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Javier Ituarte

&

Lena Ballard

March 7, 2026

Gatlinburg, TN

The Backstory

October 22, 2023

Javier and Lena met on a hike with friends in the Minnewaska State Park, coordinated by, Javier's friend and Lena's roommate, Deborah. Through their friendship they saw qualities in each other that they would like in a mate. A little less than two years later they both shared that they had feelings for each other and got together to discuss if dating would be the best course. 5 days after that conversation, they met to make the final decision on their future, outside while it was pouring rain. They were both shaking, but from more than just the cold rain. After sharing their thoughts on everything, Javier told her that he "would like to proceed with things" but Lena was not here to play and she said "Ask me". Javier then took out one of Lena's top 3 cheeses, Havarti, and said "Will you be my girlfriend? I would like to take you out sometime." Lena excitedly agreed and they both laughed all the way back inside. 6 months later Javier surprised Lena with a Fall picnic where he popped the question. They are so excited to have you celebrate with them.

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