We're Getting Married

Richard and I lived behind each other for five years without ever laying eyes on one another. Life has a funny way of keeping people close, yet completely unaware. Ironically, I met Richard's dog, Heyu, long before I met him. Heyu would spend evenings barking in the yard, unknowingly introducing me to the love of my life in his own special way. It wasn't until one afternoon, when my cousin Twin and I were outside behind my house, that fate finally stepped in. Twin- known for his unmistakable booming laugh and wild sense of humor- was cracking jokes so loudly that it caught Richard's attention from inside his house. That's when he came outside, and for the first time our eyes met. They say there are only three degrees of separations. Who would have thought the man I'd one day plan to marry was actually my cousin's childhood friend? Richard had been around all along, quietly in the background of my life. That day everything changed. Our connection was instant- warm, natural, and full of possibility. We quickly grow close, sharing time, stories, dreams and laughter. But as life would have it, that first chapter of our love story wasn't meant to last. We eventually parted ways, both of us needing time to grow as individuals and become the people we were meant to be. It was hard, but necessary. And in the end, we came out of it stronger, wiser, and more grounded in our purpose. In God's perfect timing- He bought us back together- this time with clarity, intention and a deeper understanding of what love truly means. The second time around is better than the first. Our bond is deeper, our communication stronger, and our love more intentional. We've learned to cherish the little things- quiet mornings, late night movies with popcorn, laughter around the house, and the simple everyday ways we show up for each other. One of the most meaningful moments came when Richard asked my mother for my hand in marriage- just two months before she passed. Her blessing made our love feel even more sacred. Now, we don't take any of it for granted. Together, we're building a life rooted in trust, faith and unwavering love. A love that was patient. A love that came full circle. This is our story- a story of timing, growth, unexpected blessings, and finding your way back to the person who was always meant for you