We met at church on the first Saturday afternoon after Steph moved to Chicago. While Stephanie felt awkward visiting the church by herself after moving to the city, Mike was outgoing and friendly in how he welcomed all newcomers - including Stephanie. He had Jonah in his arms; and Jonah (3) was exhausted because he had spent the afternoon at the beach.

Stephanie started attending the weekly prayer meetings - a part of the prayer ministry Mike led. Mike & Steph were mutually inspired and encouraged by the other's prayers. Mike noticed Steph's deep connection to God. Steph noticed Mike's humility, faith & boldness in his prayers. And they began to get to know each other as fellow believers and fellow prayer warriors

Mike & Stephanie enjoyed serving at the same church and appreciated each other's strengths. During church hangouts, Mike taught Stephanie how to play many of his favorite board games & card games. Stephanie also started building a friendship with Mike's boys when she served in children's ministry. Noah and Jonah might've been shy at prayer times, but were both eager for their turn read the scripture passage.

Stephanie had feelings for Mike that grew over the course of 1.5 years before she talked with him. While she was not-so-patiently waiting, Mike was clueless. Stephanie slowly started avoiding Mike more & more. She started missing their friendship. With the nudge of some good friends, Stephanie got coffee with Mike to express that she needed to know if this was going anywhere or if she should move on. Unable to contain her excitement, she might have said a bit more than that too. Mike responded with even more excitement and agreed to pray about it.

Mike and Steph both knew their decision to date would have big impacts on people they dearly loved - on Mike's kids, and on their small church. After much, much praying and wrestling, and many hard conversations, Mike & Steph both felt confidently this relationship was part of God's plan of redemption for their lives. In different ways for each of them, God was making something beautiful out of what was broken. Together they embarked on a journey of healing, obedience, joy, sacrifice, maturing, and hoping - much, much hope for a beautiful future together. And finally, Mike asked Stephanie to be his girlfriend; she said yes with a great big hug.

Mike & Stephanie enjoyed time together by playing board games, going for bike rides, watching movies, going out to eat, cooking together, making music together, going for walks and hikes, studying scripture, and talking hours on end. Their friendship grew as did their love for one another. After Noah and Jonah heard the news about "daddy's girlfriend", they were initially curious and cautious, but they warmed up quite quickly. Stephanie enjoys eating meals and playing board games with her three favorite Yeh's. She especially appreciates Noah's sense of humor, and Jonah's care-free spirit.

Mike popped the question; Stephanie said yes; Ting took some great photos. And they celebrated with many great friends.

We excitedly anticipate celebrating our story with all of you! And sealing the deal once and forever.