November 18, 2014... We first began communicating through a dating site online. Haia sent the simple message. The two words "Hello there”. Hiyas goes by the
nickname Haia, and that was the beginning of Ryan’s introduction into the world of Philippine culture. As we shared more in our communication it was clear we had
a lot in common, and over time, it was obvious that we shared much in what we were looking for in a partner. Emails evolved to sending cards to each other and
so on... eventually both realizing that a meeting in person was in our future.
Ryan’s trip to Metro Manila in June 2015 made the in-person visit a reality. Meeting Haia was the highlight but meeting her family was key as well. The Philippines
is a devoutly Catholic country and there are numerous amazing Churches throughout the entire country. We share our Catholic faith and both very much enjoyed
visiting many great churches from the urban Manila to the rural Mindanao. Some small chapels, and others marvelous Cathedrals. Overall, Hiyas made the weeks
spent in the Philippines an incredible experience. As important as it was spending time together after the many months talking from opposite sides of the globe,
time with Haia’s family and friends was meaningful and reminded Ryan of his extended family. Haia’s family is very welcoming and joyful. They celebrate life and
their Faith. Ryan’s visit was not just time spent with Hiyas, but the people she loves and includes in her life.
Beyond exchanging so many communications, the in time spend together in person confirmed that we looked forward to spending our lives together. Between
island hopping we discussed this on a ferry ride in Camiguin Island, Mindanao. The future was set in motion while crossing the ocean water. Upon coming back to
Manila, one morning after we returned from a bicycle ride, Ryan sat down with Haia’s father and expressed his intentions and desire to ask his permission to marry
his daughter. Her father verified that Ryan’s intentions were sincere and honest, and he gave his positive approval to Haia’s great happiness. Of course it was a
great day and we were very happy... and the family was as well. This was all followed up by celebrating Ryan’s 40th birthday with a big surprise party by the Cenir
family. Despite being on the opposite side of the globe, it was a birthday just like home in Missouri with aunts, uncle, cousins, and friends... but with even more to
be happy about this year of course.
Our time in the Philippines was natural, welcoming, affirming, and cemented with Faith filled visits to many, many great Churches of the Philippines with history
dating back many centuries. These are simple things, but the important things. It was confirmation for both of us, for all that we had lived through in thousands of
emails and video chats, and finally the shared together face to face after so long.... under the supervision of family and chaparone of friends.
For Haia, leaving the Philippines means being separated again but just the beginning of much more. As Ryan returned to the US we looked into the specifics of
marriage preparation and VISA application process... which was more like applying for two mortgages, filing taxes, and adopting a pack of stray dogs all at once.
Months of documentation, paperwork, and organization made for an in depth VISA package. When it came time for Haia’s interview, all went smoothly with much
anticipation... but we had yet another wish and blessing come true. And so from there we began to map out the next chapter. Planing for plane flights. Planing for
trips to meet American family. Anticipating for winter clothes for a beautiful woman from the tropics that has yet to see snow. It’s all new, and all welcomed... as
confirmed by the happy dogs who show Haia affection every day while we work our way towards wedding day.
We’re looking forward OUR future... finally closing in on a year and half after that first “Hello there” from one side of the earth to another... and it appears to have
worked out quite well. Thank you for joining us on our wedding day. Thank you for witnessing our wedding Mass. Thank you for celebrating with us at the wedding
and reception. We’ve been quick and unconventional on the planning, on the process... but old school on the basis and tradition of the meaning of marriage and
Faith that binds us.
If it hadn’t been so long in the making, we would say we are lucky... but we are actually blessed. Please continue to pray for us.
