Welcome to Our Happily Ever After

Both Richard and I were growing as Christians and single parents when we began talking online. What seemed to be a great friendship quickly became deeper connection. Richard and I met in person for the first time in November 2014 at the local IHOP after finding out that we were part of the same church, Destination Church. About a month after talking, we got the kids together to play. I don't think it could have gone any better. All 6 of our children clicked immediately.

On the morning of February 25th 2017, we woke up in a beautiful cabin in the blue ridge mountains. Richard had spent a lot of time and thought into a nice relaxing weekend together. After getting all dolled up we headed out to one of two vineyards. It started to rain outside and it got quite gloomy. We took a tour of the winery and tasted some interesting wine. Richard told me he had another vineyard to take me too. We got turned around going the wrong way a few times, then I got a little carsick. When we got to Early Mountain Vineyards the sun came out and I was excited to eat some food. We get there and Richard is eager to try some wine and head downstairs to this vender event that they had going on. We go downstairs and they had a lot of wedding venders. The host of the bridal show greeted us and showed us around. She then suggested that we go outside to look at the view of the venue. At first I was hesitant because it was still breezy outside, but Richard and her convinced me. Richard asked them to take a picture of us with his cell phone but they insisted to use their cameras. So outside we are taking photos when all the sudden he pulls a paper out of his pocket and reads an amazing speech and I figured out what was happening and didn't hear a word he said. I was so shocked and excited. Then he hands me his phone and it is all 6 of our children asking if I will marry him. I paused, not because I had doubts but because I was in shock! I of coarse said "yes", and I am so glad I did!

The years haven't been easy, to be expected from a blended family. No matter the hardships, break ins, custody battles, we have been there for each other. When our two older boys got diagnosed with the exact same conditions, everything became clear and we knew that together we could get through anything. With 6 kids, nothing is easy, but together it is worth it! Now we live together and we are ready to share our devotion to each other with the people that mean the most to us.