We first met in conference room #254 at the St. Ambrose University Center for Health Sciences Education building. We were randomly paired to treat the same patient in the St. Ambrose inter-professional clinic. Devin knew he liked Amber right away; but as fate would allow, it would take a few more years to work out.

We stayed in touch occasionally over the next few years, including a blurred conversation for over an hour when Amber chose a Nelly song on the bar’s TouchTunes . Then, in Spring of 2021, Devin got up the courage to ask Amber about her recent Utah trip that she had posted about – full-well knowing he had zero intention of going to Utah, but wanting to start a conversation. We never stopped talking after that. (If anyone asks, Devin is still planning his trip.)

Long distance was all we knew for the first year of our relationship. Amber worked in Des Moines and Devin was in Cedar Rapids. Eventually, Devin convinced Amber to move to Cedar Rapids. Soon after her move, we added our sweet golden retriever, Nelly, to the mix.

On February 25, 2023, Devin decided to make an entire day full of dates for Amber. It started with coffee, lunch, and watching the Hawkeye basketball game. Iowa came back against Michigan State to win in overtime. After the game, Amber exclaimed, "Today is the best of day of my life!" We left our home under the idea of picking up t-shirts for Devin's work at Cedar Rapids Country Club. Amber thought that we would get drinks afterwards. Little did Amber know that Devin had been at the Country Club early that morning to go over all the tiny details with her cousin. As they arrived, Devin pointed off to the distance and said, "Amber, do you see that bald eagle flying?" (Devin says if you ever need to distract a Lenz, just tell them there is a bird flying and you immediately gain 5-10 seconds). When Amber turned around – slightly angry that Devin wouldn't answer if it was in the tree or flying – Devin was on one knee and said, "Remember how you said this was the best day of your life? Will you marry me?" Amber had to ask if Devin was sure before saying yes. There was one more surprise! Both of our families were waiting to surprise Amber at our favorite restaurant. And, she's still looking for the bald eagle.

We can't wait to continue our love story with our wedding and celebrate with each of you!