Karen and Devin met in January 2016 at Maxwell’s Tavern for a Hoboken Grace connection event. It was Devin’s first one and he didn’t know anyone. He was so nervous he almost left. But that night he met his future wife Karen. They shared a short conversation and did not see each other again until the following fall when they were reintroduced by Angie. Karen invited Devin to an apple picking event and soon a friendship began. They were friends for some time before they started dating. Karen always enjoyed going to Devin’s dinner parties, hanging out together with friends, and catching conversations with Devin at events they would attend. Their friendship grew deeper the following May, when they went to Mexico on a missions trip to serve and love the children of Casa Hogar Alegre. A week after the trip Devin asked Karen out for coffee after church. They took a walk and spent time talking at the pier reflecting over their time in Mexico. That’s when Devin shared his feelings for Karen and they started dating. Devin appreciated Karen’s heart, shown in her ability to listen and understand others well. Her quiet wisdom was attractive to him and as they started dating this admiration deepened. Karen was drawn to Devin’s gentle and encouraging heart, his faith, and leadership in their relationship. Shortly after the New Year, Devin began to think about proposing. At first the idea was overwhelming, but after praying and discussing it with a few close married friends he felt encouraged. It was during these conversations that Devin started to realize how much of a blessing his relationship with Karen was and all the amazing ways they grew together. After several months of planning and saving, Aug 4th arrived. Devin convinced Karen to walk to brunch on a morning where the rain had just broke. They stopped at Columbus Park to overlook the garden from the pavilion. After stumbling over nervous words Devin proposed to Karen and she said yes!