Our beautiful love story…God had it in mind a long time ago. He knew that we both would go through half of a lifetime experiencing both joy and pain to grow us into the people we are today. With God's amazing goodness, healing and redemption power at work in our lives, He found it fitting for us to meet at the perfect time. God used a few unacquainted friends to point out that we would make a great couple…finally after months of waiting, there was the first phone call, and a first date at Girardi’s in Edmonds. For both of us being nervous about having not dated in about 2-3 decades, it was such a delightfully perfect first date. As time went on, we realized we had our faith in common, more friends in common than we realized, and more, that was comforting to both of us. The days of getting to know each other, turned into weeks, that turned into months, that turned into 3 years of learning each other’s dreams, fears, stories and ultimately loving each other. We both feel welcomed, accepted and loved by each other’s family and friends who have been so supportive and encouraging to us. You have witnessed the struggles of hardship and loss that we have faced, but now it is time for a new chapter in our lives. One of great promise and happiness! We look forward to December 19, 2021 when we get to celebrate with you, all that the Lord has done for us!!! "He has made all things beautiful in His time." Ecclesiastes 3:11

It was a typical Friday work day, then a spontaneous invite to enjoy the sunset at the beach, and take a few photos.  Engagement plans were definitely in the works, but the day and time were a mystery…only Rick knew. BUT, this was it!!! My prince was just a few feet away, fiddling with his camera. As I was waiting for him to come sit next to me, he came over and fell to one knee.  With tears in his eyes, holding out the most beautiful ring, he asked me if he could love me for forever and a day, and if I would marry him.   My heart was bursting!!! I was so overwhelmed with happiness that I couldn’t even remember if I said YES! After a minute I said it over and over again, “Yes! Yes! Yes!” Yes, to marrying the kind, loving man I had been dreaming of and praying for! With our hearts full, our smiles so wide, Rick and I enjoyed a celebratory dinner back at Girardi’s in Edmonds, where it all started.