I have found the one whom my soul adores

Daniel and I were connected in the summer of 2019 through a mutual friend after I mentioned to her that he was quite handsome! Before I knew it, Danny and I were inseparable, and spent every moment soaking up the summer break together. Only a month into our relationship, I was set to travel abroad to Australia and in a spur of the moment decision, Danny invited me to tag along on a trip to New York he was slated to go on with a buddy. It was the first time we traveled together and it kickstarted our yearning to explore together.

In New York, there was a bittersweet moment as Danny and I realized that I would be abroad in Australia for a month in a setting that would make it difficult to communicate. I was honestly quite anxious and sad to be away so early on in our relationship, and I didn't mind voicing such concerns to Danny! Despite the fear, on our second to last day in New York, Danny pulled me in tight under an umbrella while we were crossing the street and whispered in my ear "I love you" for the first time. I was smitten.

After such a "movie-esque" summer, I returned to Florida State University and kicked off our four years of medium-distance dating. Nearly every weekend during those long four years, Daniel and I made the intentional choice to see each other, each taking turns driving the distance, despite very hectic school, work, and social schedules. It wasn't always easy; there were many moments of sadness and loneliness that tested our willingness to persevere, but it was our mutual respect, forgiveness, and deep love that carried us through those struggles.

As I began job searching during my master's program, I promised Danny and my mom I'd pursue job opportunities in Gainesville. This promise wasn't in vain, and despite my disbelief that I'd end up back in my hometown, the Lord's plans prevailed. After accepting a job in town, I contracted to build my first house and moved in on April 13th, 2023. This house will become Danny and my home after our marriage in Italy and we cannot be more thrilled.

Mary and I had spoken about getting married for years, and we knew it’s what we both wanted. After contacting some of our friends and figuring out what day worked best, I started setting my plan into motion. My uncle’s beautiful farm would set the backdrop for some “family photos” that Mary was dressed and ready for. As we pulled in and walked up to a flower-covered barn, Mary quickly began to realize we were there for a very different reason. I nervously asked if she would marry me after fumbling through my mini-speech, and she said "yes" before I could even finish asking! It was a magical moment, and all the while, some friends and family had snuck over to her house to prepare a surprise engagement party. When we returned home, we were greeted with hugs, congratulations, and a lovely afternoon. It was the perfect way to enter into our season of engagement and celebrate the next chapter of marriage to come!