Our story began in 2014 when Paula and I became friends during high school. We had multiple friends in common and hung out all the time. As the phrase says, “In friendship, we find the seeds of love.” So after “crushing” on each other for a year, our friendship turned into love, and I asked Pau to be my girlfriend on February 14, 2015. 


We were inseparable. You would find us together during every recess and any spare time between classes; even after school! Although young, our love for each other was sincere, passionate, and endless.


What once seemed endless, would come to an end In 2017. My family and I were moving back to the U.S. and maintaining our relationship seemed impossible. We were 17 years old, with college around the corner, and no idea what the future would hold for us.


Our paths went separate ways for the next 3 years. Although distant, our love for each other was always present. There wasn’t a day that would go by that we wouldn’t think of each other. In 2019, our paths would cross again in Cuenca. This time, we were determined to make our relationship work and set goals for our future. For the following 3 years, we established a long-distance relationship and set a goal for us to reside in the U.S. together after college graduation. This was easier said than done. 
Every day, we were filled with mixed feelings of joy, sadness, worry, and doubt. We loved each other more than anything in the world but our future was uncertain. Regardless, we motivated each other to push forward. 


What once seemed impossible, would become a reality. In 2022, after graduation, Paula left her family and friends behind to begin a new journey in the U.S. by my side. Today, we are happily living together, creating new memories and excited for what the future holds for us. Most recently, we introduced a new member to our family, our 3-pound Chihuahua named Zoey! 


God’s timing is perfect, and it is a dream come true for us to celebrate our love with friends and family in Cuenca! We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your love and support as we celebrate our next chapter together!