It all started with ice cream - as every good story should.

Actually, it started online officially. Angela had been on and off dating sites for a number of years and had pretty much decided that they really didn't work after all.

As a long, hot, and boring July stretched out ahead of her, she figured she'd give it another shot. She didn't think it would actually lead to anything but was hopeful there would at least be some interesting conversations.

As she scrolled through the online options, she was reminded again of why she had given up on online dating in the past: the same shirtless guy pics, the same photos of guys posing next to dead deer or captured fish, the same boiler plate responses to questions. She came across Lance's and it just seemed so...normal. Which made it kind of original:

Dating me is like:

Having a Christian man you can rely on...I'm conservative, own my own house, have a good job, and volunteer at my church.

I sent him a like.

We met at Tongue in Cheek Ice Cream on July 16, 2023. Sparks did not fly at this date, though the list of commonalities kept growing. From both being homeschooled to both being involved in their church, from common interests to similar beliefs and values, everything seemed to line up surprisingly well. Angela described the first date as "pleasant" but was a little ambivalent about moving forward.

However, Lance was quick to follow up with an invitation for a second date to go two stepping - something Angela had always wanted to do but been too scared to try by herself. She was super excited to say yes!

After the second date, things progressed very smoothly. What stood out to Angela was how comfortable and natural it felt to be around Lance. He was super easy to talk to and so good at planning dates. He initiated spiritual conversations and asked her to be his girlfriend after about a month. From there, they tried to find time to spend together during their busy schedules. They visited a variety of museums, went dancing, and Lance introduced Angela to his love of sports and exotic animal experiences. Since both of their families lived in the area, it was easy to get to know everyone and spend holidays together. (Lance even won over Angela's cat!)

In the spring, they were able to spend more time together and have more adventures. Lance asked Angela to complete a two-month pre-marital class which led to lots of good conversations and growth. Their relationship continued to deepen, and it became clear that they wanted to do life together.

On Saturday, June 29th, Lance showed up at Angela's apartment to take her on a date. He hadn't told her what he was planning for them to do but said she would want to dress up.

Presenting her with a clue, he shared that he had set up a scavenger hunt around the Dallas area. Each clue would lead to a location that was a meaningful part of their relationship: the first movie theater they held hands at, his and her churches, the restaurant they went to for Valentine's day, their first date spot. The final clue led to his backyard where he got down on one knee and asked her to marry him. She said yes!

His parents and her family were hiding inside his house where they had decorated and had dessert. It was the start to a wonderful new season!

After their wedding on September 29th, the couple plans to honeymoon in the Caribbean. Lance has a house in Garland, and Angela will join him there.

The two look forward to starting their new life as a couple and are so thankful to God for his wonderful goodness and love for bringing them together!