J: "Hello!" -I saw Maria's face was on Catholic Match. First thought: "this is going to be a long shot." She was just far too beautiful and her profile far too perfect to be a real chance. "Hello" that's all I could say along with a Hail Mary. Never thought I had a chance with her, let alone a response. She more than answered my "hello," she was the answer to my prayers. I give full credit to a prayer to the Blessed Mother asking her to find my future spouse. She is far too good to me and a surprising match maker. Never underestimate a Hail Mary. God has a sense of humor. M: "Hello"? He gave me nothing to work with. How was I supposed to respond to that? A closer look at his vaguely familiar photo. I recognized him from UST. Online dating terrified me, but I knew my vocation and this was the best way to pursue it at the moment. A familiar face was very welcome. I responded. After many messages, and texts, I realized: Emily Madden had introduced us outside in passing after class one day. It was the recognition that gave confidence for that first response. It was the best message I ever sent. Well, not the best worded, but the best choice, by far. June '19-Jan '20: Dating for us involves a lot of fries, walks and hikes (often accompanied by a day road trip), dancing, tea/coffee, and movies. We went to the 1940s Hanger Dance. We played battle ship on a bell tower. In July, Jordan ran off to the Western Front (prairie dog hunting). In October, Maria fled to Italy. We weathered job changes and moving. We love spending time with family (both sides), and Maria visited Williston for a beautiful wedding. Always: Mass, adoration, and prayer--often. Every moment growing closer, every moment better than the last. M: I learned daily of Jordan's immense patience, kindness, and hidden strength. He thought he didn't have a chance? Ha. That was me. J: Sending that "hello" was the greatest chance I ever took. Months of joy and happiness has brought us here. Hail Mary..Glory be...