I probably went through the longest, wild, growing up period known to mankind. I would definately NOT call myself a stud, just one of those guys who found fun in every situation. I was "never gonna be tied down" or so I thought....hehe....

After doing some growing up, experiencing tons of things in Texas, I found life was unfulfilling without my family close by. So in 1995, I moved back to Milwaukee to be near them. It didn't take much time to get back into the wild lifestyle, meeting all sorts of new people. The friends I made only encouraged the partying.

Ya know, though, that can get real old. My friends all started getting girlfriends and cut back on the "guy stuff". No, I didn't think it was "that time" but it did give me time to think.

One of those so called thinking times, I decided to go to my hangout, Scotty's Perfect Timing, a little corner bar in the middle of West Allis, WI. for a few beers.

To make this shorter, Jackie and a friend of hers sat next to me and made conversation. We ended up closing the place and the 3 of us with a couple of other people decided to make the night last longer by going for early breakfast. Turned out that she never even planned on going out that night and I never....EVER.... went out alone. Fate in the making?

She gave me her number that night (morning). I kept it, thinking about calling her for a couple days. Upon finally getting up the nerve, I finally called, much to her surprise. We set up a date and *POW* I was hooked. She set a fire in me I never dreamed of.

We spent sooooo much time together....almost everday for months. After 6 and a half months, we decided to move in together. That was early '98.

Every day with her was fulfilling and I felt us growing closer. We had our differences, but our relationship was nothing like I've experienced before. I actually felt confident and secure with this beautiful woman.

I pondered the idea of marriage for the first time in my life. On Christmas day 1998, sitting in our car at a nearby stop sign, I was overcome by some force of nature and right there popped the question. I still remember her face and reaction..... and that guy behind us in the SUV so patient. Thank God she said yes.

Well, October 13, 2000, we finally locked up the balls and chains and signed the papers. Even though the whole month prior, I was a nervous wreck. I can honestly say I never got the stereotypical "cold feet." I never had second thoughts. I'm just not much for being the center of attention, but it went over so perfect.

What the heck? I can say I did great and must have great taste to keep this wonderful bar chick......hehehe..... she's gonna love that! I love her to infinity and have the most decisive confidence in us as one.

For Jackie......... you have my heart and I love you forever.........