*Ware* tying the knot!

When I think of how TJ and I met, I have to thank God for His perfect timing. I was waiting tables at a local restaurant while finishing PTA school when TJ came in with a group of his friends. Initially from a distance, TJ resembled an old boyfriend. In passing and of course on purpose, I mentioned this to him. The next day, TJ went cyber-stalking through our mutual friend, Dani's, Instagram page to find a tagged photo of me. He immediately "slid into my DMs" asking me out on a proper date. TJ likes to tell the story that I was immediately enamored by and in love with him at first sight. I continue to let him think that due to the fact that he won't be getting many more wins after we say "I do!" We never actually went on that "official" first date, but we did develop an amazing friendship which has blossomed into a beautiful love story. All of you who know us well know we have been inseparable ever since!

After weeks of planning and borderline insomnia, the day I had been anxiously awaiting was finally here. I decided to take the day off to mentally prepare myself for the big night. Paige had arranged a date for us to celebrate my birthday at a fine steakhouse in downtown Dallas. As the time was approaching, I was feeling great about the night ahead and couldn't wait to pop the question. 30 minutes prior to the date, I was ready to go! However, I needed to add one final touch to my outfit: the engagement ring! Everywhere I attempted to place the ring was extremely noticeable. After a little googling and a lot of stress, I landed on placing the ring box in my sock and covering it up with my boots. Fast forward through dinner, it was now time to execute the plan I had laid out weeks in advance. I had scheduled a horse and carriage ride through Highland Park to look at Christmas lights "for my birthday." As the buggy took us through the neighborhood, we stopped at a bridge over Exall Lake. Here I had arranged a photographer to be stationed in secret to capture the big moment. At this point, my nerves started to kick in and we were advised by the driver to hop out of the carriage and to take an opportunity to "enjoy the scenery." I took Paige by the hand and began to walk toward the bridge only to find the sprinklers were on full force. After a couple minutes of encouragement, Paige semi-reluctantly agreed to walk through the sprinklers and onto the bridge with me "for a better view". By now, I've officially blacked out from nerves. I have no idea exactly what I said to Paige, but after a few minutes on the bridge I dropped down to one knee and after struggling for what seemed like forever to pull the ring out of my sock, I asked her to marry me. Still not sure if she ever officially answered, but I took the huge smile, hugs and kisses as a resounding yes! Our photographer was able to catch every moment. This will forever be the most memorable birthday of my life!