The
Alisandra Photography Blog

Part one left us with a concern: “Does he really like me?” This is the post where I answer that question. You’re probably thinking… Duh – Y’all are married. Well, yes. But getting to this point was such a step in faithfulness. Here is where we left off:

However unsure about Chad liking me I was, we kissed for the first time the night before Melrose. I went into that dance having a pretty good idea that the boy had a crush on me. After the dance, we were hanging out just as often as before. We entered winter break with plans for me to come visit him the day after Christmas. I would spend that day with my family – opening presents, taking photos by the Christmas tree, and then pack my car to head down to Virginia Beach. Before I left, my dad asked me, “So, are you dating, or is he just auditioning?” Auditioning, at this point.

I pulled into the driveway to meet Chad and his mom and brother. It’s a strange feeling to meet your crush’s family, right? It’s necessary, wonderful, scary and awkward all wrapped up in the same burrito. That weekend was a little crazy. Here are a few stories:

– I met Chad’s Dad: First thoughts: great hair, reminds me of my perception of Billy Graham.
– We went to Chad’s grandparents house where I sat around, met his entire extended family. Chad felt tired, so he left me to go take a nap while everyone opened presents from Christmas. It’s hilarious NOW.
– Being referred to as “the girlfriend” by Chad’s youth pastor.
– Chad letting me know that he didn’t know if he wanted to start dating or not. I got a little frustrated because I had come all the way out, spent this “quality time” with him, away from mine, and for what?! But, you can’t blame him for being honest.

Just a little side note about Chad’s honesty. It’s the quality that first caught my eye, and it’s what makes me so thankful for him. I always know where I stand, how I made him feel, how he feels about me, and I never have to guess. It really makes my life a lot easier. And his, I suppose!

Anyway, about the first or second week of January, we attended Winter Conference. After day 1 or 2, the main speaker John Teter walked right up to us and sat down at our table. “So how long have you been dating?” Chad and I looked at each other and smiled and giggled. It was decided. We were dating.

Photos from Facebook, 2008.