Wicked Smart!

Shortly after our engagement, as we were heading home to Charlotte, we began talking about what on Earth our two families might have in common. We knew we have a few things in common but what about our relatives? If they found themselves in the same room together, we wondered, would there be uneasy silence as each sized the other or would a shared love of topics like sports and politics lead to energetic discussions and interactions.

After resolving that the potential Republican vs. Democrat and Patriots vs. Jets confrontations might not be life threatening, we eased our way into the shared love that exists for the Red Sox in each family. Not bad, we decided, but there had to be more. Then it got interesting.

As near as we can figure, we believe our family has ties to over two dozen "extraordinary" educational institutions from elementary schools and special education programs through high schools, colleges and universities. We named over 10 colleges and universities, five middle and high schools and even a few national advisory and/or regulatory programs. One of Mike's aunts likes to head to sea on Russian science vessels and we recently learned that one of Sarah's cousins and one of Mike's sisters a-l-m-o-s-t overlapped on staff at a school in Massachusetts. Yes, it is a small world.

So if education and has any say in the matter, our finding each other was a "wicked smart" decision. You might say we deserve "highest honors." And if you find yourself in a room with a new relative and friend, ask them about teachings, advising, writing, managing and exploring. You won't regret it.

Will you marry me?

It began on a grassy hillside overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains. It was one of those clear, warm, sunny late summer days you dream about all your life...a day when every passing cloud seemed to look down with a different approving smile. On that day, as we sat together in the grass, time literally proved it could stand still in a moments to last a lifetime. Fumbling for the ring that I had been carrying with me all day I turned toward Sarah and asked, "Will you marry me?" Her answer - and our shared tears of joy - began our adventure together. And as our wedding day quickly approaches, we invite you, our family and friends, to celebrate with us...