It all began on a Monday night. Some mutual friends had a small group over for refreshments and good times. A couple, 3 guys, 3 girls. It seemed like a recipe for something to brew. Except… this wasn’t that episode. In fact, Ellie didn’t even remember Markis’ name the next time she saw him. Let’s just say, both parties had their minds in other places. This was the first instance “timing was everything”. Fast forward a few seasons, Markis and Ellie had become more acquainted with each other as they had many mutual friends and occasionally found themselves at the same gatherings, the same lunch tables at Bethel, and in the same circles. They were always left with a good impression of each other and enjoyed their interactions. One evening, the two ran into each other at a gathering thrown by mutual friends. Before the gathering, one of the hosts told Markis “there will be someone there that you might hit it off with.” As soon as he walked in the door, in the crowd of people he immediately saw Ellie and thought to himself, “I bet that’s who they were talking about.” Later in the evening, the two got a chance to talk and even danced together… 3 songs in a row! By the end of the evening Markis was interested in getting to know Ellie better, and he knew he had to create an opportunity before she left. He invited her to join a lunch table with some friends at bethel the following week. While the signs should have been clear, Ellie didn’t want to read into things too much. She took his invitation as an indication that he wanted to be better friends but nothing more. This was the second instance that “timing was everything.” Fortunately, Markis understood that there were some circumstances in Ellie’s life that would require him to take his time and be patient with her. So he proceeded to get to know Ellie slowly and progressively, and didn’t get too discouraged when she said no to his invites (repeatedly). To this day he believes that Holy Spirit must have been involved… he had to be REAL patient. Fast forward several episodes, Ellie slowly let her guard down and discovered they had chemistry beyond the dance floor; in fact she found him checking off more boxes than she thought possible. The same could be said of Markis, and before long he knew he had to make definitive move. THIS was the episode where things finally got good. Right before he left for Special Convention in Prague, he sent Ellie a text that would make her heart jump: “can we meet up after work? I’d like to get your thoughts on something.” The two made their relationship official about a week later while Markis was in Prague, and though he throughly enjoyed his European escapade he was more than ready to get home. The next 8 months were marked by the smoothest, easiest dating experience either had ever had. Despite different life experiences and different ways of thinking, the two were always on the same page about the important things (and a lot of small things too). Over and over again, they could see Jehovah’s hand in their relationship, and how right the timing was now. Fast forward to March 7, 2025, the lovebirds got engaged on a chilly evening in Wallkill NY, the beautiful Shawangunk Mountain Ridge framing the background. Now they are eagerly anticipating this next season and are so looking forward to sharing their special day with each one of you. To you: we are so grateful for all the amazing friends and family that have supported us in various ways throughout our courtship. We wouldn’t be who we are, where we are, or doing what we’re doing without you. We love you very much!