we're getting married!

Jess and I [Stephen] were both student leaders for Chicago Chi Alpha Campus Ministries at Loyola and Northwestern, respectively. We lost touch after I graduated and moved out of state for work, while Jess remained in Chicago. A few years later, I came back for a wedding. Just before that August trip, after years of losing touch, she was placed on my heart. I asked God to put her back in my path if she was my bride and He did! It turns out that she was also at the wedding that I came into town for! From that day on, I knew she would be mine... the job of convincing her was up to God and He did not disappoint.

I [Jess] wanted something extra private with no pressure and as much nature as possible. Stephen was paying close attention because his proposal was as private as it gets! He led me through a steep hike that ended with the most incredible view. I think at some point he was on one knee and I said, "How crazy would it be if I actually said no right now babe?" ... and then something like "HECK YES I WILL MARRY YOU. I JUST HIKED A MOUNTAIN WITH YOU". A few tears and snots later we were officially engaged!! We spent an extra hour alone at the peak, prayed, talked, ate and celebrated the next phase of our lives.