Here we are graduating from square dancing lessons with our friends! Technically, we met in the spring of 2021 at our Bible study, but we didn't really get to know each other until our friend group got into dancing.

This is one of many group hangouts! We were friends for 4 years before we started dating.

Here's one of our Bible study nights! I'm so grateful for the solid friendship and Christ-centered foundation that our relationship is built on.

In the Pacific Northwest Teen Square Dance Festival, we competed as partners in the Novice Round Dance category (two-step and waltz) and won first place!

Just goofing off a bit with some of our friends at our weekly prayer group meeting.

Annnnd . . . we are now dating! This one was taken right after we told his parents we were official. We were a bit awkward because it was all new to us, but that's ok. ;)

One of our first dates! A lot of time together in our dating relationship was not crazy, fancy dates, for which we are grateful. We both value chill hangouts, meaningful conversations, and connecting over studying God's Word and our hobbies.

Here we are at the Oregon Mid-Winter Festival, which is a huge square and round dance weekend. Dancers from all over the U.S. and Canada come dance and enjoy themselves. This was our fourth time attending this annual event. Also, this specific weekend was when we decided to announce to our friends that we were dating.

Hanging out at Corban University doing our own little Bible study and chatting.

Beautiful afternoon for a hike at the Oregon coast. It was our 2 month anniversary, and also was the day that Matthew gave Emma a "practice proposal" and presented her with a promise ring. Which, she happily accepted. ;)