we’re getting married!

In 2023 I left for London to learn more about filmmaking. It had always been a dream of mine and when my friend told me there was a film and acting school through Youth With A Mission I knew it was for me. I packed my bags, said goodbye to my family and hopped on a 12 hour flight. I was so excited to live in one of my favorite cities, learn more about filmmaking and make new friends. The last thing on my mind was meeting someone. I knew my schedule was going to be intense and busy so it never crossed my mind. When I landed in England I was picked up by two of the staff members and taken to the house I would be staying in for the next 4 months. They took me on a tour of the house and the amenities, they led me into the kitchen and my heart fluttered. Sitting at the table was the most handsome man I had ever seen. He smiled at me and said “Hello, I’m Michael, one of your staff members.”. All I could get out was a soft “Hi”. I remember walking away awkwardly and just thinking “He’d never like me and of course I first meet him after not sleeping for 18 hours…”. To my surprise Michael and I quickly became friends and soon became more. About a month after knowing eachother he told me he had feelings for me. We went on a few dates and our feelings grew stronger. I knew I loved him after just a few weeks. The school ended in early December and I was headed home. The morning before I left he asked me to be his girlfriend and he planned a trip to come meet my family in California. Our relationship remained long distance for 2 years. Michael moved back to Hawaii to continue mission work and I stayed California. Although there was an ocean between us we were able to see each other every month. Michael was always intentional in our relationship and made me feel so loved and chosen through the distance. Finally, after 2 years, long distance came to an end. After Christmas, I flew to Minnesota and we packed up his car and moved everything to California. A month later we were engaged. We are so excited to celebrate this long awaited next chapter surrounded by our loved ones!