Baxter and I have known each other since second grade! Growing up I always thought he was super cute. My best friend lived next door to him and we would spy on him and his buddies. Lucky for me, he asked me out right after high school graduation. It only took him 10 years!!

We dated all summer. I had previously been accepted to Colorado State University in my hometown. My family wanted me to look at the University of Utah which is where my Uncle and two of my grandparents had attended. I refused to apply! There was absolutely NO WAY I was going to school in Utah! And then… Baxter announced he was going to attend, out of all places… the University of Utah. I thought to myself, “we’ve only been dating three months. I can’t change schools. My parents will kill me!” So, I started fall semester at Colorado State and Baxter started at the University of Utah. Meanwhile, we dated long distance and I secretly applied for Spring semester just in case… I mean just LOOK at him… wouldn’t you?

When I received my acceptance letter to the U, I casually left it on my parent’s kitchen counter for all to see. At first, I was told there was no way I was changing schools for a boy. Long story short, my parents gave in over Christmas break. I had one week to transfer. To everyone’s amazement, I made it happen. I quickly fell in love with Utah and my Alma Matter! Some things are just meant to be! I never looked back. It was the best decision I’ve ever made.

Five years after I made the move to Utah, Baxter drove me up Big Cottonwood Canyon to one of our favorite hiking spots, Silver Lake. Our favorite thing to do is explore the gorgeous Utah mountains on foot and on skis. My heart was pounding when he got down on one knee. I couldn’t have imagined a better place for him to propose. Of course, I said YES!

Baxter is my best friend, my favorite person to laugh with, adventure with and do life with. I feel so blessed to be engaged to the most amazing man and cannot wait to say “I do”!

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