How It All Began

Like many stories in 2020, ours began in the middle of uncertainty.

The world was locked down, plans were cancelled, and meeting people the “normal” way wasn’t really an option. So, like many others navigating that season, we both found ourselves on Facebook—specifically, Facebook Dating. Because when the world shuts down, apparently love logs in. Still, we know it wasn’t just an algorithm at work—it was God gently writing a story we couldn’t yet see.

Our first date was February 7, 2021—and it was anything but typical. Helena needed to buy a computer, and Nathan happily came along to help (a perfect scenario for someone who loves technology). Helena may not share that same enthusiasm for tech, but she trusted Nathan enough to guide the way—which, in hindsight, set the tone for much more than just that day.

Afterward, we headed to West Edmonton Mall. With COVID restrictions in place, sitting wasn’t allowed, so we grabbed a crepe and walked. And walked. And walked some more. We wandered through the mall, eventually stopping at the art gallery, slowing down just enough to take in the moment—and each other.

Somewhere along the way, Nathan found the courage to take Helena’s hand. And not long after that, breaking all the “COVID dating rules,” he pulled down his mask for the first kiss of what would become many.

The next chapter of our story was shaped by distance. For a few years, we traveled back and forth between Peace River and Edmonton, learning patience, commitment, and trust. During that time, something even more beautiful began to happen—our families started to blend.

One of our favorite (and funniest) memories came from our kids, who decided it would be a great idea to go to the local grocery store and pick out as many strange drinks as they could find. What followed was a full family taste test—filled with laughter, surprises, and a few immediate regrets. Some drinks were… interesting. Others were downright terrible. The grass drink, however, stood out as unanimously unforgettable for all the wrong reasons. It was in those moments—laughing together, trying new things, and simply being present—that our families began to truly come together.

In 202, Helena moved to Edmonton, and our relationship deepened even further. Surrounded by friends, family, and our church community, we saw God’s hand clearly guiding us and strengthening the foundation we were building together.

On December 7, 2025, Nathan proposed to Helena during the Jubilation Dinner, with the help of our friends Armand and Tracy, making the moment even more meaningful.

And on March 20, 2026, after a journey shaped by faith, distance, laughter, and love—we were married.

Looking back, we are reminded of how God works all things together in His perfect timing, even in seasons that feel uncertain.

“He has made everything beautiful in its time.” — Ecclesiastes 3:11

After five years of dating, growing together, and learning more about one another, Nathan knew the Lord was leading them to take the next step. With gratitude for God’s timing and guidance, he asked Helena to marry him. As Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 reminds us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.” This moment was not only about a proposal, but about beginning a new season of serving, supporting, and walking in faith together.

This was not a rushed decision, but one prayerfully considered. Through Nathan’s work with Gem Gallerie in Sherwood Park, the perfect ring was found. Helena had even been in the store before, never realizing that Jacqueline, the jeweler, may have been gently gathering information behind the scenes to help choose the ring that would mark the beginning of this new chapter.

With the ring in hand, and wearing a truly questionable haircut, Nathan made plans for a night out at Jubilations with Armand and Tracy to help disguise the real purpose of the evening.

During the dinner break, Nathan did his best to create the perfect moment and get Helena’s attention. First came a dropped napkin, then a fork, and finally a coat. Once he finally asked the question, Helena answered with a very loud yes. She was so excited that she even agreed to go on stage during the celebration. By that point, she had probably already texted everyone she knew.

It was a fantastic night, and Top Gun was pretty great too.