Our story started thanks to our kids, Siena and Isaiah. They’re classmates and were both new at the school. One evening after their school art show, we met. Mel still laughs remembering how she awkwardly walked away because she didn’t know what to say to the really handsome dad standing there.

From the start, Mel noticed David’s humble spirit and servant heart. David was drawn to Mel’s adventurous side and the peace and trust he felt around her. What began as small conversations quickly turned into a connection we couldn’t ignore; one built on laughter, faith, and shared values.

A year later, at the finish line of the Berlin Marathon, David completely surprised Mel by getting down on one knee and asking her to spend forever together.

Today, we love that our relationship is grounded in faith and friendship. Mel loves that David is the same steady, loving man she met a year ago — her rock when life feels heavy. David loves that Mel points him closer to God and inspires him to grow every day.

We’ve learned that love is more than a feeling, it’s choosing each other daily, with God at the center of it all.