Peterson and Proud

Meeting Erica wasn’t something I planned. We were both part of this adult social group—rated G, don’t worry! 😂 One day, during a group conversation, Erica made a comment that made me pause. I couldn’t remember exactly what she said, but I was curious—Who is this lady? So, I did what any modern-day curious person would do: a little Facebook digging and a bold slide into her DMs. I introduced myself and joked, “So tell me, is that how y’all do it in Texas?” To my surprise, she responded. That one message kicked off hours of chatting, texting, and eventually exchanging numbers. Before long, we were on the phone every day, laughing and connecting on a level I didn’t expect. Eventually, we took the leap to FaceTime. I remember the first time I saw her—she was putting together a bike, looking confident and beautiful. And yes, the first thing I noticed were her lips. I tried to play it cool, but in that moment, I knew there was something special about her. Our connection deepened, but then life got in the way. We drifted into occasional check-ins. I wasn’t sure long-distance was for me. Then one day, she called—asking about food trucks of all things—and just like that, the spark was reignited. That’s when I finally told her—I loved her lips. And I think I made her blush. 😂 After that, our conversations became more meaningful. We’d stay up talking until 1:30 or 2:00 AM, even when I had to be up for work at 3:00. I’d show up to work half-asleep, but it was worth it. Eventually, I realized something: we were talking so much, with no interruptions, no mentions of anyone else—we were both single. So I started planting seeds, hinting at taking things further. Then I heard a voice—She is yours. Go get her. I heard it again: Go get your wife. And I knew it was God speaking. So I listened. We planned to meet in person. I took time off, made the drive to Texas, and when I saw her in person, it was like time stopped. Tall, stunning, and radiating peace—when we hugged, I knew she was the one. Two years of messages and calls led to that moment. And from that day forward, she’s been by my side. Now, we're getting ready to say “I do” on October 24, 2025. Through ups, downs, late-night calls, and God’s quiet guidance, one thing is certain: I prayed for the right person, and He gave me Erica. The Bible says, You have not because you ask not. I asked—and He gave me more than I imagined. Surrounded by love, we begin the next chapter—together, forever.