I (Makenzie) first started going to a house church in May 2024. It was small enough that you could talk to everyone — this is exactly how I met Matt. He showed up one Sunday in September and, with memorably awkward charm, introduced himself to me and Jaiden by blurting out, “I get nervous talking to girls sometimes.” I laughed at the time, then promptly forgot about that moment… until much later. A few days later, a couple from church hosted a bonfire. I went with my friend Maddie — completely unaware that Matt had come with the specific hope of running into me. Up to that point, we hadn’t really had the chance to talk much, but that night, we did. Sitting by the fire, I noticed how easy he was to talk to and how much he made me laugh. Maddie and I left early, but she caught something I hadn’t — that there might be a little spark between us. (Spoiler: she was right.) That Sunday at church, I noticed Matt hanging back like he wanted to talk, but I got caught in another conversation and we didn’t get the chance. To my surprise, later that afternoon, he texted me asking if I wanted to grab coffee and chat — which just so happens to be my ideal hangout. We met at Potter’s House and ended up talking for a few hours. When he later asked me out on our official first date, I didn’t even hesitate. We went to FD’s for dinner and then played mini golf — where, naturally, I took the competition way too seriously while Matt claimed he “couldn’t focus on the game”. Just a few weeks later, we were officially dating. Fast-forward to the proposal. Matt told me he wanted to take me out to dinner, but suggested we stop for a walk at Sequiota Park first. He also told me to dress a little nicer than usual… suspicious, right? When we arrived, Jaiden and Jenna had already been there setting up — photos, my dream bouquet, and the sweetest little scene. Matt led me over, and the moment we reached the spot, I knew. He started a heartfelt speech about how much I mean to him — which I wish I’d recorded because I was too excited to process most of it (and Matt doesn’t remember what he said either). Then he got on one knee. My jaw dropped when I saw the ring! Of course, I said yes! I teared up instantly, overwhelmed with joy, gratitude, and the deep awareness that God had been so kind to bring us together. We celebrated with dinner at Café Cusco, Coldstone, and then (randomly) watched Step Up 3. I’d been sick for days beforehand, and Matt had been praying I’d feel well enough for the proposal. God answered that prayer in the sweetest way. It has been so sweet getting to know and love Matt. He is my best friend and constantly reminds me of the truth of the gospel, how the finished work on the cross radically changes our lives, and who I am in Christ. We are very excited to begin our lives together and become one as we continue to learn and grow together. It still makes me laugh to think all of this started with an awkward introduction at church. Every step of our story has been marked by God’s kindness and little reminders that He writes better stories than we ever could. From bonfires and coffee dates to mini golf and late-night ice cream runs, each memory has woven us closer together, preparing us for the lifelong adventure ahead. If you are reading this, it means you have been part of our story – so thank you!