We're Getting Married!

"Caito and I met when we both decided to spend our summer at Camp Butternut Springs in Valporaiso, Indiana. It only took a few days for us to decide that we were best friends. According to Caito, this decision was made after I slipped in the mud several times and I advised the group to "ventilate while you eat" because the food was too hot. For me, this decision was made after our first conversation about the many cheese cracker options that exist in America. Our friendship started becoming more, and eventually I confessed my feelings to Caito. We had plans to stay in touch long distance until Caito returned the following summer, but that turned into 2 years. Our relationship survived through Facetime calls and messages, and eventually we decided that I needed to visit New Zealand. In October 2021, we finally closed the distance between us, and I moved to New Zealand. Then one year later, I decided to propose to Caito. The Bartosh family and I schemed and made a plan for me to propose in a glow worm cave. This cave is in Pahongina Valley, the same place where we will be getting married! This is just the beginning of our story. We can't wait to celebrate with all of you and start our future together in this special place." ~Grace "My first impression of Grace was well.... let's say not good. We were in the outback of America ready to tough it out in tents for 3 months with the Girl Scouts of the United States and she shows up in? Yep super practical, jeans and white shoes. After getting over the fact that she chose white shoes as appropriate footwear to a muddy campground I decided to give her a chance. What a good choice that was. I'll only mention briefly the part where we were apart for what felt like forever. The days spent wishing a FaceTime could magically transport us to the same place. It wasn't all bad, Grace "helped" my family with our daily 'stuff quiz' and I "helped" her study. I'll spare you the Bible passage I have memorized from 3 years ago. My life changed when Grace arrived in New Zealand. Suddenly the house was organized into baskets, baskets and more baskets (seriously please do not let her buy any more baskets), an Alexa was plugged in to ask the weather every morning. The pantry was stocked with LaCroix, a drink I once despised but apparently now enjoy. My house became a home and I knew this was my future. I fall more in love with Grace as the days go on, even if she tells me she 'isn't ready to be engaged' while planning our entire engagement down to 5 minute intervals. I love when she runs on the spot because she is excited, her cheesy smile when I get home from work and when she makes Alexa play 'here comes the sun' right as I'm about to fall asleep. Ok not that one, I really didn't love that one. I should end this little passage on a nice note or I'm afraid that a certain someone might bring a certain something to the wedding (your daughter is great pls don't invoke your 2nd ammendment rights). I'm so excited for you to join us as we tie the knot, well I will tie it, Goose never learned her knots at camp." ~Caitlyn