We first crossed paths in second grade — just kids sharing classrooms from 2nd through 4th grade. Life took us in different directions after that, but God had other plans.

The summer before ninth grade, we unexpectedly reunited at a church camp on the Anderson University campus. There was a spark — subtle but undeniable. But once again, time and distance pulled us apart.

Two more years passed, and we bumped into each other again the summer before junior year. Still, nothing came of it — not yet.

But in the spring of our junior year, something shifted. Copeland and I began to talk again. My high school had football games in the spring because of Covid. Copeland started coming to games to watch me cheer, and that year, we went to prom together.

On April 30th, 2021, we started dating. From that moment on, we were inseparable — cheering each other on through soccer matches, basketball games, dance competitions, football games, and school plays.

After graduation, we faced our greatest test: a five-hour distance. I went to Anderson University — the very place we had reconnected years before — and Copeland headed to NC State. Four years of long-distance taught us how to live apart while staying deeply connected. It wasn't easy, but it was worth every mile, every late-night call, and every tearful goodbye.

On June 14th, 2025, Copeland proposed. If there’s one word that defines our relationship, it’s wait. From the very beginning, God has been gently teaching us patience — reminding us that His timing is always perfect. The waiting shaped us, refined us, and prepared us for the life we’re stepping into now. We’d do it all again — every season of waiting — just to find each other once more.

Now, we’re done watching each other disappear in rearview mirrors. The long goodbyes are behind us. Ahead lies a lifetime of choosing each other, every single day. All the glory goes to God — the true author of our story, who wrote it far better than we ever could. The wait was worth it.

So here’s to forever!