Our story began much earlier than either of us ever imagined. Emily and I had known each other for a long time before we started dating. Growing up in the same school, we were aware of each other but never truly got to know one another until the fall of 2020. At that time, I was a sophomore and Emily was a junior. We began talking on Snapchat and gradually started chatting in our weight training class, the only class we had together. Our connection deepened when Emily asked me to go to prom with her. After that, we talked more frequently, hung out together, and officially started dating on March 3, 2021.

Throughout our years together, we've created countless cherished memories, whether it was going on trips, spending time with friends and family, or simply enjoying each other's company. Our journey hasn't always been easy, but facing challenges together has only strengthened our bond. We've learned to support each other through difficult times, whether it was dealing with personal struggles, academic pressures, or navigating the complexities of life. Each obstacle we overcame brought us closer, deepening our understanding and love for one another.

A significant part of our relationship has been our shared faith. We've grown together spiritually, making a conscious effort to keep the Lord at the center of our relationship. Attending church, praying together, and seeking guidance from our faith have been cornerstones of our journey. These practices have not only brought us closer to God but also to each other, providing a strong foundation for our relationship.

The day of the proposal was one we had eagerly anticipated. It began with both of us attending classes in the morning, followed by meeting at Corpus Christi Catholic Church for daily mass at 12:10. After mass, we took a walk around the neighborhood where she lives with her aunt. Once we returned, we had to get dressed up for a scholarship ceremony that Emily needed to attend for school. We then went to dinner at Shogun. On our way to my house, I had my sister Ashley text me, asking us to pick up a four-wheeler on a hill by one of our pastures. When we arrived at the spot where I planned to propose, we got out of the car and walked a bit. Then, I got down on one knee and asked Emily to start a life with me. Ashley was hiding behind the four-wheeler, near a rock pile, to capture the special moment when we decided to begin our life together!