Though there’s debate on which friend “set us up” (talking to you, Caroline Harris), Madison and I met our sophomore year at Baylor to be dates for her sorority’s “Theta Two-Step” event. However, I needed to conduct my own research prior to the party; you know, just to see who this Madison girl really was and what the vibe might be as her date. I gave her a call but got no answer. Madison told her roommate, Caroline, “Oh no. He must be calling to bail on me. Why else would he CALL?!”. She returns my call with a skeptical tone… I ask, “Wanna get coffee before the event? You know, just to get to know each other” (smooooth) and she agreed! Apparently I walked her out to her car when we said goodbye which she claims wooed her, but I only remember her green eyes, freckles and refreshingly reserved personality (since my comfort zone consisted of non-stop, energetic busy bees at the time). Fast forward a few nights and we’re dressed in our western best, rocking squirrel socks under our boots (unplanned but unsurprising given our mutual love of squirrels) and dancin’ the night away with our friends. Later that night, Madison drove our group to the Czech Stop for some late night kolaches and fun convos, and voila, I was starstruck! Living at the same apartment complex, taking the same classes, and having mutual friends led us to spending that whole school year as best friends. And by that, I mean me constantly begging Madison for help in our classes (AKA “can you send me your Quizlets please?”) when I hadn’t done the homework, convincing her to ride around on my moped with me waving hi to strangers (RIP to the absolute GOAT of all mopeds), spending LOTS of time helping her with “Sing” responsibilities, and exploring all that life in Waco and at Baylor had to offer, together… all with a flirtatious undertone in the name of “besties”. So many friends called it for what it was way before we ever dated, and I’m so thankful Madison still gave that young, crazy, curious 20 year old a chance at loving her, even if it did take way too long for him to muster up the courage to ask her out. Most importantly, I’m grateful Madison has continually extended me her patience, wisdom, grace and love through our relationship. Even when my attempts at loving her have been broken, messy and sometimes downright foolish, I’ve constantly been embraced, re-directed to Christ, and given another chance by a woman who always strives to love me (and everyone who she encounters) like Jesus does. It feels like I’ve given her multiple reasons to throw in the towel over the last 4.5 years of life together, but I’m the most undeserving yet blessed man in the world to be gaining such a beautiful, patient, and caring bride with whom I can take on life's highs and lows. Madison, I respect and admire you so much. I hope to love you deeper and better each day: thank you for planting and growing a love in our story that reflects the love Jesus gives in His story to each of us. Two things for you, reader: 1) Thank you for reading this. I can't put our story and excitement in fewer words, so I appreciate your presence and patience in learning our story. 2) I love you, and WE love you. And we mean that. We wouldn't be here without your guidance, wisdom, and care for us individually and as a couple. Whether we're family members or recently became friends, you are significant in our story but more importantly, integral in our pursuit of knowing and loving Jesus more. We ask for your continual prayers, advice and love as we approach such an exciting and important season as husband and wife. Let's do this thing!