Our story started in the most unexpected way… thanks to a $100 bet. Carson’s dad, Joe, dared him to try out for the high school musical, The Sound of Music, during his senior year because his younger brother, Isaiah, was the male lead. Carson said yes, partly for some easy money and partly for a fun memory with his brother, never imagining that audition would lead to him meeting the love of his life. The day before Carson’s graduation, while hammocking on an old bridge he picked out, Analiese made a funny joke… and Carson accidentally blurted out, “I love you.” He didn’t fully mean it yet, but he recovered with, “Well… since I just said that, would you want to be my girlfriend?” Feeling a little bad for him , Analiese said yes and just like that, their five-year adventure officially began. Over the next few years, they navigated college and high school long-distance, worked a few summers as lifeguards, and shared countless adventures in Arizona, from camping and sand volleyball to trips to the Grand Canyon, San Diego, and New Mexico. And yes… many, many, many golf dates. April 18, 2025, was a day neither of them will ever forget. What started as a surprise date became one of the most meaningful moments of their lives. Carson proposed in a way that perfectly reflects their relationship: simple, intentional, and Christ-centered. They took communion together, read Scripture, remembered the cross, and just as he asked Analiese to be his wife, it started to sprinkle rain, almost like heaven itself was rejoicing with them! The surprises didn’t end there. Carson had arranged an engagement party with all of Analiese’s best friends, who poured so much love and effort into making it magical. That day wasn’t just about the two of them, it was a moment of joy shared with the people who had supported them along the way. Now, almost five years later, from high school sweethearts to building a life together, their love story is a constant reminder of God’s goodness and faithfulness. Every laugh, adventure, challenge, and joy has been shaped by Him. And as they step into the next chapter together, their hearts are fully surrendered to the One who brought them together from the very beginning. “I have found the one whom my soul loves” Song of Solomon 3:4