Y'all know I have been an avid exerciser and regularly teach classes at our local YMCA in Charlotte. Fate would have it that I would meet my future husband in the sweatiest state— talk about love at first sight! I had noticed “gym crush” playing basketball a few times previously on the court behind me— or sometimes stroking pedals on the bike. And he always peaked my interest. One evening after class, he decided to approach me and offered to help me put away the equipment (what a gentleman) and I finally convinced him to join class next time. Needless to say, he became a avid regular! As many of my other regular girlfriends at the Y noticed that this “gym crush” always seem to wear.. green. That was my way of identifying him— “he's in the green!” —“there's the guy— in the green shirt.” — “don't look now, but green shirt just walked in!” Hence the nick name stuck— Green Shirt Gym Crush. 💚 After a few weeks of lack luster responses here and there on Facebook, showing up at other Ys I knew he was likely to attend, or trying anything to muster up enough courage to have a decent conversation— I invited him to one of our YMCA Morning Crew happy hours (sweat then drink!). HE SHOWED UP! Like first one to arrive! I was freaking out, and when he offered to pay for my glass of wine, I knew he was a keeper (Grim would be very proud!). From there— Ryan asked me on our first date to Bakersfield Mexican Restaurant on May 15th of 2018 and the rest of weekend was like magic— easy, flawless, beautiful. His whit, kindness, passions for life, and shear big heart really sealed the deal for me (plus, he looks like Bradley Cooper!!) After a bunion surgery, three new jobs, joining of a new puppy with Yogger Bear, new apartment then new house, COVID and a STUNNINGLY, gorgeous diamond ring later— we are getting married, and my heart is whole!