I met a few Strzalkas before I met Kayla. First, it was her younger brother, Josh, who was a freshman on my hall during my senior year at Liberty. Next, it was Mr. Strzalka himself, who I drove to the airport on a random Sunday afternoon. One chilly Sunday morning in February, I found myself once again in the car with Josh on our way to church. Little did I know that I was about to fall in love with Josh's sister. I will never forget the moment that I walked into church that day and saw her sitting there in the row. I tried to speak to her, but my lips stopped moving. My heart continued to race. My palms were sweaty. Every question I asked Kayla was really, really dumb. Looking back on all the questions I asked her, I think I was just really excited to see her. I admired her so deeply and knew that there was something very special about her. I didn't wait long after that - I asked Kayla out on a date the very next Sunday (after getting permission from Josh, of course), chasing her down in the hallway before she left. She calmly said yes, and the rest is history. Dating Kayla was just different. Every date was filled with laughter and every conversation flowed seamlessly into the next. Spending time together was so filling and never draining. I didn't know what the phrase "When you know, you know," meant until I started dating Kayla. The last 11 months with this wonderful woman have been the most joyous, most fulfilling, and most memorable months of my life. Kayla loves deeply, has a heart of service, and brings an infectiously bright joy with her wherever she goes. I knew after just one month of dating that I was going to marry her (my best friend, Zach, was there when I realized this and can attest to it). Discovering her character, her cause, and our chemistry together was a beautiful experience. As I pursued her, she continued to love and support me in return. Our dreams of ministry and life together made us more excited for our future, never less. In October, I asked Kayla's mom and dad (Sally and Phil) for her hand in marriage. They said yes, and the planning process begun. So many of our friends helped plan our special engagement day behind the scenes, and I am incredibly grateful for God's sovereign work in placing each and every one of them in our lives. We are truly blessed! Above all else, Kayla and I have committed to give our lives in service to Christ. Wherever he leads, we will follow. We are incredibly excited to live our lives on mission for him, loving others, and working for God's Kingdom here on earth. We pray that you would join us in prayer and in support of our marriage as we take this beautiful next step. After our wedding in July, Kayla and I plan to stay in Lynchburg, VA, continuing our masters degrees, serving in the church, and working for LU. Thanks so much, we can't wait to celebrate with you! Kaden and Kayla