Our first date was set up by Chad's brother, Carey. He had a hunch that we would have a connection and even gave us the idea for our first date! We got to know each other while trying to figure out the frisbee golf course at Randolph College, and the fun continued with an impromptu dinner at a restaurant around the corner. Karis left with an excitement to get to know the story behind Chad's smile, and the brightness in Karis’ eyes was refreshing to Chad. He knew that just one date would not do. After the first date, a summer of waterfalls, swimming holes and hikes in the mountains unfolded with beautiful Virginia countryside as the back drop.

Chad took Karis to one of the most beautiful spots near Lynchburg and proposed on his birthday. We held each other under the sunset and wept tears of joy. What a blessed feeling to know you have reached your destination in time and space, and are contentedly and peacefully ready to begin the next leg of your journey... together as one.