Our journey began in May 2022, when Hay Mar Soe was a second-year resident at Griffin Hospital in Derby, Connecticut; and Alan Michael Diaz had just accepted a job offer at Google in Cambridge. Fate brought our lovebirds together on a dating app called Coffee Meets Bagel. Despite Alan's impending move to the Boston area, they decided to take a chance and meet for a date.

Hay Mar had mentioned on her dating profile that she wanted to try rock climbing. Alan, having climbed a few times, suggested taking her to his favorite gym. While it may have seemed like an unconventional first date, it provided the perfect opportunity for them to chat and connect between their climbing attempts. It was during this time that Alan made a surprising discovery: until then, he had been under the impression that he was meeting a girl called "Hannah," her English name on her profile. Imagine his surprised face when she signed in at the gym as “Hay Mar!”

After a few climbs, they strolled to a nearby restaurant for lunch. Alan, excited to share his hobbies, drew math equations and graphs on the paper tablecloth. To this day, it remains a delightful mystery why Hay Mar agreed to a second date!

One of their memorable outings was when Alan surprised Hay Mar with tickets to see the Nutcracker performed by the Boston Ballet. Initially skeptical, Hay Mar was swept away by the enchanting performance, leaving them both in awe.

Another cherished day was spent at the Mystic Aquarium, where they enjoyed entertaining shows, marveled at fascinating underwater life, and indulged in some window shopping at the charming village nearby.

Leading up to the proposal, Hay Mar playfully teased Alan by extending her hand and saying, “Fix this problem,” referring to her ring finger. Unbeknownst to her, Alan had already purchased the ring she adored and planned to propose on Christmas Eve in front of his family. Knowing Hay Mar preferred a small, intimate proposal, he felt a family gathering was the perfect setting.

Alan had prepared a heartfelt speech, but in the moment, nerves got the best of him, and all he managed to say was, “Will you marry me?” Hay Mar, expecting more, responded with a surprised, “Oh, that’s it? ∘ ∘ ∘ ( °ヮ° ) ? Yes!” Alan has incorporated the sentiments he had left unsaid into his vows. Something to look forward to! (Let's hope that he has written it down this time!!)

As we look ahead, we are excited to celebrate this important day with our friends and family. Together, we embark on this incredible adventure, knowing we will support each other every step of the way. We can hardly wait for that special day—November 2, 2025!