It was a love story 14 years in the making and it all started with a shoebox.
Back in 2000, Tyrel Wolfe was a 7-year-old boy from Idaho, U.S.A. who wanted to spread Christmas cheer. So he put together a shoebox of gifts and sent it to the Philippines through a Christian organization called Samaritan’s Purse. Little did he know that the box, which contained a photo of him, would make such an impact on the life of a young Filipino girl.
Her name was Joanna. She appreciated the box of gifts, but most all she cherished the photo of her “young handsome cowboy.” Years later, she would search for him and find him on Facebook. After sending him a request twice—once in 2009 and again in 2011—a friendship blossomed. It was, as Tyrel called it, nothing short of a miracle.
photo: pinterest
After saving up enough money for a ticket to Manila, Tyrel finally met Joanna in 2013. “Her big, beautiful smile stood out from the crowd,” gushed Tyrel in an interview with Fox.
After a year of courtship, and three visits to the Philippines, Tyrel asked Joanna’s father for her hand in marriage. They tied the knot in 2014.
Since their story went viral, many were inspired by the couple’s story of love and faith, making many believe that miracles happen every day. The inspiring couple have welcomed another blessing in their life: the birth of their first son in May 2017.
Check out his adorable photos below!
photo: Ty Wolfe facebook
photo: Joana Marhcan Wolfe facebook
photo: Joana Marchan Wolfe facebook
sources: People, Fox
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