Mike was the nerdy boy in the back of the class and I was the wild child. A fateful "Happy Thanksgiving!" text sparked a conversation and gave Mike the guts to ask me out to a concert. Despite lots of giggles and texting my mom throughout the evening, the date was a success! We finished out our senior year of high school as the quirky and unexpected couple in our graduating class.

College was a time of frustrations and growth for both of us. We felt it was best to go our separate ways after our sophomore year of college. Fast forward a few more years and fate brought us back together in the Classic City. After grad school, the decision was made for me to move back to Athens where Mike was entering his second year of law school. The first time we saw each other again settled any doubts for either of us- we are annoyingly, and beautifully, meant to be with each other and no one else.

Two years later and we have started on our biggest adventure yet- living in Colorado and planning our future together.

We knew we were moving out of state for months now- which means we of course had an Athens Bucket List!! On our list was to explore the Botanical Gardens again one last time. Mike ever so subtly suggested we go the morning of July 11th. It didn't occur to me why he was being so pushy about what time we started or that he bring his backpack...

We went along a beautiful little trail and then walked through the flower gardens. I was busy making jokes about the flowers and muttering to myself when I turned around and saw him on one knee. Because I'm great at ruining sweet moments, I immediately fell to my knees and hugged him. After some serious contemplation (SIKE!) I said yes. Despite being in shock, as we were walking and I was staring at my shiny new ring, I made the comment about Jessica freaking out when she hears the news. From the distance someone yells, "I'M HERE I'M HERE!!". Of course, it was Jessica and her husband Robbie, snapping pictures of us all sweaty and me crying.

It was a hilarious and perfect moment. After that we drove to Powder Springs and spent the afternoon with both of our families. EVERYONE knew except for me- of course. Even my coworkers knew!