As I look back on 2017 and really the last 3 years, it’s been a crazy ride. I’ve learned a lot of lessons and grown stronger as a person, but I couldn’t have made it through the tough times without the support of everyone in this room. As the New Year approaches, I have never been so optimistic of what God will bring into our lives. As such, I would like to share a few words of gratitude and love to the people who live in this new house with me and who are my inspiration and motivation to keep moving forward towards being a better dad, partner, and friend. I’ll start in order of youngest to oldest… My Carter Boy. Your dad is so proud of you and the man you are becoming. You amaze me with your musical talent and ability to learn anything so quickly, from video games to your work at school. You are growing up to be a gentlemen with a kind heart towards all living things. As my only man, I thank God that he allowed the best of me to thrive in you. Despite my mistakes, I promise to be a dad you can be proud of and look up to. I love you so much, my little man. My Dear Ella Girl. You were my first, and from the first day I met you, your sweet, loving, beautiful eyes have captivated me. You have the most caring heart of anyone I have ever met, young or old. Your gentle touch puts all animals at ease, from the smallest potato bug to the biggest animals at the farm. You find joy in the smallest of things, are a shining example to all of us to slow down, enjoy life, and live in the present. You make me proud, pickles! I love you! My Sweet Avery girl. I met you for the first time a year ago, and instantly fell in love with your smile, laugh, and fun outlook on life. You constantly amaze me with your creative ideas, and fearless attitude to try something new. You are a great friend to Ella and Carter, and I am so blessed to have you in my life. You always make me smile, and I love you very much!

Ry, my partner in crime. You are always up for an adventure, even if it’s going to run an errand, you jump right in the co-pilot seat with me. You have such a big heart, and it’s apparent in the way that Carter already looks up to you and clings on to you like a big sister. You have grown up into such a beautiful, amazing woman over the last year, and I’m so blessed to be a part of helping you find your path in this world. You are so smart and talented, you can do and be anything that you want. Thanks for letting me join you in this adventure! I love you Ry. My beautiful, sweet Lisa. This time a year ago, I was lost and on a path that I wasn’t proud of. You found me at my lowest point and flooded my soul with an outpouring of understanding and unconditional love, the likes of which I have never felt before. I didn’t know it then, but for all of the prayers I had uttered in my darkest hours, you were Gods answer for me. You are truly my angel. We have leaned on each other during the hard times, our roots grew stronger together, and we overcame anything that came our way. We are now in a house with our beautiful family as one, and I can’t imagine wanting anything more than what we have right now. It won’t be without its challenges, but I know down deep in my soul that we are meant to be together and our family is meant to be together. Lisa Michelle Warr, you are my love, and my life. You are what makes me complete. I am madly in love with you and I want to spend the rest of my life with you right by my side. Avery and Rylee, will you let Carter, Ella, and I be a part of your family, and Lisa will you marry me?