In the vast world of online dating, Justin + I connected in the most modern of ways – swiping right.

Some of you may know, but in the world of men named Justin, I had not had the best luck, and despite his amazing blue eyes, I initially avoided his messages and unmatched him, then matched him, unmatched, (little did I know he was being notified of it each time).

Finally giving in, because what woman in her right mind ignores a tall, broad shouldered and handsome blue-eyed man, wanting to take her to dinner and mini golf?

First Date

Justin took me to one of my favorite places, Butcher & Bee in Nashville, where our differences became incredibly apparent. A man of few words, copious thoughts, and your standard male diet, having to order 6+ things and leave hungry with a $100+ bill? Preposterous!

Which was followed by a HOT game of Mini Golf, not being crass, it was July in Tennessee. My aunt had suggested if I really liked him to let him win, but, losing is not in my vocabulary, and he should be aware of that as soon as possible.

I cannot recall who won the game, I think I likely lost my ball on purpose, as it was 92 degrees out, and I am not a happy overheated person (hence an October wedding).

Future dates consisted of Axe throwing, home-cooked dinners, long drives back and forth from Nashville to Dickson, where I learned about Justin, his family, how amazing of a cook his Mom was, how insanely smart he is, and he tolerated my car karaoke, obsession with my dog, (Macy), and love for all things water.

When did you know it was LOVE?

I am pretty sure he fell in love with me right away, obviously. 😉 But, I digress, Justin says: "I knew when I would get teary eyed after you would leave for long work trips. It reminded me of the way my late Grandaddy Smith would always get emotional when the grandkids left after a visit." (my heart!)

So, when did I know it was love? I don't remember one specific time, but I am reminded every time he grabs my hand, to slow me down from getting to the door first, whether it be to his truck, or whatever outing I have dragged him to. I was reminded when he used his superior carpentry skills, to build me a she-shed, so I had some "me" space when we combined homes. I was reminded when I received the devastating news of Macy's cancer, and he held both her and I as my heart broken in a million pieces. I am reminded every time he has patience and understanding when I am being someone who deserves neither. I am also reminded of why I love him, when he doesn't.

Our love has not always been lollipops and butterflies, and our true testament, our real love story, was built on the difficult times, and our combined ability, to overcome our differences, as we stand on the brink of forever, our love story is a testament to the magic that happens when opposites attract. Fighting over who is the better driver (me), if the cat or dog did it, (the cat) and where to go for dinner, is all a part in crafting a tale that's uniquely ours.

Here's to the simple joys, the finer moments, and the extraordinary love that binds us together. Cheers to us, a crock pot of opposites, in a story that continues to unfold with each passing day.