It's funny how you look back and think about events from long ago and how they connect to events later in life. The events may seem like coincidences to some, but I believe God has a plan for everyone. I think he puts special people in our lives, just as seeds are planted. The points in life may seem random, but it's just the early stages of the growing process, with one thing leading to the next. And from there a relationship blooms. Whether it is a friendship or something more, sometimes these relationships blossom immediately and other take many years to generate.

I bet when Stoney Burk and Rylee Hobbs had their photo made for The Anahuac Progress as Grand Champions in the goat show at Youth Project Show, they could never have imagined that 10+ years later, this photo would be on display when Stoney asked Rylee to be his wife, in that same goat arena. 

About half-way through this summer, I got a message from Stoney's mom that asked if I would like to photograph a proposal. Sure, I would love to photograph a proposal. If you read my blog much, you can probably tell that I just love LOVE! My absolute favorite portrait sessions are engagement sessions, because you can just feel the love radiating from most couples. Since this was similar, of course secret photos at a surprise proposal seemed like a wonderful job! On top of that, I've know the Burk family for as long as I can remember, so being asked to take part in such a special occasion was an honor!

I was a little nervous about having to hide for the photos, because I didn't want to be in the wrong place and miss the shot, or get noticed before the proposal started and give away the surprise. But Stoney had planned this proposal to a tee, and with the help of his sister and both Stoney and Rylee's parents, a beautiful stage was set and I knew that everything was going to be perfect. Many photos and mementos of Stoney and Rylee's years together were on display with a beautiful display of roses and signs with declaration of love and adoration.

The parents and I waited anxiously for Stoney and Rylee's arrival and when it happened, the proposal was absolutely beautiful. I was getting all shaky and teary just witnessing the event.

And, of course, she said yes!

After Stoney and Rylee had a few seconds to soak in the excitement for the day, Rylee was headed for another surprise. All of the families and friends of the happy couple had gathered at the Burk's house for a surprise engagement party, full of hugs, tears of joys and a toast to end the day. 

After shooting photos and trying my hand at videoing this proposal, I asked Steely, Stoney's younger sister, if the couple had a song that they particularly liked that I could incorporate into a video. Steely told me that Rylee loves George Strait's song, "Blue Clear Sky." I think the lyrics are pretty fitting, in that on what seemed to be random day at a livestock show, Stoney's true love had arrived, out of the blue clear sky. 

Here she comes a walkin' talkin' true love
Sayin' I been lookin' for you love
Surprise your new love has arrived
Out of the blue clear sky.

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