The first time we met was at a New Year’s Eve party in 2002 at the Humane Fire Co in Pottsville. Over the next few years, we became friends and enjoyed hanging out and having a couple beers and laughs now and then. We went on our first date on July 5, 2008 to a 4th of July picnic.

After several years of dating (like a decade! HAHA!), we started talking about getting married. But it wasn't until Christmas Eve in 2021 that we took the next big step. Jay had left the house to pick up last minute things that we needed for Christmas, and I was busy getting food prepped for Christmas dinner the next day. He came home and was telling me how Murphy Jewelers was giving out free gifts and serving beer and wine while people did their last minute shopping. He put a large rectangular gift wrapped box on the counter and insisted that I open that free gift. I remember rolling my eyes wondering what was so important that I needed to open it right now. When I unwrapped the box, there was a smaller box nestled inside with the perfect diamond engagement ring inside.

And now the time has finally come! We're going to tie the knot on September 27, 2025. We are looking forward to sharing our special day with our family and friends.