Emily and David have known each other for 18 years. When they met, Emily was about to leave home and David was her brother's friend. They were acquaintances at best. In late 2020, Emily moved back to Philadelphia with her two kids, Layla and Luke. David and Emily became friends out of convenience, because they lived in the same neighborhood and both hung out with some of the same people. Soon, they were hanging out every night; laughing, watching movies, bingeing tv shows, and talking. David talked about his family and his job, and Emily talked about her kids and her new life back in Philadelphia. David began helping out here and there with the kids. He gave advice about what to do with a headstrong and brilliant daughter, and he offered his services as a strong male role model for a headstrong and brilliant son.

Months later, Emily and her family went camping. Since David is an accomplished Eagle Scout, he went on the family trip. After that trip to the smelly Artisanal Goat Farm Campground, Emily fell unexpectedly in love with David. The way he was kind to her family, cooked for her parents, and helped guide her children floored her.

Two months after that fateful camping trip on July 29th, 2022, Emily and David decided to begin dating. They were nervous, because it had been a long time since either of them had been in a relationship. They even lied to their parents and said they were out drinking with friends so they could sneak to their pastor's house and ask for advice on how to break the news to their protective and loving families.

On April 23, 2023, David set up a painting party for Layla, Emily, Emily's mom, and David's mom in Fisher Park. Only David, Layla, and Luke knew that the painting party was not the only exciting thing to happen on that day. He memorized a Bob Ross "Joy of Painting" episode, donned a giant curly wig, and guided the ladies through painting a mountain scene. After the painting was over, David walked to Emily's painting. "You're missing something." He said. Emily turned around, prepared to huff and puff - but he was on his knee with the coolest ring in the world. He asked for her hand, and she gave it noisily, freely, and happily.

The process of becoming a family of four has been wonderful, rewarding, strategic, and (sometimes) exhausting. Emily and David covet your prayers and well-wishes as they embark on this great adventure.