Showing posts with label memories. Show all posts
Showing posts with label memories. Show all posts

Monday, August 18, 2014

Our Engagement






Two years ago today, Josh asked me to marry him! I love thinking back on that day and all the memories it holds. It was an extra special day full of surprises, travel, and jumping out of a plane! I wrote this description of the day we got engaged right after the big day, so I feel like it sums up the day perfectly and most accurately. My most vivid memories from that day are being speechless, TWICE, in one day. I thought the most exciting thing that would happen to me that day would be skydiving, but I was wrong...and completely stunned as to what was to come. August 18 will always hold a special place in my heart!

"Well, Josh and I had been planning on going skydiving for our 1 year anniversary. Because of all the craziness in our lives, it got pushed back a month. The week before, Josh told me that he wanted to go to Helen after skydiving because we both had the day off (which was a rare occasion). He also mentioned wanting to go see the Anna Ruby waterfalls.  The morning of skydiving, we left extremely early because Josh scheduled our jump for 8 am, so that we would "have more time in Helen." I didn't think anything of it because I was so consumed with nerves about skydiving. Skydiving went great and it was an amazing experience that Josh and I got to share together. I was looking forward to the rest of what I thought would be a relaxing day in Helen. I didn't think anything more exciting would be happening that day, but I was wrong. We drove up to Helen and walked some in the little town before heading to Anna Ruby Falls. When we pulled in, Josh wanted to bring his packback along for the .4 mile hike to the top. I asked him why he needed to bring his backpack and he told me it was in case we needed snacks or water for our "long" hike ahead. Again, I didn't think much of it. As we were walking up the trail to the falls, Josh was EXTREMELY excited. He was almost giddy for us to get to the top. I didn't understand why he was SO excited about seeing waterfalls that we had both seen before when we were kids. We finally made it to the top and walked over to look at the waterfalls. It was a serene and happy moment. All of the sudden, Josh took a deep breath and told me that he wouldn't want to be anywhere else in that moment. Then he told me that he had lied to me. My heart started racing and I was really confused. Why was he saying something like that in this peaceful and perfect moment? He told me that skydiving wasn't the most exciting thing that would be happening today and then he walked me into the middle of the platform next to the waterfalls. I was slowly catching on, but still very confused. Then in the middle of the crowd, he got on one knee, reached into his backpack, pulled out the ring and asked me to marry him! :) I was so happy and filled with joy. I was also in utter shock until the crowd started clapping around us and it sunk in that we had just gotten engaged! The surprises contined as some of our friends jumped out of the bushes and ran up the stairs to congratulate us. They had documented the entire thing! It was the most amazing day that I will never, ever forget."














Tuesday, December 24, 2013

2013

2013 -- Wow, what a year! I can honestly say it was probably the best year of my life thus far. So many memories and milestones. A year filled with lessons and firsts. My heart is full just thinking about the blessings I experienced this year.

~The year started out with getting to marry my best friend -- it was the most perfect day being surrounded by family and friends who came together to celebrate our love for each other. I cherished having each person I loved in the same room. It was such a special day. AND -- I became Mrs. Joshua Gale which is by far the best title I have ever held :)


~We went on a cruise to Mexico for our honeymoon and got a much needed vacation. 

   (Cafe Du Monde at our port in NOLA)

~I learned more about cooking, cleaning, and other wifely duties. 

~I cut 10 inches of my hair off and donated it to Locks of Love. 


~Cedric became OUR dog -- I love him!



~Josh and I went away for the weekend to Nashville. It was the first time we had ever gone and we had a blast. 

          (Country Music Hall of Fame)

~We went to birthday parties, cookouts, and pool parties.



~We attended my brother's graduation from college!


~We went to the beach with the Gale family.


~I went to lots of weddings, bridal showers, and bachelorette parties.



~Josh and I celebrated our 2 year anniversary since we started dating.


~I celebrated my best friend's time in Georgia and went to a special Going Away Party for her.


~I went to a New Kid's on the Block and 98 Degrees Concert with my sister-in-laws -- so much fun!


~We celebrated the Fourth of July with Samuel, Emma, and Sophia.


~I ran -- a lot!

~Some of my friends had babies :)


~Josh and I coached a kid's soccer team at our church.


~We joined Mountain View UMC and Josh became the Youth Pastor there.


~We went to the fair.


~I went apple picking with all of my nieces and nephews and sister-in-laws.


~Josh and I went to Helen for the day and went back to the spot where we got engaged.


~We celebrated my 25th birthday and Josh's 24th birthday.


~I crafted this year and actually tried Pinterest creations.


~We enjoyed Thanksgiving in Savannah.


~I said goodbye to my brother who moved to Texas for an awesome job.


~We participated in Bethlehem Walk.


~We moved from our basement apartment into our own home!


~We celebrated our first Christmas as a married couple.



~We hosted the Hailey family Christmas at our new house.

~Josh preached throughout this year and did an amazing job!


~I had a wonderful year with my friends!


~I spent a lot of time with my mom, dad, and brother this year -- more thankful and appreciative for them as each year passes. Grateful for everything my parents do for me!


~I joined the Gale family and I love being a part of their family!


~I started this blog back in August. It's something I've always wanted to do and I've really enjoyed getting back into writing!

~To top off the whole year, Josh and I have experienced more generosity and love this year than ever before. We are so blessed to be surrounded by an amazing group of family, friends, and church family who constantly give, help, support, and shower us with love. I have never witnessed so many selfless acts before and I am blown away that many of them were towards my family. It is truly humbling and encouraging.

I am beyond grateful for everyone in my life who has helped make 2013 such a success. Thanks to my husband for putting up with me during this crazy year and for an amazing first year of marriage. I can't wait to see what 2014 has in store for us! See you next year folks!