Her Story Michelle and Jacob met while she was on REACH in 2007. She doesn’t remember meeting; it was as if he had simply become part of the fabric of her life. As time passed, they stayed in touch and Jacob soon became one of her best friends. When Jacob left the seminary, she continued to value his friendship and, very gradually, considered that maybe the friendship could develop into something more. However, to guard their friendship, Michelle decided to visit Jacob, purely as friends. She was open to the possibility of more, but, above all, was mindful that she wanted him to be happy and fulfilled, whatever the circumstances. But something can be said for God’s perfect timing – as soon as Michelle prayerfully concluded she was at peace with whatever the outcome, Jacob swooped in and asked her whether they could be something more. His Story Jake doesn’t remember the exact instance of meeting Michelle; he remembers immediately finding her to be a good friend and a person to rely on when she first came to Yakima. They remained friends narrowly missing ever living in the same city again. Eventually, Jake set his sights on the seminary and was happy to have a friend like Michelle supporting him on his way to the priesthood. His sisters remember him frequently mentioning what an important confidant she was to him any time he needed a friend. After Jake left the seminary, Michelle came to visit and at dinner one night it struck him like a bolt of lightning. Not wanting to waste any more time and he asked her out that night. Our Story Much to the relief of family and friends, Michelle agreed to date Jacob. She has been beside him ever since, laughing at (some of) his jokes, understanding and interpreting his thoughts and opinions, and loving him so well that he is the best version of himself. So, on December 12, The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Jacob proposed to Michelle and she said “Yes!” knowing that she would go through life with her best friend by her side.