Jason and I talked for a few months over the phone before we actually met.  We had lots in common, except that he had been married twice before and had 3 kids.  I had been single for most of my adulthood (39 when we met) and was very independent.  The prior marriages and kids scared me a little, I have to admit.  But, when we met - something just clicked!  We were so much alike, yet different in good ways. He loves to water ski; I love to ride in the boat!  He is a daredevil, I'm Ms. Cautious.  Etc., Etc.

I tell people all of the time that it is actually scary how we are so much alike.  It's like we've known each other for a very long time.  (But, a wonderful long time!)  From the first date to now, there hasn't been a day that I haven't talked to him. I fell in love with his kids too.  He sees them every other weekend and we have so much fun with them.  I love them as if they were my own. 

I'm a Dallas Cowboy fan - BIG TIME.  He is a UT fan - big time.  Since we met, we haven't missed a Cowboy game together and only a few UT games. 

Well after 2 years of serious dating and experiencing so much life together, Jason finally popped the question.  He did it in such a creative way.  He had my brother tell me that someone he knew would allow us - as a family - to take our Christmas card picture on the star at the Dallas Cowboys Texas Stadium.  I totally believed that because my brother does know people with the Stadium.  And, we always take Christmas card pictures together wearing something Dallas Cowboy'ish.  So, the only day that we could supposedly take this picture was Father's Day.  Jason had his kids and I was a little nervous about taking the picture with my family and him and the kids when Jason and I weren't engaged.  (Also, my family constantly asked and asked us about when we were getting engaged.) 

So, we go out on the field, my entire family and him and the kids.  And, I am just trying to get everyone in line to take the Christmas card picture.  My brother paid someone to take the picture and we were ready to take it.  Right there by the Dallas Cowboys star in the middle of Texas Stadium!  One picture was taken and Jason said, "Oh, Patti - I forgot something."  I said, "What? We need to take a few more pictures to get one right...just take the picture."  Meanwhile, he leans down on one knee and I thought he had dropped something and so I said, "Get Up!"  I was just facing forward in perfect Christmas card smile fashion hugging my family.  My brothers finally said, "PATTI - pay attention!"  It was then that I saw Jason on one knee asking me to marry him.  I cried and said "Yes

We are getting married on Lake Ray Hubbard (in true lake form) on May 15th, 2009.  Our colors - believe it or not - are blue (Cowboys) and orange (Longhorns).  We plan to live in Rockwall after marriage.