of pretty lights and displays, including a giant tree with lighted reindeer. Ryan suggested taking some family pictures. Beginning with CJ's mom and Amanda, Ryan played the part of family photographer. Patty and Amanda took pictures wrapped in a blanket under the tree, and then CJ's brother told him to jump in a take a few pictures with Amanda. After a few casual photo's, CJ got on one knee and asked Amanda to marry him, to which she replied, 'Are you serious?'. Of course, she said yes, and of course, she cried.

Recently, the bride and groom purchased their first home with their first dog. It wasn't long after that they grew their family by four more paws. After a kitchen renovation, a few hurricanes, a new porch, and countless trips to Target and HomeGoods (by Amanda, of course), their house feels like home. For however long the Army keeps them in Fayetteville, they are blessed to have a place to call home.

Well, we did it! And now it's time to PARTY!