It all started when ... We met as workmates at the Grand Junction Regional Center. He was the therapist/'head-doctor', I [Angela] was in the directors office. We worked together and shared stories about our children, our careers, and our thoughts about life. We didn't spend time together outside of work. Great co-workers. He frequently declined invites to my social friendship circle. Then, about two years later, we found a greater interest in each other and he asked me out to lunch. huh? I suddenly felt tingly and excited. We went to lunch at Taqueria Guadalajara, then slowly began dating. Friendship was a wonderful foundation! Memorable dating times: we went hunting together. I'm sure he thought this girl at his man-camp wouldn't know how to hunt or rough camp but to his surprise... I do! We also toured Costa Rica and respected eachothers independence yet thoroughly enjoyed eachothers company! We found we love to laugh and compete with eachother. Additionally, we took a Christian relationship class and found many similar belief systems. God first. God bless.

It was suppose to be a regular day where we agreed to go on a hike up Mt. Garfield on 10/04; the same place we shared our first kiss. Evidently, all family members were in the "know" about this eventful day. As we ascended the 2 mile trek and 2000' up the mountain, I [Angela] realized how out of shape I was! Joseph was anxious to get to the top of the mountain. I wondered why? He was acting kinda anxious about our excursion. My Sister ironically called several times (not just one call but several) asking how I was. I thought she was just inquiring on my physical health! As we continued to hike, I think I complained, between breaths, most of the way up the mountain. As we were super close to the top, I was out of breath and was attacked by hyperventilation. Joseph sincerely tended to my situation and as I calmed down, asked if we should stop and head back down the mountain. No, no, I thought! I can do this! We decided to hike to the top and made it to the flag pole. Whew! The sun was setting and the view was more stunning than the last time. We shared another memorable kiss and he knelt on one knee... He asked 'would you marry me; and join me in a journey to grow in faith together as husband and wife.' Woah! This man has my heart. He knew our relationship was important enough to be faith based. I said YES! He even brought wine, cheese, cracker and snacks to enjoy! He thought of everything. No wonder he was anxious to get to the top, no wonder why my sister kept calling. By the time we descended, it was getting dark. That's a scary hike in the dark. Very memorable! Happiest day yet! 10-4