Shannon and I were both challenged in life with trying to find the right partner. They just never came to light because life was... just life. God had unique plans for us both.

A mutual friend of several years was spoken to by God. Shannon and I both truly believe that. We know that it in our hearts, otherwise, we would not be here today. It led to a phone call, then a meet & greet and then a lightbulb turned on for both of us. God had spoken.

The first time we met, I (Jay) made sure to locate a place that served great tea. I had searched around the city of Birmingham and located the perfect place. As simple as it may seem, Edgars Bakery was it. Their variety and warm atmosphere would be the place. Not to mention I visited the location and confirmed that I could have the table in a private sitting area. It was almost magical. I said, “This is it!”

After Shannon and I met, we truly leaped. We both were venturing into the unknown but with Gods guidance. We had a lot of adjustments from being single for so long, but we learned so much about each other. Let the rollercoaster begin. That should have been the title. It was great. All kinds of emotions and lessons.

We both are seekers of traveling. We have been limited during our 3 1/2 years of dating, but we did get around the southeast and traveled to Chicago for a marathon. Way to go, Charley. I was so impressed with Shannon and her dedication to accomplish such a triumph. My Shannon is a traveler and lover of tea. I want to make sure we get to go to as many places together as possible. Domestic and definitely abroad. I want to see Shannon enjoy her tea.

All relationships can look just perfect when you are viewing social media. This one is not. We both want to share that we both have ups and downs. But that is part of a relationship. You work together, ...through the good times and bad times.... That is what makes you one. As hard as it is, we both want it, crave it, adore it and feel absolutely blessed by our Heavenly Father and his son Jesus Christ for saving us. Thank you for your guidance, Lord.

Our story is so much more. It has tears of sadness and joy through it. Stress and happiness. Frustration that is challenging at times and love that goes forever. Don't think a relationship is easy. It is not but this one is strong and secure with Jesus all wrapped around us.

If you are a believer or not, you need a foundation to guide you. In today's world, I can't think of anything better than Jesus Christ. Our Christian values are strong and will only grow stronger. If you ever have a question about faith, please feel free to ask us. We don't have all the answers. We both have testimonies. We all do!

This relationship story is so much more than just Shannon and me. It is about honoring our father. Doing His will and helping others. You want to know our story? What is yours? I pray you grow your faith, like we are daily. Talk to the Lord. He hears you and you can ask him anything.

Thank you for reading our story. The details are so much more. We have some pretty amazing and exciting stories from the past 3 1/2 years. We have an amazing close couple that we love and adore. We have best friends that we would give the shirts off our back. We have family that would jump at the drop of a hat to help us. We share an amazing relationship with a wonderful and loving daughter of mine. We are Christians.

We have been provided a gift that we so gratefully, embrace & so it begins!

Shannon & Jay Clyce