We met at James Madison University through campus ministry. Henry was in a position to lead the ministry's video production team and Jessie was interested and applied to support the team and ministry. We remained friends and did not begin "talking" until late 2016 where our lives were forever changed over stargazing! Many Thursday evening sticky nugs dates then ensued at the local pub, Billy Jack's.
Henry asked Jessie to the Artful Dodger, a local restaurant and dancing spot in downtown Harrisonburg, VA for their first date. Jessie originally made other plans, then realized she really liked this guy and cancelled those so that she could go out with him. The Artful Dodger (now closed, sadly) was well-known for their salsa nights, so we took lessons, then danced the night away! This was a special moment because Jessie remembers it as the first time she really got to see Henry laugh.
Jessie: One of my favorite memories together was when we visited Québec, Canada. In particular, we did an electric bike tour of a nearby island one afternoon with a small group, enjoying the beautiful warm weather, and history of the island, along with a winery and chocolate factory for some tastings. Later we stopped at Montmorency Falls to take in the breathtaking waterfalls. On the trip, we enjoyed a lot of late night walks down the cobblestone streets, and plenty of poutine! Henry: My favorite memory of us together is when I visited Jessie in Lyon, France. It was the first time that we were abroad together and traveled to neighboring cities. Along with the festive time of the year (New Year’s Eve), good food, and exploration, I got to see firsthand how Jessie had an appreciation for other cultures.
Needing some time away from busy New York City, we planned an impromptu getaway upstate in Poughkeepsie, NY for an extended weekend getaway. Henry just had gotten the ring that week and brought it with him during the trip thinking there might be a special moment to pop the question. On our second day there, an unexpected snow storm came through which left us preferring the cozy indoors, reading and playing card games together. On our last day, we found a trail close to the Franklin D. Roosevelt historic site which made for a beautiful winter wonderland hike in the snow. We brought a picnic and Henry proposed while on the hike!