We met at Grand Canyon University as members of the track and field team, both competing in high jump. Being at the same practices and meets made it easy to get to know one another. Jacob had recently transferred from Doane University in Nebraska, and Delaney had just moved to Arizona from Nevada.

Over months of training, travel, and team dinners, a friendship naturally grew into a relationship. From that point on, we did life side by side, supporting one another through seasons of distance, including summers spent driving back and forth to Reno.

In November of last year, we chose to elope in an intimate ceremony centered on honoring Jesus and the commitment we were making to one another. One of the reasons this timing was especially meaningful is that Delaney’s best friend was able to celebrate with us during the elopement before leaving for military service.

From teammates to best friends, partners in faith, and now husband and wife, we are grateful for the path that brought us here and for the community celebrating with us.