I first saw her singing in the choir at church, and as I began to attend more, I quickly noticed that she was very devoted to working in different ways within the different church ministries. I admired her devotion and consistency. I invited a group of young people to go to TopGolf, and she came. Between swings and jokes, I realized she was easy to talk to—funny and thoughtful. A bit later, we both attended a mutual friend’s birthday party. While there, she made me a plate of food. Just me. No one else. It was a small gesture, but it stood out to me. She was paying attention. She showed me that she was considerate and guessed right that the way to my heart was through my stomach. One day in choir practice, after I joined the Youth Choir, I noticed how beautiful her voice is. But it wasn’t just her voice. Between songs, she’d crack these perfectly timed jokes that made everyone, including me, laugh. It started to click to me that she had a lot of qualities that I appreciate and that she’d make a great wife. Shortly after that, one Saturday, I asked her if she’d like to go to the art museum. She said yes. That day felt easy, natural. In the guest signature book, I wrote: “El primer tiempo,” which should have been “La primera vez,” which translates to “The first time” as in the first of many dates (My Spanish wasn’t as good then as it is now. She noticed but didn’t correct me until much later). Turns out, it was the first of many. We fell in love.

It all started at TopGolf. I remember getting an invitation to meet him and a group of young people there, and thinking, “That’s so sweet of him to invite me.” I was genuinely surprised he thought to include me. I wasn’t sure what to expect—but I’m so glad I went. He was so genuine and funny (still is!), and he made me feel comfortable right away. The next time we hung out was at a mutual friend’s “surprise” birthday party. Everyone was grabbing food for themselves, and I thought to ask if he wanted me to make him a plate. I’m not even sure why I did it—something I just thought to do. He swears I know why… but does it really matter? 😂 That night was filled with laughter and silliness during what felt like an endless game of UNO. It was such a fun time. I remember being at choir practice later, just being myself, and suddenly thinking,“I need to pull it together—I don’t want him thinking I’m crazy 🤪.” He always came to rehearsal so willing to learn, engaged, and focused. I admired that. As time passed, I started to feel drawn to him. I kept getting this nudge to reach out, but I wasn’t sure how. Then—lo and behold—hurricane season came, I asked how he made it through the storm, and we were both relieved everyone was okay. It was a small exchange, but meaningful. Not long after that, he invited me to an art museum. I was out with friends when he asked, but was excited and agreed. That day turned out to be such a fun and memorable experience. The museum was unlike any I’d been to. I remember him writing “El primer tiempo” in the guest book. He was trying to say “The first time” —as in the 1st date and while it wasn’t exactly right, it was adorable that he tried! Afterwards, we grabbed ice cream and talked about everything under the sun. It was so effortless and easy. I remember thinking how sweet, kind, respectful, and thoughtful he was—a true gentleman. I genuinely enjoyed every moment we spent together and still do. As it turns out, he captivated my heart—and I’m so glad he did. ❤️