Megan's Version:

In January, I was approached by my prayer partner who encouraged me to pray about online dating. I went home to pray about it and created a hinge account later that month. At the beginning of March, I distinctly remember coming across Dan's profile. I was immediately struck by his boldness in sharing his vision for a godly family and his handsome looks. I spent $3.99 on a rose to give to him. It was my best investment yet! A week later I went in to delete my account but God had other plans. A message from Daniel Schuerman appeared. Dan was intentional about ensuring we were on the same page about the Lord. Following his intentionality, my feelings and excitement for him only grew stronger. March 13th was our first phone call. Dan and I still laugh because I was so nervous I took notes to ensure I could remember what was said later on. Trust me...I did not want to miss anything with this guy! April 1st we had our first virtual date. My sweet guy sent a beautiful bouquet, two bottles of Portuguese wine, and mexican food (it included queso because this man knows the way to my heart). Between March and April we spent several Sundays talking 6-7 hours straight at a time. I knew at this point that something was different. We discussed everything under the sun (literally!!) from conspiracy theories to theological views. In addition, we bonded over the essentials like our mutual love for Andrew Peterson and all things Pumpkin. Our story has been anything but traditional. God has taught me through this process that He never writes boring love stories. On April 26th, I had the privilege of flying from Jacksonville, FL to Milwaukee, WI to meet the man I already knew I loved. It was instant chemistry and a hallmark moment as I saw Dan for the first time right outside the Milwaukee airport. Dan's parents were so gracious and let a seeming stranger stay with them for a week. They immediately made me feel so welcome! It was a week of first's for me as I learned to golf and shoot. Dan's patience with me spoke volumes. With the navy life we are learning to cherish the time we can be together and make the most of the time apart. We have been busy these past few months with a move to Jacksonville, touring/buying a home, a celebration of life, a wedding, meeting Megan's family, and experiencing our first underway separation. I will forever cherish the emails we exchanged during the month span apart. It became even sweeter when I learned how much Dan sacrificed to ensure he communicated with me. He would often get less than 5-6 hours and yet he still made time for me. He shows me how much he loves me and I am so honored I get to be his wife soon. Speaking of wife... the San Diego Proposal trip is such a special memory for me! He planned an amazing trip! We started off the trip by eating the best chocolate and mexican food. He gave me a tour of the famous San Diego zoo so we could see the flamingo's, hummingbirds, and panda bears. He then reserved a romantic dinner cruise where after the sweetest time together he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. He could not even finish asking or getting on his knee before I said, "Yes!" Dan is an incredible blessing in my life! The joy and laughter has been a special gift from God and we are so thankful He chose to bring us together. I am thankful even in the hard times to have him by my side. We are praying even now that He would use our marriage for His glory. We look forward to celebrating with our family and friends on November 2nd!

Things to Do

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Tampa Riverwalk