I'd like you to meet Rob...

If you're reading this blog, there's a really good chance you're an important person in my life (because my stuff isn't interesting enough for random strangers to bother), and I want everyone in my life to know someone who has recently become extra special to me. This is Rob. =) He's thoughtful, very funny, ambitious, missions-minded, and extremely kind-hearted.
We met four years ago when we were both living in Europe (he was in Romania while I was in the Czech Republic). Since we both worked for the IMB, we met several times at different meetings & events. Even back then, I knew he was an incredible guy, but I never thought we'd ever be in the same place at the same time, so I didn't let myself spend much time thinking about "us". After we both came back to the US, we emailed every few months or so and kept in touch off & on.
Then in December, Rob sent me an instant message on the computer, and, in the few minutes we chatted that day, realized that it had been months since we'd last talked. We exchanged phone numbers, "and so it all began"... (The first time we talked on the phone, my roommate Erin came in and demanded to know who I was talking to as soon as I hung up- "You're smiling like a fool- that was a guy, wasn't it?!") I haven't stopped smiling since then!
The first time we got together, it had been three years since we'd been face-to-face. It was great, and we decided that weekend that we definitely wanted to continue seeing each other! He lives in Jackson, TN, so that doesn't happen nearly as often as I'd like, but it gives me something to look forward to on weekends. (and it's a lot easier now that I'm three hours closer!)
So there's the cliff notes edition of "Rob & Jess". He's amazing, and I think the world of him (in case you haven't noticed!) When I asked him if there was anything he wanted me to say here, he said I could let you all know that he eats green beans "socially" but he doesn't really like them, so please don't serve them if we come for dinner!
** This picture was taken this past weekend at Rob's (now former) roommate's wedding... congrats Ben & Tabitha!