How it all began
"He’s a little nerdy, incredibly kind, and deeply rooted in faith—what more could I ask for?"
— Lishelle
"I’m just so very excited to have her in my life and to call her ‘My Forever’. "
— Porter
Lishelle’s POV
We first crossed paths on a Wednesday morning at a work meeting, then met again just a couple days later through a mutual friend at a YSA event. I’d already heard about Porter—his mom is a coworker of mine and one of my favorite people—so naturally, I was intrigued.
Ours wasn’t love at first sight, but a steady slow burn that started with a solid friendship. I asked him out first (you're welcome, universe), and things really clicked when I went on a trip to Arkansas. We messaged and video called every day, and by the time he picked me up from the airport, we both knew where this was headed.
We had our first date at Sol Azteca, followed by a stroll through the Riparian Preserve—so it only made sense that Porter would later propose to me there too (even if a few people on bikes made for some unexpected witnesses). I’ve mostly blocked it from memory because I hate surprises, but trust me—it was sweet.
Porter is patient, nerdy in the best way, and greatly loved by everyone around him. He’s thoughtful, faithful, and full of quiet strength. I’m so excited for all the adventures ahead—big and small—as we build a life together.
Porter’s POV
The first time I saw Lishelle, she was across the store with her hair pulled back and her glasses on—and I remember thinking she looked really pretty. I didn’t know it then, but that moment would completely change my life. I wanted to get to know her, but I was nervous. So when she asked me out first, I was honored (and a little smitten, honestly).
Our first date was simple—just some Mexican food and a walk around the Riparian Preserve—but I didn’t want it to end. We struggled to hear each other over the music, but in what I could hear, I saw her heart. I knew she was someone who gives her all, and I couldn’t wait to see her again.
A few weeks later, she came back from a trip, and I picked her up from the airport. That night, we sat down and talked—really talked—about what we wanted, how we felt, and what we saw in each other. And we decided to move forward together. That night was the start of something wonderful.
When it came time to propose, I did my best to make it “us.” I had her walk through the park where we had our first date (yes, in heels), then gave her three boxes that represent our relationship: one with Legos, one with a toy ring, and finally—Wooden ducks. The last box held her ring, tucked into a duck’s bill. With a few heartfelt words and a lot of awkward charm, I asked her to marry me. She said yes. And that moment lives rent-free in my head forever.
I love her creativity, her passion, and everything she is. I can’t wait to build a life with her—celebrating the highs, supporting each other through the lows, and making our little slice of heaven together.