We first met in the 2nd grade, at elementary school, where throwing cicadas at each other at recess and dancing to Luther Vandross during after school care was normal. Fast forward to middle school, where we had our first awkward kiss by the school bus, where “I love you” was exchanged over AIM and when dodging each other in the hallway was the cool thing to do.

In high school, we were freshmen homecoming dates, and remained best friends through all the ups and downs that high school brings. As senior year ended, we were both accepted to James Madison University, where our relationship continued to grow. The summer before our senior year of college, something magical happened and everything changed.

After all of our years of friendship, we finally took the plunge, committing to a serious relationship and the rest is history! Here we are, over 20 years later, creating more memories and starting new adventures together. The saying is cliché, but true, there is no better gift in life than falling in love with your best friend!