18 years ago, Kristen and Daniel met as 15 year-old kids in the Young Sounds of Arizona Jazz Ensemble. Daniel was a smitten young trombone player and Kristen was a stubborn little spit-fire that played the baritone saxophone. A friendship blossomed, but Daniel knew there was something more between them. Both of them had quite a bit of maturing to do, so in this season it seemed that it wasn't meant to be. Little did they know that it was just not their time yet and that God had a plan for them much later in life.

It was not until 2 years ago that God brought Daniel and Kristen back into each other's lives through music once again. Daniel's love for Kristen had remained through the years and, as they began to rekindle their friendship, he realized it was time to tell her how he truly felt. Kristen was reluctant, to say the least, but Daniel's patience and kind persistence led to a karaoke date that Kristen refused to admit was a date. Despite her stubbornness, Kristen's feelings for Daniel grew and she quickly realized that their bond was something deeply special and unique.

On March 28, Palm Sunday, Daniel proposed to Kristen at the Japanese Friendship Garden in downtown Phoenix. The weather was warm and sunny and ducklings rested in the shade near the beautiful waterfalls. The afternoon was a true blessing and a special day to be remembered. Kristen and Daniel bought two hand-made cups to commemorate the occasion and later had a special Jamba Juice date with Kristen's son, Forest, to share the exciting news. Their hearts were overflowing with gratitude.