Where it all started. Michael and Ellie went to Highcroft Elementary together. Their first class together was Mr. Zona's 3rd grade class in 2006. Although both favorites of Mr. Zona, they were not friends. Surprisingly, Ellie was a teacher's pet who could do no wrong (besides talking too much to her friends in class). However, Michael was a class clown who leaned back in his chair even when Mr. Zona told him not to!

So close but so far away

Next class together, Ms. Hulcer's 5th grade. Still not friends. After this, they went their separate ways, Ellie to Parkway West and Michael to Parkway Central, for middle and high school.

At the end of high school, Ellie and Michael worked at Bread Co. together. The day Michael came in for his interview, Ellie told them not to hire him because she didn't like him in elementary school (he got hired anyway). After a year or so of working together, everyone always said they should date, so naturally Ellie thought it would be funny to pretend to date (we love a fake dating trope). Then Ellie got to know Michael with his sense of humor and fun-loving outlook on life and the rest is history.

First (of many) trips to the zoo

Instagram debut! (even though we weren't official yet)

Favorite pastime (GO CARDS!!)

Arizona (Grand Canyon) with the Nazzolis

CHAMPIONS at the Dolly Parton Stampede in Branson, MO

First concert together! (Wiz Khalifa)

Florida with the Nazzolis

Colorado with the friends

Ellie's first music festival! (Bonaroo)

Adopted the 2 best kitties in the world

Michael's first Riverstock!

Puerto Rico with the Nazzolis

Florida with the Smiths

A nacho table or 2

First solo vacation together - Seattle!!

Vegas

Before proposing, Michael took Ellie to dinner at her favorite restaurant, Zia's on the Hill, and dessert after at Gelato di Riso.

and FINALLY the ring!!