So, I told my pastor about it and he said that in order for me to start a relationship (in addition to praying about it) with this man that he needed to come and talk to him. So, after pastor talked with Scott and gave his blessing, we started "Dorting" on February 9th 2012. I had prayed about what to tell Scott concerning my convictions and standards during dating. So,I sought wise counsel and got some Biblical advice from some godly men and women.I shared with Scott my main three convictions during the courting stage: First of all, no physical touch, no hugging or holding hands. In addition to no physical touch was not being alone with him. Some asked why are you doing that? I wanted to live above reproach! Sure, if we wanted to talk we could be in a public place, like at his parents, outside for people to see. We were not ever in a secluded, spot together. Finally, not riding alone with him was also one. We always had someone come with. I will never regret those 3 standards we shared! It is so very important to make sure you set your bar very high!! In addition to writing FB messages our plan was to see each other once a week. How do you get to know someone? By spending time with them! So, we planned group activities and enjoyed each others company. He would come to campus and we would sit and talk. One of the teachers here said he knew it was serious since we were sitting at the picnic table in the freezing cold weather! What a wonderful time we had enjoying hearing stories of how we grew up and why we believed what we did. Since it was very cold out I made muffins and hot chocolate for us! Scott was very grateful! If any of you know Scott, he does not like the cold weather.
Our once a week turned into like twice or more a week. I went home for Easter in April and my parents invited Scott to come too so they could meet him. We sought council and did leave together in a car to go to my parents because it was 2 hours away. We had an accountability partner, my pastor. He encouraged us to leave during the day, to call him when we left and call when we arrive. There is a family who attends my church and does not live too far from my parents and allowed Scott to stay there. What a blessing that was! My family did not understand, but I knew it was the right thing to do!! :) So, my family had the chance to meet him and so did my church family. I am so thankful for my home church! They are like another family to me! Everyone enjoyed meeting Scott!
At the end of May we took another trip to Dowagiac to see my family. Scott had planned a trip to Chicago. He asked if I had ever been and wanted to show me around. We had a wonderful time. I would have never guessed that he was going to propose to me there! I knew he wanted to marry me I just wasn't sure when he was going to ask. After exiting the Aquarium because I was feeling dizzy and sick because it was so warm, we took a walk. We strolled down Lake Michigan with the sky line of Chicago in view. It was a gorgeous day! The weather was perfect! :) I had just commented on what a beautiful view it was when I received a tap on the shoulder. I turned around and there was Scott down on one knee! I still remember what he said like it was yesterday, " Jenny Marie Simpson, I love you very much and I want to spend the rest of my life with you, will you marry me?" To which I replied....yes!! What a wonderful day to remember! I prayed daily through out our dating/ courting period, that if he wasn't the right one that the Lord would let me know. I had peace about it!
When talking about when to get married and all the details that are involved there, we decided that summer. School started in August and it would be a really long time to wait till next summer so we set our date for August. I married my best friend on August 3, 2012. I love that man so much! The wedding was beautiful! It was even more beautiful because we were both pure! We saved our selves for the one who God had for us to marry! Our relationship is growing...my love for him is growing too! Sure we have our troubles but it all works out in the end. For our honey moon we went up north and stayed for a week in St. Ignace, it was beautiful! :) While there we also went to Mackinac Island.
Scott was also offered a job here at the school teaching. He has grades 4-6th and he does a wonderful job! In addition to teaching kindergarten I have Jr. high devotions and 7-12 grade girls gym. It has been a wonderful school year so far. I am thankful for each one that the Lord has given to me!!
Have a wonderful day serving our Lord!! :)
