Marlton residents Cara and Ralph Jedlicka met in middle school and got engaged in their senior year of college. They have three children.
The following was submitted by resident Cara Jedlicka in response to The Sun’s request for ‘Sweetheart Stories” for the upcoming Valentine’s Day holiday. Story and photo submissions can be sent to news@marltonsun.com.
It all began when I first entered seventh grade at Henry C. Beck Middle School in Cherry Hill. I was the “new” girl, who just moved into town from South Philadelphia, clueless as to what suburban life was all about. It was a difficult transition, but because of some very good friends I quickly found my nitch in “the hill.”
Who knew one would end up being my husband of now 13 years. Ralph Jedlicka, born and raised in Cherry Hill, was the first boy “friend” I encountered and from day one a spark ignited. Our circle of friends intertwined at Beck and grew larger as we traveled through Cherry Hill High School East together. Best friends were what we were. We laughed, cried and shared relationship stories, when all along one was internally brewing between the two of us. It wasn’t until our senior year at East that we finally realized we should give this boyfriend/girlfriend thing a try – with each other this time!
My parents and my entire family already loved Ralph. Our parents had already been friends, it was effortless and as it should be so natural and real. I attended Rowan University, while Ralph attended Saint Joseph’s University and played baseball. Our college years together are some of our greatest memories.
Senior year of college, Ralph proposed, totally taking me by surprise. We discussed marriage and had it all figured out, but he’s always one to throw a curve ball, which is what makes our marriage as exciting and fun as it is today. From our first date at the Olive Garden to our fabulous wedding reception at the Regency Palace (now the Westin) the life we built together is as good as it gets. I couldn’t ask for a better partner, friend, and hubby! Ralph is an amazing dad, to our three children, Ralph, age 7, Joseph, age 6, and Giana, age 4.
We’ve experienced good times and bad, but our love for each other is a genuine testament, that when “it’s right, it’s right” and I was so lucky to find the love of my life at a young age. I count my blessings every day for bringing Ralph into my life. I wouldn’t be the mother, wife, and person I am today without his love and support. This Valentine’s Day I want him to know that I love him, more than ever and I want the world to know that falling in love with your best friend is a possibility and in my case a reality. Our fun, carefree spirit to experience new things, and love of life, is what sets us apart from most couples. We don’t mind letting lose once in a while, skipping school/work (shhhh) to have a family fun day, this my friends is living, this everyone is LOVE!!!!!
Cara Jedlicka
