"I would propose to you every day..."

For all intents and purposes, both Bethany and Nik were at a point where they had resigned themselves to the facts: those who had come and gone didn't suffice and that was it. It's a curious thing how, when you surrender, God has a way of pitching a fastball. So there they were, introducing themselves to each other on a dating app only to have Nik in the middle of Hurricane Ian (20 minutes from the shore) within the first week of their conversations. He was without power for over 6 days (and internet for almost 15), and for at least 5 hours a day, he and Bethany were in deep conversation of their desires, needs, and spiritual goals and aspiration. It was entertaining, but also grueling, making both of them come to terms with a lot of things that had occurred before: mistakes, lessons, and heartaches. Laughter and personal anecdotes peppered the conversation as well, bringing a comfort in the fun, but a concrete confidence when it came to serious matters. All it came down to a conclusion... There was something significant here. The first date came and went without missing a beat. No lapse in conversation as well as a comfort that was foreign to previous attempts with other people. Soon, Nik and Bethany were alternating weeks when they would drive the 2 hour trek from Fort Myers to Tampa and vice-versa. Weekends were becoming blocked out exclusively for the quality time that strengthened the relationship more and more. When Nik moved back to Ocala, Bethany was there to help him pack, transport his stuff, and drive the rental van back with 24 hours. All this in the midst of growing to know each other, their pets, and most of all the people who were closest to them. Bethany shared her love of hockey, family events, and spa days with Nik. Nik shared his extroverted tendencies, events, and geeky hobbies with Bethany. Both loved board games, quality time, and lazy evenings-in as well as events such as plays, theme parks, and going out to eat. Everything seemed to mesh well, resulting in the learning of how they filled in gaps they themselves weren't aware were present. Their wanting to grow in their understanding and relationship with their Heavenly Father as well only affirmed what they already knew: this was no mistake. Hard work, effort, intention, and prayer went into each day... Until they realized they couldn't imagine days without one another...