Marriage

How I Met Jeff ~ Part 4

Happy Wednesday everyone!
I can’t believe it’s taken me 4 blog posts to finally wrap up the story of how Jeff and I met. There was so much more to say than I had previously thought. Taking our story all the way to the wedding was a little more than I had planned but I feel it pulls everything together properly. Our story needs to be told in it’s entirety.
If you missed the others parts of the story, you definitely need to catch up.
Read Part 1 here.
Read Part 2 here.
Read Part 3 here.
Part 4
 If you remember where we left off in my last post, my Mom had just called me with crazy news.  She let me know that my ex-boyfriend, Andy, had come by the house wanting to talk to me.
I was shocked to say the least.  It was the night before my wedding and we hadn’t spoken in a several months. As a matter of fact, our last conversation did not go well and then there was that letter that I had written to him telling him that I had found someone while we were broken up.  I told him I hoped that he had done the same.  Suffice it to say I never heard from him again.
The fact that he dropped by my parents house unexpectedly was out of left field. It felt like it was straight out of one of those romantic/comedy movies. I mean… Who does that? I was also in shock because that would mean that he flew out to Santa Barbara in order to see me. Major time, money and effort!
I knew nothing of what Andy was up to at this point in time. I did know that he had considered taking a job in Los Angeles once he graduated in May but since we hadn’t spoken in quite awhile, I didn’t know what he was doing.
(Timewise… to put things in perspective, the month and year is December, 1988… right after Andy graduated in May. I was one year older and had graduated the prior year)
My mom told me that Andy asked her to have me call him that night. He really wanted to talk. I remember putting the phone down and looking at Jeff, telling him that Andy had shown up in California looking for me.
My heart was in my throat and I didn’t know what Jeff would say. Of course he was calm, cool and collected. Lol. He told me he thought I should call Andy.
I love that about Jeff. He was born 40 as they say and he is always so together and strong.
(Jeff, his brother Brian and other brother Keith)
I decided to wait until I arrived at my parent’s home in Santa Barbara to make the call.
Once home I called Andy immediately. I remember feeling nervous. I had no clue why my ex would show up last minute. What did he want to say? He wasn’t one of those impromptu kind of guys…
As soon as we began talking I felt so comfortable. Andy was always easy to talk to and so great. He played a big part in my life. I met him when I was a sophomore in college and he was a freshman. I remember thinking that he was so much more together than me at the time. He was super nice, and part a large family that he loved. He had tons of friends and he played soccer for the school we went to.

We dated for a few years and had an amazing relationship. We grew up together and talked about the future. When I was in college, I felt he would be the one I would marry. Doesn’t everyone hope for that with their first real love?  But I think I always felt, deep down inside that we weren’t meant to be. I always felt that I would marry someone a little older, maybe a little wiser?

It’s hard to explain without sounding bad but the lack of love in our relationship really stood out to me whenever we went to a romantic movie and I realized I didn’t share the same feelings for my OWN boyfriend. I think 2/3rds into the relationship I knew that we probably weren’t right for one another but I loved him so much and considered him my best friend… Who wants to lose that? Certainly not me. I never wanted to hurt him nor myself for that matter.

Back to the phone call…

We talked for over 2-3 hours. There was no animosity nor blame. It was happy, loving and supportive.

I know that our relationship played a big part on who I had become as a person. He helped me find what I needed in my life and I was forever thankful for that. I loved the friendship we had formed and I had missed it.
I wanted him to know that night how happy I was that he made the effort to see me.  He told me that his friends asked as he was leaving, “Why are you flying out to Santa Barbara? It looks desperate. What are you thinking?”.
He said he felt bad with how things were left. I fully understood that. He wanted to wish me the best and he wanted me to have a great life. Do I feel like he still had feelings for me? Possibly.. he never actually said anything about that. But he respected the choice I made and he was nothing but kind and polite.
I’ll never forget talking to him and saying to him that I knew there was someone out there who was meant to be his love and I was so thankful that we had dated.
He told me that he had actually moved to LA for a great job. I remember feeling so excited for him. We wrapped everything up and I have to say…  I felt like Andy and I had closure and all was right in the world.
I immediately went and told Jeff everything. He could see the smile on my face… He looked at me and hugged me and said that he was so happy that I had closure. I don’t know any other man who would say the same thing.
The next day, our wedding day, was the most beautiful day ever. The weather was unseasonably warm. It was perfect. I love summer and I couldn’t believe our luck.

(Betsy helping me get ready…)

The wedding was slated for 4:30 pm. My dress was fluffy and full of layers and layers of silk…very 80’s and I loved it. The chapel we had chosen was simple and elegant. It sat on State Street and all our immediate friends and family showed up. It was a magical moment. My sister helped me get ready and before I walked down the aisle with my dad I’ll never forget the way he looked at me and told me how much he loved me and how happy he was for me. My dad adored Jeff, just like he adored Jeff’s brother, Doug, who was still dating Betsy. There was a true love for the entire Wicks family that stemmed from years before.

It was heartfelt and true.

After the ceremony I remember walking down the aisle between everyone feeling so special. When Jeff and I reached the door of the church and looked at one another.. I started crying hysterically.

Jeff laughed and hugged me as I cried. So typical.
With everyone smiling at us and hugging us at the entrance of the church we jumped in the car, poofy layers and all, and left for my parent’s house. We had planned a cake and champagne toast celebration. It was low key and perfect for us and the budget we were on.

Jeff and I booked a bed and breakfast for our wedding night.  I’m not sure whose decision that was (probably mine) but it most certainly wasn’t the Four Seasons.

All our brothers and sisters took off for a fun night out.  I remember clearly the two of us sitting in the B&B talking about how we wished we were with them. We were 26 and 23… can you blame us? We decided then and there to look for them after dinner.  Unfortunately we couldn’t find them (So 80s.. this would never happen today with cell phones. No texting!)  so instead of spending the night alone we headed back to my parent’s house and knocked on the door.  To say they were surprised to see us was an understatement.
We told them about our endless search and that we wanted to celebrate a little more.  Being the greatest parents ever they made us pancakes and we laughed and talked until at least midnight. It was one of the sweetest nights ever.

I remember telling our siblings NOT to decorate the car but of course they ignored us and went to town. So fun. Our family rocks.

To bring this story to a close:
A. I’m so happy that my ex-boyfriend showed up on my parents’ doorstep and we were finally able to have closure.
B. So happy that Jeff and I passed up on an expensive formal wedding in lieu of purchasing a new home!

C. Doug and Betsy continued to date, and then eventually broke up. And then dated again.. then broke up again. (This took all of around 9 years) Then just when I thought they might get back together again for the third and final time.. Betsy met the true love of her life while signing in at work. Jon and Betsy are both pilots for United and the weird thing is, they met the day after Betsy told me that she thought she and Doug might make another date the following weekend.

(Doug and Jeff)

I feel like things happen for a reason, and just like Jeff and I, Jon and Betsy fell in love quickly and got married soon thereafter.  Kismet as they say…

I hope you have enjoyed this lengthy 4 part saga about our love..
It’s been an incredible experience reliving all the moments while writing this. I feel so lucky to have found the man that I have married. He’s my best friend and I can’t imagine living this life without him.
Xx,
Kristy
If you enjoyed this story –
You may like to read about my InVitro Journey.
Click here to read part 1.
Thoughts?

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174 thoughts on “How I Met Jeff ~ Part 4

  1. What a sweet love story! Jeff seems to be a wonderful husband, father, brother and friend. Thanks for sharing!

    1. So Beautiful and sweet love story.
      I like the way Jeff is. Cool and Calm. Hope your story and Jeff’s calmness can teach other people how to be in a relationship and how to treat each other. 🥰
      Thank you for sharing!

  2. Beautiful story Kristy! You two are an inspirational couple :) wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness ♡♡♡

  3. Hello Kristy,
    a wonderful love story.
    But what happened to Doug?
    And your sister is now blonde?
    Thank you for sharing with us!
    Greetings from Germany!

  4. Thank for sharing what a beautiful story. My husband are high school sweethearts that met at 16 married and ten years later we have now been married 19 years and also decided to far go the big wedding to buy a house as well (never regretted that decision either) but we planned our wedding in 3 weeks so we could marry on New Year’s Eve.

  5. This is such a sweet love story! Truly a “story book” kind! You two seem perfect for one another. You both are blessed you have one another.?

  6. What a beautiful story ?
    And what happened to the handsome Doug?
    “Kismet” ??? i never imagined that Americans people use this word!

    I wish you a long beautiful happy life with Jeff and the beautiful Emma ?

  7. Oh my goodness Kristy – I LOVED your story. You and Jeff are just SO darned gorgeous together and obviously made for each other. He really is a rock and it shines through in every instagram post and story! Thank you for giving us a little glimpse into the magic. Paula xx

  8. Kristy, I loved reading your love story…you and Jeff are a very special couple and I wish you both a lifetime of happiness…thanks for sharing!

  9. I loved your story. How great. You won’t remember, as no doubt you get many comments daily, but a few months ago I asked you how long you had been married, as you seem like newlyweds. You told me you had been married 28 years. I was happily surprised when I read your “Part 4” of your story that you and Jeff were married one day before my husband and I were married and the same year.???✨

  10. Sometimes people phone someone on their wedding day just to make sure all is well. As you said when they are such a big part of your life they just care that’s all
    I know others that has happened to. Given all of the years you have been together you have chosen well. I love the way he looks at you while cooking a special meal. True love and with IG we can all feel the love. Congratulations to both of you.

  11. Kristy and Jeff what a fabulous story I love all the photos. What a great couple you are and now close my heart as spending time with you both felt special…xxx

  12. Thank you so much for sharing your very own personal story. How beautiful to read pen at hand the love you, Jeff and your families! So breathtaking in this very turbulent world!
    Wishing you and Jeff many many years of happiness and love! My love to you all!! ?❤️

  13. Beautiful love story! No one believes me when I say….you don’t have to date for years….you know right away. Funny how relationships that were short like yours are happier and successful than those how date for years, live together end up divorce. Kudos to you and your husband and keep that flame going

  14. Thanks for sharing your sweet story. You are very blessed! I am envious … not in a mean way! Just not that lucky in love. So happy for you both!

  15. Kristy, you and Jeff are such a lovely couple and a breath of fresh air in today’s world. You show how not to just settle for the first man that comes along and give a daily glimpse of what a happy married couple look like. Thank you for being so transparent.

  16. Such a beautiful story and life you two have made?? Thank you for sharing it with your fans??
    I too was wondering how Doug’s life went after Betsey?
    Much love ❌❌⭕️⭕️❤️❤️❤️

  17. A beautiful story with such a happy ending. I loved reading this and the photos are great too. You remind me of an actress called Samantha Janus when you were younger, she’s English. Thank you for sharing ?

  18. Such a fun series and I loved all of the twists and turns! My husband and I were 23 & 26 when we got married and we have now been married for 27 years. We met in 88 and were married in 90. My wedding look was almost identical…..big dress, big hair, and big head piece! I look back at my album from that time and I still love it….it was so over the top, but so 1990! We lived in Pleasanton in the early 90’s and bought our first home there. We loved going to Strizzi’s and Gay 90’s pizza….I’m sure both are gone now. We left the east bay back in 95 and relocated to the Peninsula where my husband is now closer to work. The commute to the valley was already getting bad in 95! Keep up the good work I always enjoy your posts and IG stories! Your home looks gorgeous!

  19. OMGoodnes… I’ve loved every part of y’alls love story! It is truly a movie and I LOVE the fact that you went with the better, long-term decision to buy a house than the one night party – like so many of us did and now regret. What were we thinking?! Haha. Love you two even more. Thanks for sharing your story. xo

  20. This was a story book/ movie quality story. Have you considered making a movie out of it?! I would if I were you.
    Anyway, the story touched me to my core. I am only 2 years married with a short meeting and courtship which was 5 months total from the date we met to the date we married.
    Thanks again for sharing… your fan all the way from Trinidad and Tobago

    1. That’s so sweet Luanne.. Never thought of that but it could be an exciting movie. ;) Hugs and congratulations to you! Thanks so much for commenting. xx

  21. I just loved reading about your love story! You write quite well and should continue!
    I too, was married at Xmas in the 80’s. In No Calofornia – The Califoronia Club .It looks like we had similar bridesmaids dresses! Emerald green – off the shoulder taffeta !
    Anyway, we had the big wedding and later a beautiful daughter. The marriage did not last but I am happy to say we are good fronds now.
    And also like you, I am a flight attendant and love traveling to new places!
    Thank you so much for a look into your intimate love story!

    Ps- what happened to Andy?!!

  22. So fun to read! Your story is truly incredible and inspiring! I love learning about your history as I get to watch your present on your insta stories! ?

  23. Wow Kristy, what a story! You kept me on my toes! I can really relate to this so much because I had been dating a guy for 4 years and as soon as I realized we weren’t meant for each other I had to be honest with him and break things off. Only 2 months later I met my now husband, and I knew only a couple weeks after meeting him that he was the one! We have been married 8 months now and it’s funny how we can look back at things and realize that everything happens for a reason and time works in such a crazy way!

  24. This was such a great story, it literally felt l was reading a book! It’s amazing how love happens.

    1. Hi, Doug! Sometimes we just have to step out of our comfort zones… and say “hi”! It could be the beginning of another amazing story!

  25. Aaaaaamazing! What a great love story, I must say you both really are meant for each other, you have such respect and love for each other.
    Thanks for sharing ?

  26. Wonderful story! Felt like I was reading a nice ROMANTIC flick. Touch wood! You guys make an amazing couple!

  27. Hello Kristy
    Thank you sooooo much for sharing your beautiful love story with your husband : I am eager to read part 5, y ou never know …I never miss any or your stories on IG ..Love from one of biggest fan from french Guiana

  28. Kristy!

    I have never been on your blog and today is the day I am reading, After always watching your instagram stories, I decided to read. Wow, so glad I did. I am sitting here at work crying my eyes out reading the love story of you and jeff! just an amazing story and full of so much love. You are so sweet and I love your story! Thank you for sharing.. I only hope I end up with my true love some day :)

  29. What a sweet story. you and Jeff are such a perfect couple. I love your blog and look forward to reading iT everyday. Where did you attend college? You are such a sweet and classy lady. We were recently in Califirnia and it was like i wanted to call you to have dinner, like you were a friend.💖 thats how you make us feel! ThNks fOr sharing!

    1. I would love to have dinner Peg! :) Thank you for all your sweet words. I went to Lynchburg College in Virginia. A small private school. Hugs!

  30. I have been smiling from ear to ear!
    I loved every word of your story!
    Your family and Jeff’s family all look like movie stars.
    You exude in your videos, your deep love for that sweet sweet man!
    I wish you would take these four parts
    Of your story and write a book!!!!!
    I would buy it!❤️

  31. I met my husband, Randy July 9th, 1993. We dated 3 days then he left for Puerto Rico where he was stationed in the Navy. We wrote letters and talked all hours on the phone. He flew back Sept 3rd and we married Sept 4th, 1993!! I just knew he was my guy!! We only have 1 child, too and immensely blessed with our Ryan. We now have a daughter-in-law, Sam, and she is amazing!! When you know…you know!! I knew I liked you the first time I watched one of your Instagram videos!!! Have fun in Vegas!!

  32. Thank you for sharing your story of how you met Jeff! Growing up in the 80’s, i loved all the pictures! Sweet, sweet story!

  33. How fun to read your story. Once I got ENGAGED after a date and a MONTh talking on the phone. It did not worked out and ended badly. I wish i could come full CIRCLE with him. But its BEEN 18 years since that.

    Thanks for sharing.

    1. I’m sorry it didn’t work out for you… I have to say, we were together a ton the month and a half before we were engaged. We drove to see one another every weekend and midweek as well.
      It’s hard when you don’t feel like things are wrapped up I know. Sorry you don’t feel as if you completed that circle. xx

  34. Thank yoU for sharing your AMAZING story! It was amazing to read. Love FOLLOWING you on ig. Watching your stOries with you anD Jeff is so cute.

  35. I had a very similAr situation, i too dated someone else On and off for 5yrs during college, broke up and met my now husband, he also had to hear A lot about my ex for my closure and he didn’t waiver either, that’s wheN i knew he was the one for similar reasons you did, and We’ve been happily married for 25yrs this past june! Thanks for sharing :)

  36. What a great story . I also meT my husband on a blInd date and we married within 5 months too. i also got engaged a month later after meeting . We have been married 22 years and i also Had the the puffy sLeeve dress . I am so glad i am not alone . I dont know anyone else that has doNe that . We Were also driving a cOuple of hours to see one another and i was scared one of us was going to get in a wreck so i also sped up the wedding to Jan 4 to get Us off the road . We were going to get marriEd in june .

  37. I feel like i’ve just read a real lIfe Rom-com ❤️ i absolutely love your story amd think you and jeff are so adorable together! I love watching the two of You live life and thank You so mucH for taking us along on Your special jouRney!

  38. Wow you wrote as elegantly as you decorate. You have always been such a class aCt! I dOnt have time tonight but i cant wait to read about your invitro. You and jeff arr the sweetest peoPle ever. Love getting to know you better. makes me feel like we are friends.

  39. You never talk about your families now. WIth dour brothers, so any of them live cloSe to you guys?
    You are one lucky person to find an amazing man the forst time around!!

  40. Hi KriSty,
    This was just a beautiful story, i couldn’t stop reading. It was relatable too, as I too was in a long relationshIp of 12 uninterrupted years and thought i was going to marry that man but Something wasn’t right somehow i knew i wouldn’t be happy we had outgrown each other and our goals were not aligned, nothing was aligned really. Things ended and i met my husband a month later, got engaged 6 months after and married 6 months after that on our year Together. We also had a small gathering. I love your love story and it made me relieve mine ;)

  41. You guys aRe perfect For each other and just Gorgeous!! What a love stOry. Would like to read your journEy on Invitro As thAt is how we had our son, but the link doesnt seem to be working.

    Xoxo

  42. Kristy, I’m so glad Jeff was not a jealous type!Your X showing up made me worry you would of canceled the wedding had he asked you to!😥Would you of been as okay if Jeff’s X approached him?What happened to Doug?Did he marry?You chose well my Dear!Your X and you fought too much!L0L

  43. Kristy
    Thank you for sharing Your aMazing love story. I admire the love and respect you both haVe for each oTher, so beautiful!! And After all these years still So cute and romantic. Keep these stories coming.

  44. 😭😭😭 What a beautiful love story! Tha k you for sharing! I just love following you and Jeff! I love everything about you guys.💗💙 God bless you both.🥰

  45. Thank you so much for sharing. Your story makes me feel a little more like I know you both other than just Instagram squares. Beautiful love story!

  46. Oh Kristy! This is such a heartwarming story of your love. I felt like I went through a rollercoaster. So beautifully written. xo

  47. Thank you so much for sharing your ass beautiful journey was Jeff! I felt like I was catching up with an old friend oh, it was just so sweet and I loved reading your love story! I was married in 1985, and I couldn’t help but smile so big when I saw you in your wedding dress because I think I wore almost The identical dress! Our headpieces for slightly different,(mine was rows of pearls) but the poof at the top of the veil was identical and we wore them same way! Yes, total 80s style but boy we looked good! 😄❤️

  48. Thank you for sharing your story. Sweetest story ever and you two were truly meant to be. You can always look at couples and know when they are truly in love

  49. I didn’t have to read the story (but did) to know through your posts that you two are the most adorable couple! The way he sees you and the way you see him – – there is so much chemistry!💖

  50. I loved every word of this story. True love always wins and it sounds like you have an amazing family.

  51. I’ve been with the same guy 33 yrs.
    My story isn’t as romantic as yours 😭.

    Great love story🥰
    You and Jeff seem to balance each other out.

    I was hoping to hear that your sister and Doug also would have a happily ever after ending 💔

    Great Hallmark Movie 🎥

  52. So beautiful from your gown on that special day, fast forward to today. Happy Ever after. Thank you for sharing.

  53. Hi Kristy,
    I enjoyed reading your story about how you met Jeff and your journey together. It made me smile! It’s truly a love story and I’m so happy for you both. I can see the love and respect you have for one another. I grew up in the 80’s so I could relate to the big hair and fashion. It made me laugh when you commented about them. Thank you for sharing your life and I appreciate your Instagram account. I always look forward to hearing your stories and seeing your posts.

  54. Wow! Read all 4 parts together…couldn’t put it down! Beautiful! This definitely belongs on Hallmark channel.♥️

  55. Thank you for sharing your love story. I always look forward to seeing the two of you together. Both of you are so kind and genuine and the way that you care for one another is evident.
    I also very much enjoy seeing your beautiful home as well as,Jeff’s Delicious looking meals.
    The two of you are a perfect match!💕🌸💕

  56. Kristy, loved reading your story and your pictures. You and Jeff are meant to be! Beautiful and handsome, good mom & dad! I’ll read your IVF story next.. Thanks for sharing💕

  57. I LOVE your love story ! I was not expecting the last part about your sisters love though but so happy she found her true love as well. My grandmother Corinne and her sister Genevieve Heffernan married a set of brothers . It makes our family alittle complicated with double cousins and such but a great story altogether. Thank you for sharing your story.

    1. That’s amazing Patti! It would have been incredible had we all married. ;) Betsy has never been happier so I’m thrilled that everything worked out the way it did. Hugs! xoxo

  58. I thought your story was beautiful I loved every moment of it you had a wonderful childhood and I’m glad that you’re still with your husband I wish we can see more of your kids I’m glad he’s your best friend is everything to you both belong together

  59. Thanks for sharing, Kristy. Such a beautiful story. Love the photos – especially your draw droppingly beautiful bridal picture. I’d wondered how you and Jeff met and how long you two were together. Because you two are so playful, I thought it might be a newer relationship. So you two obviously keep things fresh, fun and new!

    Btw, I met my husband at the age of 18…while dating his younger brother. That made for awkward times. But we’re still together – now married for 39 years. My hubby is 6 years older. I appreciated a guy who was a wee bit older & wiser too….

  60. Such a great story! I’ve been following you on Instagram for awhile now and have always wondered how you two met, because you both seem so happy and sweet to each other. Its awesome to get some insight about your life. I dream my husband and I can grow together like you two. <3 thanks for sharing!

  61. That was a beautiful story. You guys are the Cutest!
    😁😯😔😭😍
    You put me through a lot of emojis today.

  62. Thank you SO much for sharing. You describe everything so perfectly well. Really enjoyed your story- reading it..
    You’re a real inspiration.. in all that u do and the beauty that u are and seem to be inside and out .
    Thanks :)

  63. Kristy you should write a book! Loved reading your love story on how you and Jeff met! I think we are just a year apart in age, and we had almost the exact same wedding dress except I didn’t have sleeves on mine. I had the exact same head piece too! Love following you on Instagram!!

  64. Such a wonderful story Kristy. I have a funny story too on how I met my husband. We were married at the young ages of 23 and 26 and have been married 30 years this year as well. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful pictures and your fun loving story with all of us. Your relationship is truly inspiring. I am so thankful I am following you. <3

  65. I completely love this story. I had a 1988 Honda Prelude (I think that is what your car is being decorated for your wedding).
    Aren’t live stories so wonderful? ❤️

  66. Kristy, LOVED reading your story on how Jeff and you met, fell in love and created, what seems like a gorgeous life! God bless you both with many many more years of love, health and success! 💞

  67. The way you met is miraculous! I always feel that things like this are meant to be. I love the respect that you have for each other….so important in a relationship. I’m married 49 years and my story is exciting, too! I love it! Congratulations 🎈🍾🎉

  68. This could be a movie! Thank you for sharing this intimate part of your life. Actually, really enjoyed getting to know y’all which makes me more interested in your blog! Good looking families too!!

  69. Kristy what a beautiful story. I loved reading all four parts and am so happy for you and Jeff. When it’s meant to be it’s clear and sometimes quick. Thanks for sharing your love story. ❤️❤️

  70. Kristy,

    Thank you for sharing your true live story. You inspire me. I am waiting to meet my true love. Reading your story reminds me to wait for him no matter what.

    God Bless You and your love
    Cecilia

  71. This was so much fun to read. I’ve been following you for awhile now and it was wonderful getting to know you better. Thank you for sharing your life with us.
    💗💗💗

  72. Such a beautiful and beautifully written story. I cannot agree with you more to have your best friend as the love of your life. We who know this are the very lucky ones…

  73. Thank you for sharing!! This was such a sweet, beautiful read. Loved it. You did hit the jackpot ❤️
    My hubby’s bday is 12/18..
    Hugs,
    Cassy

  74. Wow what an amazing story! Thank you for sharing. You would absolutely die if you saw my wedding photos! We look like twins with the same head piece. I guess that was popular in the 80’s.

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