In the whimsical world of online dating, where swiping right is the modern-day nod of approval, our story began. Both seasoned veterans of the dating app trenches, we were caught in the ebb and flow of emotions that accompany the pursuit of love in the digital age.

Our first spark ignited through the playful banter of Tinder texts, leading to the arrangement of our inaugural date. Seeking a smooth journey to those crucial first few dates, I had learned the art of minimizing friction. Enter Christina, proposing a rendezvous at Buffalo Wild Wings in Griffin. A small hiccup arose when I, ever the map enthusiast, pointed out the absence of such a joint in Griffin. Little did I know, she was referring to the local gem, Buffalo's Restaurant. A hiccup turned into a cherished anecdote, setting the tone for the dates that followed.

Dinner and movie dates paved the way, and amidst the casual outings, I found myself drawn to Christina. Her kindness, beauty, and the undeniable connection we shared became the foundation of something special. Despite uncertainties, constant communication, and a bit of a dating dance, the day arrived when I needed to know if we were both ready to commit to this journey together. Her resounding "yes" echoed, setting the stage for a series of affirmations to come.

Then, enter the plot twist: COVID. Navigating the pandemic waters, our relationship faced challenges, with differences in our approaches to safety. Yet, weathering the storm together only solidified our bond. As the world gradually returned to normalcy, we resumed our rhythm, realizing that if we could weather a pandemic, we could weather anything.

Fast forward through countless weekends and travels, and the moment I knew I wanted to propose became a blur in time. A getaway weekend to Charleston, SC, set the stage for a memorable evening at Hall's Chophouse. Amidst a table full of decadent dishes and nerves reaching a crescendo, I took the plunge. Down on one arthritic knee, I asked the question that would shape our future. The answer, once again, was a joyous "yes," accompanied by laughter, tears, and an unexpected gift of extra champagne from our observant waitress.

A year later, a new chapter unfolded as we took the leap to move in together—a monumental step in our journey. Navigating the nuances of sharing life brought challenges and growth, yet it stands as one of my greatest achievements. To find someone who accepts me fully, loves me unconditionally, and stands by me through thick and thin is a treasure. We've moved beyond the days of navigating life alone, and together, we've crafted a story of love, laughter, and unwavering support. Never again will we face the journey alone.