I awoke this morning in a third story bedroom of a rustic open beamed, wood everywhere home. As I opened my blinds I looked out to a beautiful layer of white snow covering the ground and the high desert pines that only somewhat blocked my view of an ice covered river. Outside my window was one small deer, casually foraging from bush to bush trying to find her breakfast in this wonderful area God created and we call Montana.
But even more beautiful than the view and the home are its occupants. Last night Tia, Sydney, Rebekah, Katey, Sarah and I arrived in the home of Tia's father, Grandpa Kim and his wife Grandma Marian. We arrived after dark but the beauty of the place, outside and in, was still evident. We had new family introductions, a lovingly prepared dinner waiting for us, and then brought in bags. The adults got to know each other while the kids played outside in the snow and throughout their temporary cabin like accommodations.
We had come to get to know more of Tia's family. But I also had another purpose. Short one 15 second phone call on the way here yesterday, I have never spoken with Grandpa Kim since I started courting Tia. I had felt remiss about starting our courtship without seeking the wisdom (and permission) of her father. When I formally asked Tia's permission to court her I promised her I would not take any further steps with her without seeking her father's permission. I had planned, after spending the week getting to know them, to ask Grandpa Kim for Tia's hand in marriage. But like many...most...all other things in our growing relationship, God had other timing in mind. After sharing most (not even all) of our story with him Grandpa Kim blurted out 'What are we waiting for, when are you going to marry this girl?'
Not shocked, but taken aback I was. And yes, I believe Tia was a bit too. After having my time schedule changed on me and getting my senses together I shared with him that this was something I wanted to talk with him about. In the middle of this Tia went upstairs to help the girls with some "emergency." After a few more minutes of conversation I knew for sure that we had Grandpa Kim's blessing. While she was still upstairs I went out to the van and brought in some more things, actually just one more thing. It was something that I had not planned on needing until after the new year, or maybe new year's eve. But again, God's timing is a bit different than mine on this whole thing.
When Tia came downstairs with the girls I asked them all over to the table where Grandma, Grandpa and I were sitting. As she sat down I dropped to one knee in front of her and said "Tia, I have spoken with our children and have their blessing. I have spoken with your father and have his blessing. I love you will all of my heart." Then, for the second time in my life (excepting for practice of course,) I uttered the words "Will you marry me?" Through tears of joy and just a bit more shock, she answered "Yes!" We then proceeded out into the snow and danced our first dance as an engaged couple on a snow covered dance ring prepared by the girls just outside the dining room window. As we held each other and danced to the music of our hearts, Grandpa and Grandma shined a "spotlight" on us while they watched from inside.
Proud doesn't even do justice to the feeling I have as I announce that on March 17th 2012, Tia Bacon and Scott Adams will become one in the eyes of God and man. We hope you will reserve the date and join us at Southwest Bible Church in Beaverton, Oregon on that glorious day.
And me with the kiddos in the background: 
Sharing the path with the fawna: 
