I’ve always enjoyed talking with Anissa. Over the several years of college that we knew each other before dating we had conversations about mission trips in Latin America, swing dancing, and even talked briefly in Spanish. So when I saw her at our mutual friends’ wedding in March, I made my way over to her table to catch up.

As we talked and she told me about her honors thesis offering hope and counseling through a bilingual children's book for grieving kids, my heart started to beat a little harder. I was struck by her love for Jesus and for others, and later that night when we danced together I was equally struck by her beauty. Driving home with my roommate I let out a big sigh and told him I was in trouble…

Over the next few weeks I saw Anissa at several group events and was very aware that we were seeing each other with more and more frequency, each time full of good conversation and laughter. I enjoyed her so much but was worried about the uncertain future for both of us with her Navigators placement and me moving to DC in a few months. The building tension eventually broke with a not-so-subtle porch conversation where we agreed to pray about our relationship… I asked her out two days later.

We enjoyed hours and hours of dates through the summer, sharing in Anissa’s graduation, the baptism of my close friends, and preparation for moving to DC, big events where our friendship deepened and I got to see Anissa’s faithfulness, joy, and kindness. By the time I moved, we knew the change would be difficult but so worthwhile. So when I arrived in DC in August, one of the first things I did was look for a ring. Anissa is the most wonderful person and best friend I could ask for and I can’t wait to begin the rest of our lives together.

Wedding Day