On August 18, 2022 God brought these two together on what was "not a set-up". Valerie's brother, JD and his wife Ginny, decided that these two should meet after determining that their circumstances were very similar. Valerie's first thought was a very hard "NO" after learning he was a golf pro (First Strike!), and he is younger than her (Second Strike!), but she agreed to invite him to her birthday dinner thinking she could offer him support and friendship. Dinner was set for Garcia's in Granbury the day before her birthday. Upon arrival, the Third and Fourth Strikes were apparent to Valerie after seeing a short, bald guy with her brother, but when Duff saw Valerie, he was left breathless and knew God was doing something special. After a wonderful, long dinner, Duff walked Valerie to her car, said goodbye, and walked away. Realizing what an amazing person he just spent the evening with, Duff turned around and made a life changing decision by letting her know how he felt, the first of many feelings talks to come. Valerie was so impressed with this man who showed up with a card and a gift and told her she was amazing and beautiful, she offered up her number. (The fact that he was sweet and handsome didn't hurt.) They both agreed it was all so weird and awkward, but they also knew something special was happening. Next came the countless hours of texting and phone calls, where each trusted the other with their inner most pain from their pasts, and they began to heal each other, becoming the best of friends. One by one, the 4 Strikes became insignificant, as friendship turned to love. Through "no touch" dating, vacations and ultimately, their engagement, they have always known that God has had a plan for this very moment. We want to thank all our family and friends for the amazing love and support you have shown us through this journey.

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