The world has little to bestow where two fond hearts in equal love are joined. -Anna Laetitia Barbauld

As many of you may already know, Ari and I have a wonderful history that started long ago when we were young and in our early 20's navigating life's twists and turns and different pathways which led us to be in the same place at the same time. We were both part of the First Church of God college singles group and had been around each other for a bit before that one night that changed everything. Our singles group was out on a Wednesday night at a Church members home for some food, fun and some games. Halfway through the evening Ari and I struck up a conversation on the couch and it was as if no one else was in the room. We talked for a good hour and then talked some more in the car long after everyone had left. You know when people talk about having a spark with someone and how you can easily talk with them like you have known them a long time, well that is what we had, it was an instant connection and ease. The first of many conversations and the start of a beautiful love story. We built an amazing friendship and foundation over the next 2 and a half years and so many memories together. We were in love and best friends. Although life ended up pulling us in different directions and we had to part ways as friends. We never lost that love, respect or admiration for each other.

God had built this foundation back then to withstand the storms until we were reunited again.

One day many years later after being in the dating scene again. After many eye rolls and frustrations of the "current Fish pond pickings" I vented to my mom and best friend, " Do I have to have an ex boyfriend come back into my life to have someone normal to date? " They both looked at me knowing full well that some of those would not be welcomed back ha ha.

the next day I got home from work and was going about my business and I get a message on Facebook from Ari- I was shocked and happily surprised to hear from him. He said he would be up north and asked if i wanted to get together, I said yes I would love to! and then he shared that he was single and at that moment I dropped my phone!! I said God if this is a sign, please let me know. Planning on a totally platonic outing as we were in no place to date etc. We met up and although we had not seen each other in 15 years the butterflies and sparks returned and that first hug was like coming home. We talked for hours catching up on the last 15 years of our lives, our heartaches, struggles, good times and bad. It was like old times and as if we never parted. We reopened that door to our hearts the same way we had in the past with talking, sharing and laughter adding more to that foundation that was already there. I do not do long distance relationships but that rule went out the window for Ari. And yes it usually doesn't go well when you share with your family that your Ex is back in your life, needless to say my family and Ari's were thrilled and we are so excited to share our special day with you to celebrate our love story .

As my poetic love wrote to me once:

"The only thing better than reading a great love story is being in one."

T&A