Amy and I met on June 18th of last year. We met through friends, we met through work, we met five times in a quiet room, barely speaking at all. Over the next few months, I learned she loved to travel. I learned she had a heart for helping others through her work. And I learned I wanted to get to know her much, much better. When I asked her on a date, I tried to be confident, to be sure. No beating around the bush, I wanted to take her on a date. First text I gave her a date, time, and place… she was busy. Another date, she was out of town… hmm, my confidence was waning. Maybe when she got back in town? Then she replied, “I’m free tomorrow.” First date, I learned more about Amy. I learned she’s passionate about life, all life. And life is worth celebrating. I learned she’s a woman of purpose, and she loves to have a purpose to work towards. But most importantly, I learned she is a woman of God. And God is her driving force in all she does. The next few dates, I learned she doesn’t like small talk. Let’s get down to the real stuff. No point in chitchat, no room for gossip. Every conversation was a journey into the depths of each other’s lives, and she was fascinating. Her travels around the world, her drive for helping others, the relationships she’s built among so many close friends. This is someone I want in my life, forever. The next several months were a whirlwind of activity. Holidays, meeting friends and family, more holidays, ice storm, sickness, roof collapse, and more and more conversations about our future. We were both pretty clear from the beginning that we were dating for marriage. But as we talked more, our future together came up casually, and conversation naturally led to marriage. We didn’t want to get married during the holidays (much too hectic). Spring time is a great time for a wedding (but that’s so far away!). This fall? Mind you, I haven’t proposed yet. We’re just talking. But I love this woman, and every day I knew more and more that she was the right one for me. “Is this fall too soon? Can we plan a wedding in five months… I need to propose. Soon.” “Yeah! You do! But surprise me if you can. But soon!” So here we are, with so much love and support from all of you. Thank you for celebrating with us. We can’t wait to see all of you in October. With all the joy and love, Stephen & Amy

Everything is happening fast. Amy will add her version and more details soon.