#OurStoryJim&Belle

Isabel and I first met in 2019 at the Mahopac Inn, a cozy local dive bar near her home. It wasn't a place we frequented, and in fact, we didn't return there for a few years. Isabel was there with her entire family to support a local singer-songwriter who was hoping to make it big. Unfortunately, the events of 2020 put a damper on his plans. That night, I unknowingly met many significant people in Isabel's life: Aunt Lisa, cousin Alex, Uncle Johnny, Uncle Joe, Uncle Richy, and one of Isabel’s best friends, Aileen. I was so taken with her that I asked her out the next day.

When Isabel picked me up for our second date, my sisters all made a memorable impression by crowding the front porch, creating what must have been the most intimidating family introduction imaginable. That summer, we enjoyed each other's company before Isabel returned for her senior year, and I began my first year of a PhD program. Despite the challenges, I was determined to make it work because I admired her intelligence, wit, and pure heart.

Those months were filled with visits to Fairfield and fun times with her friends, fondly dubbed the “Shroomies.” Over winter break, Isabel met my family and my grandfather Ken, whose approval meant the world to me. They hit it off, and I know he would be incredibly proud of her pursuit of becoming a veterinarian.

Then, COVID-19 hit. While I managed to stay virus-free while coaching a wrestling team, Isabel contracted it. I visited her as she quarantined on her balcony, feeling a bit like a modern-day suitor. During this time, we grew closer, supporting each other through isolation. We went on hikes, took trips to Montauk, and had deep conversations about philosophy, politics, and our dreams for the future. We even signed up for coffee subscriptions to enjoy together.

Isabel has seen me at my best and my worst. She encouraged me when I ran a marathon without telling her and offered a wry "Oh god, good luck" when I decided to help Jake O'Brien run 100 miles. Despite the distance, our relationship has only grown stronger. We FaceTime daily, watch movies and reality TV shows, and use these moments to discuss our future and our relationship. Once a month, we reunite in our little paradise.

Through hard times and good times, there is nobody I’d rather have by my side than Belle. She is the best person I know. She makes me better in every way. I like how I am around her, I love what we are building together.

Thank you all for supporting us through the way.

LOVE,

Jimmy Kaishian