Who knew that creating a profile on Hinge would change our lives? During the ending months of

Summer 2022, we came to know each other existed. We would message each other sparingly in the

beginning and would exchange pleasantries periodically. I worked up the courage to finally want to

meet her and get to know her better. I asked Candace out on a dinner date at Chili’s as our first date.

We both had a pretty busy day that day, but we wanted to be sure to make time to meet each other.

We had dinner and talked for a bit afterwards.

We wouldn’t be able to see each other again for a couple of weeks due to Candace having job interviews

in California shortly after our first date. By this time, things had noticeably changed though. We went

from texting maybe once a day, to texting/talking numerous times throughout the day. We began to

plan to see each other as soon as she returned to Arkansas.

The day that Candace returned to Arkansas after her job interviews, I had a cookout for my family while

she was traveling. I was sure to put some food back so she could have some when she made it back.

Little did I know, that this gesture would alter the way that Candace viewed things among us.

Things started to pick up once Candace returned. We would find ourselves going out on dates, talking

on the phone regularly, introducing each other to friends, and just growing together. Things took a

great turn for me during the Halloween of 2022. Candace was working, but she wanted to donate candy

to the youth of the church. Not only did she want to donate candy, but she attended the activities.

Seeing her interactions with the youth of the church and how she was genuinely happy to be there

made me smile.

Who would have guessed that we would be here after some smoked chicken wings and fun-sized

Snickers? Well after growing together, falling in love with one another, growing spiritually together, and

so much more, we are looking forward to spending the rest of our lives together. Stay tuned!

C&J