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We met in our Communication for the Classroom class at Saginaw Valley State University. It was the second-to-last week, and a group activity had us paired up. Scout went to sit next to her best friend Dana, but the seat was taken. The only spot left? Next to a quiet, calm guy named Joseph. We’ll be honest—the activity was long, boring, and kind of terrible. To pass the time, we started making little jokes, which turned into full-on chatting. By the end of class, we hadn’t finished the assignment…but we had found something much better. Scout left that day kicking herself for not asking the funny, cute boy for his number. Luckily, Joseph was already one step ahead. The next day, he emailed her “asking for class notes” (a totally smooth and not-at-all suspicious move) and suggested they text instead. From that day forward, we’ve never stopped laughing—and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Before Joseph proposed to Scout, he teamed up with his sister Rachel to surprise her. A week before, Rachel invited Scout to a nail appointment, claiming it was a trial for her wedding nails. On May 31st, they enjoyed their time together, unaware of Joseph’s plan. While they were out, Joseph transformed Rachel’s house into a timeline of their relationship, featuring photos from their first date to Joseph’s recent birthday. He added Scout’s favorite candy and tokens marking special moments. When Scout returned home with Rachel, she was greeted by streamers and missed Joseph’s note to “follow the timeline.” Initially thinking she had forgotten a birthday, she soon realized it was all for her. Following the pictures, she went upstairs to a room where Joseph was on one knee, surrounded by candles. Overcome with emotion, Scout joyfully said yes to her best friend. The day was perfect, orchestrated by Joseph, Rachel, Eric (Rachel’s fiancé), and Seth (Joseph’s friend). Celebrating with loved ones made it truly special, and they feel blessed by God’s continued grace.

Joseph's: "Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand." - Mathew 7:24-26 Scout's: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." - Isaiah 41:10