I knew Rachel in middle school, and Andrew too. And never would I have ever dreamed they’d be together.

It’s the coolest thing how a pretty girl will eventually catch a boy’s eye, and he will not know what to do about it. I’ve heard so many  sweet stories over the years. In fact, as a middle school counselor, sometimes I had to break this news to an angry girl who came flying into my office complaining about a boy who was absolutely driving her crazy.  She would be incredulous when I told her a possibility.  Well why would he be making me so angry if he really just likes me???  It was shocking.  When I’d bring the boy in, nine times out of ten, he’d admit that he was just trying to get her attention. I’d smile inside my brain, and we’d talk about better ways to get her to see him than swiping her belongings off her desk every day when he went by. It’s no wonder I love doing engagement sessions, I’ve watched middle school love and all the fun that comes with that (and I’m only being slightly sarcastic here), and then it all changes in high school. It doesn’t get more real. Middle schoolers love with their whole heart and soul, but the difference is that they mostly recover quickly and move on to the next cute guy or girl. But then as the years roll by, something happens that we can’t always put our finger on. Maturity for sure, and also something else.

Something like Rachel and Andrew. He was a good kid in middle school, but I jokingly told him last weekend that I’m pretty sure he never followed directions quite this well. He was happy to walk, sit, walk again, turn this way – then that, tilt his face up and down, take his shoes off and wade into the creek….. All for this beauty he’s asked to be his wife next year after he finishes mechanic school. It’s sweet to watch, and tugs at my heart every time. And Rachel is still the same sweet, beautiful, and hard working girl that I knew a few years ago.  He’s a lucky guy, and he knows it.  I can see it every time he looks at her.

Rachel and Andrew, I’m so happy for you. I can tell how smitten you are with each other, and I pray that you always feel that way; that your love continues to grow and grow. Thank you for allowing me into a few moments of your engagement, and I wish you years of laughter and joy. Love and blessings, Pat