Ervin was hard at work in his 4th year at Con Edison, and Valerie was stumbling through life after her recent move from Atlanta, GA, to her home state New Jersey when these two met. Thanks to Plentyoffish.com. Ervin and Valerie connected, and their first date was indeed an all-nighter bar hopping in Hoboken, NJ, to locking each other down in the nearest diner they could find. Ervin, tired but in love, reported to work that morning, and though I would like to say the rest is history, it is more than that. For those who may not know us as well, Ervin is no typical guy; he is the most congenial, compassionate, forgiving, loving, and dedicated partner a girl could have. His love for Valerie has transcended all her flaws, weaknesses, life lessons, and everything else in between. His strength is the kind you dream about falling in love with, and his passion for excellence is beyond mesmerizing. Anyone who knows Ervin believes they can count on him as he never fails to come through and show up for those he cares for. Ervin is a tremendous father, and over the years, his son Isaiah has been his world. Together they have traveled to China, Ireland, France, Puerto Rico, and Holland, among other exotic destinations. Valerie, valerie, valerie! She is as one of a kind as they come. Her life and the choices she has had to make have been far from easy, and through experience, her toughness and persistence have reached a level of excellence. She has given so much of her time to the sport of gymnastics and, in return, has gained invaluable experiences and relationships that she will forever treasure. Gymnastics will forever live in her heart! Furthermore, Valerie has truly found her calling in her role as a professional school-based post-secondary counselor. She believes her story is for her students, and it is in passing on those crucial life lessons that Valerie is able to change lives. Valerie, too, traveled the world and has spent the better half of her early years visiting family throughout Europe. The fervor for cultural experiences Ervin and Valerie share has brought them utter joy and continues to enlighten them on what they can create together. Ervin has been her rock, and she has become his greatest gift! Well, what do two lovebirds do after 13 years of doing life together, not together, and together again?…they thank God and seal the deal! Ervin, Valerie, and Isaiah reside in Brooklyn, NY, and they have been operating like one big family for years. Their family and friends mean the world to them, and whenever possible, the trio goes on vacations, visits family, and finds interesting ways to take in all this incredible world has to offer. If there is advice Ervin and Valerie would choose to leave, it is best summed up in the following, “Expect the best, plan for the worst, and prepare to be surprised!” Through it all, TRUST GOD! If you limit yourself to your human understanding of what life could be, you miss out! Believe you are worth it, and because of your worth, the journey has to be like no other! Not only are Ervin and Valerie excited about their wedding, but they are also through the moon about their new addition to the family, expected 11/7/23!