We're getting married!

Annie & Sammy’s story began on April 4th, 2025 at Nancy Ryles Elementary and from the very start, it felt like fate had a plan. Annie had just started as a kindergarten student teacher, where she quickly became close friends with Heather Maxon… who also happened to be very determined to play matchmaker. Heather insisted Annie needed to meet Sammy but at first Annie wasn't so sure. Heather knew they were destined and so she made it happen. One day, Heather casually mentioned that Sammy would be stopping by for lunch and encouraged Annie to come say hi. Nervous but curious, Annie walked into the staff room… completely unaware she was about to meet the love of her life. The moment she saw him, she panicked. He was *really* cute. So naturally… she turned around and ran right back out. (Yes—actually ran.) After a quick pep talk to herself, Annie found the courage to go back in and introduce herself. And just like that, everything clicked. Between laughter, easy conversation, and a little flirting over Chipotle, it felt like no one else in the room even existed. Five days later (it took Sammy a *full* five days to build up the courage), he finally messaged Annie on Instagram and that’s when things really started. Well… kind of. Annie may have *slightly* friend-zoned him at first. She wanted to take things slow and build a strong foundation. Sammy… was a little confused. But it didn’t take long for that friendship to turn into something more. They talked every day, spent as much time together as possible, and quickly realized their connection was something special. The first time Annie went to Sammy’s apartment, she had a quiet but undeniable feeling—she was home. Of course, nerves got the best of her for a moment. Annie put her walls up and asked for time to figure things out. They didn’t talk for two whole days… and that’s when Annie realized just how much she missed him. She knew she never wanted to go another day without him. Through it all, Sammy was patient, understanding, and certain—he knew he wanted Annie in his life. Soon after, Annie left for her graduation trip. Even though they were apart for over a week, they talked nonstop—texting, FaceTiming, and missing each other more each day. By the time she got back, one thing was clear: they didn’t just *want* each other… they needed each other. Not long after, they finally admitted their feelings (yay!), and on May 18th, 2025, they officially became boyfriend and girlfriend. And in true Annie-and-Sammy fashion… they didn’t waste any time moving in together just two months later. From the very beginning, their love has felt easy, natural, and meant to be. They knew early on that they had found their forever. And now, as they look ahead to the next chapter, they are overjoyed to be engaged and can’t wait to become husband and wife. 🤍