Ross and Matt’s love story is all about the Lord’s perfect timing and how life can come together in the most unexpected ways. Ross grew up in North Carolina, where she came to a saving faith early in life, and eventually found herself at NC State. Her sister, Sydney, was already involved in a campus ministry in the area, so it felt like a perfect fit. After college, Ross moved in with her sister, brother-in-law and baby niece. A sweet season they will always cherish. After finishing school, Ross ended up moving to Atlanta for a new job and joined a local church, Mount Vernon. It was a big change, but she was comforted by loving families who sought to bring her in and make her one of their own. Matt, on the other hand, was born and raised in Georgia. He didn’t become a Christian until later in life, but it happened in the Lord’s perfect timing. After college, a job opportunity brought him to Atlanta too. An important moment during this time was how the Lord providentially placed Matt at the same gym as Fred. This would ultimately lead Matt to becoming a member of Image Church. He didn’t know it then, but Matt can now look back and understand how a loving Father was orchestrating his life for his good. The funny thing is, Ross and Matt met a couple of times before anything really happened. They were introduced through Kalle, Ross’s roommate and Matt’s friend from Image Church. The first time they met, Matt came over for dinner and ended up talking non-stop about his stressful job. Ross, to quote her, was “zero percent interested”. They didn’t exactly hit it off that night, but things started to change after a Memorial Day cookout..... three years later. At that cookout, Ross (fairly uncharacteristic of me, might I add!) called Matt out for something he said. At that moment, Matt noticed Ross in a different way and was determined to get to know her better. Their relationship didn’t take off right away, though. They both had some growing to do and spent some time apart, but Matt didn’t give up pursuing her. He eventually asked Ross out to lunch, and once they sat down, Matt felt like he was catching up with an old friend. Ross, on the other hand, was still somewhat petrified. From there, things started moving forward, but it wasn’t without its bumps. At one point, Ross pulled back, following advice from trusted mentors. It was tough for Matt, but he understood and respected her decision. While apart and enjoying time with friends, Matt sent handwritten postcards during a road trip that warmed Ross's heart. When they both returned to Atlanta, it was as if the Lord placed them on the same path—literally, as Ross took her exit, she looked in her rearview mirror and recognized Betty (his truck)! That night, they shared their first hug, realizing they had missed each other (Thanks cousins for encouraging Ross to give me a chance!), a tender moment that marked the beginning of something special. It was only a few short weeks later when they became official. Since then, they’ve shared so many wonderful memories together—attending weddings, meeting each other’s families, seeing Hamilton (tickets he bought 4 months prior to us dating!), hiking, kayaking, and so much more! And although these times have been so much fun, they don’t even begin to capture all of the small moments Matt and Ross have gotten to cherish together. The above is actually a summary of a story Matt wrote to Ross and placed within a slideshow he made during the proposal (if you haven't heard the full proposal story, Ross has perfected it and would love to share!) Since the proposal on May 31st, their time has continued to be filled with wonderful memories, laughter and lots of growth as they approach the big day. Their journey might not have happened the way they pictured, but it’s a beautiful story about God’s sovereignty. To God be the Glory, Matt & Ross <3