Nick and I got to know each other through mutual friends in 2014 -- planting the seed for a beautiful friendship, eventual romance, and marriage.

Life took me to Canada for work in 2018, and while we remained friends, we didn't talk for quite some time. Upon returning to California around the time of the pandemic, we began to hang out in the same circle of friends yet again, and the friendship grew stronger and stronger.

Knowing neither of us did not want to ruin a friendship for a mere fling or failed relationship -- we took our time to make sure we knew this was going to go the distance. Before even going on a date, we sat down to put all the cards on the table, all non-negotiables, how we want a marriage to be, raising kids, etc.

By the time we made the leap for our first date, we knew. In only 5 months, we'd be engaged, and every day just gets better and better.