Our story begins with a simple text—one that would change everything. Annie received a message from mutual friends asking if she’d be open to being set up with Joel. At first, she was hesitant. Being set up wasn’t something she usually said yes to, but she trusted her friends’ hearts and intuition. So, she agreed—and began messaging Joel. Little did she know that one small “yes” would lead to the love of her life. Their connection was instant. Texts turned into late-night phone calls, and before long, they met in person for their first date: a magical evening walking under the Christmas lights at Disneyland. That night didn’t feel like a first date—it felt like a fifth. Natural, effortless, and filled with laughter. Their night ended with a kiss, and on December 28th, 2023, their relationship became official. As their love grew, so did the challenges. Joel left for Texas to attend Advanced Individual Training with the Army, and they were soon navigating a long-distance relationship. The separation was difficult, but their bond never wavered. They FaceTimed constantly, Annie flew out to visit Joel, and perhaps most meaningfully—they began writing letters to each other. Handwritten words of love, support, and longing carried across the miles became treasured keepsakes, each one a reminder that their hearts were still side by side. And just when they thought the hardest part was behind them, life asked them to be strong again. Nearly a year later, Joel received orders to deploy—another season of separation, another test of their resilience. But again, they endured. Their connection, built on trust, handwritten words, and unwavering devotion, only deepened. In the time between the goodbyes and reunions, they celebrated life together. Their first milestone was moving into an apartment—a space filled with warmth, laughter, and dreams. Then came their first puppy, Peanut, who taught them about shared responsibility and unconditional love. Soon after, Joel surprised Annie with their second puppy, Muffin. With these two little lives, they began to feel what it truly meant to be a family. As their journey continued, so did their accomplishments. Joel graduated with his bachelor’s degree, and Annie earned her master’s. Annie continues her work at Disney, while Joel works with Disney and also serves in the Army, mentoring troubled youth and guiding them toward brighter futures. Then came a night to remember forever. On a double date with Melindy and Cresencio, surrounded by the soft glow of Christmas lights in Pomona, Joel got down on one knee and asked Annie to be his forever. With joy in their hearts and tears in their eyes, they stepped into the next chapter of their love story. We’ve shared laughter like Tigger, patience like Piglet, and a love as warm as a Hundred Acre Wood afternoon. And now, with hearts full and hands intertwined, we begin our forever—knowing that together is our favorite place to be.