We met my senior year of high school, and Braeden’s sophomore year of college. We basically hit it off from the very beginning, while hanging out with his family. We decided each of us were something special to the other, and began going on dates, our first date being up in Bellingham (where Braeden was living), which could be considered the best worst date of all time. Braeden took me to his favorite Italian place, we took it to go, and he took me along some train tracks leading to this little island looking over the bay, the journey was definitely worth the view. Once we got settled, the wind picked up immensely, and of course I was sitting there freezing, like I always am, our things began blowing in the wind, and our food was now cold. Despite all of that, I’ve never loved a date more, and I think we both knew there was more to come from that terrible yet amazing first date. I knew it was God answering my prayers.

As our three year mark was drawing closer, I begged Braeden to go back to where our story began, Bellingham. So, we decided it was time to head back and reminisce on our three wonderful years together and step back into time where everything was once so new for us. The day started with the same coffee shop as before and a walk around the cute old town. We then walked along the beautiful boardwalk we once strolled across barely knowing each other, but now holding hands as best friends. He proceeded to lead me to two different places along that walk where I thought, wait maybe this is happening today, but once we got to both the spots I realized it was all in my head. We were going to meet up with some of his friends for lunch, but Braeden wanted to stop at the train tracks leading to the island once more, this time I was way more reluctant as I read signs that said “Do not enter”. But he insisted, and we finally got to the spot that didn’t go so well three years ago, but was one of the biggest moments of our love story. I glanced over to some trees and saw two figures recording us, and I realized IT IS HAPPENING. I looked back at Braeden, and as he grabbed my hands he said the sweetest things to me and got down on one knee. I said yes, obviously and as we stood to hug each other friends and family began running from the trees with champagne. It was the happiest day of our lives. We are so excited for this new journey of ours. There has been a lot between those two trips to Bellingham. There’s been three years of distance and many goodbyes, many moments of uncontrollable laughter, dancing, travel, growing in our faith together, and a whole lot of love. Thank you for celebrating with us, we love you all so much.