We met back in middle school math class in 2009. Although we both had crushes on each other, we never thought we would end up here! Joshua moved away after sophomore year of high school, and we lost touch. After Alyssa ran a half marathon in Russellville, Arkansas, Joshua reconnected and we decided to meet up for old times' sake. Joshua drove 2 hours down to Russellville, and we went to La Huerta, a Tex-Mex restaurant. After a pitcher of margaritas and lots of laughter, we realized a few hours had passed. It was the easiest first date ever! We have so many fond memories from the first weekend we reconnected including the time Joshua opened a bottle of wine with a knife (very smooth move). When we parted ways on Sunday, we both knew we could be something special. We started dating a short week later even though Alyssa was moving back to Texas to start veterinary school. We spent a total of 10 months with 500 miles between us, but we weren't deterred. Joshua graduated with his Masters in Business Administration in December and moved to College Station by March (praise Jesus)! Being together in the same town was so refreshing! Too bad Alyssa left for a 3 week internship in Tennessee at the end of May! On the day she got back home, Joshua took her to celebrate and drink wine (one of our favorite things to do). While walking around the vineyard, Alyssa managed to break a shoe and spill wine, but Joshua knew that just made this moment even more *us*. We walked up to a gazebo to take pictures, and Joshua pulled a bright red box out of his pocket. Alyssa finally caught on to what was about to occur. With a beautiful ring, a few words, and lots of happy tears, we were officially ENGAGED! We are so thankful for the memories we have together, the joy we share daily, and the people that support us. We cannot wait to be THE HIATT'S come July 23rd!