Despite spending seven years at the same middle school and high school and another year in Colorado at the same time, Alysia and Daniel didn't meet until just after Christmas in 2019. After talking a lot over text about their love of all things dog and travel related, Alysia finally asked Daniel out after weeks of Daniel not taking subtle hints. Their first date was at Flying Star for coffee and cookies. After a few more fun and awkward dates, they finally made it official!

Once they were official, they quickly became members of each other's families. Daniel officially met the Hernandez clan at a superbowl party. Alysia met all of the grandparents and the parents and even one of Daniel's uncles all in one night at dinner... talk about nerves!

Then Theo came into the world and stole their hearts! Yes, they both professed their love for Theo before they professed their love for each other! However, shortly after, they professed their love for each other too! From that moment on, they knew they were meant to be!

Three short months into dating the pandemic struck. In the best turn of events, it brought Alysia and Daniel closer together. Daniel became a weekly staple at living room Mass in the Hernandez family home. They also got super creative at planning Covid safe dates with the help of The Adventure Challenge Book (their favorite date idea book!).

After lots of dates, time with Theo, hikes, and general antics, Daniel proposed, finally! It was a perfect July afternoon. Daniel, with the help of Theo, took Alysia on the most beautiful drive to the top of the Manzanos at Capilla Peak. Along the way, they saw deer, wildflowers, and beautiful New Mexico landscapes. At the top, Daniel asked Alysia to read from a bible. 1 Corinthians 13. At the end of the reading, Daniel was on one knee asking Alysia to be his forever! She said yes, and Theo did too!

Things to Do

Old Town Albuquerque

ABQ BioPark

New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

Albuquerque Museum

Tramway Trailhead