Like so many modern love stories, Gene and I met online in March of 2021. He was a single father of two and I was a little over a year out from losing my husband, Kyle, and raising my own children.

Dating as a widow was, to be honest, awful! Until, of course, I met Gene. From our first interactions, he was so different and extraordinary. Before we even had our first date, we discussed me being a widow and if that was something he could be "ok" with and his response was simply: "Not to be presumptuous, but I did some research on what to expect dating a widow, specifically one with children. I wanted to make sure that I had as much info as I could so that I knew what to expect." That was it for me! The fact that he was so considerate and forward-thinking - and we hadn't even met in person yet! - showed me just what kind of a person he was; he was the kind of man I only dreamed of finding in this chapter of my life.

As our relationship grew, Gene would often say that he had a feeling we were meant to find each other. We quickly learned that we had grown up about 30 minutes from each other in Northern California, only to meet in North Texas. Our relationship blossomed quickly. Gene says he knew he wanted to marry me after our third date but I needed a couple of more dinners. Within about 5 months of dating, we moved in together and a year later bought “our” home. We moved fast but we joke, "when ya know, ya know!"

Blending our families brought its own set of challenges that we have all handled with grace, some tears, and lots of laughter. Gene and his 2 beautiful girls, Olivia (9) and Zara (7), bring so much excitement, busyness, and joy to me, Dest (23), Alyssa (22), Zoey (17), and Cohen (15). Together, the eight of us have become a family.

"The Proposal"

The day Gene decided to propose, well, things didn't quite go as planned! Thankfully he was able to pivot (never miss an opportunity to insert a classic Friends reference!) and the night was the MOST perfect evening. He took me out for an unassuming date night, which consisted of axe throwing and an escape room. Before ending the evening, we had dinner at the restaurant where we had had our very first date. Meanwhile, back at home, our kids were hard at work on Gene’s secret plan.

When we got home, the house was exceptionally quiet, which should have been my first clue something was happening! Gene nonchalantly guided me into the living room where there were dozens of beautifully lit white candles, white roses, rose petals across the floor, twinkling lights, and photos of us hanging all around the room. I was speechless and breathless. The moment was pure perfection. And in that moment of perfection, Gene collected the ring from the fireplace mantle and, with our amazing kiddos watching, got down on one knee and asked me to marry him! It was truly the most perfect proposal for us. And having our gremlins all watching? That was icing on the cake.

This man came in and swept me off my feet when I was least expecting it. Things haven't always been easy, but they are worth it with him by my side.