There are many clichés when referring to relationships, marriage and best friends. Two of my favorites are: everything happens for a reason and when you pray for a character trait God will present situations in which to improve that trait. Both of these old adages relate to my relationship with Jenelle. Jenelle and I met by accident which we both view as God implementing His will in our lives. Secondly, I had been praying for patience and sensitivity in my life and Jenelle, a caring, loving, patient, emotional best friend and companion, is the answer to these prayers.
Jenelle was born in Jacksonville, FL and spent her life growing up in a military family. If you ask her, she will tell you that moving around a lot was a blessing in itself. It helped to make her who she is and it has made it so home is truly where the heart is.
Jenelle graduated from the University of South Alabama with a BS in elementary education, a Master’s degree in Instructional Design and Development, and is working towards a Ph.D. in Instructional Design. She is on track to graduate in 2012. Currently Jenelle is working on numerous grant projects and teaching at the University of Alabama, Birmingham (my Alma Mater).
Jenelle enjoys traveling, camping, reading, and spending time with family and friends. She loves to sing in the car and thinks of shoes as art. Jenelle has a strong faith in God and a deep love for family. She strives to see the beauty in every situation and every person. She cares for everyone and everything, even the animals in commercials tug at her heart strings. If Jenelle says she is going to do something or going to be somewhere you can count on her. She is always true to her word. Jenelle is also one of the most determined people I have ever met.
I look forward to spending my life with Jenelle as her best friend, her partner, and her husband.
I like so many other people had been hurt and wasn't looking for a relationship. In fact, I had prayed that God would build walls around my heart until I met the right man. Then I met Chris and the whirlwind romance took flight. I had never dated a southern gentlemen and I fell hard and I fell fast. I will never forget the day Chris scared me to death saying, "We will either be married in two years or not together anymore. This isn't recess, we aren't just playing around!" Chris always knew what he wanted. I just feel lucky that what he wants is me.
Chris was born and raised in Alabama. He graduated from UAB in Birmingham, AL and now works as a project manager. He is an amazing man. Chris loves golf, dove hunting, and home do-it-yourself projects. He loves to be outdoors and is not afraid of hard work. He loves Koda and Precious (our dogs), mustard, and watching Auburn football. He is not a fan of ketchup, mint ice cream, or tomatoes. Chris is always up for a challenge and an adventure. I guess if I had to describe him in three words they would be analytical, faithful, and honest.
Chris can look at any situation and analyze it. I don't think he can help it most of the time. He loves to do all of the research, check every possibility and go with the best option. I know he will always take care of me and provide the best for me and that in itself is a blessing.
Chris is also faithful on so many levels. First he is faithful to God. I always prayed for a man who would be a spiritual leader in my future household. I have found that in Chris. His faith and love for God never waivers. He trusts in Him through all things. Chris is also faithful to his family, his friends, and to me. Once someone is in Chris's circle, he is there for them no matter what. Chris has gone to bat for me more than once. He never waivers, never thinks twice about it. I know Chris will always have my back and will be there standing beside me through thick and thin.
Chris is the most honest man I have ever met. He not only tells you the truth, but he always does what he says he is going to do. Sometimes, Chris's honesty can sting because even though we often say we want the truth, sometimes we aren't really ready for it. But in the end, you know Chris will always tell you the truth, good or bad.
Chris's magnetic personality and drive make him who he is. He balances me out and pushes me to be a better person on so many levels. It's not that we need each other. Its that we want to be with each other and that we are better individuals when we are together. I don't know what tomorrow holds, but I look forward to waking up each morning with a team captain I can count on and together, I know we are a winning team.
