It didn't take long for us to hit it off. We were introduced by a mutual friend (thanks Maize!) and our first date was a combination of things we love - we met at a coffee shop...which turned into a long walk along the Columbia River...which turned into an evening at a Dust Devil's baseball game. And the rest is history. :) If you know either of us you can probably guess who loves coffee and who loves baseball!

Dan has been learning it isn't hard to surprise Carlie. Pretty much everyone knew about the proposal plan...except her! He enlisted Carlie's sister, her parents, and his parents to pull off a special surprise. It was just a regular Thursday evening and Dan was *supposed* to be helping at youth group. He was actually hiding at her parent's house when Carlie answered a call to rescue her mom and dad who were *locked out.* Four excited parents hiding upstairs, a dozen roses, a beautiful ring, and a very enthusiastic "Yes!" later, we were engaged!

We love our family and friends and are so thankful for each of you. We have felt so encouraged by your support and love as we look forward to starting our lives as Mr. and Mrs. Allen. Monday through Friday (and weekends...and holidays... and most other days...) we both love being music teachers and performers. The more music the merrier! When we're not teaching or playing music you'll probably find us on a bike ride, taking Skip, our sailboat, out on the water, or making something in the kitchen, the wood shop...or anywhere else we can create together. But most of all, we love our faithful Savior Jesus Christ, who has given us new life and an eternal hope through his gift of salvation. We want our lives and marriage to reflect him in all we do, and we have no greater joy than to point others to our Creator and Redeemer. As we vow before him and all of you to love each other faithfully for the rest of our lives, we want him to be glorified above all else. "For from him and through him and to him are all things." - Romans 11:36 Thank you for being a part of our lives - we are so excited to celebrate with you as we commit our lives to one another!