This post is dedicated to my darling fiancé, Zach.  These past three years have been a mix of delightful and hard times. We've grown, learned so many new things, and have become better people because of each other. Zach, you take care of me, tolerate me, and challenge me. But most of all, you love me.
And I love you. <3

To better tell our story, I've included some our
 beautiful engagement shots done by the amazing Bryan and Mae.
They helped capture our love and dedication for each other perfectly in these pictures.
Check there website & blog out!


The Beginning.
Hearts flutter, palms become sweaty, that other person consumes your waking thoughts…love is found.  Our story didn’t really start this way. But as the proverb goes, all good things come to those who wait.


Looking forward to starting new lives at college, Zach and Kate both began their freshmen year at Hope College in 2005.  Being avid runners through high school, joining the cross country team was a no brainer for the two athletes. The fact that they both enjoyed running was probably the only thing they had in common; for the first 2 ½ years of college Zach and Kate both did a good job of ignoring each other.

During that time, significant others came and passed, their group of friends became closer, and the two slowly grew up a little. Zach enjoys teasing Kate, saying that it wasn't until their Junior year, when Kate turned 21, that they finally noticed each other. Fact of the matter is, that's mostly true.

Being one of the oldest in her class, Kate didn't have very many close friends who were old enough to hit the town. Zach being 21, somehow got haggled into escorting Kate out - most likely by Rob Bailey. That night, while sharing a pitcher of cheap beer at the "Dirty Bird," the two were forced to talk to each other.  The conversation flowed and seemed very real.  Going home that night, Kate recalled thinking how that "long haired hippie" was actually pretty cool; whereas Zach pondered why he hadn't tried hitting on her sooner.

It didn't take long for Zach to work his charm and to swoon Kate. February 24th, 2008 became the official date for these lover's journey. Through college graduation, moving into the workforce, and a painful year apart, Zach and Kate continued to be committed to their relationship. It wasn't until June 2010 that Zach finally got word that he would be transferred back to the lovely city of Grand Rapids.  This is what the couple had been praying, dreaming, and hoping for since they had parted ways the year before. Not long after settling in, Zach decided that he never wanted to leave Kate again...

More to come...