Our Story
Ever heard of the internet?
Well there are these websites and apps that allow people to connect via the internet. That's how we found each other. No secret potions in exchange for a voice, or voodoo dolls here.
She came across a profile of some guy who shared the right things to pique her curiosity, and she “hearted” his profile. Thankfully, it didn't take long for that guy to send a message saying hello. And so the conversation began, and it hasn't stopped since.
Let's Take The Next Step
It was January 2022, and he was excited to share that he had recently acquired a couple of kayaks. He suggested that they go kayaking for a first meetup. While that sounded like fun, it didn't sound wise to meet some random guy from the internet and go paddling in the Puget Sound. Might it be safe? Better assess this guy on land first. The suggestion for dinner at a local restaurant was also not appealing to her, too much pressure to impress and play a part. So the winning suggestion was to meet for a 5-mile walk, taking in nature in a low pressure, peaceful, come-as-you-are environment.
'Let's meet at the rhododendron garden' was the plan, and while she showed up to the spot, he went to the rose garden instead. Rhododendron…Rose….they are the same after all, aren't they? Not quite. Thankfully he found his way, and their two hour stroll through the woods began. They both got to share about their values and experiences, finding similarities and differences. As the walk ended, it felt too soon to end the conversation, and she suggested that they continue their time together with a meal. Driving separately, they rendez-vous'd down the street and found a place for dinner. It wasn't hard to lose track of time, sitting in the booth admiring each other across the table. Minutes became hours, and eventually they were being asked if anything else was needed because the restaurant was closing. It had been 5 hours of sitting and talking. It was bitter sweet to part ways for the evening. It was a lovely time they didn't want to end, yet it was a long time to hang out with someone they had just met.
Where Our Trails Became One
Now almost like clock work, they have returned to their meeting place each year, retracing some of those first steps, while also discovering new ones. Now they arrive in one car. Their dates have taught them how to work together, growing into a partnership of support and encouragement. The elopement was no exception.
He planned the place and the day, coordinating with a photographer on the time. Two days before the day, he confessed the predicament that had presented itself, the photographer had a death in the family, and needed to cancel the session.
Driving over the Narrows bridge, he asked his girlfriend if she knew anyone that could help with such short notice?
A moment of prayer, and a friend came to mind. Praisefully, the friend and his wife had just returned from a vacation and would be happy to adapt their time to help us celebrate this special day. What a delight to share with our community a part of our life, full of laughter and joy.
Through the ups and the downs - sometimes both happening simultaneously - we are so excited to journey the life adventure together, wherever the trail might lead.
Our Love Is In-Tents
We hope you will join us in celebrating our love and commitment to each other. While tent camping is optional, we do hope you will join us for the festivities, and we hope you will stay for the weekend.
We have reserved the entire Camp Saturna for our reception weekend and have planned a variety of activities and events to make this a memorable occasion for everyone. From hiking and kayaking to games and campfire stories, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.