After almost of month of not writing to each other as we remained obedient to President Mecham's council I was so ready to hear from my missionary. He'd asked for my phone number so he wouldn't have to "test my patience any longer than necessary." I don't think my family enjoyed being around me that day. They'd heard all about this Montana missionary, they'd read snippets of his emails but that day I couldn't stop pacing... I wasn't very good company that day. But finally I got a message on Facebook!!!
I got my phone call the next night and for the first time I talked to Brandon rather than Elder McCandless. I was grateful to realize that there really wasn't a difference. Brandon was every bit as kind, sweet and present as Elder McCandless was. After a wonderful conversation we agreed that I would drive to Huntington on Tuesday and have our first date.
We met in the church parking lot on Main Street, because according to Brandon... his house didn't have an address. I realized then how small Huntington must really be. I remember watching Brandon pull up in his white Toyota with his ear to ear grin and knowing he was truly as great as I remembered him being. I got another first as he wrapped me in a big hug. Elder McCandless defiantly hadn't done that before!! haha His big arms and shoulders made me feel small and I loved it. We enjoyed a wonderful and memorable first date up at Little Bear Campground and I was excited to see where this journey was going to take me.
Brandon's homecoming talk was inspiring. He testified boldly of the Savior and his desire to be a disciple of Christ.
His house was full of people that loved and supported him. I got to meet more of his family but spent much of the time with some other MBM missionaries that had come to support their friend. I teased him that I had to wait in a line of girls to get a word in but that wasn't true, Brandon sought me out and made me feel like a million bucks!!
Brandon quickly became my best friend as we talked every single day. He was so sweet and always willing to reach out to me even on busy or hard days. We spent time together whenever we could. This was hard since we lived so far away but we both strived to make it work. For a time he moved up north and lived with his aunt so we could be closer. It was there in his aunt Caths house that Brandon leaned down and gave me my very first kiss.
Dating Brandon was always an adventure. We found many ways to entertain ourselves and learn about each other. I learned that Brandon is true to his desert roots and loves Dinosaurs and fossils. I saw his deep relationship with his family and the love they share. I learned he swims like one of the rocks he loves so much haha ;) Sorry Bubba! haha I benefited from his big heart and true desire to make those around him happy!
Brandon and I at my favorite park!
Riding the ferris wheel at Art City Days.
Hanging out in Huntington.
Attending the Payson temple open house.
Little Bear Campground
Swimming at Grandma Taylor's on Memorial Day.
Visiting the Provo temple.
Hitting up the Dino Museum!
Hanging out in Springville.
Those closest to us know that our dating story was not always easy and smooth. We encountered our own trials that tested and in the end strengthened and deepened our relationship. Although these trials were very real and difficult, looking back, neither of us would have it any other way. We learned so much about ourselves and each other and most importantly, grew closer to our Father in Heaven.
We had a lot of adventures together and I'm grateful for every single minute that I get to spend with my Bubba! I choose you!!
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