Military Ball

Natalie, you were right... it's a good idea to keep up with the fun stories/memories early on... you always have the best ideas! ((for those who don't know, my sweet friend Natalie is preggers- yay!!!)) 

So, here's the Military Ball... 

**on a side note: I am SO glad I bought this dress because I have gotten several "wears" out of it***

Although this was after our First Date weekend, it was the first time I knew we were dating! To be perfectly honest, I left after that trip to Maine not really knowing if he even liked me. I assumed we were still "just" friends. On Military Ball weekend, we talked about it... as long as I live I will never forget that conversation, but it's personal, so you don't get to know... ok, half of you already know... but anyway... 

So, we arrive at the Ball where Luke introduces me in the following ways... 

This is my friend, Haley (Can you see why I was still confused?)

This is my lady-friend, Haley (Seriously??)

This is my date, Haley (Ok, now we're making some progress!!)

In this picture I've actually been upgraded from friend to lady-friend... I'm happy. Do I even need to tell you that he took my coat? pulled out my chair for me? introduced me to everyone (because he is polite and I matter to him)? 

I'm pretty sure he wasn't purposefully testing me, BUT... Luke and another guy had to go practice their parts in the ceremony so they left myself and a sweet girl named Karen standing alone for a reasonable about of time (ok it was a long time - like half an hour)... turns out Karen and Jon (the guy) had their first date at the same event the year before... and she was just as confused then as I was that night! Boy, did we hit it off!! I had the best time with Karen --- God really blessed my socks off with her that night! 

He actually likes me here. Yay!! Exciting!!!  ((Karen took this photo))

I met a great couple at dinner that night, Matt and Jina. I've since had the opportunity to get closer to Jina --  she's a fantastic lady and a great Christian -- again, God blessed my socks OFF that night! 

There was an "event" we had to attend outside -- by the way, do you know how cold it is in upstate NY in the winter??? In a formal dress?? and little strappy shoes? So, what do you think Luke did? Yup, you guessed it... he did what he does... he took care of me... 

I'm cute in his coat -- an infinitely less cold. Either because it was warm or because I no longer cared - haha! ((Jina took this picture)) 

We had a fantastic time -- lots of new friends, a few awkward situations (never created by us only other people), some laughs, some slow dancing, great conversation, bonding, and a ton of fun... it pretty much sets the tone for all of our future dates. 

Also, I would like to just say praise the good Lord who has been SO good to both of us and given us so much time together despite our insanely busy schedules (and that half of a continent between us). I am constantly reminded of one of my favorite quotes... 

Your circumstances and geographical location

do not hinder God's will.