I have two lovely friends - Jerry and Janet. They've been best friends for 48 years now. 

My friendship with them began at church; I'd sit and listen to their stories and ask questions about how they met. Hand in hand, they've lived a lot of life together. 

They've had their ups and downs - just as every relationship does. When I asked them their secret to a successful, thriving, and happy marriage, they replied with one word: God. 

Only God could bring them through years of family heartache and medical complications. Their beautiful life together has not been easy... but it has been beautiful. 

I invited myself over one afternoon to document their obvious and unwavering love for one another. We sat and reminisced as they flipped through old photo books - their most treasured possessions. 

Janet smiled her delightful smile and reminded me that God can be trusted even through the most difficult of circumstances. 

That's when the lump in my throat started. 

They open their home to anyone and everyone: family, neighbors, and friends in need. And especially Jerry's little girlfriend who lives across the street, and wanders over for a cookie on occasion. :)

I'm so thankful these people are in my life. 

To remind me of grace, of God's unwavering faithfulness, and to show me what it looks like to run their race well. 

I left with a lump in my throat. 

Their story is long and complex. Full of drama, patience, tenderness, and years of waiting. Along the way they've planned two full weddings, only to have their dreams crushed each time as they pick up the pieces of their hopes to try again. 

Kalli and Evin have a long history, and as such they have this comfortable way of falling into place next to each other so naturally. 

Evin LOVES their height difference - a trait others may find awkward - so we giggled and laughed about through their session. 

With Kalli being very short, and Evin being very tall, it's hard not to smile when you see them side-by-side!! :)

The location they chose for their engagement session was the park in which Evin proposed. 

I made them retell their story as we made it to the bridge where he proposed and tempted her with this beautiful ring!! 

I can't wait to be a part of their wedding day soon, and I'm SO happy that God has worked in their lives to give them such immense joy. :) 

Kalli and Evin, I'm SO thankful that you've included me in this amazing (if not stressful) celebration of your patient love for each other. I know this wedding will be worth the wait (you're pretty much pros now!), and I'm so excited to see you guys FINALLY get married!! Love you both! :)