We're Getting Married!

Through the eyes of Dahrel: Erica and I met in San Antonio, Texas, while at our Air Force Nurse Residency program. The very first day of class, I sat in the back while I waited for the rest of the class to show up. One-by-one, people started to show, and seats started to fill. I quickly realized I was the only one seated in the back of the class, that is, until Erica walked in. She took a look around the room and wandered over to a seat close to me. "Interesting..." I thought. After getting dismissed from class, the introduction started. Erica was the only one to stay behind and wait for me to come out of the room. She was full of energy and introduced herself to me. Throughout the 3 months of the program, we got to know each other and explored San Antonio together. One of my favorite (or most embarrassing) memories is when I was talking loud and proud at how good I am at go-karting, and that I would take on anyone at any time. Erica beat me... and at that moment, I knew she was the one. By the grace of God, we got stationed at the same military base in Mississippi, where I asked her to be my girlfriend. Two years (to the day) later, she said yes! Through the eyes of Erica: Yes, I did make the first move! When I walked into that classroom in San Antonio, I instantly noticed one person, Dahrel, in the very back. I knew I had to sit next to him. When I introduced myself, his genuine smile took me by surprise. I’ve never seen a smile like that. My heart melted on the spot, and I immediately thought, 'I need to know more'. As the days went on, what started as a curiosity quickly became something deeper. I found myself drawn to his strength of character, his humor, and especially his faith. His outlook on life was grounded and joyful in a way that reflected something greater. We explored San Antonio together, sharing conversations about God, family, and the future (and yes, I did beat him at go-karting, don’t let him forget that!). When we arrived in Mississippi and began our relationship, our faith grew right alongside our love for each other. Throughout our time together, we’ve leaned on Christ in both joy and trial. Every step has been guided by prayer, and every milestone has been a reflection of His goodness. We truly believe our meeting wasn’t by chance, but by divine design.