How did you two meet?
Kenan: "I met Madeline through Air Force ROTC. My first meaningful conversation with her came during a friendly debate over my likeness to the former Secretary of Defense. Madeline began campaigning my likeness to the SoD, as means for an ROTC morale fundraiser called “Pie-a-POC.” Consequently, it resulted in a pie in my face and hair. Nevertheless, our back and forth banter and laughs, pre-dating and post Pie-a-POC became dear to me. Our friendly conversations truly sparked a lasting fellowship, relationship, and love for one another.

Madeline: "Kenan and I were in Air Force ROTC together at the University of Alabama, but he was a year older than me. I had always noticed him and thought he was so handsome (who doesn’t love blue eyes and long eyelashes?!), and had the kindest, most humble demeanor. It wasn’t until the end of my sophomore year that we connected through mutual friends. There was a ploy by me to throw a pie in his face… that made the beginning a little rocky but – he IS getting a wife out of it!"

How and when did Kenan propose?
Kenan: "I proposed to Madeline on May 2, 2020. We were in the Smoky Mountains, ‘celebrating my graduation/ commissioning into the Air Force.’ The primary purpose of the trip would soon be revealed. With the national park closed (due to Coronavirus), I drove Madeline to a road closure, walked to a scenic spot, presented her a love note, and asked her to marry me."

Madeline: "Kenan proposed on what was supposed to be a graduation trip for him! We traveled to the Smoky Mountains for a vacation with his family, and on the second night, he insisted we go on a date. I was so concerned about leaving his parents and sisters because I wanted him to maximize family time! Anyway, he finally got me out of the house (only after suggesting I wear something kind of cute) and we went to a hole-in-the-mountain type of dive for wings and chips. Then, we drove around for a good view and ate out of the back of the car. He suggested we take a walk to pick wildflowers (I’m so in!) and then handed me a note and popped the question right then and there! I couldn’t say yes before asking, “Did you ask my Dad?!?!”

What are some things you two enjoy doing together?

Kenan: "We enjoy working out, sitting on the front porch, conversing, praying, and sharing quality time."

Madeline: "Kenan and I have both enjoyed picking up each other’s hobbies, whether it’s hiking, exercising, or playing golf (driving the golf cart). But honestly, there’s nothing I enjoy more than a homemade dinner at home and just getting to talk. With so much busyness, taking time to slow down has become my favorite thing."