It was the start of summer, and I went back to Oklahoma; Bash was living in Lubbock at the time. I was talking about Bash with Zitlali and Daisy (both bridesmaids). They said, "Wow, you've never talked about a man like this," and they came up with the idea to ask him to be my wedding date for Asenat and Cam's wedding. I brought up the idea to him, not thinking he would accept. He instantly said yes, with no hesitation, and planned his trip to Oklahoma.

All of my family and friends were filled with excitement, but also nervous because this was unusual for me.

It was our dear friend/bridesmaid, Asenat's big day! I got in formation to walk alongside Asenat, and the first thing I saw was Bash talking with my dad. During the ceremony, as I was standing up front, Bash was seated next to my brother and parents. I knew instantly that he would steal their hearts (as we know, Bash never meets a stranger). Throughout the rest of the day, he got to meet friends and family who are so dear to me. Bash stayed in Oklahoma for a few days, and I got to show him around where I grew up and what my childhood looked like.

It's very sweet to think that was our "first date," and now it is time for our own wedding!!!

We dated long-distance for about 1 year. This season was full of lots of FaceTime calls and road trips. This distance truly does make the heart grow fonder, and it helped us appreciate every moment spent together. We will always cherish our road trips from Oklahoma to Lubbock, then Abilene to Lubbock, then Abilene to Houston. This was such a sweet chapter and gave us the opportunity to spend time with our families and friends, through the dating season.

One year later, we were finally dating in the same city! From being hours apart, now we were 10 minutes apart. This chapter was full of lots of new chapters (new city, new jobs, post-grad life, making new friends, and a new church). We have been so blessed with how God has led us and crafted our story in Houston.

Bash pulled off the best proposal! He crafted a surprise proposal with the help of my best friend Zitlali.

Oklahoma is where it all started, and it was the perfect place for Bash to propose. He planned a Braum's date at Lake Murray. He told me he had contracted a small picnic business. When we arrived at the lake, everything was ready for us. It was all beautifully thought out and included all of the special details. The whole time, the "small business" was all of Zitlali's creativity and her own fake business. Zitlali, Daisy, and my cousin Maylin were hiding by swimming in the lake, waiting for Bash to give them the cue. He told me he was going to take a picture of me, so I stood up when he held my hands and gave me a sweet speech, as my mind was spiraling, not knowing if this was really happening, he got down on one knee and asked me the special question. Soon after, the girls were there, capturing the special moment. We drove back to my parents' home, where I was surprised with an engagement party full of friends and family!