Chad was born to write. He taught himself to play guitar on his dad's Martin and started writing songs when he was just 13 years old. Anyone who heard his music could feel the passion and feelings behind his lyrics. Most of his songs were about family, faith and rodeo.

In 2014, he was injured while riding a bull in a Professional Rodeo in Kissimmee, FL. He became paralyzed from the shoulders down. Although he lost the ability to pick up a guitar and sing, his God-given talent of writing remained. For the past 12 years, Chad has shared his poetry with family and friends who have encouraged him to expand his audience.

We found the trend of starting a snail mail club intriguing. Besides his insightful poetry, Chad has an interesting and inspiring story to tell. We hope you will join us on this journey!

Alden is the oldest of three girls. Born with the famous Jacksonville name Mickler (pronounced Mike-ler), she went on to change her last name to Smith after marrying Chad in 2005. They have been two peas in a pod ever since. 

Even after Chad’s accident, her love never wavered. She has been his main caregiver since he was paralyzed in 2014, all while working a full-time job at the same time. She is a true example of a spouse honoring their vows. 

The two of them have become very close as a result and are happy to share their journey by way of this snail mail letter. Join them and their dog, Merle, and be uplifted by their message of faith and family.

Merle is 10 years old and the only child to Chad and Alden. About 4 years after the accident, they felt something was missing.

While on the search for a four-legged companion, they were introduced to a local organization called K9s for Warriors by a dear friend. K9s for Warriors provides highly trained Service Dogs to Military Veterans. Not every dog completes the program to be matched with a Veteran. Some are put up for adoption to find their unique purpose.

A few weeks later, that same dear friend sent over the bio of a chocolate lab that was available. Chad and Alden, who are both lovers of old country music, knew he was meant for them because of his name "Merle".

For the past 9 years, Merle has been a source of happiness, laughter and safety for Chad and Alden. He has made their family complete.