8 Years

8 years ago, on December 11, 2003, Colin and I connected for the first time. Most of you know the story, but some of you may not.

I was a freshman in college, sitting in my Wisconsin dorm room. Colin was in Gig Harbor, Washington. What persuaded us both to sign up for a free two-week trial to Christian Cafe online at the same time can only be described as God's arrangement.

Colin was about to close out of his account at the end of his trial, when he saw I had written a quick, "Hi, how are you?" message. Yes, you could say I made the first move!

The first month was purely a simple friendship, with short notes back and forth. But we soon got into handwritten letters and cards, and very long phone calls within the next couple of months. Ah, new love.

I am fairly certain our families thought we were a little bit loopy, and the long distance was difficult to cope with for the 2 1/2 years we were apart, but 8 years later, I love the man with all of my heart. He is a true gentleman and makes me so happy. The hardships we have endured do not compare to the blessings and memories in the making.

Now, 8 years later, we are making plans to begin our family through adoption! We couldn't be more excited.

Our sweet Christmas ornament! It has on it tiny paper beads and a painted Africa. Makes me smile.