We met at a restaurant, one I happened to be working at at the time… I have to admit, he had my attention, but of course I was on the clock. I knew he was special, so I asked him if he was a MaryJane fan and that’s how it all started. After a few nights of hanging out, the talks got longer, and more philosophical (might have been the MaryJane) but we just clicked. He went deep, I went deeper. In these moments and ever since I have been so proud and impressed by this man. Sergeant Wayne Whiteside III, a protecter. We reminisced about his EOD days, our bad habits, our good times, and I just felt so connected to this stranger. That’s pretty much when I knew, "Okay. This could be something."

Only 4 months after we met, we were traveling together, going to concerts together, laughing together, crying together. We helped each other through so much, supporting one another’s healing journey. This man proved to me time and time again he was loyal, kind, patient, and dedicated. Only a few months in and Wayne got my name tattooed on himself. He warned me he was crazy, but that sealed the deal. I knew I met my match, and that I wanted to get married to one of the good ones. Not only did he spoil me by celebrating my birthday together, with a trip to Florida (Destin) a sentiment to Wayne. He stepped up to be the best Father to our sweet Aria. I was so scared to trust and let him love not only me but this sweet girl, and he was nothing shy of incredible. I feel so secure and safe. I let my guard down for him, and one day at a time, I gave him my heart piece by piece. A month later, Wayne Charles Whiteside III went and asked for my parents blessing to marry me. I of course ruined my own surprise by not being good with receiving surprises… Wayne and I had just began moving into our apartment together, setting up our first Christmas tree together, and I kept asking, what did you do today? How was your day? What plans did you have? He tried so hard to redirect but I kept saying/begging/ruining the surprise like I do… and then just like that, he gets down on one knee and pulls out a beautiful black diamond engagement ring. I burst into tears. I was so embarrassed yet so ecstatic that the man of my dreams wants to share the rest of his life with me. We're so excited to celebrate this next chapter in our lives with you. Let’s get this party started!