Our story began within the welcoming walls of Whitestone Mennonite Church. Although our paths initially crossed in the middle school youth group, our age difference meant we were more like acquaintances than close friends. It wasn’t until Ben's junior year and Carley's freshman year that our love story truly began to unfold. Our friendship began through rehearsals for "Seussical the Musical." The friend group that formed from the musical became inseparable, and we often found ourselves spending weekends at Applebee’s enjoying half-priced appetizers, which naturally brought us closer together. When COVID-19 hit, and the world shut down, connecting by phone became our lifeline. One night, Ben asked Carley if she would like to be his prayer partner, which led to our first phone call that summer. We talked for hours that night, and this sparked countless late-night conversations. It was during these talks that our friendship deepened into something more. We officially started dating on May 30, 2020, a date that quickly became incredibly special to both of us. At some point that year, Carley—ever the planner—set a countdown on her phone for May 30, 2026, convinced it would be our wedding day. However, due to the Kansas State Track meet, our special day is now set for May 31, 2026. We think that extra day makes our story (and Carley’s prediction!) even more special. Since then, we've navigated the adventures of high school, our time at Bethel College, and stepping into adult life, always cheering each other on. We've supported each other through late-night study sessions and big career decisions. Our love for each other and the Lord has only grown, whether it's on our first trip to Austin to watch KU and Texas Football play for the last time, going out for a good ole' Braums sweet treat, or enjoying countless game nights with friends. Ben officially proposed on May 4, 2025, at Botanica Gardens in Wichita, finally making Carley's countdown a reality! Over the past five years, we've learned so much about ourselves and each other. The one constant has been the Lord's faithfulness and goodness, and we can't wait to lean into what He holds for us.