Connor was a regular leader of the youth group at his church late in the year 2023, when Rebekah (Susanna's) sister volunteered to help out. Connor was teaching a lesson on Feelings and how its okay to cry. He also mentioned he was recently out of a relationship. Then after youth group, Rebekah asked Connor if he would be interested in meeting her sister. Connor said yes, and Rebekah began planning.

Rebekah asked me (Susanna) if I would be interested in meeting a guy from her church. She gave me a long list of things he did and enjoyed including serving the youth at church, sports, while also being funny and nice. I was rather reluctant at first but agreed.

We met at Slim Chicken's after our church services and had lunch together with friends and Rebekah. It was a good time but rather awkward. Afterwards, we parted ways and planned to hang out again that night. We ate pizza with peppers (we both liked peppers) and watched Elf. The night went quickly as we had some great vulnerable conversations. I (Susanna) was interested! Before he left for the night, Connor asked for my number and I gladly gave it - impressed with his courage. We set up a date for the next week and then ended up running 9 miles together before the date (Connor calls this our first date). I found that I loved the questions he asked and how thoughtful he was.

When we got to Slim Chicken's, I (Connor) was waiting nervously for Susanna to walk in. I did not really know what she looked like or what to expect. When Rebekah finally said that Susanna was walking in, I saw this beautiful woman wearing a very intimidating black leather jacket. I was thinking she must have driven to the restaurant on a Harley Davidson. At this point, I was more nervous than I could have been. I tried my best to be funny and charming, but Susanna later told me that she could tell that I was trying to be funny. However, I got invited to have dinner and watch Elf with them so it must not have been that bad. After the movie and the good conversations, it was time for me to leave. On the way out, I decided to ask Susanna for her number. My heart was beating like crazy, but I was thinking that it was "now or never." Praise God she gave me her number and we were able to plan a chill, 9 mile run, as our first date.

We officially started dating after a lunch date at Buffalo Wild Wings (Connor's favorite) on January 2nd, 2024.

Since then we have enjoyed lots of traveling, weddings, cooking, exercising, worshiping, and reading God's Word together. We are excited about what the future holds for us and discovering God's good will for our marriage.