We met at a campus ministry called RUF (Reformed University Fellowship). Caleb started attending Tennessee Tech University and during his first semester, he met Rachel. Caleb was studying Mechanical Engineering and Rachel has been at Tech for the previous year, studying Early Childhood Education. Upon our first meeting, Caleb asked about Rachel's testimony. She was surprised at this personal, yet profound question. By her response, Caleb became attracted, and sought to get to know her more as the months went on. We continued connecting through Large Group, retreats, and service opportunities. We found out that we each grew up in Ohio. While Rachel moved to Tennessee with her family, Caleb moved overseas to Europe with his missionary parents. Before long, it dawned on Caleb that Rachel was graduating a semester before him. So, in the month of April 2018 while in the cafeteria, Caleb called her to ask her out for the first time. We shared an awkward meal of sushi at Fuji's with Rachel teaching Caleb how to use chopsticks. To break the ice, Caleb brought out a PDF full of questions to get to know each other better. The rest is history.

The Special Day began when Caleb surprised Rachel with flowers while grocery shopping. Caleb had already bought the ring weeks before and was encouraged by a new friend to make the decision to commit and make Rachel the love of his life. Previously, Caleb has met with Rachel's parents for a nice dinner the day before. Caleb asked for their blessing and presented the ring. The next day, Caleb decided to take Rachel back to where we shared our first date at Fuji's. We reminisced in our memories that we created since we've been together. Upon leaving, Caleb suggested that we visit our favorite tree to climb together in Sherlock Park located on TTU campus. When we arrived, there was an awkward pause. Caleb would normally lift Rachel up onto the tree limb. But, he just stood there nervously for a second. We hugged, and then Caleb knelt down and professed his love and commitment to Rachel at the base of the tree. This is where Rachel said 'I will...yes!' After Rachel said 'Yes' Caleb jumped up and hugged Rachel, forgetting to put the ring on her finger! We had our first kiss at the base of the tree. After Caleb re-knelt and finally put the ring on, our joyful adventure began.