It all started with cookies…

I saw Chris in the back of the parking lot one day after church. He was wearing a black suit, and at the time, he had dreads, and they were in a bun on top of his head. I remember asking my mom, "Who is that?" She told me that Chris was the son of one of the ushers, Mrs. Karen, or as I love to call her, "MIL!" After learning that information, I wanted to know more about this "new" face at MY church.

A couple of Sundays passed, and I remember thinking this man was just too cool, not to mention FINE. He didn't speak much but always had an endearing smile and calm, gorgeous green eyes. I'll admit I had a crush on Chris, but I didn't know what to say or how to start a conversation with him. I told a few of my big sisters at church about Chris, and these women tried to get me to bake him a cake or cook him a hot Sunday meal, LOL! Little did I know it would be food that kicked this love story off!

A few more Sundays pass, and I remember seeing my mom with a bag of cookies after church. I asked her where she got the cookies from, and she said, "Mrs. Karen is a great baker! She made the cookies!" Hopefully, this was the perfect way to have a conversation with Chris. I asked Mrs. Karen if she made Snickerdoodle cookies and if she could make a batch for me! She "Yes! I'll have my son, Chris, bring them to you!"

LORD, I THANK YOU FOR THE COOKIE CONNECTION!

So, we set up a time to meet for the cookie drop off. I remember putting extra effort into my hair and makeup that day! I was nervous when we met at the Quicktrip in Kenosha, but Chris was so charismatic that I felt like I was just talking to a friend! After the cookie drop, I was sure I would be Chris's girlfriend in a matter of weeks! SIKE! We kept in contact with each other and always had great conversations, BUT HE NEVER ASKED ME OUT!!! I remember asking God if I got friend-zoned.

FINALLY, we were talking after church and agreed to walk around the lake the following Saturday.

I knew Chris was my husband because I began crying on the way to the lake. I couldn't stop the tears from falling, but I said out loud, "I feel like I'm going on a first date with my Husband."

But then I got wind from my mom that Chris was moving… LORD WHYYYYYY.

We kept in contact every few months, just catching up with one another, until October 2022. He reached out to me and said, "I've been thinking about you. I'll be home for Thanksgiving and would love to see you again."

The rest is history

Chris, my love, you were and are simply everything. What a privilege and honor it is to have been blessed to walk the earth at the same time as you. The thought of you calms me instantly. Thank you for choosing me then and every day following. You, my love, are answered prayers.

Cheers to us, I love you, Christian Lawrence Steponitis.

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