Sam was newly stationed at the naval base in Oak Harbor, WA. Anna was busy working as a nurse in a New York state hospital while going to grad school. One could say she was in need of a spiritual retreat, so she spontaneously took a trip to one of her favorite places in the world: Vancouver, BC. She got to meet with brothers and sisters in Christ as God used that time to provide rest, comfort, and rejuvenate her soul. Both Sam and Anna had been praying for God's plan to unfold in their lives. They both had tried dating for several years with the intent to marry, and although it was discouraging at times, both of them were prompted to "Wait patiently in the Lord" (Psalms). They know that He is the author of their salvation and He too is the author of their very lives, and so they continued to trust, rest, and hope in Him. It was during Anna's time in Vancouver that the two of them connected on a dating app, and they started talking about how God had been working in their lives, their need of His grace, and desire to serve Him first and foremost. Anna made her way down to Seattle to reunite with her sister in Christ, Renny. Somehow, God provided a way for Anna and Sam to meet in person before her vacation was over and before he flew to California to see his family. They met at a little cafe outside of Seattle, and so began their long distance relationship. Being on the complete opposite coasts of the country, they wrote letters, talked on the phone for hours, had online dates, studied the Bible together, sent gifts and meals to one another, and had beautiful reunions. They both joked "What are the chances that a guy from Hawaii and a girl from New York would be in a relationship?" They were becoming best friends and cherishing one another more and more. Sam and Anna knew that God undoubtedly led them to one another and were trusting in Him for all that was to come. Despite the distance, they supported one another with prayer, laughter, God's Word, and compassion. It has not been easy, but God's tremendous agape love has sustained them through each challenge and every circumstance knowing that they are first loved by Him as His children.

In August 2022, Sam and Anna took a summer trip to Oahu, Sam's home. It was a beautiful afternoon in Ko'olina on August 4, 2022 and they were on their way to dinner. Sam took Anna off the path so they could take in the beauty of the Hawaiian coast when Sam got down on one knee and proposed. It was the easiest yes for Anna! They were so incredibly blessed to be able to share this moment with family. Romans 8:28

In light of all the distance, God provided an opportunity for Sam to restation much closer to Anna, and he chose it: Washington DC. Now, they are on the same coast, in the same time zone, and have been visiting one another as often as possible. With just a car ride, train, or flight away, they are so grateful to be closer to one another and for everyone's prayers and support.