Our love story began unexpectedly, but God knew exactly what He was doing. Nathan and I found each other, and what started as a simple connection became a love neither of us could ignore. Through distance, deployments, and seasons that tested us, we kept choosing each other. Eventually, our love led us to Japan, where we said “I do.” Our story is one of faith, patience, sacrifice, and choosing forever even when forever meant waiting

People want the 'big moment,' but my favorite is our quietest. It was just Nathan and I on a train in Japan and had a non-traditional proposal with no cameras or cheering. Five days later, we eloped at City Hall, just us. Choosing to start our marriage in complete silence allowed us to build our foundation on us, not expectations. It remains my favorite memory because it was ours alone, a perfect, private beginning to our life together as Mr. and Mrs. Church.

Winning $20,000 would be the bridge to our future. After spending our marriage navigating military distance, these funds would provide the stability to finally plant roots in Japan, creating our first home together. Beyond securing our foundation, we are committed to paying it forward. A portion would be donated to the Military Spouse Advocacy Network, as we are passionate about their mission to mentor and empower military spouses through the unique challenges of this lifestyle.