Josh’s family moved from the US to Uganda in 1995 where they started a church in Dora’s neighborhood. Josh and his brother took music lessons from my older brothers who were part of the church band. Josh and his siblings had American accents, which the kids in the neighborhood loved to make fun of, since they weren’t too fond of the new kids in town. Our parents constantly run into the Mutebi kids talking to people about Jesus, while the rest of us were out climbing trees or riding bikes. Eventually the neighborhood kids taught the Mutebi kids’ the Ugandan accent and also realized they loved to play just as much as we did! Josh’s house was lots of fun, but most importantly, his family always made sure all the kids had something to eat.   We were both part of the children’s choir as well as a dance group. Josh’s mum would ask us to dance to the hymn, “Mansion Over the Hilltop,” one of the songs she taught us in choir. The childhood choir remains as one of the fondest memories of our childhoods—riding in the back of Josh’s parents’ white truck to sing in different churches or live television; rehearsing skits and songs with our favorite children’s pastor, Pastor Denis; exploring sugarcane plantations (and outrunning the owners when caught!); and playing in the swamps of Bugolobi with friends.   In high school break, we both took part in the "longest church crusade and conference of the century"—two-years! Josh played bass. Dora sang but mostly danced. It was during this time, after walking Dora multiple times back home, that I asked her to start dating. Josh would walk me 40 minutes one way after church and then walk back to his parents’ home.   Early in our relationship, Josh taught me how to pray and fast. Every Friday, we would meet to pray and fast about our futures, families, and friends. Josh helped me with my college applications and while at university, he would share some of his weekly pocket money that his parents gave him. Our tradition of praying together continued throughout college. I learnt how to be kind and patient in watching how Josh treated others.   Eventually, Josh became a celebrity bass player—something that may have started after I tricked him into stepping in at a friend’s concert who had no bassist! Music, family, ministry, friendship, and faith—these are what brought us together and has kept us together over the years. It’s never felt like we were dating—we have just been best friends, even when separated by distance. And seeing how much Josh loves Ms. Avia brightens my heart.   “Josh’s kindness, gentleness, and pure love for God drew me in.”—Dora   “Dora is free-spirited, cheeky, fun, ambitious, and constantly seeks the best in everyone—which drew me to her.”—Josh   “We’re so excited for you to join us this summer as we kick off the next chapter of our lives together.”—Dora & Josh